Drug combo for myeloma treatment gets OK
June 4th 2007The combination of doxorubicin HCl liposome injection (Doxil, Ortho Biotech) and bortezomib (Velcade, Millennium/Johnson & Johnson) has been granted FDA approval for treating patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least one prior therapy but have not received earlier treatment with bortezomib.
Fibrosis warning added to MRI contrast agents
June 4th 2007A new boxed warning has been added to the labeling for five gadolinium-based contrast agents used to improve the visibility of internal structures during MRI scans. This came after the FDA received reports of the risk of developing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), a potentially fatal disease causing thickening of the skin and connective tissues that inhibits their movement.
Diabetes tracking software released
June 4th 2007Home Diagnostics has launched TrackRecord Data Management Software, an electronic diabetes management system. The system is designed for use with Home Diagnostics' blood glucose meters and will enable people with diabetes and healthcare professionals who treat them to better understand how various lifestyle and behavior choices impact blood glucose levels.
Unusual side effects of HIV drugs pose challenge
June 4th 2007Updated studies show that the greater use of life-enhancing highly active antiretroviral therapy, the more reports proliferate of unusal side effects, including lipodystrophy, lactic acidosis, insulin resistance, and recently, male osteoporosis.
Who should pay for HPV vaccine—the costliest vaccine to date?
June 4th 2007The emergence of any vaccine is a complicated event, necessitating physician, pharmacist, and public education and the creation of formulary protocols. But when a drug directly involves issues surrounding the sexual activity of underage girls, complexity devolves into controversy.