NEWS
Aug 2008:
Hypertension:
Bystolic is a Beta Blocker which slows the heart rate as well as dilate blood vessels by increasing the production of Nitric oxide. This drug promises to
work equally on Sytolic as well as Diastolic Blood Pressures. Unlike other Beta Blockers, it promises less Fatigue, Erectile Dysfunction, and Diabetes worsening
Aug
2007:
We will
soon be enrolling patients in a New Diabetic Trial . Please contact our
office for Details. The Drug being tested is being manufactured by
GlaxoSmithKline.
Enrolled patients have to be newly diagnosed diabetics not currently
taking any anti-Diabetic Medications. They must have a Hgb A1C 7.5-10.0
and a BMI 28-40 Kg/m2.
Oct
2006:
Diabetes II:
. Galvus & Januvia: Two
new drugs for the treatment of Type II Diabetes. They act by prolonging
Insulin release after a meal in response to increased
blood Sugar. Galvus is presently ( Oct 2006 ) in Clinical Trials, and
Januvia has received FDA approval.
Smoking Cessation:
. Chantix:
Varenicline binds to Brain's Nicotine receptors causing mild Nicotine
like effects and preventing Nicotine from binding to the same sites.
This
advantage over Wellbutrin gives it an edge in smoking cessation. Most
common side effects are Nausea and Insomnia. it received FDA
approval in May 2006.
Immunizations:
- Rotateq: Oral vaccine
approved for the prevention of infant Rotavirus diarrhea. Scheduled for
the 2nd,4th, and 6th months of life.
- ADACEL: DaPT (
Dyphtheria-Acellular Pertussis-Tetanus ) for Children aged 7 and over.
Recommended as a combination booster at age 10 or later, to replace DT
at age 14.
Hypertension:
- Aliskiren: First
in the Class of Renin Inhibitors, approved for Hypertension control.
Safe, with low side effects and very effective.
Obesity:
- Rimonabant: A
reversible Endocanabinoid Receptor Blocker received a nod of approval
from the FDA for Weight Loss. In addition to weight loss, it causes
decreased lipid
formation in the abdominal viscera, Decreased Insulin resistance,
Decreased Triglycerides and increased HDL. Previously labelled
Accomplia,
Rimonabant is
expected to be available in Nov 2006. The two year mean weight loss was
22 Lbs.
Rimonabant has
potential for use in Nicotine, Marijuana and Alcohol addiction.
Restless Leg Syndrome:
- Requip: People
suffering from night time restless legs which interferes with sleep,
can now be treated with this Dpoamine agonist.
Neuropathic Pain:
- Lyrica: A novel
anticonvulsant drug, acting on the intramuscular Calcium Channels, has
been found to be effective in the treatment of Neuropathic Pain. Pain
that is caused by
by damage to the nerves is called Neuropathic pain as opposed pain
caused by end organ damage. Pain caused by Diabetes, Spinal disorders,
or Fibromyalgia may
be treated with this drug.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: (
Old News )
- Lotronex:
Although available with restrictions, this drug is very effective for
Diarrhea Predominant IBS. Should be avoided in Elderly people with
risks for Iscemic Bowel.
This drug should be held at the first sign of constipation, slowing of
Bowel Movements or Abdominal Pain.
- Zelnorm:
For use in Constipation predominant IBS. Should be withheld when stools
become loose.
Jan 2006:
Migraine:
- Topamax: Anticonvulsant
medication approved for Migraine prophylaxis. Dizziness &
Drowsiness are the most common bothersome side effects.