Recent data indicate that children taking second-generation antipsychotic medications experience a higher incidence of diabetes. Further studies are needed to firmly establish this link. Antipsychotic Medication Use Among Children and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus
The American Heart Association in 2005 reported that NSAIDs increased the risk of myocardial infarct (heart attack) in patients who had heart disease or had suffered an MI. Since that time additional studies have reaffirmed and strengthened these findings. In fact, it is now considered unsafe to prescribe NSAIDs for even a short period to patients who have suffered an MI or have heart disease. Just one week of NSAIDs can increase the risk of an MI by 45%.
After opening a bottle of Dabigatran it begins to degrade quickly due to humidity in the air. Despite a desiccant (drying agent) built into the bottle cap, the drug will lose its effectiveness 30 days after opening. Use Dabigatran Within 30 Days of Opening
Study data show that RG7204 stabilizes or reduces melanoma tumor size by over 80%. The drug may be available on the market by as early as 2012.
RG7204, a BRAF Inhibitor, Demonstrates Promising Results in Metastatic Melanoma
Although still considered safe, Fluzone has recently been associated with febrile seizures in some infants receiving the vaccination. To report an incident with this or any other vaccine, go to: The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS)
Fluzone considered safe for children despite increased reports in VAERS of febrile seizures
Updated data from various studies show that women of reproductive age exposed to Benzodiazepines have a twofold increased risk of having children with oral cleft.
Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals will remove propoxyphene from the U.S. market due to serious toxicity to the heart.
For further information, go to: Propoxyphene: Withdrawal - Risk of Cardiac Toxicity
Various lots of Heparin sold by B. Braun Medical Inc., manufactured in2008, have been recalled because of a trace amount of oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS) contaminant.
To file a report regarding adverse reactions to this Heparin:
• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178
For further information, go to: Heparin Sodium (B. Braun): Recall - Trace Contaminant
For over a decade thiazolidinediones (TZDs) have been used for glycemic control for diabetic patients. During that time studies and clinical findings demonstrated that TZDs resulted in adverse cardiovascular events. Now additional studies point to increased risks of stroke, AMI (acute myocardial infarct), heart failure and death.
It is hoped that in light of these findings the FDA will reconsider the continued marketing of rosiglitazone.
Data from the University of Nottingham show that some statins increase the risk of liver dysfunction, acute renal failue, myopathy and cataracts. The study involved more than two million patients between 30-84 years' old from 2002 to 2008. Physicians are now encouraged to closely monitor their patients who are taking statins.
See the study at: Unintended effects of statins in men and women in England and Wales: population based cohort study using the QResearch database
See the accompanying editorial at: Balancing the intended and unintended effects of statins
Companion paper in the journal Heart: Individualising the risks of statins in men and women in England and Wales: population-based cohort study
Some Statins Have Unintended Effects and Warrant Closer Monitoring, Study Finds
Most prescriptions are offered in tablet form today. Tablets unfortunately are made of more than 99% fillers. The actual prescription medication is less than 1% of the pill and is mixed in with the fillers. This requires digesting the entire pill before the medication is in your system.
Fortunately, the University of Leeds and Durham University are attempting to develop a process where prescriptions can be imprinted on the exterior of tablets. A process that GlaxoSmithKline developed but can only use in less than 1% of prescriptions.
The benefits of printable prescriptions will be faster acting and will allow for printing several prescriptions onto one pill.
For additional information, go to: Printable prescription pills will be safer and faster-acting
In spite of recent significant off-label-use fines, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson continue to condone off-label uses of their drugs to increase their overall profit.
For additional information, go to: Drugmakers continue 'off-label marketing' despite large fines
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