Category: Brandpoint Health

2018-08-14T10:19:00

(BPT) – AUVI-Q^® (epinephrine injection, USP) is still available by prescription for children with life-threatening allergies.

Most kids spend the final weeks of summer amassing school supplies and cramming through summer reading lists. For children with life-threatening allergies and their parents, this time is also spent preparing for the challenge of navigating school cafeterias, packed classrooms and after-school programs.

An important part of that preparation often involves securing a prescription for an epinephrine auto-injector (EAI) before the first day of school. EAIs are used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. They do not take the place of emergency medical care, but are critical and potentially life-saving in an allergic emergency, so many parents and children prefer to keep a set at school.

However, some families are having trouble filling their EAI prescriptions this back-to-school season. In May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that manufacturing delays caused an ongoing supply constraint for several EAI manufacturers, including authorized generic versions of the medication.

One EAI not experiencing any supply issues is AUVI-Q^® (epinephrine injection, USP). It is developed by kaléo using a high-tech, 100% automated robotic production line and is FDA-approved in three doses: AUVI-q 0.1 mg for infants and toddlers weighing 16.5 lbs to 33 lbs, AUVI-Q 0.15 mg for children weighing 33 lbs to 66 lbs, and AUVI-Q 0.3 mg for anyone weighing 66 lbs or more.

AUVI-Q is the only EAI with an innovative electronic voice instruction system and visual cues that guide users step-by-step through the administration process. It’s been voted the number one prescribed branded EAI by allergists.¹

AUVI-Q is not always available at local pharmacies, but kaléo is able to fill, and is filling, all order requests through their Direct Delivery service at www.auvi-q.com. So if a doctor prescribes you AUVI-Q, it can be shipped directly to your doorstep quickly. If you have commercial insurance and use the Direct Delivery service, you can get AUVI-Q for $0 out-of-pocket. Please see full terms and conditions: https://www.auvi-q.com/getting-auvi-q/. It’s important to note that patients must obtain AUVI-Q through the Direct Delivery service to ensure delivery to their home or healthcare provider’s office and the best expiration dating for AUVI-Q.

Not all pharmacies are experiencing a shortage of the more common EAIs, but knowing the alternatives before the school year begins is more important now than ever. A study published in 2017 determined that children are increasingly being treated for anaphylaxis, with an estimated 130 percent increase in emergency room visits for anaphylaxis among children four years old and younger between 2005 and 2014.²

A recent survey of 289 parents with children who have food allergies found that >87% of parents find policies about epinephrine in the schools to be helpful. Similarly, in this same study, a majority of parents who reported that epinephrine policies were not in place felt that such policies were needed.³ Food allergies (the most common cause of anaphylaxis) affect 1 in every 13 children in the U.S.,⁴ or roughly two in every classroom.⁵

As parents and children with life-threatening allergies gear up for the challenges of another school year, finding an epinephrine auto-injector should not be one of them.

Indication

AUVI-Q^® (epinephrine injection, USP) is a prescription medicine used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in people who are at risk for or have a history of serious allergic reactions.

Important Safety Information

AUVI-Q is for immediate self (or caregiver) administration and does not take the place of emergency medical care. Seek immediate medical treatment after using AUVI-Q. Each AUVI-Q contains a single dose of epinephrine. AUVI-Q should only be injected into your outer thigh, through clothing if necessary. If you inject a young child or infant with AUVI-Q, hold their leg firmly in place before and during the injection to prevent injuries. Do not inject AUVI-Q into any other part of your body, such as into veins, buttocks, fingers, toes, hands, or feet. If this occurs, seek immediate medical treatment and make sure to inform the healthcare provider of the location of the accidental injection. Only a healthcare provider should give additional doses of epinephrine if more than two doses are necessary for a single allergic emergency.

Rarely, patients who use AUVI-Q may develop infections at the injection site within a few days of an injection. Some of these infections can be serious. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms at an injection site: redness that does not go away, swelling, tenderness, or the area feels warm to the touch.

If you have certain medical conditions, or take certain medicines, your condition may get worse or you may have more or longer lasting side effects when you use AUVI-Q. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, especially medicines for asthma. Also tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, especially if you have asthma, a history of depression, thyroid problems, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, heart problems or high blood pressure, have any other medical conditions, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Epinephrine should be used with caution if you have heart disease or are taking certain medicines that can cause heart-related (cardiac) symptoms.

Common side effects include fast, irregular or ‘pounding’ heartbeat, sweating, shakiness, headache, paleness, feelings of over excitement, nervousness, or anxiety, weakness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, or breathing problems. These side effects usually go away quickly, especially if you rest. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Please see the full Prescribing Information and the Patient Information at www.auvi-q.com.

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.

¹ Based on IMS prescription data September 2017 – May 2018 (AUVI-Q 0.15 mg and 0.3 mg).

² Motosue, M. et al. Increasing ED visits for anaphylaxis 2005-2014 The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (2017) 5:1, 171-175.

³ Mustafa SS, Russell AF, Kagan O, et al. Parent perspectives on school food allergy policy. BMC Pediatrics. 2018. 18:164.

⁴ United States Census Bureau Quick Facts (2016 estimates).

⁵ FARE. Food Allergy Facts and Statistics for the U.S. https://www.foodallergy.org/life-with-food-allergies/food-allergy-101/facts-and-statistics [Accessed July 2018].

2018-08-13T09:45:00

(BPT) – Summer welcomes a return to favorite outdoor activities. Yet, along with fun in the sun comes some not-so-friendly creatures to be mindful of, namely venomous snakes. Just like us, snakes become more active when the temperatures rise, and with most snakebites taking place during the summer months,^[i] it is especially important to know how to avoid and treat a snakebite before heading outdoors.

How to Handle a Snake Encounter

From rural hiking trails to even your own backyard, many people likely will come across a snake this summer. Of the different types of venomous snakes across the U.S., the most common venomous ones are North American Pit Vipers like rattlesnakes, water moccasins and copperheads.^[ii] Since it may not be easy to tell if a snake is venomous or not, assume it is and continue to be careful, not stopping to touch or play with the snake, even if it appears dead. Take two giant steps backward to get out of its striking range. Snakes are wild animals — show the snake respect, and let it be.

Seeking Immediate Treatment for a Snakebite

If someone is bitten by a snake, act quickly and take it seriously, regardless of the type of snake or how symptoms initially present. Envenomation, the process through which venom is injected from the bite, is unpredictable. Symptoms can vary widely from patient to patient,^[iii],iv with the impact felt in minutes for some cases and in hours for others.^iii,[iv] Early and aggressive intervention is critical to gaining initial control over the spread of the venom — the longer the patient is exposed to venom, the greater the potential for long-term, potentially irreversible damage.

The DO’s and DON’Ts of Snakebite First Aid

To ensure the victim is treated as soon as possible, dial 911 immediately and transport them to the emergency department. At the hospital, a physician can quickly assess the situation and decide whether to administer a drug called CroFab^®, the only FDA-approved treatment to treat all North American pit viper envenomations in adult and pediatric patients.

In addition to seeking medical attention, people can help the victim by keeping the bite area raised, as well as removing the victim’s jewelry and tight-fighting clothes. Another important reminder: Stay calm, both as the victim and their support! Ensuring the victim remains as still as possible will prevent their heart rate from increasing and speeding up the rate at which the venom spreads.

Surprisingly, commonly sought home remedies for bites — applying tourniquets, ice packs, incisions or suction to the site of the bite — end up causing more harm than good.^[v] Capturing and killing the snake to bring to the hospital will only lead to potentially more dangerous interaction with the snake.

“There are no particularly game-changing first aid measures like in the old cowboy movies,” says Dr. William Banner, MD, PhD, Medical Director of the Oklahoma Poison Control Center and Clinical Professor of Pharmacy, at the Oklahoma University College of Pharmacy in Oklahoma City. “The cornerstone of venomous snakebite treatment is antivenom and supportive care. CroFab^® has been shown to halt the local effects of the bite, including the immediate source of the pain, while resolving other systemic and hematologic effects, like nausea, dizziness and bleeding.^[vi],[vii] Seek medical attention as soon as possible, as a snakebite can have serious consequences, which could include life-threatening conditions.”

To remember these tips as you are on the move this summer, the SnakeBite911 App (for iPhone and Android devices) provides access to useful information, from snake safety and basic pit-viper-bite first aid, to bite management and treatment in the emergency room.

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

CROFAB is an antivenom used in an emergency situation to reverse the effects of the venom from a pit viper snake bite.

• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience unusual bruising or bleeding (such as nosebleeds, excessive bleeding after brushing teeth, the appearance of blood in stools or urine, excessive menstrual bleeding, any small purple or red spots on your skin, excessive bruising or persistent oozing from superficial injuries) after hospital discharge. Such bruising or bleeding may occur for up to 1 week or longer following initial treatment.
• Allergic reactions can happen upon use of the drug and can be severe (anaphylaxis).
• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs and symptoms of delayed allergic reactions or serum sickness (such as rash, itching, hives after hospital discharge).
• Patients allergic to papain, chymopapain, papaya extracts, or bromelain (pineapple enzyme), may react to CROFAB.

What is CROFAB?

• CROFAB is a prescription medicine used for the emergency treatment of a pit viper snake bite. This includes rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths/water moccasins.
• CROFAB is given into the vein as an infusion. The dose is based on the physician’s evaluation of the severity of the patient’s reaction to the snake bite.

Who should not receive CROFAB?

CROFAB should not be administered to patients with a known history of allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to any of its components, or to papaya or papain unless the benefits outweigh the risks and appropriate management for severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic reactions) is readily available.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before receiving CROFAB?

Before receiving CROFAB, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• Are allergic to papain, chymopapain, papaya extracts, or bromelain (pineapple enzyme). People who are allergic to these may react to CROFAB.
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if CROFAB can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. It should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. CROFAB contains a small amount of mercury in the form of ethyl mercury from thimerosal. While there are limited data on administration of ethyl mercury to pregnant women, high and acute doses of methyl mercury have been associated with nervous system and kidney toxicities.
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if CROFAB passes into human breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of CROFAB?

CROFAB can cause serious side effects.

• The most common side effects are hives, rash, nausea, itching and back pain
• Allergic reaction (severe hives and a severe rash and itching) has occurred following treatment
• Recurrent bleeding due to the snake venom requiring additional treatment may occur after discharge from the hospital

These are not all of the possible side effects of CROFAB. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

2018-08-13T09:25:00

(BPT) – “I’m living proof that you can become an expert on something you never even wanted to learn about – and it can be devastating,” explains Sharon Osbourne.

She is an incredibly successful television host, rock ‘n’ roll mogul and a star of one of the most memorable reality TV shows ever created. She is the matriarch of a well-loved, well-known and buzzed about celebrity family. But first and foremost, Sharon Osbourne is a wife and mother, whose strength, perseverance and enduring love has helped her family navigate a journey of incredible achievements as well as frightening health challenges.

Like so many others across the nation, multiple members of Sharon’s family have long been fighting a battle with opioid addiction. “After watching their father struggle through years of addiction, I never thought my adult children, Jack and Kelly, would end up on the same dark path,” says Sharon. “It was devastating to see that they each developed an addiction to opioids, and there were times when the fear of what would become of them was almost unbearable. As a mother, you never want to see your adult children suffer, and it’s easy to feel helpless in that situation.”

With the opioid crisis climbing to record levels across the country, Sharon emphasizes it is critical for families to remember that opioid addiction is a relapsing brain disease, not a choice. “It can be heartbreaking to see a loved one go through the cycle of addiction, sometimes over and over again.”

And while her husband Ozzy, as well as Jack and Kelly, are now in their own respective opioid recovery journeys, Sharon is sharing her personal caregiver experiences in the hopes of helping others.

She has teamed up with Let’s Change the Conversation, an initiative aimed at providing caregivers with resources and information about opioid addiction.

“Unfortunately, there is no ‘right way’ to help a loved one struggling with opioid addiction. There have been times when I was trying to be supportive, and then realized I could have done some things differently. Of course my heart was always in the right place. But through my experiences, I learned to use my head more in deciding what my loved ones with opioid addiction really needed from me.”

The more knowledgeable Sharon became about the disease of opioid addiction, the more effective she was at helping her family members get the kind of help they needed. She researched detox and rehab centers, spoke with healthcare providers about different treatment options, and reached out to trusted friends for advice and support. One treatment option she did not learn about at the time was VIVITROL® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension), a prescription medication to prevent relapse to opioid dependence used with counseling and following detoxification.

“Being a caregiver is a journey in its own right. We have to stay strong for the people we’re helping. And as caregivers, we must band together so that we don’t lose ourselves in this crisis. Now more than ever, you can take real steps to help someone you love on their journey to recovery.”

Sharon’s Tips for Caregivers

“Even though I didn’t want to believe it, I had to pull myself out of denial, acknowledge the problem, and think about how to address it – no matter how difficult it was to face.” Sharon recommends the following tips to have an effective conversation with a loved one about opioid addiction.

• Asking your loved one to “quit” their opioid addiction is not enough. “I urge caregivers to do more than just ask their loved ones to stop taking opioids – remember, addiction is a disease, not a choice.[1] Caregivers should consider developing a recovery action plan that is tailored to what’s best for their loved one by researching available treatment options.”
• Unwavering support is key. “I know all too well about the excuses that people with opioid addiction can make when it comes to seeking treatment. It’s important for caregivers to provide support through thick and thin, no matter how hard it gets.”
• Don’t forget the “love” in “tough love.” “Your loved one’s opioid addiction may be hurting people they care about, and it’s okay to point that out. You can also remind them that they are not their addiction – you support one, and reject the other. I’ve always made it clear that I’m determined to support my family members’ recovery processes and that I’m not going anywhere, even when it’s most difficult.”
• Be honest, but not judgmental. “It’s important to let your loved one know that they can no longer hide their addiction to opioids from you, but that you’re there to help them on their road to recovery, not judge them. Make sure you are both listening to each other about how best to approach their opioid addiction treatment.”
• Research treatment options. “As a caregiver, one of the most important things you can do is research ALL available treatment options for opioid addiction. After many years of helping my family fight opioid addiction, I’ve learned that knowing all the treatment options is imperative.”
• Speak with a healthcare professional. “Many caregivers are searching for ways to help their loved ones, so don’t be afraid to speak to your healthcare provider about all treatment options. VIVITROL is not right for everyone. Discuss all benefits and risks with a healthcare provider. Please see below for a brief summary of important facts about VIVITROL.”

Sharon Osbourne has long been a caregiver of loved ones suffering from opioid or alcohol dependence. Ms. Osbourne does not have opioid or alcohol dependence and neither she nor her loved ones have had treatment with Alkermes’ medication.

VIVITROL®
(naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension)

BRIEF SUMMARY OF IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT VIVITROL

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

VIVITROL can cause serious side effects, including:

1. Risk of opioid overdose. You can accidentally overdose in two ways.

• VIVITROL blocks the effects of opioids, such as heroin or opioid pain medicines. Do not try to overcome this blocking effect by taking large amounts of opioids—this can lead to serious injury, coma, or death.
• After you receive a dose of VIVITROL, its blocking effect slowly decreases and completely goes away over time. If you have used opioid street drugs or opioid-containing medicines in the past, using opioids in amounts that you used before treatment with VIVITROL can lead to overdose and death. You may also be more sensitive to the effects of lower amounts of opioids:
  – after you have gone through detoxification
  – when your next VIVITROL dose is due
  – if you miss a dose of VIVITROL
  – after you stop VIVITROL treatment

Tell your family and the people closest to you of this increased sensitivity to opioids and the risk of overdose.

2. Severe reactions at the site of injection. Some people on VIVITROL have had severe injection site reactions, including tissue death. Some of these reactions have required surgery. Call your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of the following at any of your injection sites:

• intense pain
• the area feels hard
• large area of swelling
• lumps
• blisters
• an open wound
• a dark scab

Tell your healthcare provider about any reaction at an injection site that concerns you, gets worse over time, or does not get better within two weeks.

3. Sudden opioid withdrawal. To avoid sudden opioid withdrawal, you must stop taking any type of opioid, including street drugs; prescription pain medicines; cough, cold, or diarrhea medicines that contain opioids; or opioid-dependence treatments, including buprenorphine or methadone, for at least 7 to 14 days before starting VIVITROL. If your healthcare provider decides that you don’t need to complete detox first, he or she may give you VIVITROL in a medical facility that can treat sudden opioid withdrawal. Sudden opioid withdrawal can be severe and may require hospitalization.

4. Liver damage or hepatitis. Naltrexone, the active ingredient in VIVITROL, can cause liver damage or hepatitis. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms during treatment with VIVITROL:

• stomach area pain lasting more than a few days
• dark urine
• yellowing of the whites of your eyes
• tiredness

Your healthcare provider may need to stop treating you with VIVITROL if you get signs or symptoms of a serious liver problem.

What is VIVITROL?

VIVITROL is a prescription injectable medicine used to:

• treat alcohol dependence. You should stop drinking before starting VIVITROL.
• prevent relapse to opioid dependence, after opioid detoxification.

You must stop taking opioids before you start receiving VIVITROL. To be effective, VIVITROL must be used with other alcohol or drug recovery programs such as counseling. VIVITROL may not work for everyone. It is not known if VIVITROL is safe and effective in children.

Who should not receive VIVITROL?

Do not receive VIVITROL if you:

• are using or have a physical dependence on opioid-containing medicines or opioid street drugs, such as heroin. To test for a physical dependence on opioid-containing medicines or street drugs, your healthcare provider may give you a small injection of a medicine called naloxone. This is called a naloxone challenge test. If you get symptoms of opioid withdrawal after the naloxone challenge test, do not start treatment with VIVITROL at that time. Your healthcare provider may repeat the test after you have stopped using opioids to see whether it is safe to start VIVITROL.
• are having opioid withdrawal symptoms. Opioid withdrawal symptoms may happen when you have been taking opioid containing medicines or opioid street drugs regularly and then stop. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal may include: anxiety, sleeplessness, yawning, fever, sweating, teary eyes, runny nose, goose bumps, shakiness, hot or cold flushes, muscle aches, muscle twitches, restlessness, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps.
• are allergic to naltrexone or any of the ingredients in VIVITROL or the liquid used to mix VIVITROL (diluent). See the medication guide for the full list of ingredients.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before receiving VIVITROL?

Before you receive VIVITROL, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• have liver problems, use or abuse street (illegal) drugs, have hemophilia or other bleeding problems, have kidney problems, or have any other medical conditions.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if VIVITROL will harm your unborn baby.
• are breastfeeding. It is not known if VIVITROL passes into your milk, and if it can harm your baby. Naltrexone, the active ingredient in VIVITROL, is the same active ingredient in tablets taken by mouth that contain naltrexone. Naltrexone from tablets passes into breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you will breastfeed or take VIVITROL. You should not do both.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any opioid-containing medicines for pain, cough or colds, or diarrhea.

If you are being treated for alcohol dependence but also use or are addicted to opioid-containing medicines or opioid street drugs, it is important that you tell your healthcare provider before starting VIVITROL to avoid having sudden opioid withdrawal symptoms when you start VIVITROL treatment.

What are other possible serious side effects of VIVITROL?

VIVITROL can cause serious side effects, including:

Depressed mood. Sometimes this leads to suicide, or suicidal thoughts, and suicidal behavior. Tell your family members and people closest to you that you are taking VIVITROL.

Pneumonia. Some people receiving VIVITROL treatment have had a type of pneumonia that is caused by an allergic reaction. If this happens to you, you may need to be treated in the hospital.

Serious allergic reactions. Serious allergic reactions can happen during or soon after an injection of VIVITROL. Tell your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms:

• skin rash
• swelling of your face, eyes, mouth, or tongue
• trouble breathing or wheezing
• chest pain
• feeling dizzy or faint

Common side effects of VIVITROL may include:

• nausea
• sleepiness
• headache
• dizziness
• vomiting
• painful joints
• decreased appetite
• muscle cramps
• cold symptoms
• trouble sleeping
• toothache

These are not all the side effects of VIVITROL. Tell your healthcare
provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not
go away. You are encouraged to report all side effects to the FDA.
Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This is only a summary of the most important information about VIVITROL.

Need more information?

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Read the Medication Guide, which is available at vivitrol.com and by calling 1-800-848-4876, option #1.

This Brief Summary is based on the VIVITROL Medication Guide

(Rev. July 2013).

ALKERMES and VIVITROL are registered trademarks of Alkermes, Inc.

©2018 Alkermes, Inc. All rights reserved.

VIV-003926 Printed in the U.S.A.

Vivitrol.com

2018-08-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – Cluster headache (CH) is an extremely painful primary headache disorder, which affects one to two people in every 1,000.^[1] CH is known as being one of the worst pains known to man and is even more debilitating than migraine. Listed below are five important things to know about this condition.

1. Recognize signs and symptoms

The most common sign is sharp, excruciating pain, usually centered at the eye, temple, or forehead that attacks one side of the head.^[1] CH typically occurs in bouts (or “clusters”) for 6 to 12 weeks, often at the same time each year or day.^[2] Each bout lasts from 15 minutes to several hours, and can strike up to 8 times a day.^[3]

2. Determine risk factors

Pay extra attention if you’re a male, smoker or have a family history of CH. It predominantly occurs in males, with symptoms typically manifesting by the age of 30. Those at greater risk of CH include heavy smokers and individuals with a family history of the condition.^[4]

3. Speak to a doctor

CH is nicknamed “suicide headache” as patients diagnosed with CH take their lives twenty times more often than the national average due to the excruciating pain.^[5] If you or someone you care about is suffering from any or all of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a physician, such as a neurologist or headache specialist.

4. Develop a treatment plan

There are treatment options for CH. A physician can help develop a treatment plan to manage CH. Historically, prevention and treatment strategies have been a challenge, but advances in the area — including new technologies — are offering patients innovative, non-invasive solutions.

5. Explore novel non-drug treatment options

gammaCore^®(nVNS) is the first non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation therapy applied at the neck for the acute treatment of pain associated with episodic CH and migraine in adult patients. For more information, visit http://gammacore.com/.

Important Safety Information regarding gammaCore

gammaCore (non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator) is indicated for the acute treatment of pain associated with episodic cluster headache and migraine in adult patients.

• The safety and effectiveness of the gammaCore non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator (nVNS) has not been established in the acute treatment of chronic cluster headache.
• gammaCore has not been shown to be effective for the prophylactic treatment of migraine headache, chronic cluster headache, or episodic cluster headache.
• The long-term effects of the chronic use of the device have not been evaluated.
• Safety and efficacy of gammaCore has not been evaluated in the following patients, and therefore is NOT indicated for:
  • Patients with an active implantable medical device, such as a pacemaker, hearing aid implant, or any implanted electronic device
  • Patients diagnosed with narrowing of the arteries (carotid atherosclerosis)
  • Patients who have had surgery to cut the vagus nerve in the neck (cervical vagotomy)
  • Pediatric patients
  • Pregnant women
  • Patients with clinically significant hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia, or tachycardia

• Patients should not use gammaCore if they:
  • Have a metallic device such as a stent, bone plate, or bone screw implanted at or near their neck
  • Are using another device at the same time (e.g., TENS Unit, muscle stimulator) or any portable electronic device (e.g., mobile phone)

Note: This list is not all inclusive. Please refer to the gammaCore Instructions for Use for all of the important warnings and precautions before using or prescribing this product.

gammaCore is available by prescription only. U.S. Federal Law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a licensed healthcare provider.

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2018-08-12T07:01:01

(BPT) – Busy school nights can make your house feel like a zoo. Between commutes, sports practices and dinner plans, it feels like everyone is always either on the go or hustling to get there.

Your child may not be aware of it, but you can see it: They’re feeling the pressures of school. Whatever their age, they are juggling multiple things to get through their school day, from keeping up with classroom lessons to navigating playground politics.

The school year can certainly inspire its share of frantic feelings. At home, you can try some of these simple, nature-inspired approaches to make your child feel more grounded, centered and ready to learn.

Spend more time in nature: The more time spent outdoors, the better, whether it’s in the backyard or at the neighborhood park. Time spent outdoors reduces stress in children, plus it promotes more exercise and movement, according to the Child Mind Institute. Where you can, try to work in extra minutes of fresh air time. In the morning, leave a few minutes early for the bus stop or, even better, try walking or biking to school on nice days. After school, send them outdoors to play in the yard and take evening walks as a family.

Practice mindful parenting: After a busy day, you have a long to-do list, from getting dinner on the table, to juggling sports practices with homework time. In the midst of these crazy evenings, remember when it comes right down to it, kids crave attention from and interaction with their parents. Make sure you hit pause and take time for face-to-face conversations. When they have something on their minds and you show that you care and want to listen, they’ll feel supported. Plus, one-on-one time is just a great way to improve the parent-child bond.

Protect their sleep schedule: No doubt about it, kids need to get their rest. Sleep is essential for their mental and physical development, but it also lets them start the day with fresh minds that are ready to focus on school. For kids who are between the ages of 6 and 13, the National Sleep Foundation says a good range is 9 to 11 hours a night. To make sure they’re getting enough, have them go to bed at the same time each night, and make it a rule to power down all devices and screens an hour before.

Inspire a balanced mindset with essential oils: To help your kids incorporate balance and calm in the middle of the school day, pack some personal care items that incorporate essential oils. Aura Cacia’s Chill Pill Roll-On has a special blend of pure lavender and sweet orange essential oils in an apricot kernel base to inspire balance and calm. All they have to do is roll a bit on their temples or wrists, take a moment to breathe deeply, and they’ll feel ready to take on the next task.

Or, create a boosting study space by diffusing rosemary in the room. The herbal, camphorous aroma of rosemary is traditionally associated with memory, recollections and nostalgia, so is a great adjunct to reading and studying.

A quick tip is to dispense 10 to 18 drops of rosemary essential oil on a cotton ball set in a dish.

For more ideas and inspiration, look for community recipes on auracacia.com/community/recipes.

2018-08-10T11:55:00

(BPT) – Like many psoriasis patients, Kim Knight has tried numerous treatment options over the years to help reduce the red, flaky patches covering the skin on her elbows, hands, knees and scalp. Unlike many people with psoriasis, however, she is lucky enough to work in a dermatology office as a Superficial Radiation Technology Specialist, where she is able to receive the direct advice and support of her office’s healthcare providers.

“I’ve had psoriasis for more than two decades, and growing up in the south near the beach meant I always had to cover up to avoid people staring at me or asking questions,” Kim said. “But working in the dermatology industry and alongside my doctor allows me to get first-hand knowledge on innovative research and access to new treatment options to help my psoriasis.”

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis, a chronic, non-contagious skin disease that alters the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin.^1,2,3 Depending on the severity of the psoriasis and type, the condition can be treated with a topical treatment, oral drug, or injectable.⁴ August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, helping to bring attention to the 7.5 million Americans that have psoriasis.⁵

“We’ve used a range of treatments through the years for Kim’s psoriasis, but found their effects wore off over time,” said Douglas DiRuggiero, physician assistant, in Rome and Cartersville, GA. “During Kim’s most recent flare up, I recommended she try SILIQ, since it works differently than other treatments by blocking a specific group of proteins at the site of inflammation.”⁶

SILIQ™ (brodalumab) injection is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light treatment), and who have tried other systemic therapies that didn’t work or stopped working.⁶ It is not known whether SILIQ is safe and effective in children.

Since being treated with SILIQ, Kim’s psoriasis is under control, and she feels less itching and burning. Individual results may vary.

“It’s been so nice to be able to take trips to the beach with my husband and son without having to cover up. I’m so happy to be able to wear short-sleeves and tank tops this summer!” said Kim.

If you have psoriasis, talk to your health care provider about potential treatment options. For more information about SILIQ, visit www.siliq.com.

Important Safety Information

What is SILIQ?

SILIQ^TM injection is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis:

• who may benefit from injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light treatment)

and

• who have tried another systemic therapy that didn’t work or stopped working

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

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

Suicidal thoughts or behavior: Some patients taking SILIQ have had suicidal thoughts or ended their own lives. This risk is higher if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or depression. It is not known if SILIQ causes these thoughts or actions.

Get medical help right away if you or a family member notices that you have any of the following symptoms:

• new or worsening depression, anxiety, or mood problems
• thoughts of suicide, dying, or hurting yourself
• attempt to commit suicide, or acting on dangerous impulses
• other unusual changes in your behavior or mood

Your healthcare provider will give you a SILIQ patient/wallet card about symptoms that need medical attention right away. Carry the card with you during treatment with SILIQ and show it to all of your healthcare providers.

Serious Infections: SILIQ may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections.

• Your healthcare provider should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with SILIQ and may treat you for TB before starting SILIQ if you have TB or a history of it
• You and your healthcare provider need to watch closely for signs and symptoms of infection during treatment with SILIQ, including fever, sweats, chills, shortness of breath, stomach issues, muscle aches, cough, sore throat or trouble swallowing, warm/red/painful skin sores, burning while urinating or more frequent urination

Who should not use SILIQ?

Do not use SILIQ if you have Crohn’s disease. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop diarrhea, bloody stools, stomach pain or cramping, sudden or uncontrollable bowel movements, loss of appetite, constipation, weight loss, fever or tiredness as these may be symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

Before starting SILIQ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• have a history of mental health problems, including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, or mood problems
• have an infection that does not go away or keeps coming back
• have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB
• have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). You should avoid getting live vaccines while being treated with SILIQ
• are or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to do so. It is unknown if SILIQ can harm your unborn or newborn baby

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

How should I use SILIQ?

See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that come with your SILIQ for information on the right way to store, prepare, and give your SILIQ injections at home, and how to properly throw away (dispose of) used SILIQ prefilled syringes. Use SILIQ exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

What are possible side effects of SILIQ?

SILIQ may cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about SILIQ?” and “Who should not take SILIQ?”

The most common side effects of SILIQ include: joint pain, muscle pain, headache, injection site reactions, tiredness, flu, diarrhea, low white blood cell count (neutropenia), mouth or throat pain, fungal infections of the skin, nausea.

Call your doctor for medical advice on side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA at www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please click here for accompanying full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning about suicidal ideation and behavior, and Medication Guide.

Please click here for full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

SILIQ is a trademark of Ortho Dermatologics’ affiliated entities.

References

1. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2014). About Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis. Accessed February 6, 2018.
2. World Health Organization. (2016). Psoriasis. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/ncds/management/psoriasis/en/. Accessed February 6, 2018.
3. Mayo Clinic. (2017). Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840. Accessed February 6, 2018.
4. Informed Health Online. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Psoriasis: Oral medications and injections. 2017 May 18. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK435704/. Accessed March 29, 2018.
5. American Academy of Dermatology. Psoriasis: Who Gets and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/psoriasis#causes. Accessed March 30, 2018.
6. SILIQ [prescribing information]. Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC.

SLQ.0210.USA.18

2018-08-07T09:01:00

(BPT) – Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory disease that may include manifestations in peripheral joints, tendons, ligaments or skin.^{1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 2} Follow along to learn about navigating the psoriatic arthritis journey.

2018-08-03T07:01:01

(BPT) – Tanara never thought she’d be where she is today. Leading up to and following her diagnosis with schizophrenia, she often felt alone — her symptoms led her to isolate herself from her friends, family, and community. Now, 7 years later, Tanara is proud of the close relationships she’s developed and is thriving as a peer support specialist who helps others living with the disorder.

“It took me time to open up about what I was feeling, but once I put all of my cards on the table, I finally felt like there was a light at the end of the tunnel,” Tanara says. “Today, not only am I on my own journey with schizophrenia, but I am also helping other people set goals and achieve them. I feel like I am doing what I was destined to do.”

Tanara is helping others as a volunteer with the SHARE Network, a Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., program made up of people who are dedicated to inspiring others through their personal health journeys and stories of caring. She was paid an honorarium by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Affecting approximately 2.4 million adults in the United States, schizophrenia is a complex and chronic brain disorder that can impact all aspects of a person’s daily life. Symptoms of schizophrenia usually emerge early in young adulthood, which often coincides with major milestones, such as living independently, continuing education, starting a job, and maintaining and developing relationships.

Recovery is different for everyone, and it is an ongoing process. By following their schizophrenia treatment plan and taking medication as prescribed, people living with the disorder can have the best chance to control their symptoms and begin working toward their treatment goals.

Tanara continues to work toward her treatment goals with her psychiatrist. Her treatment plan includes a long-acting medication for schizophrenia, INVEGA TRINZA^® (3-month paliperidone palmitate). INVEGA TRINZA^® is a prescription medicine given by injection every 3 months by a healthcare professional and used to treat schizophrenia in adults. INVEGA TRINZA^® is used in people who have been adequately treated with INVEGA SUSTENNA^® (1-month paliperidone palmitate) for at least 4 months.

In a long-term study, 93% of patients treated with INVEGA TRINZA^® did not experience a significant return of schizophrenia symptoms vs those not treated. The most common side effects of INVEGA TRINZA^® include injection site reactions, weight gain, headache, upper respiratory tract infections, feeling restlessness or difficulty sitting still, slow movements, tremors, stiffness and shuffling walk.

With her treatment plan and help from her psychiatrist and support system, Tanara has been pursuing her goal of inspiring others. She was recently recognized with an award from her local mental health services organization, for her accomplishments. In addition, being able to support others with similar experiences has provided her with a rewarding opportunity to share her perspectives.

“I’ve learned so much and want to share that knowledge with others. And I’ve learned how important it is to work with my doctor so I can keep on track with my treatment goals,” Tanara reflects. “My message to others is to stay positive and be open with your treatment team so you can find out what will work for you.”

Click here to watch Tanara’s full story and to get to know more people living with schizophrenia.

INDICATION

INVEGA TRINZA^® (3-month paliperidone palmitate) is a prescription medicine given by injection every 3 months by a healthcare professional and used to treat schizophrenia. INVEGA TRINZA^® is used in people who have been adequately treated with INVEGA SUSTENNA^® (1-month paliperidone palmitate) for at least 4 months.

INVEGA SUSTENNA^® (In-VEY-guh Suss-TEN-uh) (paliperidone palmitate) is a prescription medicine given by injection by a healthcare professional. INVEGA SUSTENNA^® is used to treat schizophrenia in adults.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not receive INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® if you are allergic to paliperidone,
paliperidone palmitate, risperidone, or any of the ingredients in INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®. See the end of the Patient Information leaflet in the full Prescribing Information for a complete list of INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® ingredients.

Before you receive INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have had Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
• have or have had heart problems, including a heart attack, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythm, or long QT syndrome
• have or have had low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood
• have or have had uncontrolled movements of your tongue, face, mouth, or jaw (tardive dyskinesia)
• have or have had kidney or liver problems
• have diabetes or have a family history of diabetes
• have had a low white blood cell count
• have had problems with dizziness or fainting or are being treated for high blood pressure
• have or have had seizures or epilepsy
• have any other medical conditions
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® will harm your unborn baby
  • If you become pregnant while taking INVEGA TRINZA^®, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics. You can register by calling 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry
  • Infants born to women who are treated with INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® may have withdrawal symptoms or other symptoms such as tremors, muscle spasms, abnormal movement of arms and legs, and twitching of eyes.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® can pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will receive INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® or breastfeed. You should not do both.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your healthcare provider or pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

Patients (particularly the elderly) taking antipsychotics with certain health conditions or those on long-term therapy should be evaluated by their healthcare provider for the potential risk of falls.

What should I avoid while receiving INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®?

• INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® may affect your ability to make decisions, think clearly, or react quickly. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® affects you
• avoid getting overheated or dehydrated

INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® may cause serious side effects, including:

• See “What is the most important information I should know about INVEGA TRINZA^® or
  INVEGA SUSTENNA^®?”
• stroke in elderly people (cerebrovascular problems) that can lead to death
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). NMS is a rare but very serious problem that can happen in people who receive INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®. NMS can cause death and must be treated in a hospital. Call your healthcare provider right away if you become severely ill and have any of these symptoms: high fever; severe muscle stiffness; confusion; loss of consciousness; changes in your breathing, heartbeat, and blood pressure
• problems with your heartbeat. These heart problems can cause death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms: passing out or feeling like you will pass out, dizziness, or feeling as if your heart is pounding or missing beats
• uncontrolled movements of your tongue, face, mouth, or jaw (tardive dyskinesia)
• metabolic changes. Metabolic changes may include high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), diabetes mellitus and changes in the fat levels in your blood (dyslipidemia), and weight gain
• low blood pressure and fainting
• changes in your blood cell counts
• high level of prolactin in your blood (hyperprolactinemia). INVEGA TRINZA^® and
  INVEGA SUSTENNA^® may cause a rise in the blood levels of a hormone called prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) that may cause side effects including missed menstrual periods, leakage of milk from the breasts, development of breasts in men, or problems with erection
• problems thinking clearly and moving your body
• seizures
• difficulty swallowing that can cause food or liquid to get into your lungs
• prolonged or painful erection lasting more than 4 hours. Call your healthcare provider or go to your nearest emergency room right away if you have an erection that lasts more than 4 hours
• problems with control of your body temperature, especially when you exercise a lot or spend time doing things that make you warm. It is important for you to drink water to avoid dehydration

The most common side effects of INVEGA TRINZA^® include: injection site reactions, weight gain, headache, upper respiratory tract infections, feeling restlessness or difficulty sitting still, slow movements, tremors, stiffness and shuffling walk.

The most common side effects of INVEGA SUSTENNA^® include: injection site reactions; sleepiness or drowsiness; dizziness; feeling of inner restlessness or needing to be constantly moving; abnormal muscle movements, including tremor (shaking), shuffling, uncontrolled involuntary movements, and abnormal movements of your eyes.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

General information about the safe and effective use of INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® that is written for healthcare professionals.

This Patient Information leaflet summarizes the most important information about INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^®. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider.

You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information that is written for healthcare professionals. For more information, go to www.invegatrinza.com or www.invegasustenna.com or call 1-800-526-7736.

045411-170710

2018-08-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – When a person is first diagnosed with an illness, support from friends and family can be instantaneous. People want to know what they can do to help, offer to lend a hand or an ear to listen, and are frequently checking in. This support can be key to helping someone cope with a new diagnosis.

But those living with a chronic condition may need support beyond the initial diagnosis. This is particularly true for conditions that are not always well understood, like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) — an autoimmune disease of the joints^[i] that impacts approximately 1.6 million adults in the United States.^[ii],[iii] In fact, people with RA may find their need for support from family and friends is even more important as their disease progresses than when they were first diagnosed.

Why a “support squad” is important

Research shows that for people living with a chronic condition, the support of family and friends may be associated with improved health outcomes.^[iv] This could include additional assistance with everyday tasks or someone to listen for emotional support.

Building a “support squad” also means having someone or several people to lean on for encouragement, motivation and, most of all, understanding. These people can help navigate new obstacles in the condition over time and remind their loved one that he or she is more than just the disease.

Tips for building an RA support squad

With an “invisible” chronic illness like RA, someone may not look sick on the outside, and it can be difficult for loved ones to recognize symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness, and fatigue.^[v] If you or someone you know has RA, consider the following tips for building a support squad:

• Set clear expectations with friends and family. While some people with RA may find it helpful if their loved ones ask them how they are feeling, others may feel overwhelmed with constant questioning. Being clear with your specific needs, and helping friends and family understand the best way to support the management of RA, can alleviate confusion and frustration.
• Make it a family affair. Bringing a partner or parent to a rheumatologist appointment can create support in between appointments and help ensure the person living with RA does not feel alone.
• Extend support systems beyond friends and family. Sometimes an immediate support system doesn’t fully understand what a person with a chronic condition like RA is going through and what he or she may be facing. Support can be found in other places, whether that be a social or online community of others living with the same condition or experts such as a healthcare provider. A support squad should include people with all different types of backgrounds, as each will have a different perspective and advice to give.
• Encourage loved ones to build their own support squad. Support squads aren’t just for a person living with a chronic condition like RA. Significant others or loved ones should have someone to talk to when they’re not sure what the right approach is for offering support. This can be a friend, spouse of someone else living with RA or even a healthcare provider.

For more tips about building a support squad and communicating with friends and family members about living with a chronic condition like RA, visit www.Arthritis.com.

Content was provided by Pfizer.

2018-07-31T12:05:00

(BPT) – Dry skin. Tingling feet. An aching shoulder. A lingering cough. Blurry vision.

Our bodies often send out signals when something needs attention. And as we age, it can be hard to know which changes in our bodies are normal signs of the aging process and which could be cause for greater concern.

Most of us don’t want to sprint to the doctor at every runny nose or aching joint. But at the same time, we don’t want to find ourselves wishing we had, when something more concerning is uncovered.

It can be tricky to find that middle ground, but nobody knows your body better than you do, so listen to it and pay attention to any changes — big or small — to help you determine your best course of action.

What to ask yourself

When you notice a new symptom, ask yourself: Have you ever experienced this symptom before? How intense is it? How long does it last? Did it happen just once, is it periodic or is it consistently present? The answers can help you determine what to discuss with your doctor or when to seek more immediate medical care.

“If you aren’t quite sure what to do next, services like UnitedHealthcare’s NurseLine¹ provide 24/7 phone access to a registered nurse to talk through your symptoms,” said Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare Retiree Solutions. “You can then discuss options ranging from self-care and over-the-counter treatments, to scheduling a primary care appointment or virtual doctor’s visit, to stopping by an urgent care center or emergency room.”

What to watch for

It’s important to become familiar with symptoms associated with the gradual aging process that, when appearing in older adults, also can be indicators of more significant conditions.

Some symptoms can signal possible medical emergencies or urgent concerns, such as:

* Heart attack: Symptoms vary by gender and can include pain in the jaw, neck or back, nausea and feeling light-headed or the more commonly known shortness of breath, a tight feeling or intense pressure in the chest and pain in the arm.

* Stroke: Numbness or drooping in the face, trouble seeing out of one or both eyes, slurred speech, dizziness and lack of coordination can all be stroke-related symptoms.

* Flu and pneumonia: Symptoms can include cough, fever, chills, trouble breathing.

Other symptoms may indicate a yet-undiagnosed chronic condition, including:

* Diabetes: Symptoms that can appear slowly and over a long period of time include: dry skin, increased thirst, the need to urinate often, tingling in your hands and feet, blurry vision, and feeling tired and run down.

* Macular degeneration: Blurry vision, loss of central vision, trouble reading in low light, and straight lines appearing wavy are markers of macular degeneration.

* Osteoporosis: Back pain, rounded shoulders, stooped or hunched-over posture and loss of height could be indication of bone loss or fractures due to osteoporosis.

* Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: In addition to the more commonly known symptoms like forgetfulness or losing/misplacing items, other early signs of these conditions include taking longer to complete everyday activities and mood or personality changes.

Why to seek treatment

Detecting and addressing symptoms early on often can prevent or minimize certain conditions, through immediate treatment or lifestyle changes. However, people sometimes downplay the symptoms or want to avoid the perceived hassle and cost of medical treatment. Almost 10 percent of Medicare beneficiaries said in a 2013 survey that they did not seek medical care for a medical condition, with the two most frequent reasons being they did not think the problem was serious or it might be too expensive.

What you might not consider is that seeking medical care in the earliest stages of an illness can make it easier and more affordable to treat. A doctor visit and a course of antibiotics will typically cost much less than a stay in the hospital. The more time a condition or disease has to take hold without being addressed, the harder it could be to treat and get it under control.

For many conditions, early symptoms are subtle, simple and common, so it’s important to pay attention to what your body might be telling you. Even better? Schedule your annual wellness visit so you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re being proactive about your health and working with your doctor to take control of your well-being.

Take care of your body and let it take care of you.

————————————————————–

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies. For Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans: A Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in these plans depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year.

¹This service should not be used for emergency or urgent care needs. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. The information provided through this service is for informational purposes only. The nurses cannot diagnose problems or recommend treatment and are not a substitute for your doctor’s care. Your health information is kept confidential in accordance with the law. Access to this service is subject to terms of use.

Y0066_180625_025239 Accepted