Category: Brandpoint Health

2024-02-20T09:01:00

(BPT) – The way you start your morning can significantly impact your entire day. Incorporating healthy habits into your morning routine not only sets a positive tone but also promotes overall well-being. “A healthy self-care routine in the morning can help improve your mood, mindset and energy to name a few,” explains Dr. Kimbra Runyan, who is a chiropractor in St. Charles, Illinois. “I recommend four simple, yet effective, ways to set yourself up for a successful day every morning.”

1. Drink a Full Glass of Water:

After a night of sleep, your body is naturally dehydrated. Starting your day with a full glass of water is a crucial step to rehydrate, improve circulation and kickstart various bodily functions. Hydration is essential for overall health, and it also helps flush out toxins and jumpstarts your metabolism.

2. SP Power Mix from Standard Process:

Start your day strong with a nutritious blend of 22 superfoods in SP Power Mix, from Standard Process, a leading whole food-based nutritional supplement company. It’s a convenient way to provide a whole food, plant-based blend of phytonutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, oats and algae. Incorporating SP Power Mix into your morning routine is a delicious and hassle-free way to ensure you kick off the day with optimal nutrition.

3. Breakfast Before Coffee:

A nutritious and balanced breakfast provides sustained energy throughout the morning, preventing energy crashes that can result from relying solely on caffeine. It’s important to note that cortisol levels are highest in the morning, and consuming coffee on an empty stomach continues to increase cortisol levels. Therefore, having breakfast before coffee will help to decrease cortisol and balance blood sugar levels. Incorporate a mix of protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates for a well-rounded start to your day.

4. 5 Minutes of Mobility:

Adding a short mobility routine to your morning can contribute to improved flexibility, joint health, and overall mental and physical well-being. Gentle stretches, dynamic movements or yoga flows increase circulation, reduce stiffness, increase endorphins and enhance overall mobility. This practice not only prepares your body for the day ahead but also promotes a positive mindset.

Enhancing your morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating these simple yet impactful habits, you can set the stage for a healthier, more productive day. Remember, small changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. So, start tomorrow morning with a glass of water, a balanced breakfast, a quick mobility routine and a serving of SP Power Mix to transform your mornings and, ultimately, your life.

2024-02-13T14:49:00

(BPT) – Read on to learn the power of heart rhythms to tell your heart health story …

Heart rhythms can tell a story with the power to help change a life.

You may have heard of heart palpitations because they are common[1], accounting for 16% of visits to primary care physicians and are the second leading cause of visits to cardiologists[2]. Often perceived as mere inconveniences, heart palpitations can be important cues from our bodies. While they are sometimes caused by temporary stressors, they may also signify deeper health concerns like arrhythmias that require medical attention.

An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat where your heart may beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. One study shows that up to 5% of the general population — or 16 million people[3] — experience arrhythmias. Some arrhythmias, if not treated, can damage the heart, brain or other organs.[4] Other arrhythmias may even lead to an increased risk of stroke or death.[5] And for the person experiencing one, arrhythmias can feel scary.

Causes and Risk Factors

How can you do better by your heart? First and foremost, you can reduce risk factors for arrhythmias. Risk factors that may affect an individual’s risk of arrhythmia include heart disease, high blood pressure, high alcohol use, obesity and family history.[6] Arrhythmias and related conditions are more common in those over 60 years of age,[7] and can be particularly dangerous if undetected.

And, for early detection, it is worthwhile talking with your healthcare provider as there are advancements in heart monitoring technologies that offer lightweight, wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) patches that seamlessly integrate into your daily life and record important heart rhythms and help tell your individualized story of cardiac health.

Types of Arrhythmias

In general, heart arrhythmias are grouped by the speed of the heart rate. For example, tachycardia is a fast heartbeat, while bradycardia is a slow heartbeat[8].

Atrial fibrillation, or Afib, is a common arrhythmia, with an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm (tachycardia). There are 5-8 million people with Afib in the U.S., with up to 1.5 million adults living with Afib who don’t even know they have it.[9] In fact, Afib causes one out of seven strokes[10], and 160,000 deaths per year.[11]

Early Detection is Vital

Being proactive about your heart health is critical. And that includes early detection and treatment of arrhythmias to reduce the burden of cardiac disease.[12]

While arrhythmias are treatable, your path may depend on the specific type of arrhythmia. Evaluating your unique treatment journey requires a diagnosis from a doctor.

A Path Forward

The path to getting a diagnosis and understanding your specific arrhythmia hasn’t always been easy. Not so long ago, finding out if you had an arrhythmia required a hospital or clinic visit to get an ECG. But as arrhythmia symptoms often come and go, and an ECG can capture the exact time your heartbeat is irregular. An in-clinic ECG scan sometimes meant that getting a diagnosis required repeat ECGs or the condition was missed altogether.

Today, while doctors still widely use Holter monitors to detect arrhythmias — wired, clunky devices introduced in the 1960s that are worn for only 24 to 48 hours — clinical studies have shown that longer ECG recording periods are more effective[13] because some people could go days or weeks without an episode. In fact, three out of four patients who use a Holter monitor do not get a diagnosis on the first test.[14]

Nowadays, even a smartwatch can tell you that you might have atrial fibrillation, by tracking your pulse to see if it becomes irregular, though the accuracy is not always perfect. If you have any symptoms or get a smartwatch alert, take heed — but know that you will likely still need an ECG to get a diagnosis from your doctor.

The good news is that modern ECG monitors can be worn at home and continuously record your heart’s electrical signal for longer than 24 to 48 hours if your doctor prescribes it. iRhythm has been creating these types of ECG monitors since 2008 and has recently launched its next generation monitoring device, the Zio monitor. The device is a discreet adhesive patch and a sensor the size of a quarter, weighing less than a pencil[15], with no clunky wires and no need to change batteries during the wear period.

Recordings from these Zio ECG monitoring devices continuously record your heart for up to 14 days — capturing up to 1.5 million heart beats[16] — and can help doctors accurately diagnose heart arrhythmias.

“Palpitations, skipped beats, and other heart-rhythm symptoms can be a nuisance and affect quality of life. However, sometimes they tell a greater story and may signal a more serious condition like atrial fibrillation, which can cause stroke and heart failure,” said Mintu Turakhia, MD, MAS, a cardiologist and the chief medical and scientific officer at iRhythm. “Because these rhythms can be treated and complications prevented, early detection is key. The good news is there are heart monitoring technologies that can help get to a diagnosis quickly — or give you peace of mind.”

In a world where our health is paramount, understanding and responding to our heart’s rhythms is a powerful step toward longevity and well-being. So, listen to your heart, embrace the technological strides in cardiac monitoring, and take proactive steps towards heart health. Your heart’s story is worth knowing, and with the right tools and care, you can help ensure it’s a long and healthy one.

---

[1] Raviele A, Giada F, Bergfeldt L, et al. Management of patients with palpitations: a position paper from the European Heart Rhythm Association. Europace. 2011;13(7):920-934.

[2] Wexler, et al. Palpitations: Evaluation in the Primary Care Setting. Am Fam Physician, 2017.

[3] Desai et al. Arrhythmias. StatPearls [Internet], 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558923/ [accessed October 2022]

[4] What is an arrhythmia? National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/arrhythmias Accessed November 18, 2022

[5] Ataklte et al. Meta-analysis of ventricular premature complexes and their relation to cardiac mortality in general populations. The American Journal of Cardiology, 2013.

Lin et al. Long-Term Outcome of Non-Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia in Structurally Normal Hearts. PLOS ONE, 2016.

Wolf et al. Atrial fibrillation as an independent risk factor for stroke: the Framingham Study. Stroke, 1991.

[6] Arrhythmias: causes and triggers. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), 2022

[7] Mirza, M. et al,. Mechanisms of arrhythmias and conduction disorders in older adults. Clin Geriatr Med., 2012

[8] https://www.heart.org/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/What-is-Arrhythmia.pdf

[9] Turakhia MP, et al., Contemporary prevalence estimates of undiagnosed and diagnosed atrial fibrillation in the United States. Clin Cardiol, 2023.

[10] Heart Rhythm Society. (2019). Complications from Atrial Fibrillation.

[11] Atrial Fibrillation. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/atrial_fibrillation.htm [accessed September 2023]

[12] Rilig et al. Early Rhythm Control in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and High Comorbidity Burden. Circulation, 2022.

[13] Reynolds et al. Comparative effectiveness of ambulatory monitors for arrhythmia diagnosis: A retrospective analysis of Medicare beneficiaries managed with ambulatory cardiac monitors between 2017 and 2019. Accepted for ACC.23 presentation, presented at New Orleans, LA.

[14] Tsang, et al., Benefits of monitoring patients with mobile cardiac telemetry (MCT) compared with the Event or Holter monitors. Medical Devices: Evidence and Research, 2013.

[15] 10g

[16] Data on file. iRhythm Technologies, 2019.

2024-02-12T23:01:00

(BPT) – Talking about and acknowledging mental health challenges have evolved, with more acceptance and mainstream conversation in recent years from both patients and their loved ones, as well as healthcare providers (HCPs). Yet with schizophrenia, many patients are not aware of all the different treatment and dosing options that are now available.¹ Whether due to low awareness, stigma and outdated stereotypes, or social or geographical issues that make accessing treatment options difficult, there are countless barriers that exist for many adult patients living with schizophrenia.^1-4 However, by equipping HCPs with information on the latest treatments and less-frequent dosing options, they can help their patients make more-informed treatment decisions when they are aware of available treatment options.

Understanding Behaviors and Fighting Stigma

Millions of adults in the United States live with schizophrenia, a complex and chronic brain disorder that can impact all aspects of day-to-day life. People with schizophrenia often experience distortions in thinking, perceptions, emotions, language, and behavior that interrupt everything from personal relationships to managing a career.^2,5 Without consistent treatment, schizophrenia symptoms can often create challenges for patients that impact even simple tasks in their lives.^2,3 There can be many factors for why someone wouldn’t take medicine, from stigma to forgetting, which can happen to anyone, but adults living with schizophrenia are often nonadherent due to the nature of the condition or a lack of social support.^2,6,7

Daily oral schizophrenia medications are the most prescribed treatment despite the adherence challenges that might result from patients forgetting to take their medication as prescribed.^6-8 Within emergency room and hospital settings, many HCPs must rely on injectable antipsychotics that act quickly to minimize psychosis symptoms with patients in crises and in cases where there is no health history or known diagnosis.⁹ Understandably, the administration of an injection in a crisis setting can be associated with negative experiences for patients, which can result in a sense of fear and distrust in injectable treatments.¹⁰ Yet for day-to-day symptom management in adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, there are other options, known as long-acting injectables (LAIs).

A Different Kind of Injection for Symptom Management

LAIs are not the same injections that patients receive in emergency situations. Instead, LAIs offer less-frequent dosing options that can help patients stay on track with their medication management over time. Additionally, among other benefits, LAIs are professionally administered by a trained HCP, which can help patients avoid medication nonadherence because their HCP will be aware if they miss an injection appointment and can help them get back on track with their treatment.

A recent survey also showed there is a gap between what some patients desire as a treatment option and what HCPs typically prescribe. In the survey, 90% (44 of 49) of adult schizophrenia patients currently on an LAI agree that after knowing what living with schizophrenia is like, they wish they would have started an LAI treatment sooner after diagnosis.⁴ Additionally, 90% (172 of 192) of adult schizophrenia patients want their HCPs to recommend an LAI if they feel it is the right treatment option, even if the patient is stable on a current treatment.⁴ Because LAIs are administered by healthcare professionals, treatment teams have greater insight into when a patient has missed a dose and can therefore provide additional support to get that patient back on therapy.

Patrick’s Story of Hope and His Treatment Plan

Take it from patients like Patrick, who initially struggled with finding the right treatment to help address the symptoms he experienced with schizophrenia and challenges he faced with his oral medication. After Patrick’s loved ones helped connect him to a care team that embraced a different treatment approach with LAIs, Patrick was able to experience symptom relief. With his symptoms under control, Patrick was able to regain his sense of stability and independence by managing his condition with fewer schizophrenia medication doses per year.

Johnson & Johnson schizophrenia LAIs (J&J LAIs) are among the latest treatment options for adults living with schizophrenia. They offer a consistent and effective approach to symptom management, with dosing options of 1, 3, or 6 months, the longest dosing interval available.
INVEGA HAFYERA^® (paliperidone palmitate 6-month) was approved for the treatment of adults with schizophrenia based on a pivotal, phase 3, randomized, double-blind, global study in which it demonstrated noninferiority to INVEGA TRINZA^® (paliperidone palmitate 3-month) in delaying time to relapse.¹¹

A total of 702 stabilized patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive INVEGA HAFYERA^® (paliperidone palmitate 6-month) (n=478) or INVEGA TRINZA^® (paliperidone palmitate 3-month) (n=224) over the 12-month, double-blind study.¹¹ 178 patients who were relapse-free on INVEGA HAFYERA^® (n=121) or INVEGA TRINZA^® (n=57) in the double-blind phase chose to continue treatment with INVEGA HAFYERA^® in the 2-year, Real-world, Open-label Extension Safety and Tolerability Study.¹² This open-label study of INVEGA HAFYERA^® found that approximately 96% (171 of 178) of adult patients who chose to enter the study remained relapse-free on INVEGA HAFYERA^® and nearly 9 out of 10 (154 of 178) adult patients completed 2 years of treatment with INVEGA HAFYERA^®_.¹² In the pivotal study, the most common side effects of INVEGA HAFYERA^® included injection site reactions, weight gain, headache, upper respiratory tract infections, feeling restlessness or difficulty sitting still, slow movements, tremors, stiffness and shuffling walk.¹³ In the open-label extension study, the most common adverse reactions were headache, blood prolactin increased, hyperprolactinemia, diarrhea, weight increased, and nasopharyngitis.¹²

For patients like Patrick, who is currently treated with INVEGA HAFYERA^®, the ability to receive a long-term treatment that is professionally administered rather than a daily dose of schizophrenia medication frees up time so that he doesn’t have to remember to take it every day. This gives him the freedom to spend more time on the activities he enjoys while his schizophrenia symptoms are controlled.

Advocating for LAIs with Your Treatment Team

“I have seen the benefits of LAIs firsthand while helping Patrick and other adult patients living with schizophrenia,” says Dr. Gus Alva, board-certified psychiatrist and Patrick’s doctor. “As a healthcare provider, I always aim to create holistic treatment plans that factor in the important social, emotional, and physical aspects of a patient’s life. LAIs have been a key tool for me in creating a path forward for patients following diagnosis.”

With his symptoms under control, Patrick has been able to focus on the things that matter most to him, like his education and hobbies. “After some time on my first LAI—and finding music as a means for meditation—alongside support from my psychiatrist, family, and friends, I started to regain a sense of independence and noticed I was spending less time thinking about my next dose,” Patrick says. “I felt that my physical and mental health was improving. And day-by-day, I had a greater sense of stability, which I hadn’t experienced for a while.”

For adult patients who are recently diagnosed with schizophrenia or who have tried various treatments, consider speaking with a psychiatric nurse practitioner or other HCP about J&J LAIs and the pathway to fewer doses per year with INVEGA HAFYERA^®. Before starting INVEGA HAFYERA^®, patients must first be adequately treated with INVEGA SUSTENNA^® (paliperidone palmitate 1-month) for at least 4 months or for one 3-month injection cycle with INVEGA TRINZA^®, at an appropriate dose.¹³ With the support of family and treatment teams, living a full life with schizophrenia is possible. For more information about J&J LAIs, please visit JanssenLAIs.com.

INDICATIONS

INVEGA HAFYERA™ (6-month paliperidone palmitate) is a prescription medicine given by injection every 6 months by a healthcare professional and used to treat schizophrenia. INVEGA HAFYERA™ is used in adults who have been treated with either:

• INVEGA SUSTENNA^® (paliperidone palmitate) a 1-time-each-month paliperidone palmitate extended-release injectable suspension for at least 4 months
• INVEGA TRINZA^® (paliperidone palmitate) a 1-time-every-3-months paliperidone palmitate extended-release injectable suspension for at least 3 months

INVEGA TRINZA^® 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^® for at least 4 months.

INVEGA SUSTENNA^® is a prescription medicine given by injection by a healthcare professional.
INVEGA SUSTENNA^® is used to treat schizophrenia in adults.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^®?

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

• Increased risk of death in elderly people with dementia-related psychosis.
  INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® increase the risk of death in elderly people who have lost touch with reality (psychosis) due to confusion and memory loss (dementia). INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® are not for the treatment of people with dementia-related psychosis.

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

Before you receive INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®, tell your healthcare professional 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 Parkinson’s disease or a type of dementia called Lewy Body Dementia
• 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 HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® will harm your unborn baby
• If you become pregnant while taking INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®, talk to your healthcare professional 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 HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® may experience symptoms such as tremors, irritability, excessive sleepiness, eye twitching, muscle spasms, decreased appetite, difficulty breathing, or abnormal movement of arms and legs. Let your healthcare professional know if these symptoms occur.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® can pass into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare professional about the best way to feed your baby if you receive INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or
  INVEGA SUSTENNA^®.

Tell your healthcare professional about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® works.

Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to receive INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® with your other medicines. Do not start or stop any medicines during treatment with INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® without talking to your healthcare provider first. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your healthcare professional 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 professional for the potential risk of falls.

How will I receive INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®?

• Follow your treatment schedule exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to.
• Your healthcare provider will tell you how much you will receive and when you will receive it.

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

• INVEGA HAFYERA™, 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 HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or
  INVEGA SUSTENNA^® affects you.
• Avoid getting overheated or dehydrated.

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

• See “What is the most important information I should know about INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and
  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 HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®. NMS can cause death and must be treated in a hospital. Call your healthcare professional 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 professional 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 HAFYERA™,
  INVEGA TRINZA^® or 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 professional 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 HAFYERA™ 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 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 professional if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®. For more information, ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist.

Call your healthcare professional 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 HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^®

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use INVEGA HAFYERA™,
INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® for a condition for which it was not prescribed. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare professional for information about INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® or INVEGA SUSTENNA^® that is written for healthcare professionals.

For more information, go to www.invegahafyera.com, www.invegatrinza.com or www.invegasustenna.com or call 1-800-526-7736.

Please click to read the full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING, for

INVEGA HAFYERA™, INVEGA TRINZA^® and INVEGA SUSTENNA^® and discuss any questions you have with your healthcare professional.

References

1. Cahling L, Berntsson A, Bröms G, Öhrmalm L, BJPsych Bull. 2017 Oct; 41(5): 254–259. doi:10.1192/pb.bp.116.055483
2. Goldstone LW. Am J Manag Care. 2020;26(3):S48-S54. doi:10.37765/ajmc.2020.43011
3. Parellada E, Bioque M. CNS Drugs. 2016;30(8):689-701. doi:10.1007/s40263-016-0350-7
4. Data on file. Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
5. Correll CU, Schooler NR. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2020;16:519-534. doi:10.2147/NDT.S225643
6. Ostuzzi G, Bertolini F, Tedeschi F, et al. World Psychiatry. 2022;21(2):295-307. doi:10.1002/wps.20972
7. Acosta FJ, Hernández JL, Pereira J, Herrera J, Rodríguez CJ. World Journal of Psychiatry. 2012;2(5):74-82. doi:10.5498/wjp.v2.i5.74
8. Data on file. Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
9. Furiato AJ, Ruffalo ML. Psychiatr Times. 2021;38(11):42-43.
10. Bosanac P, Castle DJ. BJPsych Advances. 2015;21(2):98-105. doi:10.1192/apt.bp.114.013565
11. Najarian D, Sanga P, Wang S, et al. Int J of Neuropsychopharmacol. 2022;25(3):238-251. doi:10.1093/ijnp/pyab071
12. Najarian D, Turkoz I, Knight R, et al. Int J of Neuropsychopharmacol. 2023;26(8):537-544. doi:10.1093/ijnp/pyad028
13. INVEGA HAFYERA^® [Prescribing Information]. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

© Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2024 01/24 cp-426188v1

2024-02-12T11:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that the heart beats about 70 times per minute?¹ Despite this muscle only being about the size of your fist, it is responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout your entire body 24/7 using arteries or blood vessels.¹

When there is a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to a build-up of plaque, it can threaten the supply of oxygen and blood to the heart.¹ This can result in a condition known as coronary artery disease (CAD), which is the most common type of heart disease in the United States.¹

To help people, especially those over 65, stay heart healthy, Dr. Manesh Patel,* a Cardiologist at the Duke Heart Center in Durham, North Carolina, answers the most common questions about CAD.²

Q&A with Dr. Manesh Patel

Q: What is coronary artery disease – CAD – and how could it impact someone’s life?

A: In simple terms, CAD is the narrowing of blood vessels, also known as coronary arteries, that supply oxygen and blood to the heart.¹ This is the most common type of heart disease and its complications are the leading cause of death for males and females in the U.S.¹ CAD is very serious because patients with the condition are at a higher risk for health issues caused by blood clots such as stroke, heart attack, and cardiovascular-related death.^1,3 That is why it’s so important for people to talk to their doctor or cardiologist about CAD and develop a treatment plan, if necessary.

Q: How does someone know if they have CAD?

A: Many patients come into my office with chest pain or discomfort, weakness, light-headedness, nausea, and shortness of breath, which are common symptoms of CAD.¹ Pain or discomfort in the arms, neck, back, or shoulders can also be signs of CAD.¹

I also consider other factors such as age, sex (men are generally at a higher risk of CAD), family history, smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, stress, and eating an unhealthy diet because they can make someone have a higher risk for CAD.¹ It’s always important to discuss any symptoms you have with your doctor or cardiologist because these are only some of the symptoms associated with CAD.¹ Sometimes CAD can develop without any risk factors, or if you have multiple risk factors, you may be at even higher risk of developing CAD.⁵

After I evaluate my patients’ symptoms and discuss their medical history, I typically order lab tests to confirm a diagnosis.¹ Other doctors and cardiologists may take a similar approach.

Q: Are there treatments to prevent the effects of CAD?

A: Yes, there are different ways to treat CAD. One medicine approved to prevent blood clots that are associated with CAD and other cardiovascular conditions is rivaroxaban (XARELTO^®). When taken with aspirin, it can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, which is defined as cardiovascular death, heart attack, and stroke.⁶ XARELTO^® may cause serious side effects including bleeding, which can be serious. It is important to talk to your doctor before beginning or stopping XARELTO^®. Please see Important Safety Information below.

When considering the best treatment option for my patients, I often look at the latest clinical practice guidelines issued by reputable cardiology organizations. Guideline updates are important milestones that help keep healthcare providers up to date on the latest medicines and research to provide guidance on how to treat patients.

XARELTO^® (2.5 mg twice daily plus aspirin 75 mg-100 mg once daily) is the only approved direct oral anticoagulant drug in its class for the treatment of CAD.⁶ That said, it’s important to talk with your doctor or cardiologist to find the most appropriate treatment plan for you, as XARELTO^® is not right for everyone.

Q: What should I ask my doctor about treating CAD?

A: If you think you or a loved one may have CAD, are experiencing any of the common signs and symptoms, or have any of the risk factors for the disease, it’s important to talk with your doctor or cardiologist. They will evaluate your symptoms and risk factors, and if you are diagnosed with CAD, develop a treatment plan that could include medication, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Questions to consider asking at your next doctor’s visit:

• My family has a history of heart disease. Does this increase my risk of CAD?
• I often feel short of breath. Could this be a sign that I have CAD?
• I have other health conditions. Might they be linked to CAD?
• I have CAD, what are my treatment options to help me manage my condition?

Finding the right CAD care is key to your overall heart health. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of the disease, it is important to talk to your doctor. CAD is a serious condition but there is hope for people who may be at risk. You can learn more about CAD and how XARELTO^® can help manage your condition by visiting Xarelto.com

Sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson

* Manesh Patel, M.D. is a paid consultant for the Janssen Pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson.

References:

1. “All About Coronary Artery Disease.” Pacific Heart, Lung & Blood Institute, 2020.
2. Xia, T. L., Huang, F. Y., Li, Y. M., Chai, H., Huang, B. T., Ou, Y. W., Li, Q., Pu, X. B., Zuo, Z. L., Peng, Y., Chen, M., & Huang, D. J. (2018). The impact of age on the implementation of evidence-based medications in patients with coronary artery disease and its prognostic significance: a retrospective cohort study. BMC public health, 18(1), 150. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-018-5049-x.
3. “Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease.” VeryWell Health, 2021.
4. “Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2023 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association.” AHA Journals, 2023. Accessed June 24, 2023. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001123#d1e727
5. “Coronary Artery Disease.” MayoClinic, 2019.
6. XARELTO^® (rivaroxaban) [Prescribing Information]. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
7. Virani, S. Salim et al. 2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients with Chronic Coronary Disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology 2023.

Important Safety Information

WHAT IS XARELTO^® (rivaroxaban)?

XARELTO^® is a prescription medicine used to:

• reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in adults who have a medical condition called atrial fibrillation that is not caused by a heart valve problem. With atrial fibrillation, part of the heart does not beat the way it should. This can lead to the formation of blood clots, which can travel to the brain, causing a stroke, or to other parts of the body
• treat blood clots in the veins of your legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism or PE)
• reduce the risk of blood clots from happening again in adults who continue to be at risk for DVT or PE after receiving treatment for blood clots for at least 6 months
• help prevent a blood clot in the legs and lungs of adults who have just had hip or knee replacement surgery
• help prevent blood clots in certain adults hospitalized for an acute illness and after discharge, who are at risk of getting blood clots because of the loss of or decreased ability to move around (mobility) and other risks for getting blood clots, and who do not have a high risk of bleeding

XARELTO^® is used with low dose aspirin to:

• reduce the risk of serious heart problems, heart attack and stroke in adults with coronary artery disease (a condition where the blood supply to the heart is reduced or blocked)
• reduce the risk of a sudden decrease in blood flow to the legs, major amputation, serious heart problems or stroke in adults with peripheral artery disease (a condition where the blood flow to the legs is reduced) and includes adults who have recently had a procedure to improve blood flow to the legs

XARELTO^® is used in children to:

• treat blood clots or reduce the risk of blood clots from happening again in children from birth to less than 18 years, after receiving at least 5 days of treatment with injectable or intravenous medicines used to treat blood clots
• help prevent blood clots in children 2 years and older with congenital heart disease after the Fontan procedure

XARELTO^® was not studied and is not recommended in children less than 6 months of age who:

• were less than 37 weeks of growth (gestation) at birth
• had less than 10 days of oral feeding, or
• had a body weight of less than 5.7 pounds (2.6 kg)

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT XARELTO^®?

XARELTO^® may cause serious side effects, including:

• Increased risk of blood clots if you stop taking XARELTO^®. People with atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart beat) that is not caused by a heart valve problem (nonvalvular) are at an increased risk of forming a blood clot in the heart, which can travel to the brain, causing a stroke, or to other parts of the body. XARELTO^® lowers your chance of having a stroke by helping to prevent clots from forming. If you stop taking XARELTO^®, you may have increased risk of forming a clot in your blood.

Do not stop taking XARELTO^® without talking to the doctor who prescribes it for you. Stopping XARELTO^® increases your risk of having a stroke. If you have to stop taking XARELTO^®, your doctor may prescribe another blood thinner medicine to prevent a blood clot from forming.

• Increased risk of bleeding. XARELTO^® can cause bleeding which can be serious and may lead to death. This is because XARELTO^® is a blood thinner medicine (anticoagulant) that lowers blood clotting. During treatment with XARELTO^® you are likely to bruise more easily, and it may take longer for bleeding to stop. You may be at higher risk of bleeding if you take XARELTO^® and have certain other medical problems.

You may have a higher risk of bleeding if you take XARELTO^® and take other medicines that increase your risk of bleeding, including:

• • Aspirin or aspirin-containing products
  • Long-term (chronic) use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Warfarin sodium (Coumadin^®, Jantoven^®)
  • Any medicine that contains heparin
  • Clopidogrel (Plavix^®)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
  • Other medicines to prevent or treat blood clots

Tell your doctor if you take any of these medicines. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure if your medicine is one listed above.

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you or your child develop any of these signs or symptoms of bleeding:

• • Unexpected bleeding or bleeding that lasts a long time, such as:

• Nosebleeds that happen often
• Unusual bleeding from gums
• Menstrual bleeding that is heavier than normal, or vaginal bleeding

• • Bleeding that is severe or you cannot control
  • Red, pink, or brown urine
  • Bright red or black stools (looks like tar)
  • Cough up blood or blood clots
  • Vomit blood or your vomit looks like “coffee grounds”
  • Headaches, feeling dizzy or weak
  • Pain, swelling, or new drainage at wound sites

• Spinal or epidural blood clots (hematoma). People who take a blood thinner medicine (anticoagulant) like XARELTO^®, and have medicine injected into their spinal and epidural area, or have a spinal puncture, have a risk of forming a blood clot that can cause long-term or permanent loss of the ability to move (paralysis). Your risk of developing a spinal or epidural blood clot is higher if:

• • A thin tube called an epidural catheter is placed in your back to give you certain medicine
  • You take NSAIDs or a medicine to prevent blood from clotting
  • You have a history of difficult or repeated epidural or spinal punctures
  • You have a history of problems with your spine or have had surgery on your spine

If you take XARELTO^® and receive spinal anesthesia or have a spinal puncture, your doctor should watch you closely for symptoms of spinal or epidural blood clots.

Tell your doctor right away if you have:

• • back pain
  • tingling
  • numbness
  • muscle weakness (especially in your legs and feet)
  • or loss of control of the bowels or bladder (incontinence)

XARELTO^® is not for use in people with artificial heart valves.

XARELTO^® is not for use in people with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), especially with positive triple antibody testing.

Do not take XARELTO^® if you or your child:

• Currently have certain types of abnormal bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking XARELTO^® if you currently have unusual bleeding.
• Are allergic to rivaroxaban or any of the ingredients of XARELTO^®.

Before taking XARELTO^®, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you or your child:

• Have ever had bleeding problems
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if XARELTO^® will harm your unborn baby.

• • Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment with XARELTO^®. Taking XARELTO^® while you are pregnant may increase the risk of bleeding in you or in your unborn baby.
  • Females who are able to become pregnant: Talk with your doctor about pregnancy planning during treatment with XARELTO^®. Talk with your doctor about your risk for severe uterine bleeding if you are treated with blood thinner medicines, including XARELTO^®.
  • If you take XARELTO^® during pregnancy, tell your doctor right away if you have any signs or symptoms of bleeding or blood loss. See “What is the most important information I should know about XARELTO^®?” for signs and symptoms of bleeding.

• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. XARELTO^® may pass into your breast milk. Talk to your doctor about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with XARELTO^®.

Tell all of your doctors and dentists that you or your child are taking XARELTO^®. They should talk to the doctor who prescribed XARELTO^® for you before you have any surgery, medical or dental procedure.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you or your child take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some of your other medicines may affect the way XARELTO^® works, causing side effects. Certain medicines may increase your risk of bleeding. See “What is the most important information I should know about XARELTO^®?”

HOW SHOULD I TAKE XARELTO^®?

• Take XARELTO^® exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not change your dose or stop taking XARELTO^® unless your doctor tells you to. Your doctor may change your dose if needed.
• Your doctor will decide how long you should take XARELTO^®.
• XARELTO^® may need to be stopped for one or more days before any surgery or medical or dental procedure. Your doctor will tell you when to stop taking XARELTO^® and when to start taking XARELTO^® again after your surgery or procedure.
• If you need to stop taking XARELTO^® for any reason, talk to the doctor who prescribed XARELTO^® to you to find out when you should stop taking it. Do not stop taking XARELTO^® without first talking to the doctor who prescribes it to you.
• If you have difficulty swallowing XARELTO^® tablets whole, talk to your doctor about other ways to take XARELTO^®.
• Do not run out of XARELTO^®. Refill your prescription of XARELTO^® before you run out. When leaving the hospital following a hip or knee replacement, be sure that you will have XARELTO^® available to avoid missing any doses.
• If you take too much XARELTO^®, go to the nearest hospital emergency room or call your doctor right away.

If you take XARELTO^® for:

• Atrial Fibrillation that is not caused by a heart valve problem:

• • Take XARELTO^® 1 time a day with your evening meal.
  • If you miss a dose of XARELTO^®, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.

• Blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs:

• • Take XARELTO^® 1 or 2 times a day as prescribed by your doctor.
  • For the 10-mg dose, XARELTO^® may be taken with or without food.
  • For the 15-mg and 20-mg doses, take XARELTO^® with food at the same time each day.
  • If you miss a dose:

• If you take the 15-mg dose of XARELTO^® 2 times a day (a total of 30 mg of XARELTO^® in 1 day): Take XARELTO^® as soon as you remember on the same day. You may take 2 doses at the same time to make up for the missed dose. Take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.
• If you take XARELTO^® 1 time a day: Take XARELTO^® as soon as you remember on the same day. Take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.
• Hip or knee replacement surgery:

• • Take XARELTO^® 1 time a day with or without food.
  • If you miss a dose of XARELTO^®, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.

• Blood clots in people hospitalized for an acute illness:

• • Take XARELTO^® 1 time a day, with or without food, while you are in the hospital and after you are discharged as prescribed by your doctor.
  • If you miss a dose of XARELTO^®, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.

• Reducing the risk of serious heart problems, heart attack and stroke in coronary artery disease:

• • Take XARELTO^® 2.5 mg 2 times a day with or without food.
  • If you miss a dose of XARELTO^®, take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.
  • Take aspirin 75 to 100 mg once daily as instructed by your doctor.

• Reducing the risk of a sudden decrease in blood flow to the legs, major amputation, serious heart problems or stroke in people with peripheral artery disease, including those who have recently had a procedure to improve blood flow to the legs:

• • Take XARELTO^® 2.5 mg 2 times a day with or without food.
  • If you miss a dose of XARELTO^®, take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.
  • Take aspirin 75 to 100 mg once daily as instructed by your doctor.

For children who take XARELTO^®:

• The dose of XARELTO^® depends on your child’s body weight and will be calculated by your child’s doctor. Your child’s doctor will tell you if XARELTO^® can be given to your child with or without food.
• The adult caregiver should give the dose.
• If your child is taking the tablet, the tablet should be taken whole and should not be split in an attempt to provide a lower dose of XARELTO^®.
• If your child is taking the oral suspension, use the syringes provided in the original carton. The suspension will be prepared by the pharmacy. See the Instructions for Use included in the carton on how to properly give a dose of XARELTO^® oral suspension to your child.
• Do not switch between the XARELTO^® oral suspension or tablet without first talking to your doctor.
• If your child vomits or spits up:

• • right after or within 30 minutes of taking the oral suspension, give a new full dose.
  • more than 30 minutes after taking the oral suspension, do not give the dose again. Give the next dose at the regularly scheduled time.
  • if vomiting or spitting up persists, contact your child’s doctor right away.

• If your child misses a dose:

• • If your child is taking XARELTO^® 1 time a day, give the dose as soon as you remember on the same day. If this is not possible, skip this dose and give the next dose at the regularly scheduled time.
  • If your child is taking XARELTO^® 2 times a day, give the missed morning dose as soon as you remember. You may give the missed morning dose together with the evening dose. However, a missed evening dose can only be taken in the same evening.
  • If your child is taking XARELTO^® 3 times a day, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the regularly scheduled time.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF XARELTO^®?

XARELTO^® may cause serious side effects:

• See “What is the most important information I should know about XARELTO^®?”

The most common side effect of XARELTO^® in adults was bleeding.

The most common side effects of XARELTO^® in children include:

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., at 1-800-JANSSEN (1-800-526-7736).

Please read full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warnings, and Medication Guide for XARELTO^®.

Trademarks are those of their respective owners.

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2024-02-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – Frequently asked questions about Ozempic (semaglutide)

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.

2024-02-07T23:01:00

(BPT) – If you find it hard to get yourself into the fitness mindset — and fear that the resolution season ended in January — keep in mind it’s never too late to begin a routine focused on your health and wellness. But if you need the motivation to re-commit, here are some reasons why it can be even easier to get yourself moving again.

You can exercise at an affordable cost

While many gym memberships have skyrocketed in recent years, the good news is that some gyms are incredibly affordable and flexible. For example, at Planet Fitness, you can access high-quality fitness equipment at an affordable monthly cost. Plus with the PF Black Card^®, you can get access to additional amenities such as the ability to bring a guest every day at no additional charge, and access to all 2,500+ Planet Fitness locations.

Starting small is STILL starting

For many people, it’s easy to fall into the all-or-nothing trap: If you can’t work out for at least an hour every single day of the year, why do anything at all?

If this sounds familiar to you, it’s important to re-evaluate and learn that any amount of activity can help boost your mood and support your overall well-being. Starting small, without imposing goals that are impossible to attain, is the best way to build your exercise habits — and your confidence.

Beginning with a simple goal like moving for 10-20 minutes every other day, and gradually increasing every few weeks, can be a great place to start. Taking it slow and steady will help build the foundation and help mitigate burnout.

Non-intimidating fitness exists

While it’s understandable to feel a little self-conscious at first, you can overcome your worries by exercising at a gym that has a non-intimidating atmosphere to help calm any nerves.

For example, Planet Fitness offers a Judgement Free Zone^® so members feel comfortable working out, no matter their fitness level. In addition, all memberships come with free fitness training with PE@PF, where certified fitness trainers can show you around the gym and provide instruction on their huge selection of cardio and strength machines to help build your confidence.

Keep it fun and social

Another way to help you stay motivated in keeping up your fitness routine is by amping up the fun — and realizing that you don’t have to do it alone. By making friends at your gym — or encouraging a friend to join you — you can use the workout time to get active together.

Bringing a guest or finding other gym-goers with the same goals can help increase the fun factor so that staying fit no longer feels like a chore, but something you look forward to every week.

Switch it up

Another recognizable motivation killer for fitness is monotony. Instead of doing the same exact routine every time, at the same time of day, keep things lively by varying your workout or trying new equipment, and experiment with working out at different times of day. What is fun or convenient for you may be different than you expected — and it may vary from one week to another.

Keep physical activity fun through variety like listening to a different artist or playlist, working on a different muscle group, or exploring that section of the gym you’ve never ventured to.

Feeling motivated to start your new fitness routine? Start by finding a convenient gym location near you — and joining online at PlanetFitness.com.

2024-02-07T09:01:00

(BPT) – For those living with plaque psoriasis (PsO) and active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) — known collectively as psoriatic disease[1] — every day can feel like a challenge. From PsO symptoms like painful itchy, burning, and scaly plaques on the skin[2] to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling from active PsA,[3] these conditions are chronic illnesses that can impact many aspects of a person’s life.

Joni is one of the more than 7.5 million Americans currently living with psoriasis,[4] an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and an overproduction of skin cells. It can appear anywhere on the body, even on the scalp, hands, feet, nails and other areas.

“Before I was diagnosed with psoriasis, I remember thinking I was just having an allergic reaction because it was the beginning of spring,” Joni reflects. “When I went to the doctor and learned it was psoriasis — I realized that this was something I would have to manage for my whole life. I felt very overwhelmed because all I wanted to focus on was being a student and playing sports — not covering up and hiding my body or feeling self-conscious.”

Joni worked with a dermatologist and tried a number of treatments to get her PsO under control. She responded temporarily to some medications, but not for the long term. This caused great frustration for Joni over the years, which drove her to launch her own blog, Just a Girl with Spots, to advocate for others. She uses this platform and social media to raise awareness about active PsA and PsO by sharing information and resources for people living with these conditions, creating a supportive online community to ensure people know they are not alone in their journey with psoriatic disease.

As time went on, Joni began to also experience aches in her feet and hands. It started out feeling like she couldn’t quite get comfortable and like she needed extra time in the morning to get her body moving. About 30% of people with PsO can develop active PsA, and in 2020, Joni’s dermatologist confirmed her active PsA diagnosis.[5]

Faced with this new reality, Joni was determined to work with her doctor on a management plan that could treat her conditions and hopefully provide some symptom relief. As a wife and mother with a busy social life and a number of hobbies, such as fitness, painting and writing, Joni’s active PsA was getting in the way of the things she loves.

“I realized that active PsA was impacting my ability to perform daily activities that I previously took for granted. I have two young daughters and it became difficult to keep up with them and take them to events and activities. There were days I couldn’t even walk and do simple things, like hold a coffee cup or open a jar,” Joni reflects. “With my active PsA symptoms I felt like I was in less control of my own body and that my entire family was impacted as a result.”

Joni spoke with her doctor about how her joint symptoms (joint pain, stiffness and swelling) were interfering with her daily life and she was prescribed a biologic medication called TREMFYA^® (guselkumab). TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine approved to treat adults with active PsA.

In two medical studies, more than half of patients treated with TREMFYA^® had at least a 20 percent improvement in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling at 24 weeks compared to placebo. Furthermore, at 24 weeks, people taking TREMFYA^® showed an overall improvement in their ability to perform daily activities such as getting dressed, eating, and walking, which was assessed in a questionnaire. Some patients also reported improvement in PsA-related fatigue at 24 weeks as measured by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy—Fatigue (FACIT-F), a questionnaire to measure self-reported tiredness, weakness, and difficulty conducting usual activities due to fatigue over the last 7 days. Active psoriatic arthritis patients treated with TREMFYA^® saw an improvement in psoriasis skin plaques at 24 weeks. Individual results may vary.

Since being prescribed TREMFYA^® in 2020, Joni experienced less joint pain, stiffness, and swelling and has seen improvements in doing everyday tasks, as well as her active PsA-related fatigue symptoms and an improvement in psoriasis skin plaques. TREMFYA^® is a single-dose 100 mg injection taken under the skin at weeks 0 and 4, and then every 8 weeks. TREMFYA^® is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of physicians. Patients may self-inject after proper training and physician approval.

“I have been able to fit TREMFYA^® into my life,” Joni shares. “After being trained by my doctor during my first injection at the office and after my doctor’s approval, I’ve been able to have it shipped to my house so I can self-administer — something that has now become a family affair as my girls enjoy supporting me.”

TREMFYA^® is not for everyone; only your doctor can decide if it’s right for you. Do not use if you are allergic to TREMFYA^®. TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including serious allergic reactions and infections. TREMFYA^® affects your immune system. It may increase your risk of infections and lower your ability to fight them. Please read the Important Safety Information below and the Medication Guide for TREMFYA^® available at www.tremfya.com to learn more about these and other risks for TREMFYA^®. Discuss any questions you have with your doctor.

You should be instructed to seek medical advice if signs and symptoms of clinically important chronic or acute infection occur. You should also be evaluated for tuberculosis before being treated with TREMFYA^®. Ask your doctor if TREMFYA^® is right for you. Click here for more information on how TREMFYA^® may help. If you’ve been prescribed TREMFYA^® and are looking for support, help is just one step away.

What does life look like for Joni now? Today, she focuses on her physical and mental health and being a wife and mother. She is also still an active advocate for others struggling with active PsA and PsO, sharing information on her blog, on social media, and through chronic disease community platforms.

“When my symptoms started to improve, I felt I was able to do more of what I used to and was given back the opportunity to focus on my daily routines,” Joni reflects. “I’m sharing my story to inspire those that may have a medical condition that can be challenging to diagnose and to encourage those dealing with psoriatic disease and specifically active PsA to seek help from their doctors. You are not alone, and the sooner you talk with your doctor about treatment options, the sooner you can find something that could work for you.”

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Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson

In consideration of the time Joni spent participating in this article, she was paid honoraria by Johnson & Johnson.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA^®?

TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including:

• Serious Allergic Reactions. Stop using TREMFYA® and get emergency medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
• fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure)
• swelling of your face, eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• trouble breathing or throat tightness
• chest tightness
• skin rash, hives
• Itching
• Infections. TREMFYA^® 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 infections and tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with TREMFYA^® and may treat you for TB before you begin treatment with TREMFYA^® if you have a history of TB or have active TB. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during and after treatment with TREMFYA^®.

  Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection, including:

  • fever, sweats, or chills
  • muscle aches
  • weight loss
  • cough
  • warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body different from your psoriasis
  • diarrhea or stomach pain
  • shortness of breath
  • blood in your phlegm (mucus)
  • burning when you urinate or urinating more often than normal

Do not take TREMFYA^® if you have had a serious allergic reaction to guselkumab or any of the ingredients in TREMFYA^®.

Before using TREMFYA^®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have any of the conditions or symptoms listed in the section “What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA^®?”
• have an infection that does not go away or that 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 receiving live vaccines during treatment with TREMFYA^®.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TREMFYA^® can harm your unborn baby.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TREMFYA^® 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.

What are the possible side effects of TREMFYA^®?

TREMFYA^® may cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA^®?”

The most common side effects of TREMFYA^® include: upper respiratory infections, headache, injection site reactions, joint pain (arthralgia), diarrhea, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), fungal skin infections, herpes simplex infections, and bronchitis.

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

Use TREMFYA^® exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

Please read the full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide for TREMFYA^®, and discuss any questions that you have with your doctor.

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.

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[1]. Understanding Psoriatic Disease. National Psoriasis Foundation. December 6, 2023. https://www.psoriasis.org/understanding-psoriatic-disease/

[2]. Psoriasis. Mayo Clinic. December 11, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20a%20skin%20disease,make%20it%20hard%20to%20concentrate.

[3]. About Psoriatic Arthritis. National Psoriasis Foundation. December 11, 2023. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriatic-arthritis/#:~:text=Psoriatic%20arthritis%20(PsA)%20is%20a,age%20and%20may%20affect%20children.

[4]. Armstrong AW, Mehta MD, Schupp CW, Gondo GC, Bell SJ, Griffiths CEM. Psoriasis prevalence in adults in the United States. JAMA Dermatol. 2021;157(8):940-946. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2021.2007. PMID: 34190957; PMCID: PMC8246333.

[5]. Psoriatic Arthritis. Cleveland Clinic. October 19, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13286-psoriatic-arthritis

2024-02-05T16:01:00

(BPT) – A recent study found that in those who had aging-related cognitive issues, levels of several key micronutrients were nearly half compared with those who did not. Micronutrients are important minerals and vitamins that nourish the brain for critical cognitive and body functions.

Dr. C. Kathleen Dorey, lead researcher and author of the study, has been researching micronutrients and their impact on brain health for two decades. In 2004, she and Neal E. Craft, of Craft Technologies, reported that zeaxanthin (zee-uh-zan-thin) and lutein (two important micronutrients highlighted in the study) selectively accumulate naturally in the brain. Since that time, global research has revealed that those with higher levels of zeaxanthin and lutein in their macular pigment demonstrated better cognition over time.

On a parallel path in the early 2000s, EyePromise began pioneering eye health supplementation to replenish those same protective carotenoids but in the retina in the back of the eye. Zeaxanthin and lutein are particularly important because they are antioxidants — molecules that fight other harmful molecules called free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress, which contributes to the aging process.

In 22 years of researching eye nutrition, EyePromise also learned a lot about brain nutrition. “The eyes are a window into the brain because the eyes are an extension of the brain, which is why we developed BrainPromise™ by EyePromise®,” said Chairman and Co-Founder, Dennis Gierhart, PhD. “We also learned that a biomarker we have been measuring for years in eye health, Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD), is also a biomarker for brain health.”

As an extension of the brain, Healthy MPOD protects the back of the eye against harmful blue rays, can improve visual performance, and safeguard against age-related vision issues. Similarly, healthy MPOD supports general brain health, acts as a safeguard against oxidative stress, and potentially improves cognitive performance.

As a result of their research, the industry-leading brand recently introduced BrainPromise by EyePromise, a supplement featuring a robust formula of natural ingredients specifically for age-related brain health. Highlighting the formula are significant amounts of the antioxidants, zeaxanthin and lutein, which are not found in meaningful quantities in the average daily diet along with other essential vitamins and minerals.

Dr. Gierhart adds, “The brain accounts for 20% of the body’s energy consumption and 20% of its oxygen. As a result, the brain has a high metabolic rate and is susceptible to oxidative stress, which can lead to cell and tissue damage. Nourishing the brain just makes sense as it controls all of our cognitive and physical functions.”

The MPOD biomarker can be measured through devices like EyePromise’s Zx Pro and QuantifEye, which enable doctors to measure patients’ levels of zeaxanthin and lutein (MPOD) demonstrating the effectiveness of supplementation and a healthy diet.

In a press release about the recent study on aging-related cognitive issues, Dr. Dorey concluded, “This study, for the first time, demonstrates deficits in important dietary antioxidants in [aging] brains. We believe eating carotenoid-rich diets will help keep brains in top condition at all ages,” she added.

For more information on brain nutrition, MPOD and BrainPromise by EyePromise, visit www.brainpromise.com.

2024-02-05T15:49:00

(BPT) – The holiday season has passed, but the threat of COVID-19 has not.¹ As of January 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Wastewater Surveillance System showed that 35 states are experiencing “very high” viral activity, including Texas, New York, California, Illinois and Georgia.²

In addition to the case surge, 2024 also has a new dominant variant, JN.1, which now accounts for approximately 62% of all currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.¹

While many people think COVID and other respiratory viruses die down in December, you can still be infected into the spring.³

It’s not too late to get vaccinated against COVID-19.⁴ Here are three reasons why experts are urging Americans to get their COVID-19 shot if they haven’t already.

1. Vaccination is one of the best defenses against Long COVID and other long-term symptoms⁵

The WHO defines Long COVID as the continuation or development of new symptoms three months after an initial COVID-19 infection, with symptoms including brain fog, fatigue, cough, and shortness of breath persisting for two months or longer.^6,7 A 2023 study found that those with the condition were 23% more likely to be unemployed and 16% less likely to work full-time.⁸

While Long COVID might seem rare, the statistics tell a different story. The National Center for Health Statistics’ Household Pulse Survey began collecting data on Long COVID in December 2022. The most recent data, from the week of October 18-30, 2023, showed that 14.3% of U.S. adults had experienced “symptoms of COVID that lasted three months or longer.” Interestingly, people aged 40-49 (16.9%) were most likely to report having Long COVID, followed by those aged 30-39 (16.6%), and 18-29 (15.6%). Only around 8% of study participants over age 80 reported Long COVID symptoms.⁹

In another study, approximately 1 in 4 children/adolescents with documented COVID-19 experienced persistent symptoms for 4-12 weeks post-infection.¹⁰

“Long COVID symptoms overlap with many different conditions making it difficult to diagnose, but we continue to hear stories from patients who went from healthy to severely impaired following a COVID infection,” explains Francesca Ceddia, Chief Medical Affairs Officer at Moderna. “As members of the medical community, we have an obligation to educate adults — even healthy, younger individuals — on the potential risks of Long COVID, so they can take appropriate measures to protect their health.”

There is currently no approved treatment for Long COVID, but research has proven that staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine can help protect you and others against the long-term effects from Long COVID.¹¹ Research additionally suggests there is a strong association between receiving the COVID-19 primary vaccination series and a reduced risk of receiving a diagnosis of Long COVID, even if one subsequently develops SARS-CoV-2 infection.¹²

Learn more about the burden of Long COVID and how to best protect yourself and others.

2. COVID-19 vaccines can help prevent severe outcomes of COVID-19¹³

While severe COVID-19 outcomes are less frequent in children, they are still a possibility, particularly if they have another health condition that puts them at risk.¹⁴

“Parents often ask me about mRNA vaccine safety and if it’s worth getting their child vaccinated since they have a lower risk,” says Jessica Peck, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, CNE, CNL, FAANP, FAAN, Past President, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Professor of Nursing, Baylor University. “The answer is always ‘yes.’ There is a considerable amount of data reinforcing that mRNA vaccines are important tools for protecting children’s health.”

In addition to protecting health, vaccination is also important for keeping children in the classroom and preventing them from falling behind in school.¹⁵ This can also help prevent parents from missing work and taking valuable sick days while their children recuperate.

Ultimately Nurse Jessica encourages parents to talk to their pediatrician if they have questions about the vaccine. “With so much information online, it can be challenging to sift through the noise. Your pediatrician can best address any questions you have on mRNA and COVID-19 vaccines.”

3. If you have a chronic health condition, COVID-19 can make it worse

Many people think “at-risk” only applies to older or immunocompromised adults, but people living with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, obesity, lung disease, and diabetes, are also susceptible to serious outcomes.¹⁶ In fact, contracting COVID-19 can make chronic illness worse.¹⁷

While it is still possible to contract COVID-19 after your vaccination, getting vaccinated can help prevent the most serious outcomes from the virus, regardless of your prior health or risk status.⁴

COVID-19 doesn’t care what time of year it is. Protect yourself by getting your updated COVID-19 vaccine. The latest COVID-19 vaccine is widely available at retail pharmacies across the country and can be given at the same time as your annual flu shot.¹⁸

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Activity Increases as Prevalence of JN.1 Variant Continues to Rise.” Updated January 5, 2024. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/whats-new/JN.1-update-2024-01-05.html

2. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Current Wastewater Viral Activity Levels Map.” Updated December 7, 2023. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/COVID19-currentlevels.html

3. According to the CDC, while flu activity often peaks between December and February, it can continue as late as May. While the CDC provides general information about flu season, the behavior of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses can vary and is subject to change based on emerging data.

Centers for Disease Control. “Flu Season.” Updated September 20, 2022. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/index.html

4. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and CDC’s Commitment to Vaccine Equity.” Updated November 22, 2023. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/whats-new/vaccine-equity.html

5. National Institutes of Health, “Long COVID.” Accessed January 20, 2024. https://covid19.nih.gov/covid-19-topics/long-covid

6. The World Health Organization. “Post COVID-19 condition (Long COVID).” Updated December 7, 2022. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/fact-sheets/item/post-covid-19-condition

7. Centers for Disease Control, “Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions.” Updated July 20, 2023. Accessed January 30, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/long-term-effects/index.html

8. Percentages were calculated from the adjusted odds ratios from a study conducted with 15,308 U.S. adults from February 2021 to March 2022. The study findings are based on self-reported data.

Perlis, R. et al., (2023) “Association of Post–COVID-19 Condition Symptoms and Employment Status.” JAMA Network Open. 6(2). https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2801458

9. National Center for Health Statistics. “Household Pulse Survey.” Updated November 8, 2023. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/covid19/pulse/long-covid.htm

10. Lai, C. C., et al. (2023). “Long COVID: An inevitable sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection.” Journal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection. 56(1), 1-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9576029/

11. National Institutes of Health. “Long COVID.” Accessed January 24, 2024. https://covid19.nih.gov/covid-19-topics/long-covid

12. Based on a large-scale Swedish observational cohort study conducted between December 2020 and February 2022 involving 589,722 adults, COVID-19 vaccination prior to infection demonstrated a 58% effectiveness in reducing the risk of Long COVID (referred to as Post-COVID-19 Condition, or PCC), with increased protection observed with each additional vaccine dose.

Lundberg-Morris, L., et al. (2023). “COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness Against Post-COVID-19 Condition Among 589 722 Individuals in Sweden: Population-Based Cohort Study.” British Medical Journal. 383. https://www.bmj.com/content/383/bmj-2023-076990.long

13. Centers for Disease Control, “5 Things You Should Know about COVID-19 Vaccines.” Updated October 13, 2023. Accessed February 1, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/whats-new/5-things-you-should-know.html

14. Ho, M., et al. (2023). “Incidence and Risk Factors for Severe Outcomes in Pediatric Patients With COVID-19.” Hospital Pediatrics. 13 (5): 450–462. https://publications.aap.org/hospitalpediatrics/article/13/5/450/191042/Incidence-and-Risk-Factors-for-Severe-Outcomes-in

15. Centers for Disease Control. “6 Things to Know about COVID-19 Vaccination for Children.” Updated August 6, 2023. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/planning/children/6-things-to-know.html

16. Centers for Disease Control. “People with Certain Medical Conditions.” Updated May 22, 2023. Accessed January 24. 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html

17. Fekadu, G. et al. (2021) “Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Chronic Diseases Care Follow-Up and Current Perspectives in Low Resource Settings: A Narrative Review.” International journal of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Pharmacology. 13(3). 86-93. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8310882/

18. Centers for Disease Control, “Getting a Flu Vaccine and other Recommended Vaccines at the Same Time,” Updated December 8, 2023. Accessed January 30, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/coadministration.htm

2024-02-01T08:01:01

(BPT) – Every day on the news, it seems, there’s a report about another extreme weather event. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2023 was a record year for extreme weather. The U.S. experienced 28 separate, billion-dollar weather disasters last year, the highest number ever. That averages out to more than one every two weeks.

Widespread power outages are one of the byproducts of these mega-storms, but it doesn’t take a once-in-a-century flood to cause them. Blackouts happen regularly due to more “mundane” causes, like power grid glitches, ice storms or high winds, even lightning in a garden-variety thunderstorm taking out a power pole. And you’re left in the dark. Depending on the severity of the outage, that darkness could last awhile.

When the power goes out in your home, so does the heat. And the internet. And the electricity needed to keep food at a safe temperature in the refrigerator. All of your “smart” electronics and appliances that talk to each other (and to you) go silent.

Owning a standby generator is the best way to keep your household humming during a power outage. Because of all of the extreme weather we’ve been experiencing, it’s moving from the nice-to-have category into a necessity. Here’s what you need to know before buying one.

A standby generator is different than a portable generator. Most people are familiar with the type of bulky generators their fathers kept in the garage, noisy contraptions that needed to be hooked up to cough to life when the power went out. You could run the refrigerator or a space heater, but not both. We’ve come a long way since then. A standby generator is a back-up electrical system that kicks in automatically when the power goes out. These sleek, permanently installed units are a bit like having a power plant on reserve. Some models are able to power the electricity to your entire home. The switchover from the power grid to your generator is completely automatic and usually so seamless, homeowners don’t even notice a disruption.

You must own your home to install a standby generator. Standby generators are permanently installed outside of your home — just like an AC unit or solar panel system — and routed to your home’s electrical and gas systems. For this reason, you must own the property your generator will power.

The type of home matters. A condo or apartment, even if you own it, isn’t conducive to having a generator. If you live in a townhome complex, consult your community’s by-laws before purchasing a generator. Typically, single-family and fixed mobile homes are qualified for generator installation.

Research any necessary permits before you install. Typically, your generator will be installed alongside your home’s exterior in a discrete area, but it is still considered a modification to your home’s appearance. This means you’ll likely require approval, and perhaps permits, prior to installation if you live in a community regulated by an HOA or other governing board.

Consider your home’s power needs … and your own. Do you want to power your entire home during an outage, or can you get by with only select appliances or systems running? Analyze your home’s electrical load and your power priorities. This will help you determine potential generator models to choose from. Some are equipped to power your entire home, while others are better for powering the necessities.

Not all generators are created equal. You can find any number of generators on the market today with just a few mouse clicks online. But this is your family’s safety and well-being in a potential disaster we’re talking about. It’s not the time to take chances on an untested product or company. Go with a trusted name in the industry you can count on to keep your household running. KOHLER generators have been on the market for over 100 years and each model has endured hundreds of performance tests to ensure total reliability. They’re built with commercial-grade engines designed to outlast the outage. And they use state-of-the-art technology so you can monitor it on your mobile device or computer.

When a power outage strikes, a standby generator ensures that your family won’t miss a beat. Want to learn more? Visit KOHLERhomeenergy.com for more information.