Category: Brandpoint Health

2024-09-09T10:01:00

(BPT) – Novo Nordisk is a healthcare company with a 100­-year history of driving change to improve the lives of people living with serious, chronic diseases. As broader conversations about diabetes medicines are ongoing in both mainstream and social media, we believe it is important to continue to raise awareness and to reinforce our commitment to responsible use of Novo Nordisk medicines. These efforts are intended to support the safety of all people for one of our medicines that is well known in the diabetes community, Ozempic^®.

See Medication Guide: bit.ly/OzempicPI & Safety Info: bit.ly/OzempicISI for Ozempic (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg.

2024-09-04T23:01:00

(BPT) – It started with a tiny patch — the size of a walnut, round and smooth. At 21, Deirdre Nero was puzzled by her sudden hair loss — she was studying abroad in Spain when she noticed her first bald spot. As Deirdre puts it, she was known for her thick, curly, black hair, which was very much a part of her identity.

When Deirdre returned to the United States and showed her mother the bald patch in person, her mother was shocked. “I’ll always remember her face,” she said. As more hair began to disappear, Deirdre visited her dermatologist for some answers. But after her appointment, she felt even more distraught.

Her dermatologist diagnosed her with alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. As Deirdre recalls, the doctor offered no comfort or encouraging words — he just told her there was no treatment for her medical condition, which could worsen. Like so many patients, Deirdre was left to navigate a new, confusing, and overwhelming diagnosis on her own.

She got to work learning about alopecia areata; Deirdre’s research brought up image after image of people who were completely bald. Her worry grew, as she tried to tell herself her case would be different. But as years passed, Deirdre’s hair loss accelerated, and she found she couldn’t conceal her condition with strategic hairstyling or makeup.

Fear took over; like many people living with alopecia areata, she kept her suffering and diagnosis very private. Deirdre’s efforts to hide her bald patches drained her time and energy. Now working at a law firm, she found herself overwhelmed when she was in public, worrying about the what ifs of having her condition exposed. She recalled an outdoor work event early in her career where she had to leave because it was too windy — terrified that the wind would lift her hair up and her colleagues would see her alopecia areata, which she said made her head “look like Swiss cheese.” Deirdre was ashamed and consumed by the fear that her autoimmune disease would prevent her professional success as a lawyer.

At that point, Deirdre turned to wigs. She had tried steroid injections to alleviate her symptoms, but they were painful and unsustainable. Deirdre felt like her journey was like a game of whack-a-mole — once an area grew back, another bald patch would appear somewhere else. Eventually, Deirdre became completely bald, matching the photos of alopecia patients she researched when she first started her alopecia journey. She was unable to recognize herself in the mirror, and said the painful experience of losing her hair was “like losing a limb” because she would never look or feel the same way again. She was missing a part of herself. With no treatment options available at that time, Deirdre began wearing a wig as her last resort.

Luckily, Deirdre has a solid support system. Over time, and through the support of family, friends, and the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF), Deirdre was able to overcome the impact of alopecia areata and reclaim her life. She’s taken control of her alopecia areata and decides each day if she wants to wear a wig or go bald. It is an ongoing struggle, but through her advocacy work with NAAF, Deirdre now feels empowered to be her authentic self.

The power to choose how you show up in the world is critical not only for Deirdre and her holistic health, but for the millions of other people living with alopecia areata. The good news is there are innovations recently available for people living with alopecia areata that can make a difference in how the condition is managed. However, access to these innovations and tools to better manage alopecia areata is key. The reality is, people are being left behind for many reasons including lack of awareness of these tools and innovations by dermatologists and patients, as well as insurance coverage challenges. Part of the challenge is that alopecia areata is often relegated to a cosmetic issue versus an autoimmune disease. Work needs to be done to drive broad awareness through advocacy and education to ensure broad access and equity.

September is National Alopecia Areata Awareness Month, a time when the community comes together to shine a light on alopecia areata by elevating awareness, dismantling stigma, and empowering all to stand proudly. Together, we can better support people living with alopecia areata like Deirdre. We can learn about this disease and reframe the narrative through education. To learn more about alopecia areata, and to join Deirdre for the second annual Walk for Alopecia, please visit www.NAAF.org.

2024-09-04T10:09:00

(BPT) – Does your dog run crazy-eights? Does your cat get midnight madness? Of course, any of your pets can get the zoomies, or, maybe they simply follow you around the house all day in hopes of a pat or a treat.

Pet owners are often in awe of their pets’ energy, with many longing for a way to put that power and agility to good use. Now, a new activation highlighting the power of renewable electricity is transforming steps of pets and their people into a small amount of renewable energy.

The new Pet Power activation from Purina features a renewable electricity-producing walkway with smart flooring technology from the company Pavegen that allows pets and their owners to produce renewable electricity together.

Steps taken by pets and their owners will produce about three joules of electricity. The Pet Power activation will capture the energy of thousands of pets and people, which will be collected in batteries that Purina will donate to the APA Adoption Center, a St. Louis-based animal shelter.

“At Purina, we’ve always looked to pets for inspiration to drive our actions, and now, inspired by their boundless energy, they’re helping us demonstrate the power of renewable electricity,” said Tiffany Gildehaus, senior manager, environmental sustainability at Purina. “The Pet Power activation is a small symbol of the importance of renewable electricity to Purina’s sustainability strategy.”

The Pet Power walkway system is being showcased at various pet-friendly venues in St. Louis through the end of September, including Bar K, Purina Farms, the Great Forest Park Balloon Race and the APA Canine Carnival.

Sustainability is a core value of Purina, which currently gets 95% of its electricity from investments in solar and wind power. Purina is tracking to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2025 across its factory network and corporate offices. To learn more visit Purina.com.

2024-09-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – When Chris Wright reflects on his professional basketball career, he describes it as “challenging, rewarding, and not without obstacles.” But that’s not only because of the early morning workouts, mental stamina and grit it takes to become a professional basketball player — Chris was the first National Basketball Association (NBA) player to voice publicly they were diagnosed with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS).

One day after practice while playing in Turkey in 2012, Chris felt a tingling sensation in his right foot. Chris went back to practice the next day assuming it was from overuse, until he felt the sensation spread from his foot to his right arm. Eventually, Chris couldn’t walk and was taken to a hospital. That’s when he was diagnosed with RMS.

Following his diagnosis, Chris returned to the U.S. After meeting with several doctors who told him his only option was to hang up his basketball career, Chris finally met Dr. Heidi Crayton, MD, his current neurologist, partnered with him to develop a plan that worked best for his goals.

“She said, ‘You want to keep playing? Then you’ll keep playing.’ And that was music to my ears.” Chris went on to play professionally for 12 years — 10 years in Europe and two in the U.S.

Finding the Right Neurologist and Treatment

Chris credits his success, both on the court and in helping navigate his condition, to Dr. Crayton and his family. “MS impacts everyone differently, so it’s super important to find a neurologist that you trust and can work together with on your MS journey. Having a team around you that you can be open and honest with is key to paving your own path, especially when it comes to choosing the right treatment option for you.”

After Chris’ first therapy stopped working for him, he discussed his options with Dr. Crayton, who suggested MAVENCLAD^® (cladribine tablets), with a dosing schedule that is no more than 10 treatment days a year for two years. Chris and Dr. Crayton also discussed MAVENCLAD’s dosing and safety information, and the serious side effects of MAVENCLAD, including risk of cancer and risk of birth defects. She explained both women and men being treated with MAVENCLAD should use effective contraception on MAVENCLAD treatment days and for 6 months after the last dose of each treatment course. She also talked about other potential side effects, like low white blood cell counts, serious infections, and liver problems.

MAVENCLAD has worked well for Chris. However, each individual is different, and results may vary. It’s important for patients to talk to their doctor about their symptoms and treatment plan for the best possible outcome.

Thinking Forward: Life off the Court

Now retired from playing professional basketball and a father of three, Chris is putting to practice what he learned on the court, off the court.

As a dad, Chris spends most of his time with his family playing sports, games, making TikTok dances, painting nails and working on his hair styling skills. But importantly, he doesn’t shy away from talking about his condition with his family. “I’m open with my kids about my MS so they often ask questions and how I’m feeling. You don’t always physically ‘see’ MS, so when they see ‘dad,’ they want to play and run around. My main priority is staying as healthy as possible so I can be there as a father.”

Chris also has continued to express his love of basketball by coaching his high school’s varsity team. He’s also a broadcaster for the Washington Wizards. Chris credits his career evolution to his MS journey.

“Living with MS has given me a lane to focus on forever. I was diagnosed at 22 years old — a time when I was trying to figure out my path in life as both a young adult and athlete. Though challenging, my MS diagnosis truly shaped my career in many ways. It’s given me the opportunity to be a voice and advocate for the MS community and I’m forever grateful for that. I’m confident I wouldn’t be where I am today — whether that’s with my family or my career.”

Express4MS and The Importance of “Running Your Own Race”

Since 2022, Chris has teamed up with EMD Serono on their program Express4MS, a program designed to give visibility to the journeys of people living with RMS and encourage them to express themselves, not only within their community but also with their healthcare providers. By sharing his story, Chris hopes to help others impacted by MS feel supported and empowered to speak up about their condition.

To hear stories from a diverse group of people about their experiences living with MS and how they’ve learned to express themselves with their loved ones, the MS community, their healthcare providers, and the world, visit Express4MS.com. If you have MS, you have the opportunity to have your own story reviewed for inclusion on the website.

Despite telling his story and advocating for the MS community for over 11 years, there’s still one thing Chris wants everyone to know: “Run your own race. Don’t be embarrassed or disappointed in who you are or what stage you’re in — either in life or with your MS journey. Keep expressing yourself and be confident. You’re going to be OK.”

What is MAVENCLAD?

MAVENCLAD is a prescription medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include relapsing-remitting disease and active secondary progressive disease, in adults. Because of its safety profile, MAVENCLAD is generally used in people who have tried another MS medicine that they could not tolerate or that has not worked well enough.

MAVENCLAD is not recommended for use in people with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS).

It is not known if MAVENCLAD is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age and is therefore not recommended.

MAVENCLAD may cause serious side effects, including:

• Risk of cancer (malignancies). You should follow healthcare provider instructions about screening for cancer.
• MAVENCLAD may cause birth defects if used during pregnancy. Women must not be pregnant when they start treatment with MAVENCLAD or become pregnant during MAVENCLAD dosing and within 6 months after the last dose of each yearly treatment course. You should stop treatment with MAVENCLAD and contact your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with MAVENCLAD.
• For women who are able to become pregnant:
  • Your healthcare provider should order a pregnancy test before you begin your first and second yearly treatment course of MAVENCLAD to make sure that you are not pregnant.
  • Ask your healthcare provider which contraceptive method is right for you. Women and men being treated with MAVENCLAD should use effective birth control (contraception) on the days on which they take MAVENCLAD and for at least 6 months after the last dose of each yearly treatment course.

Do not take MAVENCLAD if you:

• have cancer (malignancy).
• are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are a woman of childbearing age or a man able to father a child and you are not using birth control.
• are breastfeeding.
• are human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive.
• have active infections, including tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis B or C.
• are allergic to cladribine.

Before you take MAVENCLAD, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• think you have an infection.
• have taken, take, or plan to take medicines that affect your immune system or blood cells, or other treatments for MS. Certain medicines can increase your risk of getting an infection.
• have had a recent vaccination or are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive live or live-attenuated vaccines within the 4 to 6 weeks preceding treatment with MAVENCLAD or receive these types of vaccines during your treatment with MAVENCLAD and unless directed by your healthcare provider.
• have heart failure.
• have or have had cancer.
• have liver or kidney problems.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if MAVENCLAD passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed on the days on which you take MAVENCLAD, and for 10 days after the last dose.

How should I take MAVENCLAD?

• MAVENCLAD is given as two yearly treatment courses, consisting of 2 treatment weeks (cycles) about a month apart.
• Handle MAVENCLAD with dry hands and take immediately after opening the blister pack. Take with water and do not chew the tablet. MAVENCLAD can be taken with or without food and should be taken at least 3 hours apart from other medicines.
• Wash your hands after handling MAVENCLAD. Limit contact with your skin (especially on your face). Wash skin and surfaces with water if contact occurs.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If the whole day passes before you remember, take your missed dose the next day. Do not take 2 doses at the same time. Instead, you will extend the number of days in that treatment week.

Your healthcare provider will continue to monitor your health during the 2 yearly treatment courses, and for at least another 2 years during which you do not need to take MAVENCLAD. It is not known if MAVENCLAD is safe and effective in people who restart MAVENCLAD treatment more than 2 years after completing 2 yearly treatment courses.

MAVENCLAD can cause serious side effects. If you have any of these symptoms listed below, call your healthcare provider right away:

• low blood cell counts have happened and can increase your risk of infections during treatment with MAVENCLAD. Blood tests are needed before you start treatment with MAVENCLAD, during your treatment with MAVENCLAD, and afterward, as needed.
• serious infections such as:
  • life-threatening or fatal infections caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi.
• TB, hepatitis B or C, and shingles (herpes zoster). Fatal cases of TB and hepatitis have happened with cladribine during clinical studies. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any symptoms of the following infection related problems or if any of the symptoms get worse, including fever, aching painful muscles, headache, feeling of being generally unwell, loss of appetite, burning, tingling, numbness or itchiness of the skin in the affected area, skin blotches, blistered rash, or severe pain.
• progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). PML is a rare brain infection that usually leads to death or severe disability. Although PML has not been seen in MS patients taking MAVENCLAD, it may happen in people with weakened immune systems. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new or worsening neurologic signs or symptoms. These may include: weakness on 1 side of your body, loss of coordination in your arms and legs, decreased strength, problems with balance, changes in your vision, changes in your thinking or memory, confusion, or changes in your personality.
• liver problems. Symptoms of liver problems may include: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, or your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow. Your doctor will perform blood tests to check your liver during treatment.
• allergic reactions (hypersensitivities). You should stop treatment and seek immediate medical attention if any signs or symptoms of allergic reactions occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rash, swelling or itching of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or trouble breathing.
• heart failure. MAVENCLAD may cause heart failure, which means your heart may not pump as well as it should. Call your healthcare provider or go to the closest emergency room for medical help right away if you have any signs or symptoms such as shortness of breath, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or unusual swelling in your body.

The most common side effects of MAVENCLAD include: upper respiratory infection, headache, and low white blood cell counts.

These are not all the possible side effects of MAVENCLAD. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact EMD Serono at: 1-800-283-8088 ext. 5563 or

FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please see full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including serious side effects.

Chris is sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc.

EMD Serono does not recommend or endorse any specific clinician or provider.

EMD Serono is the Healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the U.S. and Canada.

MAVENCLAD is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany or its affiliates.

US-MAV-02532 August 2024 Intended for US only

2024-08-28T04:01:01

(BPT) – When disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes or wildfires strike a community and leave residents faced with damaged homes and wrecked cars, even an hour can feel like forever before help arrives. The immediate aftermath of a catastrophe can be chaotic and full of anxiety for those who have lost homes and vehicles.

So one company took action this year to get ahead of the curve, and proactively supported nonprofit recovery response efforts by pre-funding grants before disaster strikes.

This year, State Farm pre-funded the American Red Cross with a $2 million grant to support the nonprofit’s disaster relief efforts. Pre-disaster funding (pre-funding) is a proactive approach that helps give immediate support for disaster relief efforts. The goal of pre-funding is to support nonprofits like the American Red Cross to prepare for and respond to disasters more effectively.

Because of this new approach, communities and families impacted by disasters big and small — including hurricanes, tornadoes, fires and countless other crises — can recover more quickly and reduce the impact of natural disasters.

“Mission Leaders like State Farm are vital to our work, helping drive innovation across our organization, providing capacity to respond immediately in times of crisis,” said Cliff Holtz, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “I am grateful for their support, which safeguards our ability to care for those in need when the unthinkable happens.”

A history of neighborly support

State Farm has a long history of helping disaster relief programs. However, this is the first year the company has employed a proactive pre-funding approach. In addition to its partnership with the American Red Cross, the nation’s home and auto insurance leader has also pre-funded grants of $250,000 to Convoy of Hope and $250,000 to Midwest Food Bank to help support these community nonprofits to respond immediately following a catastrophe.

“State Farm is committed to helping individuals and families manage the risks of everyday life and recover from the unexpected,” said Apsara Sorensen, State Farm corporate responsibility assistant vice president. “We extend this commitment to the neighborhoods we serve by providing resources and collaborating with nonprofit organizations with a history of disaster response, providing immediate relief and vital necessities during times of need.”

The dangers of severe weather seasons

Throughout the year, homeowners are encouraged to be prepared for severe weather like spring storms, hail, wildfire, tornado and hurricane season. And residents in hurricane prone communities currently are in the busiest, deadliest and costliest months for hurricanes in the U.S., with September being the peak. Even one hurricane occurrence can be devastating. Hurricane Idalia — the only major hurricane to impact the U.S. last year — hit in late August 2023 and resulted in about 8,000 State Farm homeowner and auto claims. State Farm paid approximately $76 million to those customers impacted by Idalia, helping them recover and rebuild their lives in the wake of the event.

How to prep for severe weather and storms

You can’t prevent a hurricane or other natural disasters. However, if you live in areas prone to severe weather and storms, you can prepare yourself and your home ahead of time. Follow these top three proactive insurance tips to ensure you can quickly and easily respond to a natural disaster.

1. Review your insurance coverage. Don’t wait until after disaster strikes to realize that inflation and increasing economic pressures may have impacted the cost of rebuilding. Make sure you have the right amount and type of insurance for your property and to help protect your loved ones.

2. Protect important insurance documents. Keep your important insurance documents and policy paperwork in a protected, waterproof place. You can also install your insurance app for immediate electronic access to insurance documents.

3. Create a home inventory. Make a list of your possessions and their estimated value. You can use technology to help create and safely store your digital home inventory.

• Take pictures with your smartphone. Capture important individual items as well as entire rooms, closets or drawers. Label photos with what’s pictured, where you bought it, the make or model and the serial number.
• Take video. Walk through your house or apartment, recording and describing the contents.
• Use an app. Many mobile app options can help you create and store a room-by-room record of your belongings.

Using these three tips can help you place your claims when the worst occurs so your insurer can react quickly and get you the help you need. Find more hurricane prep information with State Farm Simple Insights.

To learn more about State Farm’s efforts to help communities, visit statefarm.com.

This content is sponsored by State Farm.

2024-08-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – Many people think of eczema as a mild, itchy skin disease, and don’t realize how intense signs and symptoms can become. However, those living with moderate-to-severe forms of the condition know that it’s much more than that. They can experience recurring signs and symptoms such as intense itching and dry, irritating rashes that can crack or ooze. The discomfort is present throughout their daily activities — whether working, practicing, or spending time with loved ones.

Diana Taurasi, all-star basketball player, has been living with moderate-to-severe eczema since her college days, and is aware of the challenges it can bring both on and off the court. In partnership with Sanofi and Regeneron for the Eczactly Like Me program, Diana is ready to share her story to help others living with the disease recognize that they’re not alone in their struggles.

Diana’s Moderate-to-Severe Eczema Journey

Diana first noticed signs and symptoms of moderate-to-severe eczema that manifested as rashes on her arms and hands while playing basketball in college.

“Playing a sport where a lot of your skin is exposed, I’m in this constant cycle of sweating, showering, and drying off, all things that can irritate my skin. There were times when my skin was so itchy, I’d get in the shower and make the water as hot as I could stand it just to get some temporary relief — but in the long run, it would just make my itchy skin feel worse.”

Throughout the years, she was constantly dealing with her itchy skin, and her eczema was often on her mind. “I was one of the first players in the league to wear long sleeves, and it was to hide my skin, which people probably didn’t know.”

Outside of basketball, certain activities could be tough on Diana’s skin, even while spending time with friends and family. While on vacation for example, she’d sometimes avoid going to the pool or being out in the heat because of how it would irritate her skin.

Finding A Treatment That Works for Her

Diana worked with her dermatologist to try different prescription topical treatments but her eczema still wasn’t well controlled.

“I started to feel hopeless about my skin and like I might never find something that would work for me.”

Eventually, her doctor recommended she try Dupixent (dupilumab), a biologic treatment option for people ages 6 months and older with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema.

Dupixent works by helping to block a key source of inflammation inside the body, to help reduce itch and rashes. It is the only biologic medicine approved to treat uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema from infancy to adulthood.

Since starting Dupixent, Diana reported experiencing clearer skin and less itch.

“I spent years not knowing there could be a treatment out there that could work for me. Now, I feel like I’ve got the ball in this never-ending match against my moderate-to-severe eczema. I’m enjoying doing things like swimming with my wife and kids, but without being as worried about my eczema. While every person is different, this was my experience.”

Dupixent can help adult patients with moderate-to-severe eczema achieve clearer skin and less itch. In two clinical trials at 16 weeks, adults on Dupixent had clear or almost clear skin (37% vs 9% not on Dupixent) and significant itch reduction (38% vs 11% not on Dupixent). Individual results may vary.

The most common side effects include injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling, and itching, sometimes with blurred vision, dry eye, cold sores in your mouth or on your lips, and high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia).

Advice For Others “Eczactly” Like Diana Living with Moderate-to-Severe Eczema

Diana wants other people out there who feel “Eczactly” like her and going through similar challenges with moderate-to-severe eczema to not lose hope.

“If you or a loved one has uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema, you’re not alone — there’s a lot of people out there dealing with similar struggles because of this disease. Don’t give up — it’s important to advocate for yourself or your loved one and to talk to a dermatologist about treatment options.”

Visit ShowUpAD.com to learn more about stories like Diana’s and learn more about Dupixent(dupilumab).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATION

Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT^®.

Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have eye problems.
• have a parasitic (helminth) infection.
• are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” right before and during treatment with DUPIXENT.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby.
• A pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy collects information about the health of you and your baby. To enroll or get more information call 1-877-311- 8972 or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/dupixent/.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

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

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking oral, topical or inhaled corticosteroid medicines or if you have atopic dermatitis and asthma and use an asthma medicine. Do not change or stop your corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine to come back.

DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions. DUPIXENT can cause allergic reactions that can sometimes be severe. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms: breathing problems or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, fast pulse, fever, hives, joint pain, general ill feeling, itching, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, or cramps in your stomach-area.
• Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision, such as blurred vision. Your healthcare provider may send you to an ophthalmologist for an eye exam if needed.
• Joint aches and pain. Some people who use DUPIXENT have had trouble walking or moving due to their joint symptoms, and in some cases needed to be hospitalized. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or worsening joint symptoms. Your healthcare provider may stop DUPIXENT if you develop joint symptoms.

The most common side effects in patients with eczema include injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling, and itching, sometimes with blurred vision, dry eye, cold sores in your mouth or on your lips, and high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia).

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 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.

Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Your healthcare provider will decide if you or your caregiver can inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to prepare and inject DUPIXENT until you or your caregiver have been trained by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it’s recommended DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult. In children 6 months to less than 12 years of age, DUPIXENT should be given by a caregiver.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information including Patient Information.

INDICATION

DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 6 months of age and older with moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis or AD) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 6 months of age.

US.DUP.24.06.0421

2024-08-15T23:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be frustrating and confusing for both a man and his partner. ED, or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for intercourse, is common, and it’s estimated that by 2025 almost 322 million men worldwide will be affected by ED.^1,2 ED happens when blood flow to the penis is limited or when nerves are damaged.³ As men age, ED becomes more common due to various health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, hormones or cardiovascular disease.²

While ED may begin in the bedroom, it can have a profound effect on a man, his self-esteem and his relationships beyond romance.⁴ Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about ED that continue to push a stigma and may prevent men from seeking information about available treatment options. Keep reading to learn some common myths about ED and ways it can be treated beyond medication.

Myth 1: ED only affects much older men.

ED affects approximately 1 in 5 men, aged 20 and older, in the United States.⁵ And even though it’s more common among older men, it doesn’t mean it’s something you have to accept and live with.

Myth 2: ED means there is something wrong with the penis.

To produce an erection, a man needs a healthy brain, penis, blood vessels, nerves and adequate amounts of testosterone. Changes to any of these functions could contribute to ED.⁶ A complete examination with a health care professional can help determine the cause of ED and identify appropriate treatment options.

Myth 3: If a man has trouble getting an erection, it’s because they’re not attracted to their partner.

Many things cause erection problems, including serious health conditions. Although lack of sexual attraction to a partner might be one of them, it’s far more likely to be something else, such as:⁶

• Heart problems, including high blood pressure and clogged blood vessels
• Diabetes
• Certain prescription medications
• Nerve disorders, like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis
• Low testosterone
• Mood disorders such as stress, anxiety and depression
• Smoking and drinking alcohol
• Certain surgeries or injuries that affect the pelvic area, such as prostate surgery

Myth 4: Medications are the only way to treat ED.

Medications are a successful way to treat ED in some men, but there are other options available for those who don’t respond well to medications or don’t want to take a pill every day. These options include injections, hormone therapy, vacuum pumps or penile implants.

A penile implant is a long-term treatment option that allows direct control of both the timing and duration of an erection. One type of penile implant is the AMS 700™ Inflatable Penile Prosthesis, which is designed to closely mimic a natural erection, providing rigidity when inflated and a natural, flaccid appearance when deflated. Once manually activated, an erection can be maintained for as long as desired and can be deflated with just one touch of a button. The penile implant procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and is performed under anesthesia. A small incision is made either in the scrotum, above the pubic bone, or on the penis, and a surgeon inserts all components through this opening.

If you think a penile implant might be an option for you or to learn more, ask your doctor about the AMS 700 penile implant. To hear more from men who have the AMS 700 penile implant, visit edcure.com.

Important Risk Information: As with any medical procedure, complications can occur. Side effects include but are not limited to no longer being able to achieve natural or spontaneous erections, infection (in which case the implant may have to be removed), pain (typically associated with the healing process), mechanical failure of the implant, penile curvature or scarring, loss of tissue, device migration and unintended inflation can also occur. Once implanted with AMS 700, other ED treatment options will no longer be available. Find a link to additional patient safety information at EDCure.com.

Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician. This material is for informational purposes only and not meant for medical diagnosis. This information does not constitute medical or legal advice, and Boston Scientific makes no representation regarding the medical benefits included in this information. Boston Scientific strongly recommends that you consult with your physician on all matters pertaining to your health.

References

1. Erectile dysfunction. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://medlineplus.gov/erectiledysfunction.html. Accessed July 2024.
2. Aytac IA, McKinlay JB, Krane RJ. The likely worldwide increase in erectile dysfunction between 1995 and 2025 and some possible policy consequences. BJU Int. 1999; 84:50–56.
3. “Erectile Dysfunction (Ed).” Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment – Urology Care Foundation, www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/e/erectile-dysfunction-(ed)#Treatment. Accessed July 2024.
4. DiMeo PJ. Psychosocial and relationship issues in men with erectile dysfunction. Urol Nurs. 2006 Dec;26(6):442–6.
5. Selvin E, Burnett AL, Platz EA. Prevalence and risk factors for erectile dysfunction in the US. Am J Med. 2007 Feb;120(2):151-7. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2006.06.010. PMID: 17275456.
6. Erectile Dysfunction. Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 29 Mar. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20355776. Accessed July 2024.

2024-08-15T14:01:00

(BPT) – When Skippy Reeves’ mother lost her eyesight to wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD), treatments didn’t exist.

After experiencing symptoms himself years later, Skippy went to his eye doctor immediately and was diagnosed with wet AMD. Unlike his mother, he had options available to help keep his vision thanks to the help of treatment.

“Getting started with Vabysmo as soon as I was diagnosed has allowed me to keep my vision as I continue doing the things I love with clarity and joy – fishing, golfing, and watching my grandsons play sports,” Skippy said.

According to a survey of 56 retina specialists – eye doctors who treat wet AMD and other retinal conditions – 95% of them would use a treatment called Vabysmo to care for their own loved ones to treat vision loss caused by wet AMD.* Vabysmo is a prescription medicine given by injection into the eye^[1], and is the first and only FDA-approved treatment thought to block two causes of wet AMD^[2]. Patients should not use Vabysmo if they have an infection in or around their eye, have active swelling around their eye that may include pain and redness, or are allergic to Vabysmo or any of the ingredients in Vabysmo.

Skippy is also passionate about advocating for the best care not only for himself, but for his family and friends as well. “Making my loved ones aware of this condition and the value of treatment is very important to me,” Skippy added.

Esther L. Kim, MD, a retina specialist at Orange County Retina in California, sees patients with wet AMD regularly, and has prescribed Vabysmo for many of them.

“If you or someone you care for is diagnosed with wet AMD, it’s crucial to have a conversation with a provider about the different medicines available, and explore the possibility of switching treatments,” Dr. Kim, who has already had many patients make the switch, said.

Skippy’s journey with Vabysmo – and the positive impact it’s had on his life – is an experience many patients share. Jane Burdette, a wet AMD patient from Thomaston, Georgia, was prescribed Vabysmo when she became interested in the chance to go up to four months between treatments.*

“I feel truly blessed that my healthcare provider prescribed Vabysmo,” Jane said. “I used to have to get injections every month, but now I can go four months between visits. This has made a huge difference.”

In the U.S., 1.5 million people are living with wet AMD. The risk for developing the condition increases with age and is higher for women and those who smoke, are overweight, or have a family history of the disease.

James (Van) Van-Eimeirem, a patient from Huntington Beach, CA, was receiving treatment for 17 years before switching to Vabysmo.

“I tell all of my family and friends about the success I’ve had with Vabysmo and encourage them to talk to their provider if they are experiencing vision changes,” Van said.

For those who are at risk of or already experiencing vision loss, it is crucial to advocate for a diagnosis and the best care, and enlist help from a support system along the way. Some of the ways people can show up for their loved ones experiencing vision loss include:

• accompanying them to doctor appointments
• guiding them in researching the most effective treatment options
• helping discuss these options with their eye doctor
• being there for them emotionally

With any treatment, there can be side effects. Injections like the one for Vabysmo can cause an eye infection; separation of layers of the retina; a temporary increase in pressure in the eye, and problems related to blood clots, such as heart attacks or strokes.

They can also cause swelling inside the eye that in rare circumstances can cause blockage or narrowing of the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the retina. The most common adverse reactions reported in patients receiving Vabysmo were cataract, which was reported in 15% of patients, and blood on the white of the eye, also called conjunctival hemorrhage, which was reported in 8% of patients. These are not all possible side effects. For more information, talk to your eye doctor and visit Vabysmo.com for the full Prescribing Information.

When vision is at risk due to wet AMD, how we care for ourselves and our loved ones can change everything. Take ownership of your eye health by being proactive about routine eye exams and exploring treatment options such as Vabysmo, and encouraging your loved ones to do the same. Learn more at https://Vabysmo.com.

About Vabysmo^® (faricimab-svoa)

Vabysmo is the first bispecific antibody approved for the eye. It targets and inhibits two signaling pathways linked to a number of vision-threatening retinal conditions by neutralizing angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). While research is underway to better understand the role of the Ang-2 pathway in retinal disease, Ang-2 and VEGF-A are thought to contribute to vision loss by destabilizing blood vessels, which may cause new leaky blood vessels to form and increase inflammation. By blocking pathways involving Ang-2 and VEGF-A, Vabysmo is designed to stabilize blood vessels.

Vabysmo U.S. Indications

Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa) is a prescription medicine given by injection into the eye, used to treat adults with neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME) and macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

Important Safety Information

Contraindications

Vabysmo is contraindicated in patients who have an infection in or around their eye, have active swelling around their eye that may include pain and redness, or are allergic to Vabysmo or any of the ingredients in Vabysmo.

Warnings and Precautions

• Injections like the one for Vabysmo can cause an eye infection (endophthalmitis) or separation of layers of the retina (retinal detachment). Patients should seek medical care if they experience increasing eye pain, vision loss, sensitivity to light, or redness in the white of the eye.
• Vabysmo may cause a temporary increase in pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure), which occurs 60 minutes after the injection.
• Although not common, Vabysmo patients have had serious, sometimes fatal, problems related to blood clots, such as heart attacks or strokes (thromboembolic events). In clinical studies for wet AMD during the first year, 7 out of 664 patients treated with Vabysmo reported such an event. In DME studies from baseline to week 100, 64 out of 1,262 patients treated with Vabysmo reported such an event. In clinical studies for RVO during 6 months, 7 out of 641 patients treated with Vabysmo reported such an event.
• Retinal vasculitis and/or retinal vascular occlusion, typically in the presence of intraocular inflammation, have been reported with the use of Vabysmo. Healthcare providers should discontinue treatment with Vabysmo in patients who develop these events. Patients should be instructed to report any change in vision without delay.

Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions (≥5%) reported in patients receiving Vabysmo were cataract (15%) and blood on the white of the eye (conjunctival hemorrhage, 8%). These are not all the possible side effects of Vabysmo.

Pregnancy, Lactation, Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

• Based on how Vabysmo interacts with your body, there may be a potential risk to an unborn baby. Patients should use birth control before their first injection, during their treatment with Vabysmo, and for 3 months after their last dose of Vabysmo.
• It is not known if Vabysmo passes into breast milk. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider about the best way to feed their baby if they receive Vabysmo.

Patients may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or

http://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Patients may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555.

Please see additional Important Safety Information in the full Vabysmo Prescribing Information or visit https://www.Vabysmo.com.

2024-08-15T10:01:00

(BPT) – According to McKinsey & Co., 82% of U.S. consumers consider wellness a top priority, with more than half saying they prioritize it more than they did a year ago.^[i] However, rising healthcare costs pose significant challenges to consumers, and an unpredictable healthcare payment landscape can leave them with substantial out-of-pocket expenses.

These expenses can force people to forgo the care they want or need, leading to poorer health outcomes.^[ii]

Given these realities, it’s important to consider the following steps to inform financial decisions about potential out-of-pocket health and wellness costs.

1. Research the cost of your procedures or services in advance. Many websites provide estimated costs of various procedures by region or provider. You can also get estimates by calling your insurance company or the provider directly in advance of your appointment.

2. Check if you qualify for subsidized coverage or financial assistance. People with incomes below certain levels may be eligible for health coverage at reduced or no cost. Hospitals may offer free or discounted care, known as charity care, to people not able to pay.

3. Confirm with your provider and insurance company that you are maximizing health plan coverage. Take advantage of your annual benefits, including getting recommended preventive screenings and visiting in-network providers that usually cost less than those who are out-of-network.

4. Enroll in an employer-based program that uses pre-tax dollars. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Healthcare Spending Accounts (HSA) allow employees to set aside money from their pay for qualified medical expenses.

5. Consider promotional financing options. Health and wellness credit cards, such as CareCredit, that offer deferred interest financing, enable you to pay for care over time with the opportunity to avoid interest charges, making out-of-pocket costs more manageable. Here are a few things about deferred interest financing to consider:

0. • Deferred interest: No interest is assessed if the balance is paid in full by the end of the promotional period.
   1. How deferred interest promotional financing works. Deferred interest financing allows consumers to avoid interest charges on larger expenses if they are paid off before the promotional period ends. If you don’t pay off the full balance before the promotional period ends, you will have to pay interest that has accrued as of the transaction date.^[iii]
   2. The required minimum monthly payments. Understand the required minimum monthly payments and if those payments will pay the balance off in time. Online calculators, such as CareCredit’s payment calculator, are a valuable resource to estimate possible monthly payments needed to pay off the balance within a given promotional period. Those payments may be more than the lender’s monthly minimum payment requirement.
   3. Mark your calendar for when the promotional period ends. It is important to track and pay the balance of the purchase before the end of the promotional period to avoid paying the deferred interest that has accrued on the purchase.

In the end, it’s important that people have access to health and wellness care for themselves, their family and pets. As healthcare costs continue to rise, it is critical consumers be aware of the various benefit programs and payment options to plan for health and wellness costs. Financial literacy is key!

2024-08-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – CDKL5 deficiency disorder, one of the most common genetic epilepsies, is estimated to occur in approximately 100 newborns in the U.S. per year.

CDKL5 deficiency disorder, or CDD, is a rare, X-linked developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by refractory seizures and severe global developmental impairment. The frequency of seizures related to CDD can vary, with some patients experiencing up to 20 seizures a day.

Those diagnosed with CDD face many challenges living with a rare disease and can experience a wide range of chronically debilitating symptoms, including early-onset seizures, global developmental impairment, and intellectual disability, as well as disorders related to sleep, speech, physical development, and cortical vision.

Although there is currently no cure for CDD, research into better understanding the disease and the development of treatment options continues to advance. In fact, in 2022 the FDA approved the first treatment specifically for seizures associated with CDD in appropriate patients.

As CDD is caused by a mutation in the CDKL5 gene, genetic testing is required for a diagnosis. With 70-80% of unexplained epilepsy cases now estimated to have a genetic cause, the use of improved genetic testing technologies has assisted in identifying the genes associated with epilepsy in patients and expanding diagnostic utility.

For patients with unexplained epilepsy, genetic testing results may influence their treatment plan, diet, and options to participate in suitable clinical trials for gene-specific studies that further enhance research in the space.

Furthermore, genetic testing is not restricted to pediatric patients. The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) recommends that all patients with unexplained epilepsy be offered genetic testing regardless of age and periodic reanalysis of prior test results, if needed.

“Finding the best care and resources for the CDD community is crucial to supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of patients and their families,” said John Flatt, M.D., Pediatric Neurologist and Medical Director at Marinus Pharmaceuticals. “I encourage those affected by refractory seizures to discuss the resources available to them with their healthcare team, including genetic testing, treatment options, and counseling, to better understand their or their loved one’s condition and explore tailored approaches to managing their symptoms.”

Confirming a diagnosis of a rare genetic epilepsy disorder such as CDD through genetic testing can help clinicians and families personalize treatment plans and best prepare for the challenges and treatment pathways ahead.

To learn more about CDD, access educational resources from trusted advocacy organizations, and read patient stories, visit the Marinus website, here: https://marinuspharma.com/focus-areas/cdkl5-deficiency-disorder-cdd/.