Below is a collection of interesting stories in the news that I have collected over the last 12 months from a medical news feed that I receive each day. This is some of the newest information and news in the world of dermatology, so I thought it might be of interest to all.
Psoriasis May Increase Risk For Heart Attack, Stroke.
HealthDay reported that, according to research presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Cardiology, “the common skin ailment psoriasis may boost the risk for heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular woes.” After tracking some 40,000 patients with mild to severe psoriasis over the course of 10 years, “researchers found that severe psoriasis raised the odds of heart attack by 24 percent.” In addition, “odds for stroke were raised by 45 percent for those with moderate or severe psoriasis and by 19 percent for those with mild psoriasis.”
The study’s “findings indicate that psoriasis patients should not only be treated for the symptoms of that disorder, but should also take steps to monitor and prevent cardiovascular problems.”
FDA about to finalize sunscreen label changes.
WebMD reported that after a lengthy delay, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is about “to finalize long-awaited sunscreen label changes designed to give consumers a better idea of the sun protection they’re getting.” Now, “for the first time, sunscreen manufacturers will be required to provide information on the amount of ultraviolet A (UVA) screening provided by their products.” In addition, “the new regulation will also prohibit manufacturers from claiming sun protection factors (SPF) of more than 50+.” FDA spokeswoman Rita Chappelle “confirmed that the agency hopes to finalize the label rules before the end of the year.” Still, “sunscreen companies will have a year to 18 months after the new rules are enacted to make the label changes or provide scientific evidence justifying a higher SPF rating.” In addition, Chappelle said that “the terms ‘sunblock,’ ‘waterproof,’ ‘sweat-proof,’ and ‘all-day protection’ will no longer be allowed on sunscreen labels under the new regulations.”
FDA approves ustekinumab (Stelara)
For moderate to severe psoriasis.
MedPage Today (9/25/09) reported, “After nearly two years of deliberations, the FDA has finally approved ustekinumab (Stelara) for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.” The FDA said the approval was based on “three studies involving a total of 2,266 patients” where “a significantly higher percentage of patients receiving the agent — at either 45 mg or 90 mg — achieved at least a 75 percent reduction in psoriasis as measured by the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), or PASI 75, after 12 weeks compared with patients receiving placebo. The approved treatment schedule is two injections four weeks apart, followed by maintenance injections every 12 weeks.”
FDA approves Gardasil…
To prevent genital warts in boys.
The AP reported, “Merck said Friday (10/17/09) that US regulators cleared its vaccine Gardasil to prevent genital warts in boys, a new use for a product already approved to prevent cervical cancer in women.” The company said the FDA “approved Gardasil for use in boys ages nine through 26.” The AP added, “While the approval could theoretically double the market for Merck’s vaccine, analysts do not expect Gardasil to be widely used in boys.”
WebMD also noted that “Gardasil is not yet on the CDC’s schedule of recommended vaccines for males.” But the “CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will discuss that possibility at a meeting next week.”
Botox and Dysport Discounts End September 30:
The “good times” may be coming to an end. Both Botox and their competitor Dysport have discounts that will end on September 30, 2010. The Botox discount is an instant $50 off if you are a “Brilliant Distinctions” member. Brilliant Distinctions is the Botox loyalty program. If you are not a member (or not sure), you can respond to this email and we will “invite” you with a separate email. If you sign up with our invitation, you will get an instant 200 points (which is worth another $25 off your treatment).
Sincerely,
The Staff and Doctors at Minars Dermatology
email: tminars@hotmail.com
phone: 954-987-7512
In this issue
Psoriasis Heart Disease
Sunscreen Labels
FDA approves Stelara
Gardasil for Boys
Botox Discounts
Announcement
Dr. Todd’s New Baby:
On July 28, 2010 Hudson Beck Minars (seen here yawning) was born. This is Dr. Todd’s second (and final!) baby. Both mother and baby are doing well!
Our apologies to patients who had to be rescheduled during the three days Dr. Todd missed for the birth.
