Here are what the editors at HealthDay consider to be the most important developments in Pharmacy for June 2016. This roundup includes the latest research news from journal articles, as well as the FDA approvals and regulatory changes that are the most likely to affect clinical practice.
Malaria Vaccine Protection Short-Lived in Young Children
THURSDAY, June 30, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The world’s most promising malaria vaccine (RTS,S/AS01) appears to offer only short-lived protection, and may increase children’s long-term risk of contracting malaria if they live in a region with heavy transmission of the parasite, according to a study published in the June 30 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
FDA Approves New Test to Help Detect Drug-Resistant Bacteria
THURSDAY, June 30, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The Xpert Carba-R Assay diagnostic, which tests patient specimens for genetic markers associated with drug-resistant bacteria, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Midostaurin Beneficial in Advanced Systemic Mastocytosis
THURSDAY, June 30, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The experimental drug midostaurin may reverse organ damage in patients with advanced systemic mastocytosis, according to a study published in the June 30 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
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Pharmaceutical Payments Linked to Anti-VEGF Injection Use
THURSDAY, June 30, 2016 (HealthDay News) — There is a positive association between reported pharmaceutical payments and use of aflibercept and ranibizumab injections among ophthalmologists who prescribe anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medications, according to a study published online June 23 in JAMA Ophthalmology.
Testosterone Gel Improves Sexual Function in Older Men
THURSDAY, June 30, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Older men treated with testosterone gel experience a moderate but significant improvement in their sex drive, sexual activity, and erectile function compared to men given a placebo gel, according to a study published online June 29 in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.
Lisinopril Therapy Cuts Incident Conduction System Disease
THURSDAY, June 30, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Lisinopril therapy is associated with a significant reduction in incident conduction system disease, according to a study published online June 27 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Progress Slowing Down in U.S.
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The rate of decline in cardiovascular disease mortality has decelerated, according to research published online June 29 in JAMA Cardiology.
Cancer Immunotherapy May Induce Arthritis, Sicca Syndrome
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Certain cancer immunotherapy drugs may increase risk for rheumatic disease, according to a study published online June 15 in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
Escitalopram Not Beneficial for Heart Failure Patients
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The antidepressant escitalopram may not help heart failure patients suffering from depression, according to research published in the June 28 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Pharmacy Programs to ID Opioid Abuse Effective, but Underused
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Pharmacy programs to reduce opioid abuse are effective but underused, according to a new study published in the July issue of the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.
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Electronic Record Demands Are Overwhelming Many Physicians
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Physicians using electronic practice tools report higher rates of burnout and increased frustration with the amount of computerized paperwork, according to research published online June 27 in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
Gastric Bypass Helps Achieve Diabetes Treatment Goals
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The addition of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to lifestyle-medical management is associated with improved achievement of treatment goals in type 2 diabetes, according to a study published online June 16 in Diabetes Care.
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Depression Cuts Adherence to COPD Maintenance Meds
WEDNESDAY, June 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) — In older adults, depression is associated with decreased adherence to maintenance medication regimens for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to a study published online June 22 in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society.
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Methylene Blue Appears to Boost Brain’s Memory Centers
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Methylene blue may increase activity in brain regions involved in short-term memory and attention, according to a study published online June 28 in Radiology.
Two Vaccines Deemed Feasible Against Zika Virus Infection
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Experimental studies support the effectiveness of two vaccine candidates against the Zika virus, according to research published online June 28 in Nature.
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FDA Approves Epclusa for Chronic Hepatitis C
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The combination drug Epclusa has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat the six major strains of chronic hepatitis C virus.
Too Many Elderly, Terminal Patients Getting Unnecessary Tx
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Patients dying in old age often receive unnecessary end-of-life medical treatments in hospitals, according to research published online June 27 in the International Journal for Quality in Health Care.
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Coprescribing Naloxone to Opioid Users Helps Reduce ER Visits
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Patients on long-term opioid therapy who receive prescriptions for naloxone are less likely to return for emergency care related to opioid use, according to a study published online June 28 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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End-of-Life Care Received Varies Based on Type of Disease
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Family-reported quality of end-of-life care is significantly better for patients with cancer or dementia than for patients with other chronic conditions, according to research published online June 26 in JAMA Internal Medicine to coincide with presentation at AcademyHealth’s Annual Research Meeting, held from June 26 to 28 in Boston.
Omega-3s Tied to Lower Risk of Fatal Coronary Heart Disease
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Regularly eating fish and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may lower the risk of fatal coronary heart disease (CHD), according to a review published online June 27 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Coenzyme Q10 Levels Linked to Multiple System Atrophy
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA) have reduced levels of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), according to a study published online June 27 in JAMA Neurology.
Guidance Updated for Sedation of Pediatric Patients
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Guidelines have been updated for monitoring and management of pediatric patients before, during, and after sedation, according to a clinical report published online June 27 in Pediatrics.
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Clopidogrel Plus Aspirin Good for Noncarriers of CYP2C19 Variants
TUESDAY, June 28, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with minor ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack, the risk of new stroke is reduced with use of clopidogrel plus aspirin versus aspirin alone among those who are not carriers of the CYP2C19 loss-of-function alleles, according to a study published online June 23 in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The research was published to coincide with the Second Annual Scientific Session of the Chinese Stroke Association and the Tiantan International Stroke Conference, held from June 24 to 26 in Beijing.
Patients Face High Hospital Bills Despite Having Insurance
MONDAY, June 27, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Costs of hospitalization for privately insured adults rose more than 37 percent over five years, with patients paying more than $1,000 on average by 2013, according to research published online June 27 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Liraglutide Tops Lixisenatide As Add-On to Metformin in T2DM
MONDAY, June 27, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with type 2 diabetes taking metformin, add-on liraglutide is more effective than lixisenatide for improving glycemic control, according to a study published online June 16 in Diabetes Care.
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Many Teens Using Unregulated Supplements to Alter Appearance
MONDAY, June 27, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Many teens are turning to risky, unregulated supplements to change their appearance, according to a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published online June 27 in Pediatrics.
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Drones Could Work for Efficient Delivery of Aid to Remote Areas
MONDAY, June 27, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Drones might offer a cheaper and better way to deliver vaccines to people in developing countries, according to a study published online June 20 in Vaccine.
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Daily Calcium Intake of 1,000 or 2,000 mg Best for Rickets
MONDAY, June 27, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For children with rickets, radiographic healing is more rapid with 1,000 mg and 2,000 mg daily calcium intake compared with 500 mg, according to a study published online June 17 in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.
ALT Levels Within Normal Range Linked to Cardiovascular Events
MONDAY, June 27, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels within normal range are associated with cardiovascular event risk, according to a study published in the July 1 issue of The American Journal of Cardiology.
2017 Will Bring Premium Rate Increases Under ACA
FRIDAY, June 24, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Health insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act will rise in 2017, analysts and insurance brokers say.
Misuse of Opioids Doubled in the United States Over a Decade
FRIDAY, June 24, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Misuse of opioids by American adults more than doubled from the early 2000s to 2013, according to the U.S. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). The study was published online June 22 in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
Pilocarpine Expands Schlemm Canal in Healthy Eyes, Glaucoma
FRIDAY, June 24, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Pilocarpine expands the Schlemm canal in eyes with and without glaucoma, according to a study published online June 23 in JAMA Ophthalmology.
Candesartan Doesn’t Prevent Trastuzumab Cardiotoxicity
FRIDAY, June 24, 2016 (HealthDay News) — In patients with early breast cancer, candesartan does not protect against trastuzumab-related cardiotoxic effects, according to a study published online June 23 in JAMA Oncology.
K13 Polymorphism Analysis Can ID Resistance Mutations
THURSDAY, June 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Plasmodium falciparum gene Kelch (K13)-propeller sequence polymorphism analysis can assist with surveillance of artemisinin resistance, according to a study published in the June 23 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
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CDC: FluMist Nasal Flu Vaccine Should Not Be Used 2016-2017
THURSDAY, June 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The nasal spray form of the influenza vaccine should not be used next flu season, according to an announcement late Wednesday by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Panel on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Failure of Dual Antimicrobial Therapy for Gonorrhea Reported
THURSDAY, June 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) — In a case report published in the June 23 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, dual antimicrobial therapy failure is described in the treatment of gonorrhea.
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Early Antibiotic Treatment Can Be Beneficial in Cystic Fibrosis
THURSDAY, June 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), early treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) may be beneficial, according to a study published online June 16 in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics.
Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block Beneficial After Hysterectomy
THURSDAY, June 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For women undergoing abdominal hysterectomy, superior hypogastric plexus block with ropivacaine is associated with reduced opioid consumption, according to a study published online June 12 in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
CDC: Alternative Medicine a Booming Business in U.S.
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Americans spent more than $30 billion out of pocket in 2012 on chiropractors and other complementary health practitioners, as well as supplements and other forms of alternative medicine, according to research published online June 22 in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Health Statistics Reports.
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Statins Could Reduce Risk of Infection in Stroke Patients
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Statins could significantly reduce the risk of infection in stroke patients, according to a study published online June 9 in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases.
APCs, Doctors Order Low-Value Services With Similar Frequency
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Advanced practice clinicians (APCs) and physicians order low-value health services with similar frequency, according to a study published online June 20 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Phytoestrogen Supplementation Improves Menopause Symptoms
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Composite and specific phytoestrogen supplementation is associated with reductions in the frequency of hot flashes and vaginal dryness, according to a review published in the June 21 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
High Glycemic Index/Load Diet Linked to Acne Vulgaris
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Patients with acne vulgaris have significantly higher glycemic index and glycemic load levels and significantly lower serum adiponectin levels, according to a study published in the July issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Vitamin K Antagonists Appear to Be Well Tolerated
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Vitamin K antagonists (VKA) are well tolerated and have a minimal effect on quality of life, according to a study published online June 21 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.
50 Percent Insulin Lispro/Insulin Lispro Protamine Efficacious
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For East Asian patients with type 2 diabetes, 50 percent insulin lispro/50 percent insulin lispro protamine (LM50) is more efficacious as starter insulin than 25 percent insulin lispro/75 percent insulin lispro protamine (LM25), according to a study published online June 8 in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation.
25(OH)D Levels Linked to Survival in Pancreatic Cancer
WEDNESDAY, June 22, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Prediagnostic 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels are associated with survival in pancreatic cancer, according to a study published online June 20 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Too Many A-Fib Patients Taking Aspirin Instead of Anticoagulant
TUESDAY, June 21, 2016 (HealthDay News) — More than one-third of U.S. patients with atrial fibrillation who need anticoagulation to prevent strokes aren’t receiving it, according to a study published in the June 28 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Moderately Low LDL May Be Enough to Ward Off CVD Risk
TUESDAY, June 21, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Very low target low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels may not benefit all patients with preexisting heart disease, according to a study published online June 20 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Three-Drug Tx Ups Survival in Light-Chain Amyloidosis
TUESDAY, June 21, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with heart failure due to light-chain amyloidosis (AL), three-drug therapy with bortezomib, dexamethasone, and an alkylating agent (BDex+AA) is associated with improved survival, according to a study published in the June 28 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Persistent High Spending Common in Year Before Death
TUESDAY, June 21, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Almost half of older Medicare beneficiaries have high persistent spending throughout the full year before death, according to a study published in the June issue of Health Affairs.
Long-Term Pioglitazone Safe, Effective for NASH, T2DM
TUESDAY, June 21, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), long-term pioglitazone is safe and effective, according to a study published online June 21 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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One Free Meal From Industry Ups Brand-Name Rx Among Doctors
MONDAY, June 20, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Physicians who receive even one free meal, valued at less than $20 on average, are more likely to prescribe a promoted brand-name drug than a cheaper generic alternative, compared with doctors who did not accept a meal, according to a study published online June 20 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Reset Room Can Help Address Physician Burnout
MONDAY, June 20, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The creation of a reset room is one of several solutions that can help physicians and medical providers address burnout, according to a report published by the American Medical Association.
IV Lidocaine Has No Meaningful Impact in Fibromyalgia
MONDAY, June 20, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with fibromyalgia, use of intravenous lidocaine has no meaningful impact, according to a study published online June 16 in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases.
Most Women Diagnosed With HIV in Pregnancy Retained in Care
MONDAY, June 20, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Most women diagnosed with HIV during pregnancy are still retained in clinical care over the first year postpartum, according to a study published in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
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Dulaglutide, Glargine Plus Lispro Improve Glycemic Control
MONDAY, June 20, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Dulaglutide and glargine in combination with prandial lispro are associated with a similar percentage of time spent in the normoglycemic range, according to a study published online June 9 in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
Vildagliptin, Sitagliptin Have Similar Effects on Incretin
MONDAY, June 20, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors vildagliptin and sitagliptin have similar effects on incretin hormone secretion, according to a study published online June 14 in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
Intervention Combination Can Cut Pediatric Hypoglycemic Events
FRIDAY, June 17, 2016 (HealthDay News) — A multi-interventional approach can reduce preventable hypoglycemic events in hospitalized pediatric patients receiving insulin, according to a study published online June 17 in Pediatrics.
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Varying Safety of Add-On Second-Line T2DM Treatments
FRIDAY, June 17, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with type 2 diabetes who are taking metformin, the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality varies with the addition of different second-line therapies, according to a study published online June 10 in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
Recombinant tPA Safe for Patients With Wake-Up Stroke
FRIDAY, June 17, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with wake-up stroke (WUS), treatment with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) seems safe, according to a study published online June 6 in the Annals of Neurology.
Vancomycin Trough Target May Be Lower for Teens
FRIDAY, June 17, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The target trough concentration of vancomycin seems to be lower for adolescents than for adults, according to a study published online June 13 in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
Pharmacist Involvement Can Improve Cardiovascular Care
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Patients with poorly controlled cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors could improve their prognosis by having pharmacists help manage their care, according to a study published in the June 21 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Experimental Antibiotic Shows Promise in Fight Against MRSA
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — An experimental antibiotic has shown promise against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in animals, according to a study published in the July issue of Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy.
Potential Impact of Single-Payer Health Care Discussed
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders is promoting his version of single-payer health care, although the actual impact of such a system is unclear, according to a report published in Medical Economics.
Tasquinimod Improves Radiographic PFS in mCRPC
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For chemotherapy-naive men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), tasquinimod is associated with improved radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS), according to a phase III study published online June 13 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Prices for Care Rise Significantly As Multi-Hospital Systems Emerge
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Hospital prices in California increased substantially from 2004 to 2013, with a larger increase in hospitals that are members of multi-hospital systems, according to a study published online June 9 in Inquiry.
Implantable Ultrasound Device Augments Chemo in Glioblastoma
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — An implantable ultrasound device (SonoCloud) appears to enhance chemotherapy treatment in glioblastoma, according to research published online June 15 in Science Translational Medicine.
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Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Can Cut HBV Transmission
THURSDAY, June 16, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) during pregnancy can reduce the rate of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), according to a study published in the June 16 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
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No Conclusive Link Between Melanoma Risk, PDE5 Inhibitors
WEDNESDAY, June 15, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The small apparent increase in risk of melanoma in men prescribed phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors may be explained by greater sun exposure, according to new research published online June 14 in PLOS Medicine.
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Sales of Zecuity Migraine Skin Patches Halted
TUESDAY, June 14, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Sales of the migraine treatment skin patch Zecuity (sumatriptan iontophoretic transdermal system) have been halted after patients reported suffering burns and scars where the patches were applied, Teva Pharmaceutical says.
Some Weight-Loss Drugs Are More Effective Than Others
TUESDAY, June 14, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Any of the prescription weight-loss drugs on the market can help obese adults lose weight, although some appear to be more effective than others, according to research published in the June 14 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Long-Acting Opioids May Increase Risk of All-Cause Mortality
TUESDAY, June 14, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Opioid use may significantly increase mortality risk, according to a study published in the June 14 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Treatment Options Reviewed for Herpes Simplex Viral Keratitis
TUESDAY, June 14, 2016 (HealthDay News) — There is a need for development of new anti-herpetic compounds with different mechanisms of action for herpes simplex viral keratitis (HSVK), according to a review published online June 6 in Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology.
Many Patients Prescribed Opioids Sharing Leftover Pills
MONDAY, June 13, 2016 (HealthDay News) — More than half of patients prescribed opioids receive more than they need, and many share the drugs or fail to store them securely, according to research published online June 13 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
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FDA Approves Cholera Vaccine for U.S. Travelers
MONDAY, June 13, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The first vaccine to protect American travelers from cholera has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Benefits of Breastfeeding May Be Compromised by Antibiotics
MONDAY, June 13, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Early use of antibiotics may weaken some of the benefits of breastfeeding, according to a study published online June 13 in JAMA Pediatrics.
New Post-Chemo Stem Cell Transplant Promising in MS
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — A treatment combining chemotherapy and an autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (aHSCT) could represent a major advance against aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a study published online June 9 in The Lancet.
High-Dose Steroid No Benefit to Platelets in Preeclampsia
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — High-dose methylprednisolone does not prevent platelet decline in women with preeclampsia and platelet counts below 150 × 109/L, according to a study published in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
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Risk of S. aureus Bacteremia Up in Patients on Glucocorticoids
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Patients taking systemic glucocorticoids are at higher risk for community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (CA-SAB), according to research published online June 8 in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
Oral Contraceptive Use Ups Surgery Risk in Crohn’s
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For females with Crohn’s disease (CD), long-term use of oral contraceptives (OCs) is associated with increased risk of surgery, according to a study published in the June issue of Gastroenterology.
CYP2C8, SLCO1B1 Variants Impact Response to Rosiglitazone
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Genetic variants in CYP2C8 and SLCO1B1 impact the therapeutic response to rosiglitazone in patients with type 2 diabetes, according to a study published online June 6 in Diabetes Care.
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Sex Disparities in Chemo Use for Advanced Bladder Cancer
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Among patients with stage IV bladder cancer, women are less likely than men to receive systemic chemotherapy, and they have lower overall survival (OS), according to a study published online May 25 in Cancer.
Aflibercept, Ranibizumab Not Cost-Effective Vs. Bevacizumab
FRIDAY, June 10, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Compared with bevacizumab, aflibercept and ranibizumab are not cost-effective for diabetic macular edema (DME), according to research published online June 9 in JAMA Ophthalmology.
California’s Right-to-Die Law Now in Effect
THURSDAY, June 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) — California on Thursday becomes the fifth and largest state in the country to allow terminally ill patients to end their own lives.
Review Finds Antidepressants Ineffective in Children, Teens
THURSDAY, June 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Treating children and teens suffering from depression with antidepressants may be both ineffective and potentially dangerous, according to a review published online June 8 in The Lancet.
Ixekizumab Efficacious for Psoriasis Over 60 Weeks
THURSDAY, June 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) — The benefits of ixekizumab in the treatment of psoriasis extend to 60 weeks, according to a study published online June 8 in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Chemo Ups Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Early-Stage Breast Cancer
THURSDAY, June 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients with early-stage breast cancer with no preexisting metabolic syndrome (MetS), chemotherapy is associated with increased risk of MetS, according to a study published online May 24 in Cancer.
Faster Results for Experimental Rx in Chronic Migraine
THURSDAY, June 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) — An experimental drug — TEV-48125 — brings fast relief to patients with debilitating chronic migraines, according to a new study published online June 8 in Neurology.
Women With A-Fib Less Likely to Receive Oral Anticoagulants
THURSDAY, June 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Among patients with atrial fibrillation, women are less likely than men to receive oral anticoagulant therapy, according to a study published in the May issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs Cut Opioid Use
WEDNESDAY, June 8, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Implementation of prescription drug monitoring programs can reduce the prescribing of Schedule II opioids, according to a study published in the June issue of Health Affairs.
No Significant Weight Change With Adjuvant Sulfonylureas
WEDNESDAY, June 8, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Sulfonylureas used as add-on therapy to metformin can maintain glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, without changing body weight, according to a study published online June 6 in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
New Synthetic Drug Linked to Dozens of Deaths Across U.S.
WEDNESDAY, June 8, 2016 (HealthDay News) — A new synthetic drug called U-47700 has been linked with at least 50 deaths across the United States, and several states are trying to halt the spread of the drug, which can be bought online.
FDA Warns of Overdoses of Anti-Diarrhea Drug
WEDNESDAY, June 8, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Overdoses from common anti-diarrhea drugs are being investigated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which warned the drugs can cause potentially fatal heart problems when taken in higher-than-recommended amounts.
Clonidine Has Antipyretic Effect in ICU Patients
WEDNESDAY, June 8, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For mechanically ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients, clonidine in addition to commonly used sedative agents has an antipyretic effect, according to a study published online June 6 in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
PPI Use Ups Risk of Osteoporosis, Osteopenia in Femur
WEDNESDAY, June 8, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use is associated with increased risk of developing osteoporosis and osteopenia in femur bones, according to a study published online May 31 in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases.
Opinions Vary on Management of Subclinical Hypothyroidism
TUESDAY, June 7, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Physicians’ opinions on management of subclinical hypothyroidism vary, according to a Beyond the Guidelines article published online June 7 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Serious Bleeding Risks Linked to OTC Antacids Containing Aspirin
MONDAY, June 6, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Antacids that contain aspirin may cause stomach or intestinal bleeding in rare cases, U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials said Monday.
Severe Hypoglycemia Risk Nearly Doubles With Intensive T2DM Tx
MONDAY, June 6, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Intensive diabetes mellitus treatment nearly doubles the risk of severe hypoglycemia requiring medical attention in clinically complex patients, according to a study published online June 6 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Risk of Febrile Seizures Up With Vaccine Combos
MONDAY, June 6, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Concomitant administration of inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV3) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) or diphtheria-tetanus-acellular-pertussis (DTaP)-containing vaccine is associated with an increased risk of febrile seizures (FS), according to a study published online June 6 in Pediatrics.
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Vaccination in Pregnancy May Offer Protection for Preemies
MONDAY, June 6, 2016 (HealthDay News) — A combination vaccine offered to mothers from 28 weeks of gestation may offer protection for infants born prematurely, according to a study published online June 2 in Pediatrics.
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Meds to Treat Opioid Addiction Significantly Underused
FRIDAY, June 3, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Too few patients are being prescribed any of the three available medications used to treat opioid use disorder in the 30 days after hospital discharge, according to a study published online June 1 in Psychiatric Services.
Many Still on Opioids Six Months After Total Joint Arthroplasty
FRIDAY, June 3, 2016 (HealthDay News) — A significant number of patients continue to take prescription opioids many months after joint replacement surgery, according to a study published in the June issue of Pain.
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More Evidence That Low-Dose Aspirin Ups Survival in CRC
FRIDAY, June 3, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who take low-dose aspirin may have better survival odds, according to a study published online May 31 the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
15.5 Million Americans Now Surviving Cancer
FRIDAY, June 3, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Cancer survivors in the United States reached record numbers this year — 15.5 million — and the American Cancer Society predicts they’ll total more than 20 million in another decade. The report, prepared by the American Cancer Society in collaboration with the U.S. National Cancer Institute, was published online June 2 in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians.
Spironolactone No Benefit for Knee OA in Older Adults
FRIDAY, June 3, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA), spironolactone is not associated with improvements in symptoms, physical function, or health-related quality-of-life, according to a study published in the May issue of Arthritis Care & Research.
Contraindication to Antiplatelet Rx for ~18 Percent With PCI
FRIDAY, June 3, 2016 (HealthDay News) — About 18 percent of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have a contraindication to commonly used antiplatelet medications, according to a study published online May 31 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.
Triclosan Exposure Affects Microbiome Structure, Diversity
THURSDAY, June 2, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Triclosan exposure affects the structure and diversity of the microbiome in adult zebrafish, according to research published online May 18 in PLOS ONE.
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HSCT No Better Than Chemo in Philadelphia-Negative ALL
THURSDAY, June 2, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients ≥40 years of age with Philadelphia (Ph)-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) in first remission is associated with lower cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR), but worse non-relapse mortality (NRM), compared with chemotherapy alone, according to a study published online May 6 in the American Journal of Hematology.
Short-Term Risk of Arrhythmia Up With New ADHD Rx
THURSDAY, June 2, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Methylphenidate can increase the risk of arrhythmias during the first two months of use, according to a study published online May 31 in The BMJ.
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Cannabis Use Over the Long Term Can Lead to Gum Disease
THURSDAY, June 2, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Smoking cannabis for decades may result in gum disease and potential tooth loss, according to a study published online June 1 in JAMA Psychiatry.
More Evidence That Air Pollution Raises Blood Pressure
WEDNESDAY, June 1, 2016 (HealthDay News) — There is more evidence linking air pollution with increased risk of developing hypertension, according to a review published online May 31 in Hypertension.
Many Parents Know Too Little About Their Child’s Asthma Meds
WEDNESDAY, June 1, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Only half of parents of children with asthma fully understand the use of their child’s asthma medications, according to research published online May 17 in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Vigilance Urged for Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
WEDNESDAY, June 1, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Diagnosis and management of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) are discussed in a review published in the May 31 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Prophylactic Antibiotics Cut Risk of Anti-EGFR Skin Rash
WEDNESDAY, June 1, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For patients receiving anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) treatment, the risk of developing skin rash is reduced for those taking prophylactic antibiotics, according to a review published online May 23 in the British Journal of Dermatology.
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