MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'hormone'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:52:00 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159256&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fhow-lupron-and-gnrh-analogs-are-used.html Lupron is a GnRH Analogue. There are many other kinds of GnRH analogues available ,such as Lupride, Buserelin, Triptorelin ( Decapeptyl) and these all act the same way. As the name suggests, they mimic the action of GnRH. GnRH stands for Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone, which is a peptide ( a molecule which consists of a chain of amino acids) released by the hypothalamus. GnRH causes the pituitary gland to release the gonadotropin hormones, FSH ( follicle stimulating hormone) and LH ( luteinising hormone) . These GnRH analogues have a dual mode of action. When administered, they initially stimulate the release of gonadotropins, just like GnRH dose. However, when multiple doses are given, they cause the pituitary gland to switch off , so that it no longer produces any gonadotropins. This is... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159256 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 03:42:00 +0100 5159256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159257&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fhow-antagon-and-other-gnrh-anatgonists.html In the past, most in-vitro fertilization (IVF) centres used pituitary down-regulation with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists to prevent a premature LH surge and premature ovulation and luteinization. However, this required at least 7–14 days of GnRH agonist pretreatment. This is why researchers developed molecules which would cause an immediate blockage of the GnRH receptors on the pituitary gland, to stop the pituitary from producing gonadotropins instantly . This was felt to be a more rational approach , as these would induce instant downregulation , and prevent a spontaneous LH surge more effectively . Brand names of the GnRH antagonists include Antagon and Cetroride. Thus , treatment with the antagonist can be limited to only those 4-6 days when high oestradiol levels... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159257 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:41:00 +0100 5159257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139918&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fusing-letrozole-for-ovulation-induction.html The standard medicine used for making women grow eggs ( a treatment called ovulation induction) for many years used to be clomid ( clomiphene citrate). A recent alternative to clomid is the new drug called letrozole( Femara). Letrozole, is an aromatase inhibitor, and is now being increasingly used as an alternative to clomid for inducing ovulation. The problem with clomid is that because of its antiestrogenic activity, it would cause the cervical mucus to dry up; or make the uterine lining thin. This effect would reduce fertility, so that even though ovulation induction was achieved, women would not get pregnant. Letrozole does not have the anti-estrogenic activity which clomid does, so that the uterine lining and cervical mucus with letrozole is often better than it is with clomid. The ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139918 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 03:32:00 +0100 5139918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130843&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fhow-your-doctor-decides-dose-of-your.html When you do your IVF treatment, a very important decision the doctor needs to make is - What should your starting dose of HMG / FSH ( brand names for these key IVF meds include Repronex; Gonal-F; Follistim) be for optimal super ovulation? This is a key decision because this determines how many follicles you’re likely to grow. If he selects a dose which is too low , you may not have enough eggs or embryos. And if he selects a dose which is too high, you may grow too many follicles and end up with OHSS. We do have rules of thumb for this, but as with any biological system , it’s very hard to predict how a patient will respond finally, and we need to acknowledge that some of this is trial & error. As a general rule for most young patients, the starting dose is 3 amp of Menogon , whi... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130843 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 03:42:00 +0100 5130843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096203&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fnyt-reports-on-research-that-links-height-to-cancer-risk%2F2011.08.04 Female models may be tall and beautiful, but they are also at markedly increased risk of developing cancer. The New York Times reported on a fascinating research article regarding height of a women and risk of cancer. Specifically, for every four-inch increase in height over 5 feet 1 inch, the risk that a woman would develop cancer increased by about 16 percent, especially for: • Colon Cancer (RR per 10 cm increase in height 1.25, 95% CI 1.19—1.30) • Rectal Cancer (1.14, 1.07—1.22) • Malignant Melanoma (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Fauquier ENT Blog* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096203 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 21:00:00 +0100 5096203 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5078034&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FpESdhESRxXI%2F And so, another working week is drawing to a close. This is, of course, our signal to daydream about weekend plans. We have not yet finalized our agenda, but we do hope to catch up on some reading and spend time with our short people. We may even tidy up the Pharmalot corporate campus. And you? Anything special in the offing? A day at the beach? A night at the movies? Maybe a dinner with someone special? Or if you have a high pain threshold, you could track the children in Washington DC as they jeopardize the economy. Whatever your pleasure, have a great time, but be safe. See you soon… Pfizer Wins Prempro Case In West Virginia (Bloomberg News) Nevada Wins Right To Continue Hormone Replacement Lawsuit (Las Vegas Sun) Sanofi Won’t Make Genzyme Milestone Payment (The Boston Globe... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5078034 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:10:06 +0100 5078034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069737&cid=t_102184_136_f&fid=35294&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.psa-rising.com%2Fblog%2F2011%2F07%2Fnew-pathway-to-potential-therapies-for-advanced-prostate-cancer%2F PSA Rising /DALLAS/ – July 25, 2011 – UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers have narrowed the potential drug targets for advanced prostate cancer by demonstrating that late-stage tumors are driven by a different hormonal pathway than was thought previously. “We have recently discovered that castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is unexpectedly driven by dihydrotestosterone synthesis [...] (Source: psa-rising.com/blog) psa-rising.com/blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069737 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 19:47:24 +0100 5069737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069556&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F07%2Feggs-are-not-follicles.html Many infertile women are very confused about the difference between follicles and eggsJust because they ovulate, they feel they much be producing good eggs every month.However this is not always true ! Women can have anovulatory cycles - and even ovulatory cycles may be the result of poor quality eggs !What about those women who are happy that their ultrasound scans for follicle tracking/ ovulation monitoring shows that they grow follicles every month ?While I agree this is reassuring, it does not mean that the egg quality is fine - especially in an older womanRemember that the follicle is only the black bubble which the sonographer can track during your scan. Normally, a good follicle ( one which grows at 2 mm per day and ruptures on Day 14 at the time of ovulation) does contain a good eg... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069556 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 02:44:00 +0100 5069556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953025&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fwhat-is-luteal-phase-defect.html Luteal phase defect ( LPD) used to be a very popular diagnosis many years ago. While most doctors today do not believe that this entity even exists, unfortunately, it’s still “diagnosed” commonly – and causes a lot of overtesting and overtreatment ! Let’s see why.The luteal phase is the second half of the menstrual cycle during which the corpus luteum produces progesterone to maintain the endometrial lining of the uterus so that an embryo can implant in it . At the time of ovulation, the mature follicle releases the egg . It then gets converted into a yellow body called the corpus luteum, under the influence of the luteinizing hormone ( LH) produced by the pituitary. ( Remember that it's this LH surge which is responsible for the ovulation !) If the embryo implants successfully, ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953025 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 04:34:00 +0100 4953025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953026&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fwhy-were-my-embryos-of-such-poor.html While a good IVF clinic is good at making good embryos, sometimes we will encounter patients whose embryos are all of poor quality.What's a poor quality embryo ? This is one which divides slowly ( for example, one which has only 4 cells on Day 3) ; or one which has a lot of fragments. ( This is why you must ask your clinic for photos of your embryos, so you have documentation of the quality of your embryos ! )Why does this happen - and what can you do about it if it happens to you ?Remember that there are only 3 variables which influence embryo quality - eggs; sperm and the lab. This means that poor quality embryos could only be because of the 3 following reasons:poor quality eggs;poor quality sperm; ora poor quality labSurprisingly, experience has shown us that the sperm are not important... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953026 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100 4953026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952744&cid=t_102184_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F06%2F20%2Fhot-topic-does-soy-relieve-hot-flashes%2F The theme of the Upcoming Grand Rounds held at June 21th (1st day of the Summer) at Shrink Rap is “hot”. A bit far-fetched, but aah you know….shrinks“. Of course they hope  assume  that we will express Weiner-like exhibitionism at our blogs. Or go into spicy details of hot sexpectations or other Penis Friday NCBI-ROFL posts. But no, not me, [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952744 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:37:49 +0100 4952744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953029&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fwhat-is-empty-follicle-syndrome-why.html At the end of the egg collection, the first question every patient wants to know is - How many eggs did you collect, doctor ?Egg retrieval is usually a very straightforward procedure, and we usually get at least one egg from each mature follicle ( more than 18 mm in size) . This is why we expect to collect at least as many eggs as there are mature follicles . However, sometimes, much to the doctor's chagrin and the patient's dismay, sometimes we do not get any eggs at all. This is not common, but let's examine why this happens , and what we can do about it.Technically, if we do not collect any eggs at all , this condition is called " empty follicle syndrome( EFS) ". Sadly, this term is abused and misused by many IVF doctors, who are happy to make this "diagnosis" and blame this condition w... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953029 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 03:26:00 +0100 4953029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934396&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fwhat-is-empty-follicle-syndrome-why.html At the end of the egg collection, the first question every patient wants to know is - How many eggs did you collect, doctor ?Egg retrieval is usually a very straightforward procedure, and we usually get at least one egg from each mature follicle ( more than 18 mm in size) . This is why we expect to collect at least as many eggs as there are mature follicles . However, sometimes, much to the doctor's chagrin and the patient's dismay, sometimes we do not get any eggs at all. This is not common, but let's examine why this happens , and what we can do about it.Technically, if we do not collect any eggs at all , this condition is called " empty follicle syndrome( EFS) ". Sadly, this term is abused and misused by many IVF doctors, who are happy to make this "diagnosis" and blame this condition w... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934396 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 03:26:00 +0100 4934396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921651&cid=t_102184_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F4k7Y7qWcEB4%2F Next to the symptoms of a hormonal imbalance, many patients come to me because they can’t seem to shake that ‘down and depressed’ feeling or obsessive food cravings. But what many people don’t know is that cravings and mental-emotional imbalances can sometimes be caused by a specific vitamin or nutrient deficiency. The first step to identifying the cause in any case, and ultimate best course of treatment, is to take a close look at the symptoms. The most common form of depression, known as atypical depression, appears with mood swings, weight gain, carbohydrate cravings, fatigue, lethargy, and increased sensitivity to rejection. The symptoms, however, may vary and be experienced repeatedly over a few days, weeks, or months at a time, including: changing sleep patterns: oversleepin... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921651 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:53:05 +0100 4921651 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4821148&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fs3IA6zq8bsk%2F In the latest indication that Pfizer hopes to resolve burgeoning litigation over its Prempro hormone replacement therapy, the drugmaker has now set aside a total of $772 million to cover an estimated 8,000 cases in federal and state courts around the country, according to a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Specifically, Pfizer recently placed $300 million in reserves on top of $172 million in the first quarter of the year and another $300 million in previous quarters (see page 57 of the filing). The drugmaker disclosed that about one-third of all Prempro lawsuits have been resolved, suggesting another 3,000 or more remain in various dockets. Of course, the reserves could go still higher; Pfizer notes the set asides cover “the minimum expected costs to resolve a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4821148 Fri, 13 May 2011 12:42:27 +0100 4821148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4734434&cid=t_102184_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FibXzn1ApJCk%2F Our hormones control almost every aspect of our daily lives, from our reproductive functions and our appearance to our sleep, and even the way we store and burn fat. No matter how a hormonal imbalance manifests itself on the outside, the internal reality remains the same – any and all hormonal imbalances lead to difficulty losing weight and an increased risk of obesity. Unfortunately, the most common imbalances cannot be solved by dieting alone. In fact, they can prevent successful fat loss, even when great diet and exercise plans are in place. Most of us experience the very subtle symptoms of a hormonal imbalance every day. These are things like feeling tired after eating, having difficulty falling asleep, or waking up each night between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. Or maybe you notice that you do... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4734434 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:00:35 +0100 4734434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4719949&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fi-have-low-amh-level-what-should-do-i.html For older infertile women, AMH ( anti-Mullerian hormone, also known as MIS ( Mullerian inhibiting substance) has become the new FSH . AMH is a very good marker for egg quality - and provides us with a quantitative measure for egg quality and quality.In the past, we had to depend upon FSH levels. A high FSH level suggests poor ovarian reserve, but FSH levels are not very reliable, because they vary according to which day of the cycle the test is done; and can also be artificially suppressed by a high estradiol levelAMH is a much better marker for ovarian reserve. It does not vary from cycle to cycle; and remains the same throughout the cycle. A low AMH suggests you have poor ovarian reserve - but even if your level is low, this does not mean you should panic !Remember that it's just a test ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4719949 Sat, 16 Apr 2011 03:28:00 +0100 4719949 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4704655&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhormone-replacement-therapy-what-weve-learned-from-the-womens-health-initiative%2F2011.04.12 This is the study that doesn’t end… The longterm follow up extends… Some people started studying hormones in menopause, And they’ll continue publishing more data just because… (repeat) In yet another paper in a major journal, we hear once more from the investigators of the Women’s Health Initiative. This time it’s the long term outcomes of women who took estrogen alone, now seven years out from stopping their hormones. What new information can we learn from this extensive analysis of new data? Nothing. Really. The WHI’s been telling us the same thing about ERT (Estrogen replacement therapy) and HRT (Combination estrogen/progestin therapy)  since 2002, and all each subsequent study does is reinforce and expand on that initial data. Unfortunately, it will probably take a fe... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4704655 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:00:20 +0100 4704655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684318&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhow-much-vitamin-d-do-you-need%2F2011.04.06 How much vitamin D is enough, and what’s the best way to get your daily dose of the so-called sunshine vitamin? It depends who you ask. I just attended the latest Forum at the Harvard School of Public Health. The title, “Boosting Vitamin D: Not Enough or Too Much?” was a tip-off that we weren’t going to get a simple take-home message. (Watch a video of the event beginning Wednesday, March 30.) Some background: Vitamin D isn’t really a vitamin. It’s a hormone. The body makes it when sunlight strikes the skin. This converts a cousin of cholesterol into a substance that ultimately becomes vitamin D. It is best known for helping the digestive system absorb calcium and phosphorus, so it is important for bone health. New research suggests—emphasis on suggests—that vitamin D may ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684318 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 23:00:03 +0100 4684318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4610817&cid=t_102184_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FN_s6ruYJNmc%2F Travelling with fit, well hydrated, socially capable, phototropic, extrovert athletes in a Westward direction (to South Africa) should, in theory, be a fairly straight forward exercise... (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4610817 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 07:45:46 +0100 4610817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592686&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FxcGz3SD9Cx4%2F Was there a surreptitious link between articles about hormone replacement therapy and industry funding after one arm of the federally funded Women’s Health Initiative ended in 2002? For those who do not recall, the estrogen plus progestin trial was stopped after investigators found patients given the treatment had a greater risk of heart disease and breast cancer. A new study believes there was a link. Since earlier studies found that many gynecologists continued to prescribe hormone replacement therapies after the WHI results were published and nearly half did not find the outcome convincing, the researchers looked at whether any promotional tone could be identified in what they called narrative review articles - or opinion pieces - about HRT. Among the widely used HRTs was Wyeth&#8... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592686 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 21:05:49 +0100 4592686 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636511&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fvalue-of-clomiphene-citrate-challenge.html Many older infertile women are very unsure as to whether they need to do IVF; and if they do need IVF, if they should use their own eggs or to use donor eggs. While they understand with their heads that using donor eggs would maximise their chances of getting pregnant, it's hard for their heart to accept this decision, because most of us want a genetic link with our child !This is especially true for older women who have regular cycles; grow follicles on ultrasound scans ; or have had a miscarriage in the last 2-3 years. If my cycles are regular and I can get pregnant in my own bedroom, doesn't this prove my eggs are fine ?Gynecologists ( who do not specialise in infertility treatment) will often add to this confusion. Because they see 42 year old women who get pregnant in their own bedroo... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636511 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 04:14:00 +0100 4636511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4566165&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fis-doctor-professional-or-technician.html I just saw a patient who was 40 years old; she had had 2 miscarriages; and she wanted me to do surrogacy for her. I spent a long time explaining to her why I did not think this was her best choice. Surrogacy is an expensive and complex treatment option, which is best reserved forwomen without a uterus. Research shows that the reason for failed implantation is much more likely to be genetically abnormal embryos ( because of poor quality eggs), rather than a uterine problem.Her reasoning was completely different. The fact I got pregnant means my eggs are OK ! The fact I miscarried means my uterus is defective because it could not hold the baby. This means that if use a surrogate uterus, I will have a baby !The reality is completely different. The fact that she conceived means her uterus is f... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4566165 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 04:26:00 +0100 4566165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4545253&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FX-GEkqrtVrs%2F Some whistleblowers just won’t go away quietly. In his latest effort to bring his former employer to its knees, former Pfizer exec Peter Rost has filed a new lawsuit contending the drugmaker violated the New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act by firing him after he told the feds about illegal marketing activities concerning the Genotropin human growth hormone. The move comes six months after a federal judge dismissed the whistleblower lawsuit that Rost filed against Pfizer, although a federal appeals court subsequently left the door open for Rost to file his latest action in a state court venue (see here). And so he is seeking a trial, which raises the tantalizing possibility that the long-running saga will finally get a public airing, and unspecified damages. For those who may... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4545253 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:30:11 +0100 4545253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4532272&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fwhy-is-it-so-hard-to-make-sense-of-your.html HCG ( also known as beta HCG or just beta) is a very special molecule. It's unique in that it's produced only by the placenta ( very very rarely, it's also produced by some ovarian and testicular tumours). This means that for all practical purposes, it's found only in pregnant women and is therefore a very good marker for pregnancy.Since the HCG is produced by the placenta, the levels of HCG rise as the pregnancy develops, and there is very good correlation between the health of the pregnancy and the HCG level for the first few weeks of the pregnancy ( from about week 4 - week 7, as calculated from the LMP, last menstrual period).However , it can be hard to make sense of your HCG blood levels. Let's look at some of the pitfalls in monitoring your beta levels.Most patients naively assume th... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4532272 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 03:20:00 +0100 4532272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482935&cid=t_102184_136_f&fid=35294&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.psa-rising.com%2Fblog%2F2011%2F02%2Fprovenge-available-for-men-with-advanced-pca-at-roswell-park%2F February 7 2011, BUFFALO, NY — The nation’s first FDA-approved cancer treatment vaccine, Provenge (sipuleucel-T), is being offered for the first time in Western New York at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). The vaccine is designed for men with advanced prostate cancer who have limited treatment options and who meet eligibility requirements. “It’s the first [...] (Source: psa-rising.com/blog) psa-rising.com/blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482935 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:39:59 +0100 4482935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455486&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FuT2spYvGiGQ%2F Pfizer has agreed to pay about $330 million to settle more than 2,200 lawsuits charging its Prempro hormone replacement therapy caused women to develop breast cancer, embracing a strategy used by several other drugmakers to cap the cost of growing product-liability litigation that can worry investors. The cases settled for an average of about $150,000, according to Bloomberg News, which first reported the settlement, although a Pfizer spokesman disputed the figures. The move came after a Pennsylvania appeals court reinstated $1.7 million in compensatory damages and $8.6 million in punitive damages against Pfizer in a lawsuit filed by an Arkansas woman, who alleged its Wyeth unit failed to warn that Prempro could cause her to develop breast cancer. The settlement comes just weeks after Ian ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455486 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:09:42 +0100 4455486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419347&cid=t_102184_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2Fu94sp041YWY%2F Vanessa Giacoppo was completing her final year of college when her health took a nosedive. The once vibrant and slim 26-year-old now barely recognized herself. “I felt like I had mono. I was sleeping all the time,” says Giacoppo. “At one point, my mother wondered if I was pregnant because I’d gained so much weight.” There were other problems, too. She was eating more than usual; her skin was very dry; and her hair and nails were brittle. So Vanessa went to the doctor and had the full battery of tests. The blood work revealed that while she wasn’t producing enough thyroid hormones (known as T3 and T4), her thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was elevated. The labs pointed to a disease known as Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which antibodies attack the gland ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419347 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 13:24:34 +0100 4419347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419453&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FXql_GCjRfw8%2F Welcome to the working week. We hope your weekend was refreshing and relaxing. Now, of course, the time has come to resume the routine of meetings and deadlines. To cope, we are, once again, armed with a cup of stimulation - our flavor today is chocolate raspberry truffle - and invite you to join us. Meanwhile, here are some interesting tidbits to begin the day. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch. We enjoy hearing what goes on in your world… FDA OKs Novartis Meningitis Vaccine In Children, No Infants (Bloomberg News) Radiologist Wins $482M In Stent Patent Suit Against J&J (Star-Ledger of NJ) Pfizer Order To Pay $142M Over Neurontin Marketing Is Upheld (MarketWatch) Glaxo Settles Avandia Suit On Eve Of Trial (Bloomberg News) Dr. Reddy’s Gets Court Approval To Sell... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419453 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 12:51:11 +0100 4419453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4411574&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Flearning-from-my-patients.html I am always amazed by how smart my patients are ! It's fun learning from them and they keep me on my toes. Here's a first person guest post from one of my patients ( who is a PhD and knows more about fertility than most gynecologists do !). She has done all her learning "on the job" - and this is an excellent example of what a highly motivated intelligent patient can do to help herself, when she sets her mind to it.She has carried out a clinic trial on herself and done an extremely good job of it as well. In fact, based on her experience, I am now going to start studying the effect of Vit D3 supplementation on women with low AMH levels. If Vit D helps to improve their low AMH levels ( and thus their ovarian reserve ) this will be a big step forward in the treatment of these women !) It's t... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4411574 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 04:37:00 +0100 4411574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4389181&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Flexapro-for-treatment-of-hot-flashes%2F2011.01.23 In a well done placebo-controlled study published in this week’s Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), use of escitalopram (Lexapro) reduced hot flashes in menopausal women. Investigators enrolled 205 women, randomizing them to either Lexapro 10 mg or placebo, with instructions to increase to two pills a day if needed after four weeks. Lexapro users experienced about a 60 percent reduction in hot flash frequency over the eight-week study. About half ended up on the larger 20 mg daily dose by study’s end. The drug’s effect was apparent at about one week of use, and it was well tolerated. As in almost studies of menopausal treatments, the placebo group also experienced a significant reduction in symptoms — about 40 percent — but the difference between place... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4389181 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 23:00:21 +0100 4389181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305103&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FlRgOzMwajh8%2F Shortly before the recent holiday break, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals issued a ruling that had drugmakers and their attorneys cheering. After reviewing a lawsuit filed over the marketing of Pfizer’s hormone replacement meds, the court decided consumers who sue for misrepresentation under the state’s Consumer Credit and Protection Act now must also show proof of reliance to seek damages. In other words, consumers will now have to show a causal connection between claims that they were injured and any alleged unfair or deceptive conduct by a drugmaker. The original suit that was filed in 2004 charged Pfizer’s Wyeth used “unfair” and “deceptive” practices to promote its HRT meds to doctors and patients by using “misleading” st... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305103 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 13:53:31 +0100 4305103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4295001&cid=t_102184_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fphysical-effects-of-alcohol-on-women-3%2F Women’s bodies react differently to alcohol than men’s bodies and this can be explained by biological differences:Women have approximately 10% more fatty tissue and less body water than men. This means that women attain a higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC) than men for the same volume of alcohol consumed.Women have lower levels of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), an enzyme involved in the metabolism of alcohol. As a result, women experience the effects of alcohol more quickly, and for longer, than men.On average, women weigh less than men and, therefore, have less tissue to absorb alcohol.Women’s hormone levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and this may affect the rate of alcohol metabolism in the body, causing women to experience higher blood alcohol levels at different poi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4295001 Sun, 26 Dec 2010 15:28:00 +0100 4295001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4285353&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fj_8GX6iXEFk%2F The holiday weekend may be in the offing, but the Pharmalot corporate campus is still humming. And why not? The world has not stopped spinning, after all, and there is always something interesting going on. So while you prepare for a celebration or simply slow down the usual pace, here are a few items to help you along. Meanwhile, we pass along holiday greetings and hope everyone has a chance to catch up on some fun things and enjoy life. See you soon… Cephalon Names Kevin Buchi As CEO (statement) Lundbeck Alcoholism Pill May Be A Goldmine (Bloomberg News) Novartis To Build Vaccine Plant In North Carolina (Raleigh News & Observer) FDA Reviews Safety Of Human Growth Hormone Drugs (Reuters) Pfizer And Bristol Bloodthiners Beats Sanofi Drug In Study (Bloomberg News) Massachusetts Award... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4285353 Thu, 23 Dec 2010 12:54:53 +0100 4285353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4258865&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhrt-no-wonder-women-are-confused%2F2010.12.14 Confused about hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? I can’t imagine why… *This blog post was originally published at tbtam* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4258865 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 19:00:57 +0100 4258865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259095&cid=t_102184_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FK6E72fwa6Dc%2F The HCG diet is currently one of the hottest diet fads out there right now. One of my friends just lost 75 pounds on it, after trying everything. These overweight women are injecting themselves with the pregnancy hormone HCG in order to shed pounds. (HCG is the hormone that makes the pee stick say “pregnant” if you really are.) Why anyone would choose to feel pregnant is beyond me (yes, I think this diet trend is totally nuts and unsafe, and have told my friend so), but the fact that I’m seeing HCG diet centers sprout up all over the country, and naturopathic doctors advertise that they’ll offer it, makes me realize that this hormone is here to stay. Here’s how it works: HCG tells the hypothalamus (the part of the brain that affects metabolism) to mobilize fat stores. If you�... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259095 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:35:07 +0100 4259095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172062&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhrt-and-breast-cancer-deaths-%25e2%2580%2593-just-in-case-you-weren%25e2%2580%2599t-listening-the-first-time%25e2%2580%25a6%2F2010.11.16 A new analysis of long-term data from the Women’s Health Initiative confirms what we already knew the first time around: Use of combination hormone replacement (HRT*) is associated with a small, but real, risk of breast cancer. This new 11-year followup data carries that knowledge out to its not unexpected conclusion — namely, that some (although not most) breast cancers can be fatal, and therefore the the use of HRT can increase breast cancer mortality. While it may seem a bit of a “duh,” this study was, in fact, necessary to quell the WHI critics who continued to argue that the breast cancers caused by HRT were somehow less aggressive than those occurring off HRT (which they are not.) It was also a wake-up call for many women who were continuing to use HRT and thinking that s... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172062 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 13:00:50 +0100 4172062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168212&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FLHFTjD-DAAg%2F Good morning, everyone. Nice to see you again. We hope your weekend was refreshing and relaxing. Now, of course, the routine resumes with all those meetings and deadlines. We share the feeling, of course. To cope, we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation. Please join us. And as always, here are a few tidbits to help you along. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… J&J And Bayer’s Xarelto Beats Warfarin In Key Study (Bloomberg News) J&J’s Natrecor Doesn’t Kill Or Help Heart Patients (Forbes) Progress On Heart Disease Slows (The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel) Genzyme Eyed Takeda As A White Knight (Bloomberg News) Pfizer Heart Drug Helps Milder Patients (Reuters) Merck Sets Growth Strategy In India (LiveMint) Brazil Lures Big Pharma (The Financial... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168212 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:55:18 +0100 4168212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4134258&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FAIo2G7bHgA0%2F An advocacy group known as Breast Cancer Action has been running a campaign to alert the public to a possible link between cancer and recombinant bovine growth hormone, or rBGH, which is also known as recombinant bovine somatotropin, or rbST. As part of its effort, BAC is targeting Eli Lilly, because its Elanco animal-health unit makes and sells rBST under the Posilac name, which is given to dairy cows to stimulate milk production. However, BCA has encountered some pushback. The group says that several billboard companies that do business in Indianapolis, where Lilly is headquartered, have refused to accept its ad, which reads: “Eli Lilly is making us sick. Tell them to stop.” A spokeswoman for BCA, which wants Lilly to stop making Posilac, says local and national billboard com... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4134258 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 11:34:48 +0100 4134258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4133877&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fhow-to-manage-your-pcod-guide-for.html PCOD ( polycystic ovarian disease) is one of the commoner causes of infertility. It's a chronic disease, which patients need to learn to manage themselves. Sadly, lots of patients with PCOD are very confused. They seem to understand very little about their own problem and I think this is partly because their doctors are very confused themselves and do not take the time and trouble to teach patients about their disease.Patients with PCOD have irregular periods ; and they know that their irregular periods also means that they will be infertile. How the irregular periods cause infertility is something they are not clear about . They also know that they have a "hormonal imbalance" - but are clueless about which hormones are not in balance.Because they miss their periods every month, many of th... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4133877 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 14:35:00 +0100 4133877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4121934&cid=t_102184_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FOFeQY6io58U%2F photo: Thinkstock Check out this post about birth control by Emerald Catron on Lemondrop. Talk about a lose-lose situation: Whether you have kids or are actively trying to ward off the baby virus, somebody’s going crazy up in your house. That is, if we’re to believe two recent studies in hormone research. According to new research, taking the pill can increase feelings of aggression and jealousy in women. Subjects were given hormonal birth control pills of varying doses and asked questions about their relationships. Although progesterone didn’t seem to have an effect on the amount of rage a woman experienced over the prospect of strange hos dipping in her Kool-Aid, there was a clear correlation between synthetic estrogen and feelings of possessiveness. In other words: Yes... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4121934 Sun, 31 Oct 2010 15:00:07 +0100 4121934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086517&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FHYlCehgX_oc%2F Once again, the Women’s Health Initiative appears likely to provide fodder for many lawyers who drag Pfizer into court. Why? A new study links the Prempro hormone replacement treatment, which is already linked to a higher risk of breast cancer and heart disease, is now linked to a higher risk of death. And the publicity for this finding, which will be considerable, may finally put the cabash on Prempro sales. The latest data, which was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, followed 12,788 women since 2002, when the federally funded WHI study that compared HRT with placebos was halted. In the new findings, there were 678 cases of invasive breast cancer, including 385 for women taking hormones and 293 with a placebo. More women who took hormones died from breast... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086517 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 12:15:29 +0100 4086517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4061074&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FgsazPnROR1s%2F Dealing a setback to Pfizer and several other drugmakers, the US Supreme Court rejected an appeal from Pfizer and several other drugmakers to reconsider a decision to reinstate more than 100 lawsuits filed by women who claim various hormone replacement therapies caused them to develop breast cancer. The ruling means the women can proceed with their litigation in Minnesota state court. The drugmakers wanted the cases heard in federal court, and argued that the plaintiffs added unrelated local defendants to ensure it would stay in state court. A federal judge agreed, and dismissed many of the lawsuits. But a federal appeal court overturned the ruling and then sent the cases back to Minnesota state court, where the lawsuits were filed originally. For those wondering why this legal jockeying t... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4061074 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 21:41:29 +0100 4061074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4040794&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FxQlJDBf45iE%2F Yet another drugmaker has run afoul of the law. This time, the culprit is GeneScience Pharmaceutical, a Chinese company that has pleaded guilty to illegally distributing human growth hormones in the US. Also copping a plea was Lei Jin, the ceo and founder, who is on probation for five years. The deal, in which GeneScience pleaded guilty to a felony while Jin pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor, requires a $3 million payment to a “Clean Competition Fund” for supporting drug-free sports and forfeiting another $4.5 million to the government, according to court documents. The move, by the way, comes three years after GeneScience was charged following a scandal over international trafficking of illegal body-building drugs, including steroids. Known as Operation Raw Deal, the US government crack... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4040794 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:06:41 +0100 4040794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4003433&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FhVaD-KOeWNg%2F Two weeks ago, a paper published in PLoS Medicine revealed the extent to which Wyeth used ghostwriting to promote its hormone replacement therapies. The practice was already known, but the paper offered new details thanks to a review of approximately 1,500 documents - emails, contracts, internal memos and depositions - that were culled from litigation brought by some 14,000 women and their families against Wyeth, which is now owned by Pfizer (read it here). At the time, the author of the study, Adriane Fugh-Berman, a Georgetown University professor who runs the PharmedOut project that examines pharmaceutical marketing, disclosed that she has worked as an expert witness in various lawsuits involving prescription drug promotion, including the HRT litigation over Prempro and Premarin. However... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4003433 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 16:36:03 +0100 4003433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3994030&cid=t_102184_109_f&fid=38951&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarlatpsychiatry.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fmenopause-scandal-part-one.html Are rooms too hot for you? Are you sweating when everyone else is staying cool? Is sex not what it once was? If so, you may be entering menopause, and Wyeth, along with several other pharmaceutical companies, may have just the drug for you. The trouble is that the side effects, such as breast cancer and heart disease, may not be worth the cure. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) used to be tremendously popular, and Wyeth's Prempro (a combination of estrogen and progesterone) was at the top of the heap. That is, until preliminary results of the Women's Health Initiative were announced in 2002. Thus began the long saga of re-evaluating the science behind HRT, the latest installment of which is a fascinating and rather disquieting article just published in PLOS: The Haunting of Medical Journa... The Carlat Psychiatry Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3994030 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 10:18:00 +0100 3994030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987056&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdebunking-fake-diseases%2F2010.09.20 Ever heard of adrenal fatigue? Wilson’s temperature syndrome? If not, there’s a good reason: They exist only on the Internet. The Hormone Foundation, an affiliate of the Endocrine Society, recently issued two fact sheets for patients debunking these so-called conditions, which were “apparently conceived only in an effort to sell products promoted to treat them,” the LA Times reported. No medical evidence supports either faux disease and there are no tests or treatments for them, but patients still try to alleviate them with supplements, some of them potentially dangerous, the Times said. Adrenal fatigue is characterized by such “symptoms” as having salt and sugar cravings and needing coffee to get you through the day, while the man who discovered Wilson&... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987056 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3987056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976709&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FKdHrZGFxZoY%2F After several years of legal sparring, a federal judge has dismissed the whistleblower lawsuit that Peter Rost filed against Pfizer. For those who do not recall, Rost is the controversial former Pfizer exec who allegated that Genotropin, a human growth hormone, was marketed for unapproved uses, such as combating aging in adults and treating short stature in children. The drug was initially marketed by Pharmacia, which is where Rost worked before the company was bought by Pfizer. The US Justice Department failed to join his lawsuit, but Rost last year succeeded in winning the right to proceed on a narrower basis by attempting to cite numerous instances in Indiana and Kentucky in which Genotropin marketing may have violated the federal False Claims Act. Specifically, he argued Pfizer engaged... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976709 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:22:11 +0100 3976709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3969015&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39260&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvaccineblogs.com%2Fvideo-shiv-chopra-talks-about-how-health-canada-is-corrupt-to-the-core%2F (Source: Vaccine Blogs) Vaccine Blogs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3969015 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 02:40:54 +0100 3969015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3946686&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F4i0SspxzFd4%2F Two years ago, an investigation disclosed that Wyeth used a ghostwriting firm to generate material used to promote its hormone replacement therapies. By then, of course, the meds were linked to breast cancer in the 2002 Women’s Health Initative study. But the disclosure prompted a US Senate probe and has since been widely cited as an instance in which pharmaceutical marketing corrupted the process by which legitimate medical info is supposed to be disseminated (background). But just how extensive was the Wyeth ghostwriting? Well, between 1997 and 2003, a firm hired by Wyeth called DesignWrite generated more than 50 peer-reviewed publications, more than 50 scientific abstracts and posters, journal supplements, internal white papers, slide kits, and symposia to promote its Premarin and... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3946686 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:54:17 +0100 3946686 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3925086&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZSb1vjJG2Ks%2F File this under back to the drawing board. The Superior Court of Pennsylvania has decided that lawsuits filed by 14 women against Pfizer’s Wyeth and Pharmacia units over links between breast cancer and hormone replacement therapies were incorrectly dismissed by a lower court. And the ruling (read it here) could restore as many as 1,000 mass tort lawsuits to the docket in Phildelphia Common Pleas Court. At issue was whether Elizabeth Coleman could have reasonably known that her breast cancer was linked to one of the HRT meds she was prescribed prior to the 2002 disclosure by the Women’s Health Initiative showing the drugs can cause the afflication. A lower court determined Coleman should have known or had reason to investigate such a link even before the WHI study was released. ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3925086 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:51:06 +0100 3925086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3911758&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fpremature-ovarian-failure-pof-and.html Premature Ovarian Failure (POF), also known as premature ovarian insufficiency, primary ovarian insufficiency , premature menopause and primary ovarian failure, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, is the loss of ovarian function before the age or 40. hypoestrogenism. POF affects 1% of the population.On an average, in a normal woman the ovaries will produce eggs until the age 51, which is the average age of natural menopause. In some women, the ovaries stop functioning much earlier. This is called premature ovarian failure. Most women with POF will have irregular menstrual cycles. Initially, these are light or infrequent; and soon stop completely. The age of onset can be as early as the teenage years but varies widely. If a girl never begins menstruation, this is called primary ovarian failure.... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3911758 Sat, 28 Aug 2010 00:52:00 +0100 3911758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3907663&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fluf-syndrome-and-infertility.html In normal healthy fertile females, ovulation with rupture of the mature ovarian follicle and release of the eggs occurs within 38 hours of the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH). However, in a small percentage of women, the dominant follicle will undergo the luteinization process but will not rupture following the midcycle LH surge. This is called LUF (luteinized unruptured follicle syndrome). As a result of the increased progesterone secretion, the endometrium undergoes the secretory changes, but, obviously, without the release of the oocyte , pregnancy cannot occur. This means that the cycles are regular; and hormonal studies ( Day 21 progesterone level) , the basal body temperature curve, and the findings in an endometrial biopsy will all be consistent with ovulation.This is obviously a ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3907663 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:45:00 +0100 3907663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858437&cid=t_102184_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F12%2Fgot-hormone-free-milk%2F By: Carlene Helble-Elite Nutrition Intern There is much more to milk than meets the eye. Not only are there hundreds of different dairies that are producing, but there are also categories like hormone free milk to consider while you’re making your grocery list. Around 2005, the price of milk spiked, something many of us tend to take in stride question free, but grumble about as we push our carts to the check out line. Between 2005-2006, states like California were eliminating the use of rBGH, a bovine growth hormone, in dairy cattle, making them hormone free, but also less productive (hence the price hike). The majority of milk produced within the United States are now hormone free. But what’s the big deal? Studies have indicated that rBGH may increase your risk of producing a cancer-... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858437 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 03:12:56 +0100 3858437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3798825&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FwfqWwZwCEWM%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another beautiful day is unfolding here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are brewing two cups of stimulation simultaneously. We are two-fisted drinkers, you know. Please join us and grab one or more yourself, or a bottle of water, if you prefer. Meanwhile, here are a few interesting tidbits to help you along. Hope your days goes well and stay in touch… FDA Panel Reviews AstraZeneca’s Brilinta Today (Reuters) Merck KGgA Multiple Sclerosis Pill Gets Priority Review (Bloomberg News) Viagra May Be Used For Lung Disorder In Children (Bloomberg News) UK’s NICE Recommends Roche’s MabThera For Leukemia (Dow Jones) Merck Paid 3,468 Death Claims To Resolve US Vioxx Suits (Bloomberg News) Pfizer Trovan Suit Transferred To Nigerian State Cou... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3798825 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:46:21 +0100 3798825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746830&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Firregular-cycles-and-infertility-is-it.html Image via WikipediaMany infertile women have irregular cycles and they know that the reason for their infertility is related to their irregular cycles. However, many are quite confused as to the relationship. Some naively believe that if the cycles are regularised, their fertility will also automatically improve ! This is why they waste months taking birth control pills, without trying to address the underlying problem !Today, we know that the commonest cause for irregular cycle is PCOD - polycystic ovarian disease. Unfortunately, many gynecologists blindly diagnose every patients with irregular cycles as having PCOD , without bothering to rule out other possibilities !Let's look at some basics.Women who ovulate regularly get regular periods. The reason a woman's periods are irregular is b... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746830 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 17:17:00 +0100 3746830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746693&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fdouching-donts-daily-health-quiz%2F Ready to get schooled about your health? Our Daily Health Quiz will test your know-how. Answer our question, below, and check back tomorrow for the answer and your next pop quiz. photo: Thinkstock Today’s Question: Douching may have been the thing back in the day, but now it’s a no-no. Do you know why? #MicroPollDiv_264562 { width: 250px; margin: 0px auto; } Answer to Yesterday’s Question: Human growth hormone (hGH) sounds like a mad-scientist serum that’s used to grow pod people, but it’s actually a naturally-occurring hormone that builds muscle, burns fat, raises energy, and maintains lower blood sugar levels. Arginine, an amino acid, supports healthy levels of hGH. Which foods contain arginine: Pecans, broccoli, cottage cheese, collared greens, or water... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746693 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:00:42 +0100 3746693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699702&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FOdezhOp_Z0E%2F Last week, the US Supreme Court refused to hear Pfizer’s appeal of a lawsuit in which a woman charged the Prempro and Premarin hormone replacement drugs caused her to develop cancer (background). In doing so, the court let stand $2.75 million in compensatory damages and a separate trial to determine punitative damages will proceed (the cap is $1 million, by the way). This means one plaintiff could collect $3.75 million and, as Sanford Bernstein analyst Tim Anderson points out in an investor note, there are perhaps more than 8,000 lawsuits working their way through the courts for the past seven years. Do some rough math, allowing for appeals, and Pfizer’s liability is anywhere from $1 billion to $8 billion. So far, he notes, Pfizer has lost most cases that went to a jury at the... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699702 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 14:48:55 +0100 3699702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683867&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FDJtxO0qiShA%2F The US Supreme Court rejected an appeal of a ruling that ordered a retrial on how much punitive damages should be awarded to a woman who developed breast cancer after taking the Prempro and Premarin hormone replacement therapy drugs, according to this report. Pfizer argued a retrial limited to punitive damages had violated its constitutional right to a jury trial and the judge in that case had improperly admitted testimony of a scientific expert. An Arkansas jury in 2008 sided with Donna Scroggin in her lawsuit against two companies bought by Pfizer - Wyeth and Pharmacia - which was the first federal verdict against Wyeth. Scroggin was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, after taking hormone replacement therapy drugs for 11 years, and was awarded compensatory damages of $2.7 million. She... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683867 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:02:51 +0100 3683867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3641020&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fprostate-cancer-what-you-should-know%2F2010.06.08 When Dennis Hopper died of prostate cancer at age 74, my husband asked me: “Hey, I thought prostate cancer is slow-growing and doesn’t kill men.” Well, he’s right about it usually being slow-growing, but prostate cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer death in men. His question made me realize that there are some facts that everyone should know about prostate cancer. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at EverythingHealth* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3641020 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:57:25 +0100 3641020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629870&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FuuoSiaC2UfA%2F And so another working week is about to draw to a close. And not a moment too soon, yes? What are your plans this weekend? A trip to the beach? A stroll in the park? Running around with your own short people? As for us, we have a full menu that includes yet another lacrosse tournament and showing off the newest Pharmalot mascot. Time is also alotted for the official Pharmalot nap. Whatever you do, have a great time and see you soon… Ranbaxy Recalls Painkillers In The UK (Bloomberg News) Hormone Patch May Be Safer For Women: Study (Reuters) Pfizer Recalls Products Made By Claris (Dow Jones) J&J Misled Pennsylvania On Risperdal Risks (Bloomberg News) Abbott Wins FDA Approval For Ovarian Cancer Test (Medill Reports) Merck Creates Collaboration For Cancer Research (The Star-Ledger) ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629870 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 11:20:55 +0100 3629870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3610472&cid=t_102184_135_f&fid=35262&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsurvivinghiv.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fsurvey-most-patients-with-hv.html (Source: Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog) Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3610472 Sat, 29 May 2010 13:06:00 +0100 3610472 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3607755&cid=t_102184_135_f&fid=35262&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsurvivinghiv.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Ffda-committee-unanimously-recommends.html (Source: Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog) Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3607755 Fri, 28 May 2010 13:13:00 +0100 3607755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3590510&cid=t_102184_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F82%2Fconsistently-working-for-skin-rejuvenation%2F Here’s a brief look at the latest research in skin rejuvenation.  It seems that a more youthful look is something that anyone can have, if they work at it. How hard is the work?  It takes motivation and consistency to achieve and maintain results on your own. If you were a one-time sun worshiper, you won’t see an immediate change unless you are willing to invest in cosmetic surgery or spa treatments.  If you have good skin right now, keeping it is relatively easy. A person’s lifestyle can affect their appearance as much as anything else.  Researchers have known for years that cigarette smoking, lack of sleep and overexposure to sunlight contribute to a prematurely aged appearance. So, the first steps are preventative measures that will allow your skin’s natural reparative proce... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3590510 Sun, 23 May 2010 06:07:23 +0100 3590510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546996&cid=t_102184_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Ffemara.html Now I have switched to Femara from Tamoxifen. Tamoxifen is the gold standard for hormone therapy for Estrogen/Progesterone positive breast cancer. It has been around for thirty years or so. Basically, here my non medical school brain attempts to give a coherent explanation, if your breast cancer is hormone positive, feeding off the hormones, they can suppress the hormones with Tamoxifen for an additional five or more years of treatment. Particularly true for women who were premenopausal.However then there was additional research and aromatase inhibitors were discovered. Currently there are several on the market, Femara, Arimidex, and Aromasin. Research was done and found that women who took Tamoxifen for 2-3 years and then switched to an AI, did just as well or better, than those who staye... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546996 Sun, 09 May 2010 11:27:00 +0100 3546996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3545503&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fis-is-possible-to-improve-ovarian.html Image via WikipediaI had just advised a young woman who had oopause ( poor ovarian reserve) to try empirical therapy, with DHEA, wheat germ , yoga and acupuncture , before we started her IVF treatment. She wanted to know the rationale behind my advise. " Doctor, on one hand you are saying that I have poor ovarian reserve, which means that I only have few eggs left in my ovaries. Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have and I cannot make any new eggs any more. In that case, how will taking all these medicines help me to grow more eggs during my IVF cycle ? "This was my reply." Yes, it is true that we cannot make you grow new eggs. Your ovary contains all the eggs you will ever have. These eggs are in a resting phase, and are contained in primordial follicles. Each month some of ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3545503 Sat, 08 May 2010 12:38:00 +0100 3545503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3515637&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F1I3fCofJeb8%2F Hello, everyone, nice to see you again. The sun is shining here on the Pharmalot corporate campus as we scurry about, attempting to hustle one of the short people to the local school house. This calls for another cup of stimulation, of course. Meanwhile, more meetings and deadlines loom. So as you ready yourself for another day, here are a few items to help you along. Have a good one and stay in touch… Viagra Patent In Brazil Expires In June (Associated Press) AstraZeneca Exceeds Q1 Expectations (Reuters) Bristol-Myers Reports Big Quarterly Gain (Associated Press) Sanofi Sees Modest Effect From Healthcare Reform (Bloomberg News) Bayer Raises Financial Outlook (Bloomberg News) Australia Pays More For Generic Statins (PharmaTimes) Fate Of UK Pfizer Plant Uncertain (Leinster Leader) MDL... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3515637 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:54:26 +0100 3515637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3501583&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Firregular-cycles-pcod-or-poor-ovarian.html I just saw a young woman who was sobbing as if her heart would break. She had had irregular cycles for many years, and I had just informed her that the reason for her irregular cycles was the fact that her egg quality was very poor, and that the only way she could have a baby was by using donor eggs.She was very upset - and was actually quite angry with me ! She had been going to a gynecologist for the last 3 years in order to try to have a baby. He had diagnosed her as having PCOD ( polycystic ovarian disease) and had told her that this was the reason for her irregular cycles. She was given Duphaston every month to induce a cycle - and had even had 2 IUI cycles done.On reviewing her records, I pointed out to her that her FSH level on more than 2 occasions had been very high - and this con... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3501583 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 12:54:00 +0100 3501583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490706&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fpoor-ovarian-reserve-as-cause-of.html One of the most frustrating diagnosis for infertile couples is that of unexplained infertility. In once sense, this is a " non-diagnosis" - it's a confession of our ignorance, and means that we do not know why the couple is not getting pregnant.Infertile patients find it very hard to understand why doctors cannot pinpoint the problem. Their major fear is that if the doctor cannot even find the problem, how will he be able to solveit ? Even worse, every menstrual cycle is a mixture of hope and dread. Every missed period may represent a pregnancy - finally ! And every time the period starts, the hopes are dashed and the waiting begins all over again !The good news is that as our technology improves, and we learn more about about reproductive biology, we have developed better tools to diagnos... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490706 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 04:22:00 +0100 3490706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490736&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D913                               To all the ladies and men out there who find themselves up against the clock of aging, seeing all those facial lines and creases appearing out of nowhere – it is time to fight back! I remember a time when I worked for a greeting card company and the biggest selling card was a birthday one.. It said, “May the bluebird of happiness…..crap all over your birthday cake!” That was over 40 years ago, and maybe we should update the message to appeal to today’s audience. ” May the nightingale of the Bronx…..crap all over your face!” They can, and do now, in spas across the Nation- and it will cost you $180 to have it happen. Based on a traditional skin care secret practiced by the beautiful Geisha of Japan... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490736 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 21:25:14 +0100 3490736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467841&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fpoor-quality-eggs-doctor-or-patient.html I just received an email from a patient who wanted a second opinion. She was 25 years old and had just completed an IVF treatment cycle at another clinic. She had got only 3 eggs and 2 poor quality embryos; and her doctor had told her that her problem was "poor quality eggs" and that she needed donor eggs. She was very upset and frustrated, and wanted to know how we could help her.Now while it is possible that young women can have poor quality eggs, this not common. Step number 1 was to review her IVF medical records, so I asked her to send these to me.Unfortunately, she did not have any records at all ! " My doctor refuses to give these " was what she told me. This is extremely frustrating and makes my blood boil. I cannot understand why IVF clinics do not routinely provide patients with ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467841 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:15:00 +0100 3467841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3456740&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fone-number-all-women-who-are-planning.html Many women these days are postponing having a baby in order to pursue a career. The good news is that while usually fertility does not decline too much until the age of 32, for some women the decision to postpone childbearing can prove to be one they bitterly regret later on. Fertility does decline as a woman grows older, and the problem is that it is not possible to predict the rate of decline for an individual woman. Most women are lulled into a false sense of security if they have regular period, because they assume that if their periods are regular, this automatically means that their egg quality if enough for them to make babies !Unfortunately, this is not always true - and for some women, while their egg quality is enough for them to produce enough hormones to get regular periods, it... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3456740 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 13:09:00 +0100 3456740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3453980&cid=t_102184_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2FO8MxFrswkCY%2F           Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases, affecting more than 5.5 million women in North America alone.  The two most common symptoms of endometriosis are pain and infertility.  Some women have pain before and during their periods, as well as during or after sex. This pain can be so intense that it affects a woman’s quality of life, from her relationships, to her day-to-day activities.  Some women don’t have any symptoms from endometriosis.  Others may not find out they have the disease until they have trouble getting pregnant.  The word endometriosis comes from the word “endometrium” – endo meaning “inside” and metrium meaning “mother.” Health care providers call the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus (where a mot... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3453980 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 21:16:12 +0100 3453980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399035&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fgeneral-health%2Fhow-do-we-survive-economic-impact The outlook for 2010 is bleak. Homes will continue to be foreclosed, jobs will be lost, and less money will be flowing as compared to years past. Also inevitable: we will get another year older. Bad news, right? Not really! Though we may not be able to control the outside elements that affect our lives and the world around us, we can do something to make sure than in the survival of the fittest, we are, indeed, the fittest we can be. To thrive this year, we need to be better than we have been. We need to make sure that we take care of our bodies, our minds, and our relationships. We need to do something practical to help our situation: 1.    Eat better. The foods we eat not only give us essential vitamins, but help our bodies to function better, including vegetables, lean organic meats... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399035 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 17:41:47 +0100 3399035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302652&cid=t_102184_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsex-after-menopause-2%2F Is there Sex after Menopause? Many women come into recovery from alcoholism or addiction having passed through menopause or in the middle of it. As this article discusses menopause can be a traumatic experience for any women; and even more so for women undergoing profound changes to their social life through recovery. New treatments offer ways to treat symptoms and improve sexual function Nothing strikes fear in the hearts of women like the thought of menopause. The shifting hormone levels that are associated with “the change” can lead to everything from mood swings, insomnia and weight gain to decreased sex drive. However, despite the common dread most women have for this time, the truth is that menopause does not have to be the end of the world … or the end of a woman’s sexualit... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302652 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:11:10 +0100 3302652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290868&cid=t_102184_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fhow-can-i-reduce-my-fsh-levels.html Image via WikipediaOne of the key factors which influences the outcome of an IVF cycle is the number of eggs the wife grows. This depends upon her ovarian reserve and this is a key metric which IVF doctors need to track. We can measure the ovarian reserve using three tools:• the antral follicle count; • the AMH level ; and • the FSH level.Of these, the FSH level has been the blood test which has been around for the longest and is the one most infertile women are familiar with. It often becomes a number which many women start obsessing over, just like infertile men obsess over their sperm counts. This is especially true for older women, who know that the success of their IVF cycle is often dependent upon this. It’s important to remember that the FSH level is just a marker for ovaria... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290868 Sat, 20 Feb 2010 04:23:00 +0100 3290868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3194019&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FFMjUpfVai_k%2F Hello, everyone. How are you? The Pharmalot corporate campus is humming as we prepare various short people for the trip to this or that schoolhouse - always an adventure. Meanwhile, there is much to do, as you know all too well. So time to dig in and attack the meetings and deadlines. Here are a few items to help you along. Have a good day… Merck HIV Drug Fails Trial (Reuters) Judge OKs Plaintiff Experts In HRT Cases (The Legal Intelligencer) Ipsen Buys A Stake In Inspiration Pharma (Bloomberg News) Roche’s Xeloda Keeps Patients Cancer-Free Longer (Reuters) Merck’s Diarrhea Drug Lowered Infections (Bloomberg News) Pfizer Doubles E-Detailing Spending (Medical Marketing & Media) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3194019 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:43:40 +0100 3194019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172044&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fgeneral-health%2Fhormones-are-making-you-crazy It’s become almost commonplace to say that we should be medicated. “You’re crazy.” “I’m Crazy.” “We’re all nuts” These statements are more severe than we think. We assume that there is something wrong with us and we look immediately to medication to fix it. Our doctors prescribe something to calm us down, lift us up, help us become normal again. But what they don’t truly do, is look into the cause of our problems. Even a diagnosis of depression or anxiety can have an underlying physical cause that no one even gets to the bottom of. You see, not everyone who is crazy, is really crazy. Two reasons can be hormonal imbalance, or what we eat. Hormonal imbalance, such as that which occurs during menopause, can cause us to feel so many emotions, running the gamut from happy... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172044 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 02:33:07 +0100 3172044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3167445&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FJiLXpv1Z4Yk%2F Pennsylvania’s Superior Court reinstituted a lawsuit by finding that a woman was entitled to an exception to the two-year statute of limitations, because she couldn’t have reasonably known of an alleged link between her breast cancer and hormone-replacement therapy drugs before the publication of the Women’s Health Initiative Study in July 2002, The Legal Intelligencer reports. Despite a $1.5 million verdict in favor of Merle Simon, her lawsuit was dismissed because of the judgment. But the Superior Court said the trial judge shouldn’t have tossed her suit because it was filed within two years of the publication of the WHI study, which found HRT drugs increase the risk of breast cancer. Simon was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2002. The Simon case is one of abo... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3167445 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:26:35 +0100 3167445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3163778&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FSKqay0zkNb0%2F I am fairly confident that most women—certainly those post-menopausal or peri-menopausal—are aware of the extensive media coverage and dire warnings following the release of the results of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in 2002.  At that time, it was stated that HRT is detrimental to a woman’s health, with risks outweighing the benefits.  It stated, pretty unequivocally, that HRT increased risk of breast cancer, cardiac events and stroke. It would be overstating to say that all of the 2002 results were inaccurate, since, as we know, science is rarely definitive and more information is constantly emerging and being revised; however, women should know that many of the initial results have been found to have been distorted, misundersto... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3163778 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 14:02:25 +0100 3163778 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3137558&cid=t_102184_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FoyHN9uIrVs8%2F Women who have had breast cancer may see themselves feeling more sensual and able to enjoy sex if they have acupuncture to treat some of the frustrating side effects of some cancer treatments, such as hot flashes and night sweats, say researchers. Hormone therapy, used to treat some types of breast cancers, is often taken for up to five years after a woman has completed chemotherapy. However, the side effects are often more than simply annoying. They can have a significant impact on quality of life. Not being able to sleep well is the root of many problems at the best of times, but it can be much more difficult when you’re trying to win a battle against a potentially fatal disease. There are medications currently available to counter some of the side effects but they are not always e... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3137558 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 19:06:22 +0100 3137558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3827172&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=38815&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FGetPrimed%2F%7E3%2F3oNSFqX6Pl0%2F In a previous blog post – Sexual Changes during Perimenopause and Beyond – I reviewed some of the sexual changes that may occur with menopause. One of the most common sexual issue for postmenopausal women is vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis), the thinning and inflammation of vaginal walls induced by declining estrogen. Vaginal atrophy can lead to vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse. Although many women do not seek help for this condition, estrogen treatment has been proven effective in restoring vaginal health and improving symptoms. Estrogen Options There are a number of low dose hormone therapies available in a variety of forms such as vaginal tablets, rings and creams. These local therapies relieve dryness and painful intercourse by rebuilding the lining of the vagina... Get Primed! blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3827172 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 16:02:00 +0100 3827172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3097064&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FUsH0nGX6Zc0%2F A New York State court judge tossed the lawsuits filed by 23 women who claimed the drugmaker’s hormone replacement therapies - Prempro, Premarin and Provera - caused their breast cancer. Another defendant was Teva Pharmaceuticals. “While plaintiffs’ proffered evidence is extensive, a review of the material and the record as a whole contain no evidence of fraud, misrepresentation or deception,” New York State Supreme Court Justice Martin Shulman wrote in his Dec. 14 decision (please see here). He also concluded the plaintiffs didn’t file their complaints within the state three year statute of limitations. In reaching his decision, Shulman cited the “ongoing medical debate as to the risks versus benefits of taking HRT…Though this debate does not appear to be settled, t... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3097064 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:16:36 +0100 3097064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092930&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FXfQjWO1G_h4%2F Why? The big drugmaker Pfizer says the video, which discusses its Prempro and Premarin menopause treatments and is posted on YouTube, is misleading and aimed at swaying potential jurors in future trials over the pills. So Pfizer asked a judge to order its removal, Bloomberg News reports. The 5-minute video was posted by plaintiffs’ lawyers who recently won $78 million in damages in a Pennsylvania trial, but Pfizer argues the video violates state legal-ethics rules and threatens the integrity of pending cases, Pfizer attorneys wrote in a Common Pleas Court filing in Philadelphia, according to the news service. “Plaintiff’s counsel should be compelled to remove this video from the Internet and refrain from making any further inflammatory and prejudicial public statements” until the ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092930 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:21:40 +0100 3092930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3029770&cid=t_102184_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F25%2Fat-our-bodies-our-blog-prempro-lawsuits-cosmetic-surgery-the-fabulous-judy-norsigian%2F At Our Bodies Our Blog today, I have a bit about the outcomes of some recent lawsuits related to Prempro (estrogen+progestin HRT) and breast cancer. Earlier this week, I pointed to a recent issue of the journal “Clinical Risk” which is focused on cosmetic surgery risks and regulations. Christine has posted about a Time magazine article on a sex drive drug for women in which OBOS co-founder and director Judy Norsigian is quoted; Judy is also featured in the current issue of Vanderbilt University Medical Center newsletter The Reporter, following her visit to Nashville and talk at Vanderbilt’s School of Nursing. Posted in Body Image & Eating Disorders, Boobs, Cancer, Drugs, Menopause (Source: Women's Health News) Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3029770 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:05:02 +0100 3029770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3026880&cid=t_102184_135_f&fid=35262&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsurvivinghiv.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fmens-health-lecture-two-experts-share_25.html (Source: Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog) Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3026880 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 06:00:00 +0100 3026880 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023412&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F5X0mRwH2GCQ%2F The drugmaker was ordered to pay a total of $103 million in punitive damages to two women who were found to have breast cancer after they used the Prempro or Premarin hormone replacement therapies. In one case, a jury awarded $28 million and a judge unsealed another case from last month with a $75 million judgment. Both cases played out in a Pennsylvania state court in Philadelphia. Some 1,500 lawsuits have been filed in Philadelphia and another 10,000 are lodged in other courts around the country. Lawyers for many plaintiffs say they have won financial settlements for undisclosed amounts in at least 10 other cases before the suits went to trial, according to The New York Times. Esther Berezofsky, a lawyer for one of the women who won the awards in Philadelphia tells the paper that “this... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023412 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:24:46 +0100 3023412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2963333&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FVjg11FRnhQ8%2F The punitive damages will go to an Illinois woman, Connie Barton, who developed cancer after taking Prempro, Bloomberg reports, although the amount was sealed last week by a Pennsyvlania state court judge until another trial begins. A jury also awarded her $3.7 million in compensatory damages after finding the conduct of Pfizer’s Wyeth was “willful and wanton” in marketing and selling the drug. Barton’s lawyers presented evidence during the trial about Wyeth efforts to “deflect” criticism of its handling of the drug and its use of ghostwritten articles in medical journals to market Prempro. They also alleged execs hid Prempro’s cancer risks to pump up the drug’s sales, Bloomberg writes. Annual sales of Wyeth’s hormone-replacement drugs topped $2 billion befor... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2963333 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:53:10 +0100 2963333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2948383&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fgeneral-health%2Fsex-can-make-you-healthier If you told me that sex improves my longevity I would go out and try to sleep with everyone. Sex does make you healthier but not in the ways you may think. It has been shown that sex decreases the risk of prostate cancer and heart disease and there is some information that men who have sex three or more times a week are less likely to have a heart attack. For women it increases the hormones and betters the mood. In my opinion it is not the mechanics of sex that make you healthier but the emotional connection to the act that can give you the health benefits. If you are in a good relationship it helps you much more than the sex. When you sleep beside one your biorhythms are in unison. If you want to improve your health and have a partner, you cannot do it alone. We all know that in many situ... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2948383 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 22:53:38 +0100 2948383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2931289&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fs8MFmdCHZ-0%2F A Philadelphia jury returned a sealed punitive-damages verdict late yesterday against the drug maker after finding a link between a woman’s breast cancer and the hormone-replacement drug, the Associated Press reports. Connie Barton’s case is one of a handful of Prempro lawsuits to go to trial out of several thousand filed across the country. About 1,500 are pending in Philadelphia. At Wyeth’s request, the amount of Barton’s punitive award was sealed pending the verdict in a second Prempro case underway in the same courthouse, the AP continues. The jury had awarded Barton $3.75 million in compensatory damages last week and found Wyeth willfully hid evidence of a cancer link, prompting the deliberations Monday on punitive damages. “They knew back in the 1970s th... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2931289 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:07:33 +0100 2931289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2832095&cid=t_102184_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F24%2Fat-our-bodies-our-blog-hormone-replacement-therapy-and-lung-cancer%2F At Our Bodies Our Blog today I have a piece on a new study that has been in the news on hormone replacement therapy and its association with risk of lung cancer. The quality of the study is, uh, not great. Find out why, and what it does say. Posted in Cancer, Drugs (Source: Women's Health News) Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2832095 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 23:58:24 +0100 2832095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804237&cid=t_102184_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FVWXM8Tyxi_U%2F Is there Sex after Menopause? Many women come into recovery from alcoholism / addiction having passed through menopause or in the middle of it. As this article discusses menopause can be a traumatic experience for any woman; and even more so for women undergoing profound changes to their social life through recovery. New treatments offer [...] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804237 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:56:25 +0100 2804237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2737868&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D710 Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) (commonly known as “man that insensitive woman is a dude!” syndrome) It used to be easy to tell if a boy was a boy, and a girl was a girl.  Now, it isn’t.  We all know that “looks can be deceiving” so just a general inspection of a pection doesn’t always mean anything.  So, we had to turn to chromosomal analysis -you know, the XX and the XY thing?  Boys have the Y, the girls X.   Some men think that the absence of Y is a genetic defect!  LOL!  I know the women are convinced that a Y is a genetic anomaly.  With the concerns unfair advantages relating to performance enhancing testosterones, human growth hormone, and red blood cell stimulating factors – who knew that the discussion would turn back to g... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2737868 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:30:10 +0100 2737868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2702364&cid=t_102184_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FohfZ-a09TFg%2F Earlier this week, I posted about ovarian cancer and preserving fertility among women who are still in their childbearing years (Ovarian Cancer, Young Women & Fertility). But other than knowing that ovarian cancer is difficult to diagnose and it’s survival rate is not good because of the difficulty diagnosing it in the early stages, how much do you know about it? Ovarian cancer, one of the gynecological cancers, along with uterine, endometrial, cervical and vaginal cancers, affects mostly women over the age of 50, or post menopause. Younger women do develop ovarian cancer but it’s not as common. While doctors don’t know what causes ovarian cancer, they do know that fertility and menopause play a role, showed by the rising number of older women who develop it. Why is i... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2702364 Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:03:51 +0100 2702364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2674254&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fguest-blog-on-need-to-get-ethical.html This article was accompanied by an editorial by me any my Co-Editor and a position statement by the World Association of Medical Editors decrying such practices.I am a practicing general internist who prescribes drugs regularly that help my patients. I want and need new drugs to be developed, and I believe that users of those drugs should pay for the necessary research and development through both drug pricing and funding of NIH. I am also a patient and similarly want there to be effective drugs to prolong my life and healthy living. But they should be described in an evidence-based manner, and the evidence must be unbiased. The drugs should be priced so the drug company recoups its costs and makes a profit. I have no problems with any of that. But when they try to enhance their profits th... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2674254 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:11:00 +0100 2674254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2674255&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fwyeths-industrial-scale-ghost-writing.html MedInformaticsMD noted the impending release of documents about how Wyeth engineered ghost-writing of articles about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) here. Now the NY Times has had a chance to review the documents, with fascinating results.The scope of the ghost-writing campaign was on an impressively industrial scale: 26 articles published over 7 years in 18 medical journals.The details were ably covered by at least three other blogs. Dr Adriane Fugh-Berman, guest- (not ghost-) blogging on PharmaGossip discussed how the documents reached the public domain. Dr Daniel Carlat on the Carlat Psychiatry Blog, Prof Margaret Soltan on the University Diaries offered some choice comments -By Dr CarlatAs with baseball players on steroids, when companies pour marketing money into ghostwriting campai... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2674255 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:40:00 +0100 2674255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2615387&cid=t_102184_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FzAeNXfS-Ndc%2F A study that recruited women from 7 countries has found that women who had fractured a wrist healed more quickly if they received an injection of human parathyroid hormone (PTH), called teriparatide . This medication is used to treat osteoporosis. The results of the study were published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research . Researchers recruited 102 women who were aged between 45 and 85 years. They were post menopausal and had fractured a wrist, called a Colle’s fracture . A Colle’s fracture involves a break of the end of the radius bone of the forearm. All the women were casted, none had surgery to repair the fracture. The group was divided into three. For eight weeks, one group received a placebo (sugar pill), one received 20 micrograms of PTH and the last group recei... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2615387 Sat, 18 Jul 2009 20:16:30 +0100 2615387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2649111&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=38815&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FGetPrimed%2F%7E3%2FOR95KvwV9m0%2F Many biological changes occur during perimenopause and continue after menopause, including changes in sexual function. Unfortunately, sexual function and its impact on women’s quality of life is infrequently discussed and rarely addressed during visits with healthcare providers. Women may experience decreased vaginal lubrication, decline in libido (sexual drive) and dyspareunia (painful intercourse). Estrogen levels, which decline with menopause, impact vaginal function, blood flow and secretions. The result can be painful intercourse and a decrease in sexual desire. In some cases, diminishing estrogen can lead to bleeding and formation of adhesions. Taken together, these biological changes can create a range of sexual challenges for women as they age. As a first step, non-hormonal vagin... Get Primed! blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2649111 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:24:57 +0100 2649111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523271&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fantiaging%2Fprogesterone-deficiency-can-lead-to-tender-breasts Hormone Replacement Can Be the Cure Many women are suffering from tender and swollen breasts right before their period. Usually, it is one of the many symptoms, that include bloating, fatigue, even moodiness in some. A low progesterone level can be the cause of this tenderness. Replacement with progesterone, not progestine, may help. (Source: Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog) Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523271 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:25:49 +0100 2523271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2473678&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fgeneral-health%2Fwhy-you-may-be-at-higher-risk-for-loosing-your-uterus-then-european-women Learn how to protect your uterus with bioidentical hormone replacement Going to major surgery is not a pleasant thing at all, especially if it is because of a dangerous health condition. Like going for hysterectomy ( uterus removal ), which is the second in the United States GYN surgical procedures done after C section. But can we avoid it at least in some cases? If you do not know how to do it, then may be we should learn what European women are doing about it, because the hysterectomy rate in Europe is much lower, then in he US ( except Finland ). How did it happen? May be european women have uterus, different from the US women’s? I doubt it. So what may be the reason, that their uteruses are healthier? One of the most common reasons of uterine problems are uterine fibroids, link... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2473678 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:57:47 +0100 2473678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939423&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fgeneral-health%2Fwhen-retirement-is-not-an-option In today’s economic times, many people are finding that retiring at the age of 65 is almost impossible. And some of us, just don’t want to. But, in a time where kids are coming out of college, willing to do twice as much work for half the pay, baby boomers are finding themselves unable to keep up. After the age of 25, your body begins a downward spiral, and with age your memory levels, your muscles, and your energy deteriorate. Bioidentical hormone replacement can improve all of these symptoms, and keep you making the money that you need, and doing the job you love. You can look and feel ten years younger with easy treatments. (Source: Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog) Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939423 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:23:52 +0100 2939423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405652&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fzimney-health-and-medical-news-you-can-use%2Ftestosterone-gel-warningsnew-information%2F If you or someone you know uses topical testosterone gels (AndroGel or Testim) there’s important new information from the FDA on their safety. Because these gels are applied by hand to the skin of the shoulders and upper arms, or the abdomen, it is extremely important that those hands be washed thoroughly with soap and warm water after every application. The reason for this is to avoid any possibility of transferring the drug from the hand to the skin of a child. Testosterone is the male sex hormone and some men need to take it as a medication to supplement their own naturally made testosterone because, for any number of reasons, their natural levels are low. But if it gets on the skin of a child it can be absorbed and cause premature sexual effects in the child. The FDA has received rep... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405652 Thu, 14 May 2009 17:21:59 +0100 2405652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2167637&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D6109 US researchers have put forward new evidence of a link between hormone replacement therapy and an elevated risk of breast cancer. The BBC reports: The New England Journal of Medicine research found breast cancer risk fell sharply when women stopped taking HRT. A UK expert said a 50% drop in HRT use in recent years had probably stopped up to 1,000 breast cancer cases a year. But another group of experts said the fall in breast cancer rates may be due to other factors. The interpretation of the original 2002 “Women’s Health Initiative” study, linking combined oestrogen and progestin HRT with breast cancer, has been hotly debated Some think this is ‘Convincing data’ Dr Marcia Stefanik, from Stanford University, said: “This is very strong evidence that oestr... Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2167637 Sat, 07 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2167637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2160357&cid=t_102184_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F02%2F04%2Fpostpartum-depression-hormone-test%2F As we noted earlier today, there’s a new study out that suggests that a simple blood test that checks for a particular hormone level predictive of postpartum depression might be on the horizon. It’s likely such a test is still a few years away, since this was the first study that found such a link. But such a test could act as an early-warning signal to expectant mothers (and their doctors) about possible complications after delivery. Postpartum depression is a very real and a very serious problem amongst moms. Left untreated, the depression can hurt not only the mother, but the baby after birth as well. Women with depression during pregnancy may eat poorly, not gain enough weight, have trouble sleeping, miss doctor visits and not follow doctor’s directions. Because of t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2160357 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:51:43 +0100 2160357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2040326&cid=t_102184_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2FIdqIEryPMNY%2F var iamInit = function() {try{initIamServingHandler(420,631,351899,"http://cdn.pis.picapp.com/IamProd/Resources/Css/css2.css")}catch(ex){}}() Every once in a while you hear some odd medical news that just doesn’t seem to make sense on the surface. This news falls into that category: people with psoriasis may face of higher risk of obesity. Apparently high-levels of a fat hormone leptin are to blame. Leptin is the hormone that manages metabolism, weight, and could also put people at risk to develop diabetes. So there’s yet one more reason to lose weight! Tags: dangers in obesity, Diabetes, fat hormone, health benefits, leptin, losing weight, psoriasis, risk of obesity, treatmentShare This (Source: Diabetes Notes) Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2040326 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 02:01:46 +0100 2040326 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2039914&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fhaunting-of-hormone-replacement-therapy.html US Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) is digging into what appears to be another ghost-writing case. As reported by the New York Times,Wyeth, the pharmaceutical company, paid ghostwriters to produce medical journal articles favorable to its hormone replacement therapy Prempro, according to Congressional letters seeking more information about the company’s involvement in medical ghostwriting.Mr. Grassley’s staff on the Senate Finance Committee released dozens of pages of internal corporate documents gathered from lawsuits showing the central, previously undisclosed role of Wyeth and DesignWrite in creating articles promoting hormone therapy for menopausal women as far back as 1997.The documents show company executives came up with ideas for medical journal articles, titled them, drafted ... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2039914 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 19:39:00 +0100 2039914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2040404&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F485583766%2F Taking the hormones for five years doubles the risk for breast cancer, according to a new analysis of the Women’s Health Initiative, a large federal study, revealing the most dramatic evidence yet of the dangers of the popular pills, the Associated Press writes. Even women who took estrogen and progestin pills - Wyeth sells the combo as Prempro - for as little as a couple of years had a greater chance of getting cancer. And when they stopped taking them, their odds quickly improved, returning to a normal risk level roughly two years after quitting, the AP reports adding, that, collectively, these new findings are likely to end any doubt that the risks outweigh the benefits for most women. The rate of breast cancer clearly plunged in recent years mainly because millions of women quit ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2040404 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:14:43 +0100 2040404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2017836&cid=t_102184_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F0katBrwYtBM%2F 23-year-old Alex Kwan is autistic and the team manager for the West Albany High School football team. Yesterday’s Oregonian describes how, for Kwan, football has become a “safe haven, a place where he is embraced for his differences instead of mocked because of them.” That’s real teamwork, yes? Tags: asd, asperger, autism, autism blog, disabilities blog, disability, Education, football, Health, high school, hormone, oregonShare This (Source: Autism Vox) Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2017836 Sat, 06 Dec 2008 22:14:57 +0100 2017836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2017838&cid=t_102184_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FWl4OGrSUFt4%2F Lately hormones have been on my mind a lot. “It’s those hormones,” someone seems to say at least once a day in reference to Charlie. Not only has he grown some six inches this year (that’s what Jim and I have been estimating). Physically, he is really growing up: For the past few weeks, it’s become very apparent that his voice is changing (though I still hear, mixed in with new, lower tone, the familiar light voice that is Charlie’s). At times his moods seem to change in a split second or less. I’ve been remembering back to my own adolescence and to how waves of feelings seemed to arise in me with no warning, and how these weren’t always expressed in the best of ways, as I didn’t know how to express what I was experiencing—–... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2017838 Sat, 06 Dec 2008 07:25:59 +0100 2017838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1969314&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F457835804%2F The drugmakers allegedly engaged in deceptive trade practices as they went about selling four hormone therapy meds, according to a lawsuit filed in Clark County District Court in Las Vegas. Attorney General Cortez Masto claims Nevada consumers and doctors were misled about the safety of Wyeth’s Premarin, Prempro and Premphase, and Pfizer’s Provera. “When drug companies purposefully misrepresent the safety and efficacy of their drugs, or promote their drugs in a deceptive way, everybody loses,” Masto says in a statement. “We’re confident we have the facts necessary to prove this case, and we hope this lawsuit and its outcome will deter improper drug company practices in Nevada.” The suit contends that Wyeth and Pfizer intentionally minimized the ri... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1969314 Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:32:19 +0100 1969314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1947167&cid=t_102184_135_f&fid=35262&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsurvivinghiv.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fanti-frailty-pill-for-seniors-new-drug.html (Source: Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog) Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1947167 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 23:40:00 +0100 1947167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1856101&cid=t_102184_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F5mGA0vcrwps%2F Or so suggests this study, so I write this with raised eyebrows. Scientists have identified a common genetic variation that appears to weaken a man’s ability to emotionally attach to one partner. Findings from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden found that men with relationship and communication problems carry a variation in the gene that codes for vasopressin 1a receptor subtype, a hormone involved in brain signaling and said to influence monogamy in animals. Allele 334 of the vasopressin gene was associated with lower scores on partner bonding and greater odds of marital conflict. Among men either with no copies or just one copy of the 334 allele, 15 to 16 percent reported a marital crisis in the past year. However, when men had two copies of the 334 allele, the odds of marital crisis d... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1856101 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 01:15:36 +0100 1856101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1812873&cid=t_102184_160_f&fid=36190&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skincareblog.org%2Fentry%2Fsmoking-may-damage-your-skin%2F In a study conducted by British Journal of Dermatology, it is found that female smokers experience ‘dotty skin’. It also says that smoking is not one reason for women developing marks on their face. Stress, pollution, hormonal alterations, occupation, exposure to steam and heat for longer hours etc. lead to non-inflammatory acne. As skin make-up varies from individual to individual so all smokers may not experience such dermatological problems. Nevertheless, smoking is found to aggravate such problems which actually highlight health problems within. There is a world wide awareness campaign going on against smoking because smoking causes infinite damage to smokers and surrounding people. The study also found that smoking reduces skin secretions like Vitamin E and thereby do... Skin Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1812873 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:30:22 +0100 1812873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1689177&cid=t_102184_109_f&fid=35671&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.anxietyinsights.info%2Fthe_effects_of_stress_hormones_on_neurotransmission.htm Laboratoire Physiologie Cellulaire de la Synapse and Neurocentre Inserm researchers, working at the NeuroCampus of the Université de Bordeaux, France, have discovered how the stress hormone cortisol regulates brain neurotransmission on the short and long term and enables neuronal connections to adapt. The research, directed by Laurent Groc and Francis Chaouloff, may lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets for psychiatric illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. When we are subjected to a stress, our adrenal glands secrete hormones that affect our entire body. One of these hormones, cortisol, enables us to adapt physically and mentally to the stimulus. With a major or repeated stress that an individual has no control over, however, cortisol is se... Latest entries from www.anxietyinsights.info blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1689177 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 08:58:00 +0100 1689177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1631585&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F336998752%2F In doing so, the drugmaker avoided a trial this week in Nevada, where two women claims the Prempro and Premarin hormone-replacement drugs caused their breast cancer, Bloomberg News reports. Wyeth agreed to pay an undisclosed amount to Las Vegas residents Vesta Woodhouse, 71, and Annie Woods, 61, to resolve allegations it failed to adequately warn them about breast cancer risks. The settlement leaves Pfizer to face trial this week in a similar case brought by Woods over its hormone-therapy drug Provera, the wire service writes. The deal follows a ruling last week by a New Jersey judge who dismissed two similar lawsuits against Wyeth and Pfizer’s Pharmacia & Upjohn unit for lack of evidence. The plaintiffs in those cases, which would have been the first to go to trial in New Jer... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1631585 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 11:42:42 +0100 1631585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1616432&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F333172876%2F A New Jersey state court judge granted summary judgment against the claims made by a woman who claims Wyeth’s Prempro and Premarin, and Pfizer’s Provera, caused her breast cancer. Her lawsuit, which charged the drugmakers failed to adequately warn against the risks associated with their meds, is the first in dozens of such cases and the outcome may call those into question. In a 52-page decision, Superior Court Judge Jamie Happas ruled that Dora Bailey failed to provide the specific type of evidence necessary to overcome state law that presumes FDA-approved labeling on the three drugs was adequate. Happas wrote that “the presumption of an adequate warning based on compliance with FDA regulations will be deemed rebutted only if the following proof is presented: deliberate ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1616432 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 23:09:45 +0100 1616432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1603443&cid=t_102184_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F331357824%2F Some hormone-blocking drugs may not be beneficial to the elderly prostate cancer patients. Such were the findings of a new prostate cancer study. A prostate cancer study that could change how doctors treat some patients found that widely used hormone-blocking drugs did not improve survival chances for older men whose disease hadn’t spread. In fact, men given the drugs alone were slightly more likely to die of prostate cancer during the next six years than men who’d gotten medical monitoring but no or delayed treatment, another common treatment approach. The study involved nearly 20,000 Medicare patients with prostate cancer that hadn’t spread. A surprising 41 percent got only drug treatment, in shots or implants, showing that the therapy has become a popular alternative t... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1603443 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 03:18:23 +0100 1603443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1603408&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F331021569%2F The federal judge presiding over the Prempro federal litigation yesterday reversed a jury’s $27 million punitive damages award last March to a woman who claimed she developed breast cancer after using hormone replacement drugs, according to Mealy’s Litigation Report. US Judge William Wilson of the Eastern District of Arkansas ruled that expert testimony provided by the plaintiff’s expert was improperly admitted and he ordered a new trial. And he apologized to the jury by saying the reversal was his own fault. “I admitted much evidence that should not have been admitted,” he wrote at the conclusion of his 52-page ruling. On March 6, the jury ordered Wyeth to pay $19.4 million and Pfizer’s Pharmacia unit to pay $7.7 million after finding that the drugmakers acted inap... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1603408 Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:56:22 +0100 1603408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1561302&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F323962935%2F Last Friday, the Supreme Court of British Columbia denied an attempt by the drugmaker to dismiss a lawsuit that alleges its hormone replacement therapies cause breast cancer. And the move clears the way for a possible class action proceeding against not only Wyeth’s Canadian subsidiary, but Wyeth itself, The Canadian Press reports. Hundreds of women who claim they developed breast cancer after taking the drugs - known as Premarin and Premplus in Canada - have contacted the law firm involved in the lawsuit. “Now we can put the case back on track toward getting it certified as a class action,” David Klein, an attorney for the one existing plaintiff, Dianna Stanway, tells the Press. Wyeth asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, saying the Canadian women didn’t have jur... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1561302 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:05:14 +0100 1561302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1472723&cid=t_102184_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsex-after-menopause%2F Is there Sex after Menopause? Many women come into recovery from alcoholism / addiction having passed through menopause or in the middle of it. As this article discusses menopause can be a traumatic experience for any woman; and even more so for women undergoing profound changes to their social life through recovery. New treatments offer ways to treat symptoms and improve sexual function Fear of change Nothing strikes fear in the hearts of women like the thought of menopause. The shifting hormone levels that are associated with “the change” can lead to everything from mood swings, insomnia and weight gain to decreased sex drive. However, despite the common dread most women have for this time, the truth is that menopause does not have to be the end of the world … or the end of a w... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1472723 Wed, 28 May 2008 10:56:25 +0100 1472723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1469735&cid=t_102184_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F298541506%2Fless_blood_clots_from_hrt_patch_than_pill.html A new study found that women who take the skin patch version of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could have a lower risk of blood clots than those who take the therapy in oral pill form.Dr. Pierre-Yves Scarabin, director of research at the National Institute of Health and Medical Research in France and his colleagues reviewed data from nine randomized controlled trials and eight observational studies on venous thromboembolismous  (VTE) and hormone replacement therapy. Their research found that women taking oral doses of estrogen had a VTE risk 2.5 times higher than women not taking estrogen. When compared to women using the patch version of the therapy is was found that the risk increased only slightly. Women who stopped treatments were found to have risk levels that h... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1469735 Mon, 26 May 2008 18:00:32 +0100 1469735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1440007&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F289484147%2F Last February, the controversial gadfly and former Pfizer exec cleared a hurdle in his ongoing whistleblower lawsuit against Pfizer. In a filing, Rost cited approximately 200 instances in Indiana which Genotropin, a human growth hormone, was marketed by Pharmacia (which was bought by Pfizer) for unapproved uses, such as combating aging in adults and treating short stature in children. Providing such detail was needed for the case to proceed. And the move signaled two potentially significant developments. One is the long-term implication for Pfizer, should Rost ultimately prevail. The other is that his efforts may serve as a template for other whistleblowers who are similarly stymied by federal judges seeking details that are, otherwise, very hard to come by. Pfizer, however, last month tu... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1440007 Tue, 13 May 2008 14:53:49 +0100 1440007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1376693&cid=t_102184_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F04%2F16%2Fcp-316-311-fails-trials-pfizer%2F An experimental drug, called CP-316, 311 and made by Pfizer, was as effective as placebo (a sugar pill) in its initial clinical trials. At the interim analysis to determine efficacy, the researchers found the drug not to be working to help people with depression, and so the trial was terminated. CP-316, 311 is a selective nonpeptide antagonist of corticotropin-releasing hormone type 1 (CRH1) receptors. Hormone receptors? you might ask. Well, it turns out that the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) system has been implicated as a possible contributing factor (or, perhaps, cause) of several psychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder. Back to the drawing board for Pfizer. Reference: Binneman, B., Feltner, D., Kolluri, S., Shi, Y., Qiu, R. & Stiger, T. (2008). A 6-W... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1376693 Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:03:15 +0100 1376693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1375200&cid=t_102184_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F271000486%2F Administration of the popular anti-inflammatory drug Celebrex (celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) in combination with Lipitor (atorvastatin, a cholesterol lowering drug or statin) halts the transition of early prostate cancer to its more aggressive and potentially deadly stage. “Anti-androgen therapy slows the prostate cancer but eventually the cancer becomes androgen-independent, the therapy becomes ineffective and the cancer cells become more aggressive,” said Xi Zheng, assistant research professor at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, who conducted the study. “Treatments available for the later stage cancers are not very good,” said Allan Conney, director of Rutgers’ Susan Lehman Cullman Laboratory for Cancer Research, another resea... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1375200 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 22:02:12 +0100 1375200 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1371918&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F04%2F14%2Frandom-fact-of-the-day-stress-does-cause-gray-hair%2F Just the news you wanted to hear to start your week, right? Sorry, but it’s true. Stress can, in fact, cause your hair to gray. Why? Stress hormones like cortisol can mess with melanocytes (simply, hair cells). Suddenly, the cells have trouble surviving and/or producing the pigment that keeps your hair its original color. Hence, those pigments disappear and out pops a gray (or white) hair. Naturally, controlling stress is a good defense in this type of situation, but that might not always be possible. Eating foods rich in the amino acids lysine and arginine can help provide a drop in stress, however, so if you’re feeling a bit on edge, grab some peanuts and a carton of yogurt. These superfoods can get you halfway to the recommended 3 grams of lysine and arginine that Slovakian... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1371918 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 03:13:59 +0100 1371918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1303213&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2008%2F3%2F15%2Fcan-alcoholism-be-cured-without-aa.html By Dov Michaeli MD, Ph.D Alcoholism is a major public health problem. This we all know. But did you know that as alcoholism evolves, stress systems in the brain play an increasing role in motivating continued alcohol use and relapse. In other words, someone who is a moderate drinker will drink more if subjected to stress. And that, in turn would increase her sensitivity to stress, which would result in yet an additional increase in alcohol consumption, which in turn… you get the picture.The stress response Deficiency of a stress response is life threatening. For instance, in response to stress blood pressure goes up, heart rate increases and more blood is pumped into the brain and skeletal muscles. On the other hand, less blood is pumped into the GI tract or the kidneys. What’... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1303213 Fri, 14 Mar 2008 20:06:51 +0100 1303213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1297908&cid=t_102184_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F250256767%2F Those that produce lower levels of the molecule PYY are more apt to develop type 2 diabetes. It has already been proven that the hormone PYY is secreted in the gut and helps one feel satiated. It may soon be possible to take a simple blood test and predict whether or not someone has low levels of a particular molecule, predisposing them to the development of Type 2 diabetes. If the test is positive, it may then be possible to use preventative treatment, slowing down, or even halting that development. You know exactly where this is going. With earlier detection we can treat or prevent diabetes to yield better outcomes. to read more… check out Garvin Institute Tags: Diabetes, gavin institute, hormone, molecule, pre disposed, pyy, type-2-diabetesShare This (Source: Diabetes Notes) Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1297908 Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:49:10 +0100 1297908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1279509&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F245771091%2F The first follow-up of a landmark study of hormone use after menopause shows heart problems linked with the pills seem to fade after women stop taking them, while surprising new cancer risks appear, according to an analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. And the new risks for other cancers, particularly lung tumors, in women who’d taken estrogen-progestin pills for about five years puzzled the researchers and outside experts, the Associated Press writes. Those risks “were completely unanticipated,” says Gerardo Heiss of the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, lead author of the follow-up analysis to the Women’s Health Initiative, the government-funded study that was halted six years ago. The analysis focused on participants in... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1279509 Tue, 04 Mar 2008 22:56:11 +0100 1279509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1232034&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F235168667%2F In October 2005, Wyeth filed a citizen’s petition with the FDA in an effort to stop compounding pharmacies from making bioidentical versions of Prempro, its controversial hormone replacement therapy, which some women claim in lawsuits has caused them to develop breast cancer. Last month, the FDA responded by sending warning letters to seven compounders that their claims about the safety and effectiveness of their BHRT products are unsupported by medical evidence, and are considered false and misleading. The FDA explained that the drugs made by the compounding pharmacies contain hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and estriol, which the agency made a point of noting isn’t a component of any approved drug and hasn’t been proven safe and effective for any use. And this m... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1232034 Thu, 14 Feb 2008 21:03:34 +0100 1232034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1156938&cid=t_102184_107_f&fid=36585&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FHighlightHealth%2F%7E3%2F218040975%2F This article was published on Highlight HEALTH. Related articlesLack of Health Insurance Increases Risk of Cancer DeathDecrease in US Cancer DeathsThe Best of Highlight HEALTH 2007 - The Year in ReviewQuitWinLive - The Great American SmokeoutSmoking Duration vs. Intensity and the Impact on Lung Cancer Risk (Source: Highlight HEALTH) Highlight HEALTH blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1156938 Thu, 17 Jan 2008 05:48:00 +0100 1156938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1152857&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F217052601%2F The US Sentencing Commission apparently wants to get tough with people, not just companies, who inappropriately distribute human growth hormone, or HGH, or who violate the Prescription Drug Marketing Act, among other things, according to its list of final priorities, the FDA Law blog tells us. And so the agency will soon be issuing proposed guidelines for stiffening sentences. The move reflects, most likely, the headlines generated by HGH recently. Three months ago, for instance, Specialty Distribution Servicesa unit of Express Scripts, the pharmacy benefits manager, agreed to pay a $10.5 million fine for illegally supplying patients, particularly athletes, with HGH. The PDMA, by the way, which was enacted in April 1988, requires state licensing of wholesale distributors under certain fede... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1152857 Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:49:33 +0100 1152857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1146448&cid=t_102184_87_f&fid=35057&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.orlandosentinel.com%2Ffeatures_healthblog%2F2008%2F01%2Ffda-starts-crac.html WASHINGTON (Associated Press) -- Government health officials began cracking down [this week] on Internet sales of custom-mixed hormones for menopausal women, a market born when doctors deemed prescription estrogen therapy too risky for many. But the Food and Drug Administration... (Source: Health Check the Blog) Health Check the Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1146448 Fri, 11 Jan 2008 11:12:00 +0100 1146448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1140029&cid=t_102184_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F213970192%2F The agency sent warning letters to seven compounding pharmacies operations that their claims about the safety and effectiveness of their allegedly bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, or BHRT products, are unsupported by medical evidence, and are considered false and misleading. The move comes, partly, in response to a citizen’s petition filed by Wyeth, which wants to stop compounding pharmacies from making bioidentical versions of Prempro. In doing so, however, Wyeth caused a bit of a ruckus among women who oppose the use of the synthetic med, which has been the subject of lawsuits over ties to breast cancer. However, the FDA says these seven pharmacy operations improperly claim their drugs, which contain hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and estriol (which is not a com... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1140029 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:51:12 +0100 1140029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1049082&cid=t_102184_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F190390259%2F Glucose and fructose are metabolized in the liver. When there’s too much sugar in the diet, the liver converts it to lipid. Using a mouse model and human liver cell cultures, the scientists discovered that the increased production of lipid shut down a gene called SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin), reducing the amount of SHBG protein in the blood. SHBG protein plays a key role in controlling the amount of testosterone and estrogen that’s available throughout the body. This would indicate that the bodies liver metabolism is all “out of whack” before there are even disease symptoms and we could in turn use SHGB as a bio-marker for liver function. Pretty good idea, huh? Less SHGB protein means more testosterone and estrogen released in the body and an increased risk for infer... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1049082 Sun, 25 Nov 2007 21:30:42 +0100 1049082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1037865&cid=t_102184_109_f&fid=35671&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.anxietyinsights.info%2Fstress_hormone_stimulates_cancer_growth_and_spread.htm Ohio State University researchers have shown that in cell cultures, the stress hormone norepinephrine appears to promote the biochemical signals that stimulate certain tumor cells to grow and spread. The results appear in the current issue of the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity. If verified, the finding may suggest a way of slowing the progression and spread of some cancers enough so that conventional chemotherapeutic treatments would have a better chance to work. The study also showed that stress hormones may play a completely different role in cancer development than researchers had once thought. "We would not be surprised if we see similar effects of norepinephrine on tumor progression in several different forms of cancer," explained Eric Yang, first author of the paper and a resea... Latest entries from www.anxietyinsights.info blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1037865 Tue, 20 Nov 2007 07:30:00 +0100 1037865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=965185&cid=t_102184_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F10%2F20%2Fin-praise-of-the-knockout-mouse.html By Dov Michaeli MD, Ph.DTis the season of the Nobel, and we, ordinary mortals, should rejoice. Global warming was acknowledged as real yet again, sneering antediluvian conservatives notwithstanding. The prize for Chemistry was given for discovery of reactions occurring of the surface of solids—which enabled the invention of none other than the iPOD, among others. The prize for Economics was give for something that I really don’t understand, despite my earnest efforts. And the prize for Physiology and Medicine was given for something that sounds straight out of the boxing ring: the knockout mouse. But this is something too important to dismiss with a shrug and rolled eyes. This technology is already giving us something far more important than the iPOD—it’s a huge ste... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=965185 Sat, 20 Oct 2007 05:48:41 +0100 965185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=896824&cid=t_102184_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F160724729%2F U.S. biomedical engineers have demonstrated a smart particle insulin release system that detects glucose spikes and releases insulin to counter them. Researchers at the University of Texas School of Health Information Sciences, led by Associate Professor Ananth Annapragada, said the system is designed to mimic the functions of the pancreas, which produces the hormone insulin. This system worked in stabilizing blood sugars in animals for up to 6 hours. How does this work in plain English… or at least easy to understand words? Well, there are liposomes that are coated with sugars to form the inhaled particles, and when sugars becomes present in the blood, the particles bind independently to the sugar then releasing the particles that release their insulin. So basically, they bind to th... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=896824 Mon, 24 Sep 2007 19:01:05 +0100 896824