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Expert introduces white paper on the ethics of organizational change

2024-11-07T08:01:00

(BPT) – Professor David W. Miller, executive director of the Princeton Faith & Work Initiative and lecturer at Princeton University, has announced his latest white paper, “The Ethics of Organizational Change.” The paper offers an academic perspective on organizational change and transformation at the intersection of historic, cultural and social change.

In partnership with Dr. Michael J. Thate, Miller’s research looks at issues from financial market downturns, major social movements and political shifts to consider the ethics and methodology around organizational change and transformation from Alexander the Great and the 2008 recession to the cancel culture of today. At the core, their theories emphasize the need to find “an inclusive way forward” among organizations and stakeholders toward organizational transformation.

The paper is grounded in Miller and Thate’s novel Transformation Assessment Model (TAM), a three-part framework developed for business leaders to gauge the viability of transformational change in their organizations. TAM critically explores the vectors of believability, buy-in and barometers. Determinants of organizational shifts include whether business goals or objectives should alter course due to market pressures, or major social upheaval, and how to balance these shifts without submitting to political pressure and divisive stakeholder rhetoric. They present macro questions to consider when business leaders are formulating plans for change, which include:

  • Was the pressure to change internal (e.g., leadership shifts, employee demands) or external (e.g., regulatory agencies, market shifts, public pressure, pandemic, war)?
  • Was the change an intentional pivot or an unintended drift?
  • Was the change grounded in a higher-order purpose, purely profit-driven or reactionary?
  • Did the change occur on the margins or at the core?
  • Were a variety of voices, constituencies and stakeholders involved or consulted to help define the process, design and end goal?

The TAM framework can also be an assessment tool for internal and external stakeholders with a material interest in transformation.

Philip Morris International’s U.S. affiliate (PMI) sponsored a luncheon, and the white paper launch in Austin, Texas, in mid-October. Marian Salzman, PMI’s SVP, U.S. Strategic Projects, trendspotter and communications strategist, joined Miller to discuss business transformation and organizational change with business leaders across the region. Salzman has built her career on helping companies and brands anticipate the future ahead of the competition. Miller serves as an independent external ethics adviser to PMI.

The conversation was moderated by Clay Hebert, founder of Take Back Perfect and a marketing and funding advisor to hundreds of startups counseling them on innovation and entrepreneurship. Topics explored included social upheaval, pandemics, political interference, technological innovation, economic volatility, and the myriad external forces today that can influence or derail change.

To download the white paper, visit TEOOC.com.

About David W. Miller

Miller is the director of the Princeton Faith & Work Initiative, a senior professional specialist in ethics and a lecturer. In addition to his oversubscribed classes, ground-breaking research and public outreach, he also advises corporate CEOs and senior executives on ethics, values-based leadership, culture and the role of faith at work.

As a thought leader, many C-suite executives seek his counsel, and scholars, NGOs and the media seek his views. He has presented on “A Restoration of Trust?” in Davos and is a regular participant at the Yale CEO Summit. An article in the Wall Street Journal featured his work with one global client referring to him as the “on-call ethicist.”

Prior to academia, Miller lived and worked in London, England, where he was a partner in a private equity firm specializing in international investment management, corporate finance, and mergers and acquisitions. Before that, he was a senior executive and director of the securities services and global custody division of HSBC Group, and previously held the same position at Midland Bank plc before its acquisition by HSBC.

After his corporate experience, he entered academia, receiving his M.Div. and a Ph.D. in ethics from Princeton Theological Seminary. Before joining the faculty at Princeton University in 2008 and launching the Faith & Work Initiative, he taught for five years at Yale Divinity School and Yale School of Management and was the executive director of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture.

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How to declutter your kids’ toybox to be ready for a joyful, more organized new year

2024-11-06T11:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is a great time to take a look back and appreciate everything you have, while also looking forward to the upcoming new year. This also makes it the perfect opportunity to look for ways to clear out some of your kids’ clutter so you can start the next year a little more organized.

Fortunately, there’s an easy way you can give back to other kids throughout the country and declutter your house at the same time. If you’ve got kids who have outgrown some of their favorite LEGO sets, or perhaps have more bricks than they frequently play with, you’ll want to check out a great program that supports sustainability, while also offering toys to children who might otherwise have little or no access to them.

Thanks to the LEGO Replay program, you can easily box up and send in your used LEGO bricks — at no cost to you — so they can be cleaned up and repackaged for community organizations, schools and nonprofits. The program makes it possible for even more kids to have fun while they explore everything LEGO bricks have to offer — powering their imaginations and developing problem-solving skills through active, hands-on play — just as your kids have enjoyed doing while growing up with these favorite toys.

New life for your LEGO bricks

Have any LEGO bricks that you’d like to donate? It’s easy to declutter the kid zones in your home and share the fun at the same time. Simply fill a cardboard box of your choice with your loose, used LEGO bricks, then go online to LEGO.com/replay to print a prepaid label. Then all you have to do is mail it in! The package will go directly to a Lego Replay facility, where the bricks will be individually sorted, inspected by hand, and given a rigorous cleaning.

Your much-loved LEGO bricks will then be repackaged to be sent to educators, schools and charitable organizations. Each LEGO Replay box will include a mix of elements from all sorts of sets, allowing for endless creativity, along with an activity booklet with great building activities for kids to try.

You can be happy knowing that you’re decluttering your home for a more joyful and organized new year, while your actions ensure that even more kids will be able to enjoy playing with these iconic toys for years to come.

Visit LEGO.com/replay to learn more about the program, and how you can participate.

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The well-being movement: Transforming interiors with purposeful design

2024-11-06T07:01:00

(BPT) – A thoughtfully designed interior can enhance well-being by harmonizing elements that support us physically, encourage mindfulness, and elevate the overall sensory experience. Among these essentials, clean and refreshing drinking water is foundational in cultivating a health-focused kitchen space.

A multisensory haven

Designing for wellness goes far beyond visual aesthetics; it’s about engaging all the senses. A well-balanced space can both soothe and ignite the senses, elevating how the environment is experienced every day.

At the heart of this concept lies serenity, which can be brought to life through thoughtfully curated additions to a space. Sound-dampening technology or nature-inspired background sounds, like flowing water or rainfall, offer peace. Further, one can enhance the sense of smell through scent diffusers, heighten tactile comfort with natural textiles, and delight taste through innovative kitchen technology. Experience water’s most perfect state with the Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System: as refreshing as it is revitalizing.

By thoughtfully engaging all five senses, the kitchen transforms into a sanctuary that nurtures mindfulness and overall well-being.

Inspired technology

Technology is at the forefront of in-home wellness, enabling innovations that empower homeowners to live more efficiently and enjoyably. From air purifiers that remove airborne contaminants to smart lighting that can help regulate sleep cycles or reduce eye strain, there are multiple ways to boost health through technology.

Water is the cornerstone of personal wellness. It offers benefits through spa-quality shower and bath systems, as well as essential hydration for our bodies. The Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System ensures the highest quality of drinking water by reducing over 90 contaminants with its sophisticated six-stage filtration process. Compact and efficient, it offers a luxurious hydration experience in the convenience of your home kitchen.

Mindful minimalism

A minimalist design approach balances both form and function, intentionally using space to promote tranquility and reduce visual clutter, essential qualities for a serene kitchen. With the Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System, you can achieve a clean aesthetic, saving space by 60% compared to traditional tanked systems, underscoring the Brizo® brand’s commitment to luxurious, purposeful design.

Incorporating wellness into kitchen design not only enhances daily living, but also brings a sense of luxury and intentionality to the home. By blending advanced technology, minimalist aesthetics, and multisensory experiences, Brizo helps create spaces that nurture both body and mind. Whether through the refreshing purity of the Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System or the serene ambience of a well-curated interior, a Brizo kitchen is more than just functional — it’s an invitation to experience the ultimate in wellness-centered luxury.

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6 tips to help keep your pets healthy

2024-11-05T19:32:43

(BPT) – A staggering 86.9 million U.S. homes share their lives with a beloved pet, according to MarketWatch. From playful personalities to curious instincts, pets enrich our lives by providing companionship, emotional support and a sense of security. Royal Canin, a division of Mars, Incorporated and leader in pet health nutrition, invites pet owners to explore these essential tips to help keep their pets healthy and happy.

“As a veterinarian, I see how preventive care can dramatically improve and extend the lives of our pets. I encourage all pet owners to be proactive about their pets’ health to help them remain happy, active members of your lives for years to come,” said Dr. Todd East, DVM, veterinary affairs director, Royal Canin North America.

Navigating all the online resources for pet care can feel overwhelming and it can be tough to know which is best for your pets’ specific needs. To make that journey easier, try these simple yet effective tips so you can help your pet thrive:

  • Make sure they are getting the right nutrients from their food based on their stage of life, breed and specific nutritional needs: From a German Shepherd to Yorkshire Terrier or French Bulldog to Labrador Retriever, every pet is unique, and so are their nutritional needs. That means each one requires a specific balance of nutrients to ensure they are maintaining a healthy lifestyle depending on their specific needs and stage of life. Be sure to consult your veterinarian for their recommendation on proper nutrition that’s specific to your pet, like Royal Canin’s tailored nutrition lines.
  • Annual visits to the veterinarian are important: Taking your pet to the veterinarian is a great preventive measure to help them stay as healthy as possible. While going to the veterinarian may be a stressful experience for both pets and pet owners, it is essential to ensure no health issues go unnoticed.
  • Exercise is key to staying happy and healthy: Let your pets get their energy out! Whether it’s taking them for a walk or letting them run around in the backyard, fresh air and movement can help maintain a healthy weight for your pet, which can reduce the risk of serious conditions associated with obesity.
  • Hydration, hydration, hydration: Water is fundamental to your pet’s survival. It is essential for their everyday functions, and many body processes rely on water to work properly. Always take your portable water bowl wherever you go and make sure clean and fresh water is available to your pet every day!
  • Don’t forget grooming: Grooming your kitten or puppy is an important part of ownership, and if done gently and patiently, will help you build a bond with your pet. Frequent grooming allows you to recognize any changes to your pet’s body condition, protect them against fleas or ticks, and maintain healthy skin and coat.
  • Enhance their overall health with social stimulation and play: In order for your pet to gain independence, it is important to socialize them at a young age. Both kittens and puppies benefit from socialization, as it teaches them how to react in various situations and enhance their brain development.

“I always make sure I am giving my dog, Max, the care he needs in return for all the love and support he provides me,” said Racquel White, vice president of corporate affairs, Royal Canin North America. “In order to do so, I stay on top of his health to ensure he has what he needs to help him thrive. From the day I brought him home, I made sure he was eating the right foods with tailored nutrients for his unique needs. I also make annual veterinarian visits a priority, focus on preventive care, and never miss our daily walks outside to enjoy the sunshine. And of course, I make sure he gets plenty of playtime in. All these things are important for Max to be the best he can be, day in and day out.”

To continue on your journey of helping your pet with their overall wellness, check out Royal Canin’s pet food finder so you can ensure you are feeding them the right diet based on their specific needs and stage of life.

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3 unexpected ways boredom can help your child’s development

2024-11-05T07:43:00

(BPT) – Many parents feel a natural inclination to fill their children’s days with activities, often fearing that too much unstructured playtime will lead to boredom. In a recent survey conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Kiddie Academy®, nearly half (45%) of all parents feel like they should be doing more activities with their kids. However, many experts agree that children being bored from time to time may not be a bad thing. In fact, brain development and many other outcomes happen when children have unstructured time to engage in imaginative, open-ended play.

“Boredom will naturally occur with children at times,” said Joy Turner, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy. “Parents shouldn’t put so much stress on themselves to fill that space.”

Boredom expands imagination and creativity

When children say they’re bored, parents often default to using screentime or engaging them in play. Thirty-four percent of parents surveyed said they typically play with their child in this scenario. This can likely be attributed to 56% of them reporting that they feel guilty for not spending enough time with their little one. However, when children are left to explore in their downtime, their minds can get to work, allowing them to use their imagination to find creative ways to entertain themselves.

Parents can facilitate imaginative play and creative expression by setting up a craft station, creating a reading nook and/or providing toys that allow for open-ended play.

Being bored builds resilience and tolerance

Children can often have big feelings about not having something to do. This is a parent’s opportunity to validate and empower their child. They can say something like, “It’s okay to be bored. Sometimes I feel the same way, but now is your chance to explore and learn what you like to do!” A phrase like this helps little ones understand that while feeling uncomfortable is understandable, it can be used as an opportunity to grow and discover new things about themselves.

Sometimes there isn’t enough time between scheduled activities for little ones to engage in exactly what they want to do. This can be used as an opportunity to build patience and tolerance by encouraging children to move through their feelings with the understanding that waiting isn’t always easy, but it’s a necessary part of life. Remind them of things they like to do when they’re being patient, like singing a song or playing with a small toy.

Independence and social skills excel through unstructured time

When children — even those who don’t know each other — are put in close proximity without planned activities, they often engage with each other by inventing games. The skills children develop when they’re free playing with others include things like cooperation, communication and kindness, all of which are essential for long-term socialization.

At the same time, children who have to play by themselves often become more independent. When it’s up to them to provide their own entertainment, they engage in a unique kind of problem solving and creative expression.

Teaching children to embrace unstructured moments when they are without entertainment is crucial to their maturing psyches. When parents support their child in this process, they are sure to see them turn into more capable and self-sufficient human beings as a result.

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Updated Treatment Recommendations for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

2024-11-05T07:01:00

(BPT) – Jim, an 81-year-old former lawyer who lives in Sarasota, Florida, was in Aruba on vacation in the late 1970s when he first experienced an uncomfortable feeling in his legs, almost like shocks.

“It was an alarming sensation, and I had no clue what it was at the time,” Jim said.

It took decades for Jim to be diagnosed with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), a sleep-related movement disorder characterized by an urge to move one or both legs, which may be relieved by movement and is most prominent at night.i

RLS can cause an irresistible urge to move one’s legs, a feeling of anticipation and often disrupts the ability to get a good night’s sleep. Clinically significant RLS impacts 2-3 percent of adults in the United States.ii

“From my experience treating patients diagnosed with RLS, their complaints are severe sleep disturbance, daytime fatigue, and mood changes, which can dramatically impair quality of life,” states John Winkelman, M.D., Ph.D., chief of the Sleep Disorders Clinical Research Program in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Thirty years after his initial symptoms, following countless visits to the doctor’s office, and trying different medications that didn’t work but instead caused bothersome side effects, Jim was diagnosed with RLS by a sleep medicine physician.

Jim tried several treatment regimens before he was prescribed one which included Horizant® (gabapentin enacarbil) that made his symptoms better.* His constant need to get up and move and stretch throughout the night is now behind him.** Gabapentin enacarbil (Horizant®) extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe primary RLS in adults. Horizant is not recommended for patients who are required to sleep during the daytime and remain awake at night.iii

American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) updates its Clinical Practice Guidelines for RLS

For the first time since 2012, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) issued an update to its Clinical Practice Guidelines for the treatment of RLS, which provide physicians with recommended treatment options based on a review of the latest clinical research. Dopamine agonists (DAs) have been widely used for the treatment of RLS for 20 years. AASM Clinical Practice Guidelines now suggest against the standard use of DAs due to the risk of augmentation (a gradual worsening of RLS symptom intensity and duration) of RLS symptoms.iv

“Increasing clinical research has demonstrated that dopamine agonists are often associated with a long-term overall worsening of RLS symptoms and are no longer recommended,” Winkelman said. “Gabapentin, gabapentin enacarbil, pregabalin and iron treatment are strongly recommended for the treatment of RLS and it’s important that everyone — physicians and patients — are aware of these changes.”

Gabapentin enacarbil (Horizant®) is the only strongly recommended FDA-approved RLS treatment providing clinically significant improvement in all three of these key domains: RLS disease severity, sleep quality, and quality of life.iv

The importance of talking to a physician about treatment options

It’s important for doctors and people diagnosed suffering from RLS to be aware of these updated guidelines for this widely used class of drugs. Those taking dopamine agonists should speak with their doctor about their current treatment plan.

Visit horizant.com to learn more.**

Jim can now sleep soundly without the need to get up and stretch thanks to his current treatment regimen. Those with RLS who are not finding relief from their current regimen should speak with their doctor to discuss their treatment plan.

* The most common adverse reactions for patients with RLS (incidence >10% and at least 2 times the rate of placebo) were somnolence/sedation and dizziness.

**Strong recommendation, moderate certainty of evidence; based on 8 randomized controlled trials and 3 observational studies.

Important Safety Information for HORIZANT® (gabapentin enacarbil) Extended-Release Tablets

INDICATIONS

HORIZANT® (gabapentin enacarbil) is a prescription medicine used to:

  • treat adults with moderate to severe primary Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). HORIZANT is not for people who need to sleep during the daytime and stay awake at night.
  • manage pain from damaged nerves (postherpetic neuralgia) that follows healing of shingles (a painful rash that comes after a herpes zoster infection) in adults.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

  • Do not drive after taking your dose of HORIZANT until you know how it affects you, including the morning after you take it. Do not operate heavy machinery or do other dangerous activities until you know how HORIZANT affects you. HORIZANT can cause sleepiness, dizziness, slow thinking, and can affect your coordination. Ask your healthcare provider when it is okay to do these activities.
  • Do not take other medicines that make you sleepy or dizzy while taking HORIZANT without talking to your healthcare provider. Taking HORIZANT with these other medicines may make your sleepiness or dizziness worse.
  • HORIZANT may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people (about 1 in 500). Pay attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:
    • thoughts or actions about suicide, self-harm, or dying; attempt to commit suicide
    • new or worsening depression or anxiety; or feeling agitated
    • new or worse restlessness or panic attacks
    • new or worse trouble sleeping (insomnia); or irritability
    • acting aggressive, being angry, or violent; acting on dangerous impulses
    • an extreme increase in activity or talking (mania); other unusual changes in mood or behavior
  • Serious breathing problems. Serious breathing problems can occur when HORIZANT is taken with other medicines that can cause severe sleepiness or decreased awareness, or when it is taken by someone who already has breathing problems. Watch for increased sleepiness or decreased breathing when starting HORIZANT or when the dose is increased. Get help right away if breathing problems occur.
  • Do not stop taking HORIZANT without first talking to your healthcare provider. Suicidal thoughts or actions can be caused by things other than medicines. If you have these thoughts or actions, your healthcare provider may check for other causes.
  • HORIZANT may cause a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction that may affect your skin or other parts of your body such as your liver or blood cells. You may or may not have a rash with these types of reactions. Call a healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms: skin rash, hives, fever, swollen glands that do not go away, swelling of your lips or tongue, yellowing of your skin or eyes, unusual bruising or bleeding, severe fatigue or weakness, unexpected severe muscle pain, or frequent infections. These symptoms may be the first signs of a serious reaction. A healthcare provider should examine you to decide if you should continue taking HORIZANT.
  • HORIZANT is not the same medicine as gabapentin [for example, NEURONTIN® (gabapentin) and GRALISE® (gabapentin)]. HORIZANT should not be used in their place. Do not take these or other gabapentin products while taking HORIZANT.
  • Before taking HORIZANT, tell your healthcare provider if you:
    • have or have had kidney problems or are on hemodialysis
    • have or have had depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior
    • have or have had seizures
    • have a history of drug abuse
    • have any other medical conditions
    • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if HORIZANT will harm your unborn baby. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking HORIZANT. You and your healthcare provider will decide if you should take HORIZANT while you are pregnant
    • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your body turns HORIZANT into another drug (gabapentin) that passes into your milk. It is not known if this can harm your baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take HORIZANT or breastfeed
    • drink alcohol
  • Do not drink alcohol while taking HORIZANT because it may increase the risk of side effects.
  • Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Taking HORIZANT with certain other medicines can cause side effects or affect how well they work. Do not start or stop other medicines without talking to your healthcare provider.
  • Do not stop taking HORIZANT without talking to your healthcare provider first. If you stop taking HORIZANT suddenly, you may develop side effects.
  • The most common side effects of HORIZANT include dizziness, sleepiness, and headache. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of HORIZANT. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

You are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs by contacting Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-800-461-7449, or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/MedWatch.

For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist, or consult the full Prescribing Information [Horizant.com].

[i] Allen RP, Picchietti DL, Garcia-Borreguero D, et al. Restless legs syndrome/Willis-Ekbom disease diagnostic criteria: updated International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) consensus criteria–history, rationale, description, and significance. Sleep Med. 2014;15(8):860-73.

[ii] Allen RP, Walters AS, Montplaisir J, et al. Restless Legs Syndrome Prevalence and Impact. Archives of Internal Medicine. 2005;165(11):1286.

[iii] Horizant [package insert] Woburn, MA: Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2022

[iv] Winkelman JW, Berkowski JA, DelRosso LM, et al. Treatment of restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine clinical practice guideline. J Clin Sleep Med. Published online September 26, 2024. doi:10.5664/jcsm.11390

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Dedication over the past decade

2024-11-05T10:01:00

(BPT) – For adults who are diagnosed with a lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, long lasting (chronic) interstitial lung disease in which lung fibrosis continues to worsen (progress), or systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease, a diagnosis can be life-altering. Marked by scarring of the lungs, these diseases can progressively worsen.

Challenges in Diagnosis

It can take several years for patients to receive a diagnosis of interstitial lung disease (ILD). Symptoms are vague and may lead patients to overlook them or incorrectly attribute them to factors like fitness level or aging. Sylvia Ann, who was diagnosed with a rare form of chronic ILD with lung fibrosis, assumed her symptoms were a result of her lifestyle. “I thought that I just needed to start eating breakfast. I also thought it might be because I was overweight,” she recalls.

Initially misdiagnosed with asthma and sleep apnea, Sylvia Ann’s struggle to pinpoint the cause of her symptoms was frustrating. It took several appointments with her primary care doctor and a series of specialists before she was diagnosed with lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia, a chronic fibrosing ILD with worsening fibrosis.

Tana experienced a similar journey. Around the time of her 60th birthday, she began experiencing symptoms like body aches and cold hands. She initially brushed off her symptoms, and so did her rheumatologist, who diagnosed her with mild osteoarthritis and attributed the disease to aging. But when Tana began experiencing joint stiffness and coughing, she knew it was time to revisit her diagnosis. Her primary care doctor referred her to a pulmonologist, who diagnosed her with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD).

In 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved OFEV® (nintedanib) capsules to treat adults with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Since then, OFEV has also received approval to treat adults with long lasting (chronic) interstitial lung disease in which lung fibrosis continue to worsen (progress), and to slow the rate of decline in lung function in adults with SSc-ILD, also known as scleroderma-associated interstitial lung disease. It is not known if OFEV is safe and effective in children.

While a diagnosis can be devastating, both Sylvia Ann and Tana worked with their healthcare providers to develop their treatment plans.

“Despite my current care, my disease was still progressing. So based on my pulmonologist’s assessment of my chronic ILD with lung fibrosis that continued to worsen, he introduced me to OFEV. It’s been a relief for me and my family to have a treatment option for my disease,” says Sylvia Ann.

In addition to their treatment with OFEV, both Sylvia Ann and Tana credit the availability of patient support programs to support them on their journey.

“All of the information that the OPEN DOORS® Patient Support Program provided, coupled with my own research, made me feel empowered,” says Sylvia Ann.

Important Safety Information and Use

What is the most important information I should know about OFEV?

OFEV can cause harm, birth defects, or death to an unborn baby. Women should not become pregnant while taking OFEV. Women who are able to become pregnant should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment and should use highly effective birth control at the start of treatment, during treatment, and for at least 3 months after your last dose. Talk with your doctor about what birth control method is right for you during this time. Birth control pills may not work as well in women having vomiting, diarrhea, or other problems reducing the drug absorption. If you have any of these problems, talk with your doctor about what highly effective birth control method is right for you. If you become pregnant or think you are pregnant while taking OFEV, tell your doctor right away.

What should I tell my doctor before using OFEV?

Before you take OFEV, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you have:

  • liver problems.
  • heart problems.
  • a history of blood clots.
  • a bleeding problem or a family history of a bleeding problem.
  • had recent surgery in your stomach (abdominal) area.

Tell your doctor if you:

  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if OFEV passes into your breast milk. You should not breastfeed while taking OFEV.
  • are a smoker. You should stop smoking prior to taking OFEV and avoid smoking during treatment.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements such as St. John’s wort.

What are the possible side effects of OFEV?

OFEV may cause serious side effects.

TELL YOUR DOCTOR RIGHT AWAY if you are experiencing any side effects, including:

  • Liver problems. Unexplained symptoms may include yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes (jaundice), dark or brown (tea-colored) urine, pain on the upper right side of your stomach area (abdomen), bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, feeling tired, or loss of appetite. Your doctor will do blood tests to check how well your liver is working before starting and during your treatment with OFEV.
  • Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Your doctor may recommend that you drink fluids or take medicine to treat these side effects. Tell your doctor if you have these symptoms, if they do not go away, or get worse, and if you are taking over-the-counter laxatives, stool softeners, and other medicines or dietary supplements.
  • Heart attack. Symptoms of a heart problem may include chest pain or pressure, pain in your arms, back, neck, or jaw, or shortness of breath.
  • Stroke. Symptoms of a stroke may include numbness or weakness on one side of your body, trouble talking, headache, or dizziness.
  • Bleeding problems. OFEV may increase your chances of having bleeding problems. Tell your doctor if you have unusual bleeding, bruising, wounds that do not heal, and/or if you are taking a blood thinner, including prescription blood thinners and over-the-counter aspirin.
  • Tear in your stomach or intestinal wall (perforation). OFEV may increase your chances of having a tear in your stomach or intestinal wall. Tell your doctor if you have pain or swelling in your stomach area.
  • Increased protein in your urine (proteinuria). OFEV may increase your chances of having protein in your urine. Tell your doctor if you have any signs and symptoms of protein in the urine such as foamy urine, swelling, including in your hands, arms, legs, or feet, or sudden weight gain.

The most common side effects of OFEV are diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, liver problems, decreased appetite, headache, weight loss, and high blood pressure.

These are not all the possible side effects of OFEV. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is OFEV?

OFEV is a prescription medication used:

  • to treat adults with a lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
  • to treat adults with a long lasting (chronic) interstitial lung disease in which lung fibrosis continues to worsen (progress).
  • to slow the rate of decline in lung function with adults with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) (also known as scleroderma-associated ILD).

It is not known if OFEV is safe and effective in children.

Please click here for full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

To learn more about OFEV as a treatment option and patient support services, visit www.OFEV.com.

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How this award-winning TV host is setting the stage to help protect her health

2024-11-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – Award-winning TV host, comedian, actress and author Sherri Shepherd is at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) because she has diabetes. She doesn’t want to let it stop her from taking her shot on — or off — the stage. That’s why Sherri is partnering with Pfizer to share her diabetes story and help raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated.

Q: Sherri, there’s no doubt that you’re a superstar in more than one arena. What has helped contribute to your success over the years?

Sherri: I learned early on that you need to run toward the thing that scares you because that’s where you can really thrive. And let me tell you, starting out in comedy and TV can be scary. But I put in the time practicing jokes on the bus, spending time on the road, working late hours behind the scenes, and it all led me to where I was supposed to be. And now, I get to take my shot at doing what I love every day.

Q: I’m sure you faced some challenges to get where you are today. What was one of the biggest you’ve faced?

Sherri: I think the biggest one for me is more of a personal one. I have diabetes, so over the years I’ve had to learn how to keep my health in check. For me, I prioritize eating right, keeping active, talking with my doctor regularly, and getting vaccinated to help prevent pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD. It took a lot to get here so I don’t want to be held back from doing what I love.

Q: Tell me more about pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD. Are they serious?

Sherri: Absolutely. Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks. In more severe cases, it can put you in the hospital and even be life-threatening. The same bacteria that cause pneumococcal pneumonia can also cause invasive pneumococcal disease, or IPD, which includes blood infection and meningitis.

Q: That does sound serious. Who is at greater risk?

Sherri: People like me who are 19 or older with certain underlying medical conditions like diabetes, asthma or COPD. In fact, people 19-64 living with diabetes are at over 5x higher risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and up to 4.8x higher risk for IPD, compared with healthy adults the same age. People 65 or older are also at increased risk, even if they’re healthy.

Q: What advice would you give to people about protecting themselves against pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD?

Sherri: Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself. And vaccination is available all year round, so I encourage everyone to talk to their doctor or pharmacist to see if a pneumococcal vaccination is right for them. They can also visit VaxAssist.com to book an appointment online today.

Q: Thanks, Sherri. Is there anything else people should know about pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD?

Sherri: People assume you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD during flu season or in the winter, but you can get it any time of year. And even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia before, your doctor may still recommend another vaccination for further protection. I love hosting my show and doing comedy, but I don’t joke around when it comes to pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD — and you shouldn’t either. Go talk to your doctor or pharmacist about getting vaccinated, so you can also keep taking your shot at whatever it is you love to do.

Brought to you by Pfizer.

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Nationwide Epilepsy Clinical Trial Investigates Potential New Treatment

2024-11-04T04:01:00

(BPT) – There is a new study evaluating a promising potential new treatment for epilepsy called Rise. Clinics across the nation are currently seeking to enroll participants in this study between the ages of 18-75 who have been diagnosed with focal (partial) onset epilepsy and have experienced resistance to existing treatments.

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that affects over 50 million people worldwide.1 It is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures, which can vary in intensity and frequency.1 Despite numerous treatment options, about 40% of people with epilepsy do not achieve seizure control with current medications.2 During National Epilepsy Awareness Month this November, we are highlighting the urgent need for new effective treatments.

Challenges of Living with Epilepsy

Living with epilepsy can be incredibly challenging. The unpredictable nature of seizures can make daily activities, such as driving, working, or even socializing, difficult and stressful.3 For many, the fear of a sudden seizure looms, impacting their quality of life. In addition to physical challenges, epilepsy can also bring about emotional and psychological burdens, such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation.1

Hope on the Horizon

“Hearing about new clinical trials makes me feel hopeful. The epilepsy community needs a treatment option that helps control seizures with a favorable safety profile,” said Ilene Asuncion, who has been managing epilepsy for years. “A new treatment option would feel like a light at the end of a long tunnel, and I’m optimistic that this research could make a real difference in our lives.”

Enrollment Information

The clinical trial is currently enrolling patients at sites across the United States. If you or someone you know is struggling with epilepsy and is interested in participating in the trial, please visit epilepsyresearchstudy.com for more information. Eligibility criteria for participating in the trial include individuals who:

  • Are between the ages of 18 to 75
  • Have been diagnosed with focal (partial) onset epilepsy for at least one year
  • Have been unsuccessful with at least two anti-seizure medications (ASMs) and are currently on a stable dose of one to three ASMs
  • Have at least four or more observable focal seizures every 28 days

The Rise clinical trial represents a significant step forward in the search for more effective epilepsy treatments. By participating, patients not only have the potential to possibly benefit from a new investigational therapy but also contribute to crucial research that could improve the lives of countless others in the future.

References:

  1. World Health Organization. Epilepsy. Available at https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/epilepsy. Accessed August 6, 2024.
  2. Ioannou P, Foster DL, Sander JW, et al. The burden of epilepsy and unmet need in people with focal seizures. Brain Behav. 2022;12(9):e2589. doi:10.1002/brb3.2589.
  3. Epilepsy Foundation. Social Concerns. Available https://www.epilepsy.com/complications-risks/social-concerns#:~:text=Having%20seizures%20may%20make%20it,problems%20for%20so%20many%20people!. Accessed August 6, 2024.