5 ways men can focus on their bone health this May and beyond

2023-05-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – ADVERTISEMENT Sponsored by Radius Health.

When you hear about osteoporosis, what kind of patient do you picture? Chances are, you imagine a woman. However, you may be surprised to learn that while it’s commonly known as a women’s disease, men are also at risk of developing osteoporosis and experiencing serious injuries related to this condition.

According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF), osteoporosis in men is a serious risk: two million American men already have osteoporosis and about 12 million more are at risk. While many men may be concerned about developing prostate cancer, they’re actually more likely to break a bone because of osteoporosis. In fact, one in four men over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis.

Breaking a bone isn’t just painful. It can have serious health consequences. Each year, about 80,000 men will break a hip and compared to women, they’re more likely to die within a year of breaking a hip.

Whether you are a man or a woman, you can help maintain and improve your bone health through lifestyle choices and early intervention. In honor of Osteoporosis Awareness Month, here are five tips that both men and women can do to invest in their bone health to help prevent the risk of weak bones.

1. Eat foods for bone health

Eating the right foods is one of the easiest ways to strengthen bones. According to BHOF, calcium is especially important, as it’s the building block of your bones. Make sure you eat and drink your calcium daily by incorporating low-fat dairy, leafy greens, fish, fortified juices, milk and grains into your diet.

Of course, getting enough calcium isn’t useful on its own. You should talk to your doctor to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium. While some foods contain vitamin D, taking a supplement can help raise your levels. Similarly, your doctor may recommend you start on a calcium supplement.

Finally, you’ll need protein to build and repair bones. According to Harvard Health, healthy protein sources include dairy products, fish, legumes, poultry, whole grains, nuts, seeds, corn, broccoli and asparagus.

2. Make exercise a part of your routine

Just like your muscles, your bones become stronger with exercise. Weight-bearing exercises, like hiking, jogging, tennis, dancing and climbing stairs, are excellent for strengthening bones.

Muscle-strengthening exercises are also important because your muscles and bones work in tandem. As your muscles grow stronger from exercise, they pull on your bones, encouraging them to get stronger to support the strain on your muscles. According to BHOF, lifting weights, resistance exercises with elastic bands, yoga and Pilates are great for improving strength, balance and flexibility, which can help prevent falls as you age.

3. Skip the cigarette

Smoking is detrimental to your overall health and specifically increases your risk of weakened bones. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), studies suggest tobacco use has been linked to decreased bone density and increased fracture risks.

Smoking also increases common risk factors that contribute to osteoporosis. For example, the NIH notes that smokers tend to be thinner, drink more, are less physically active and have poor diets compared to nonsmokers. All of these factors increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.

4. Decrease drinking

Drinking too much alcohol is associated with many health problems, including osteoporosis. According to NIH, excessive drinking throws off calcium balance and the production of vitamin D.

Alcohol can also affect your balance and gait, which is why people with alcoholism tend to fall more frequently. Heavy drinking has been linked to an increased risk of fractures, especially hip fractures. To maintain healthy bones and prevent falling, BHOF recommends limiting your alcohol consumption to 2-3 drinks per day.

5. Talk to your doctor

In addition to making healthy life choices, you should talk with your doctor about a bone density scan. This is especially important for men: unlike women, who are recommended to get a bone density scan after age 65, the NIH notes that men are often not diagnosed until a fracture occurs or the man complains of back pain.

Additionally, if you have osteoporosis and are at risk of a fracture, your doctor may also recommend medication.

Many patients with osteoporosis receive antiresorptive treatment, which slows down bone loss. It’s also critical to rebuild the bone lost by increasing bone mineral density—a measure of the amount of mineral in your bones.

TYMLOS® (abaloparatide) is a treatment option to increase bone density in men with osteoporosis who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well. TYMLOS® is also approved to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well. To learn more about this treatment, visit Tymlos.com.

Using these five tips for men’s bone health, you can help protect your bones as you age and reduce your risk of life-altering fractures.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

TYMLOS may cause serious side effects including:

Possible bone cancer (osteosarcoma). During animal drug testing, TYMLOS caused some rats to develop a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. It is not known if people who take TYMLOS will have a higher chance of getting osteosarcoma.

  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have pain in your bones, pain in any areas of your body that does not go away, or any new or unusual lumps or swelling under your skin that is tender to touch.

Do not take TYMLOS:

  • if you had an allergic reaction to abaloparatide or any of the other ingredients in TYMLOS. The inactive ingredients in TYMLOS are phenol, sodium acetate trihydrate, acetic acid, and water for injection.

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

  • have Paget’s disease of the bone or other bone disease.
  • have or have had any of the following: cancer in your bones; radiation therapy involving your bones; too much calcium in your blood; or an increase in your parathyroid hormone (hyperparathyroidism).
  • will have trouble injecting yourself with the TYMLOS pen and do not have someone who can help you.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, because TYMLOS is not for pregnant women, or if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TYMLOS passes into your breast milk; you should not take TYMLOS and breastfeed.

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 TYMLOS?

TYMLOS can cause serious side effects including:

  • Decrease in blood pressure when you change positions. Some people may feel dizzy, have a faster heartbeat, or feel lightheaded soon after the TYMLOS injection is given. These symptoms generally go away within a few hours. Take your injection of TYMLOS in a place where you can sit or lie down right away if you get these symptoms. If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, stop taking TYMLOS and call your healthcare provider.
  • Increased blood calcium (hypercalcemia). TYMLOS can cause some people to have a higher blood calcium level than normal. Your healthcare provider may check your blood calcium before you start and during your treatment with TYMLOS. Tell your healthcare provider if you have nausea, vomiting, constipation, low energy, or muscle weakness. These may be signs there is too much calcium in your blood.
  • Increased urine calcium (hypercalciuria). TYMLOS can cause some people to have higher levels of calcium in their urine than normal. Increased calcium may also cause you to develop kidney stones (urolithiasis) in your kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any symptoms of kidney stones which may include pain in your lower back or lower stomach area, pain when you urinate, or blood in your urine.

The most common side effects of TYMLOS in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis include:

  • dizziness, nausea, headache, fast heartbeat, feeling tired (fatigue), upper stomach pain, and spinning feeling (vertigo).

The most common side effects of TYMLOS in men with osteoporosis include:

  • redness at injection site, dizziness, joint pain, swelling at injection site, pain at injection site, bruising, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and bone pain.

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

How should I use TYMLOS?

  • Read the complete Instructions for Use provided with your medicine.
  • If you take more TYMLOS than prescribed you may experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, low energy, headache, nausea, dizziness (especially when getting up after sitting for a while), and a faster heartbeat. Stop taking TYMLOS and call your healthcare provider right away.
  • You should not use TYMLOS for more than 2 years over your lifetime.

What is TYMLOS?

TYMLOS is a prescription medicine used to:

  • Treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well. TYMLOS can decrease the chance of having a fracture of the spine and other bones in postmenopausal women with thinning and weakening bones (osteoporosis).
  • Increase bone density in men with osteoporosis who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well.

It is not known if TYMLOS is safe and effective for children and young adults 18 years and younger. TYMLOS should not be used in children and young adults whose bones are still growing.

Please read the full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

ADVERTISEMENT Sponsored by Radius Health.

©2023 Radius Health, Inc. TYMLOS and Radius are registered trademarks of Radius Health, Inc. TYM-US-05447 05/23

3 expert tips from a dietitian to improve your health and fitness

2023-05-07T23:01:00

(BPT) – Warm weather is quickly approaching, and there’s no better time to kick off a new wellness routine as you prepare for three months of fun in the sun. Improve your lifestyle just in time for summer by making smarter choices and simple swaps when it comes to snacking, meals and fitness habits.

To help you get started, registered dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick, M.S., who has partnered with and endorsed the Quest brand, offers a few practical suggestions on ways to continue enjoying the flavors you love while also sticking to your overall wellness goals.

1. Start swapping your snacks now

Making a few simple swaps that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine will make a big difference come summer.

“Chips and guacamole may seem like the perfect warm-weather pairing, but those high-carb dippers can add up fast, possibly making energy levels tank,” said Kirkpatrick.

Instead, keep the healthy fat that guacamole provides, but swap out the dipper. For example, the new Quest Hot & Spicy Protein Chips pack plenty of the flavor and crunch that you want in a snack, without a ton of carbs. They can even add to your protein content for the day, with 19 grams of protein per bag.

2. Take advantage of seasonal produce

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all the bounty that nature has to offer. Salads are the perfect meal when tasty, fresh local produce becomes widely available and backyard gardens start producing.

“If your salads were getting a little ho-hum over the winter, now’s the time to spruce them up and get creative by experimenting with a wider variety of fresh ingredients,” Kirkpatrick noted. “Get the whole family involved by growing an edible garden together or visiting your local farmers market for inspiration.”

Swap the romaine you used all winter for arugula, and switch out the dried cranberries you were piling on for hempseed or shredded radishes. Soon you’ll be able to mix in even more fresh colors and flavors with ripe blueberries or strawberries. Consider adding more herbs to your salads, too. Search for fresh basil and mint at your farmers market or grow some of your own!

“Get a protein boost by adding chicken and shrimp fresh off the grill, or hard-boiled eggs and garbanzo beans when you need something quick,” says Kirkpatrick.

3. Make simple lifestyle changes

Better health can start today by following new wellness routines. Start by eating more colorful veggies and fruits every day (so you’re getting more phytonutrients), focus on better sleep — aim for seven hours a night — and start moving more whenever possible.

The warmer weather and extended daylight hours provide the ideal opportunity to fit more activity into each day. Start today and get your fitness level up by signing up for a short race, or spend time swimming, cycling or walking outdoors with friends and family.

“The best thing about the warmer months is that you don’t have to spend all your time cooped up in the gym to improve your fitness,” added Kirkpatrick. “Spending more time outdoors, whether you’re playing with the kids or working in the yard, will help you become more active.”

Visit QuestNutrition.com for more snacking options as you enjoy the warm weather.

Trim & Tone Your Love Handles, Abs and More

2023-05-05T05:01:00

(BPT) – Not loving your love handles? Need a little help toning your baby belly?

The new truBody® body sculpting product line offers everything you need to reshape your trouble spots without the downsides of going off carbs, taking pills or injections, or spending countless hours at the gym with a personal trainer.

This award-winning body-shaping technology can address your problem areas with 15-minute treatment options that are customized for your shape to deliver effective results. Ideal for busy lifestyles and those who want help getting to their body goals faster, the new truBody helps you go beyond your best.

Dr. Elise Grenier, owner of The G Spa in San Francisco, CA, is impressed with the dramatic outcomes that can be achieved for her patients. “We are seeing tremendous benefits by incorporating both truBody devices together, Monopolar Radiofrequency and Multi-Directional Stimulation, truSculpt® and truFlexTM. Since the treatments are non-invasive with zero downtime, patients can go back to work or get on with their day immediately following their treatment sessions with us. These non-invasive treatments will fit easily into anyone’s busy schedule with ease so both women and men will stick with the program to get the results they are looking for.”

“truBody allows our practice to give clients personalized results that improve their physical and mental well-being. We love that there is no recovery time needed after any of the treatments. We are able to target multiple areas with different applicators within the same session, thus reducing the number of treatment sessions, time and visits to be scheduled around their daily activities,” says Dr. Grenier.

Customization is key, and truBody allows you to hone in on the areas you’ve been struggling to define. Treat your abs and flanks (love handles) with truSculpt fat reduction, for an average of 24% reduction in fat in one treatment1. Shape, tone and define your abs, butt and thighs with truFlex, boasting 54,000 muscle contractions in just 15 minutes. According to Katie Werbowski, Director of Brand Strategy and Development at Skin Spa New York, “We are getting incredible body sculpting results for our clients with truBody, both fat reduction and muscle toning, because it is so customizable. We often start at only 30% of truFlex’s power which has been a game changer for those looking to take their body sculpting to the next level.”

“By providing highly effective combination treatments, our clients love the addition of a body device that allows them to treat multiple areas simultaneously targeting both fat and muscle. The Trim & Tone treatment protocol has been a long-awaited solution for those who have limited time,” says Ms. Werbowski.

“This treatment is much more than just a body contouring device. The next generation truBody technology helps our patients establish goals to create better habits for their overall health. They are encouraged to drink more water and maintain a healthy lifestyle during the treatment plan to maximize results, and many or most of them stick with these changes long after their last treatments,” says Dr. Grenier.

“We can help our patients achieve the body of their dreams without surgery or downtime, and they are loving the results,” she says.

Find a truBody provider near you today!

1 Somenek MT, Ronan SJ, Pittman TA. Lasers Surg Med. 2021;53(3):337- 343

2 Nye R, Hoffmeister A. The process of muscle hypertrophy utilizing a novel bio-electrical muscle stimulation device [white paper, Cutera Inc.]. 1/2020

Expert insight and essential bike safety tips every cyclist needs to know

2023-05-01T12:01:00

(BPT) – No matter where you live, biking is a great way to get outdoors and be active. Whether it’s for pleasure, to exercise or for commuting purposes, biking has numerous physical and mental benefits — the key is to do it safely.

“Biking is a low-impact resistance exercise that is great for building muscles, improving coordination and increasing mobility, but just like any physical activity, biking comes with risks. Bruises and minor cuts are usually the leading types of injuries involving bicycles, followed by fractures, concussions, muscle strains and sprains. You can significantly lower that risk by taking safety precautions and following the rules of the road,” said Amy L. McIntosh, MD, FAAOS, orthopedic surgeon, Scottish Rite for Children, and spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

May is National Bicycle Safety Awareness Month, which serves as a reminder of the importance of bicycle safety all year long. The AAOS shares the following information about bicycle injury prevention and strategies for how you and your family can stay safe.

Common bicycle injuries

There were more than 325,000 preventable bike-related injuries in the U.S. in 2020, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). Bruises and minor cuts are usually the leading types of injuries involving bicycles, followed by fractures, muscle strains and sprains. However, serious injuries, including death, do occur. According to the NSC, there were nearly 1,260 preventable bicycle-related deaths in 2020.

Helmet safety

No matter what your age or level of experience, you should wear a helmet every time you bike. Cuts, bruises and even broken bones will heal, but damage to your brain can be permanent. Even a low-speed fall can result in serious head injury. When choosing a helmet, make sure it is:

  • Snug — It should not slide from side-to-side or front-to-back.
  • Level — It should be square on top of your head, covering the top of the forehead. It should not tilt in any direction.
  • Stable — The chin strap keeps the helmet from rocking in any direction. Chin straps should be replaced if any part of the buckle breaks. Otherwise, a helmet may fly off in an accident.

Road safety rules

When biking, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow the rules of the road. Start by familiarizing yourself with the bicycle rules of the road in your city or state, and do not ride if you are looking at your phone or mobile device. Pull over to the side to change your music, check your map or answer a call. Ride in the direction of traffic and always follow traffic signs and lights. Signal your turns or your intentions so that drivers can anticipate your actions, and if you are riding with others, ride in single file.

“Staying alert and aware of your surroundings — even when traffic appears light — can help bicyclists to prevent musculoskeletal injuries,” added Dr. McIntosh.

Choose bike routes wisely

Avoid riding on high-traffic roads and instead select streets with fewer and slower cars. Whenever possible, choose streets with designated bicycle lanes. If there is not a bicycle lane, ride on the right shoulder of the road. When a street lane is too narrow for a vehicle and bicycle to safely ride side by side, or if there are several parked cars on the street, you will need to join traffic and ride toward the center of the road.

Pace yourself and prevent injuries

Cycling can be vigorous exercise, so make sure you are fit enough to participate before you start pedaling. Make sure you understand how to use the gears on your bike to help control your physical exertion level. Additionally, change riding positions periodically to reduce stress on pressure points and avoid overstressing muscles. Finally, stay hydrated by bringing water, especially on longer rides.

Supervise young riders

Whether it’s their first ride or they’ve been cycling for a few years, younger riders benefit from someone watching and advising them. Younger children or people just learning to ride should only do so away from moving vehicles and traffic. New riders may need reminders to avoid distracted cycling.

To learn more about bike safety and injury prevention, visit OrthoInfo.org.

What a dietitian eats in a day, including the best sources of protein

2023-05-01T10:31:00

(BPT) – If you’re searching for tips on how to improve what you eat, you’ll often be met with information that’s more confusing than helpful. To help solve this mystery, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Amy Shapiro shares not only what she advises her clients to eat, but what she reaches for each day, including her favorite sources of protein.

Up your protein intake at meals

Your body needs protein to help maintain, build, and repair muscle, bones, skin, hair and other basic functions, so it’s important to look for ways to boost your intake at every meal. But what are the best sources of protein?

“My favorite protein sources include cold water fish like tuna, which provides omega 3 fatty acids, plus organic poultry, grass-fed beef, beans and legumes, organic tofu, tempeh, eggs, Greek yogurt and cottage cheese,” Shapiro notes. “All of them provide roughly 7 grams of protein per ounce and contain limited amounts of saturated fat, which you want to eat less of, because saturated fat causes cholesterol to increase, which can lead to heart disease.”

Snacks are an underused opportunity to boost protein

Protein is digested slowly to keep you feeling satisfied longer, without increasing blood sugar levels. By integrating more protein into your snacks, you’ll have more energy and will feel fuller between meals, which can help prevent cravings and overeating.

While you may not immediately think of protein sources when snack time rolls around, Shapiro offers several suggestions for easy, tasty, and portable options that can help add more essential nutrients to your day.

“The best snack choices provide the perfect balance of convenience, nutrition and quality,” says Shapiro.

For busy families, Shapiro recommends protein snacks that can easily be taken on-the-go including:

  • Beef jerky
  • Beef sticks
  • Sealed pack tuna
  • Whole grain and seed crackers
  • Greek yogurt
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Cheese sticks
  • Crunchy edamame

Pair proteins with fresh produce

To get the nutrients your body needs to thrive, Shapiro recommends including as many different colors of fresh produce as you can, every day.

“Fill up your crisper drawers. You can find fresh herbs, vegetables and fruit at most grocers, but I love a good farmers market haul where the food tastes fresh and the seasonal ingredients are abundant,” says Shapiro. “Pair your proteins and produce, such as hummus and veggies, for a hit of fiber, or a beef stick with bright citrus fruit to support hunger and cravings.”

Choosing the best meat-based proteins

When it comes to beef, there are two main options: grain-fed and grass-fed. Shapiro says that the benefit of choosing 100% grass-fed beef is that it is leaner and has a lower saturated fat content than grain-fed beef. Due to its lower fat content, grass-fed beef is also lower in calories than grain-fed options. Grass-fed beef also has higher omega-3 fatty acids that could help lower bad cholesterol and decrease inflammation. Options include 100% lean ground beef, 100% grass-fed steak and 100% grass-fed beef jerky.

For snacking in-transit, Shapiro opts for protein snacks from Lorissa’s Kitchen, including their 100% grass-fed Beef Sticks (Original and Jalapeno flavors) and Beef Strips (Original and Korean Barbecue flavors). Lorissa’s Kitchen snacks are a good source of protein, gluten free and contain no preservatives, added nitrites or nitrates. Even better, they deliver on the taste, nutrition and convenience families are looking for. Stock up on their Mini Beef Stick Snack Packs or 1-ounce single serve sticks for a lightweight snack that’s ready to go wherever you’re going, whether that’s work or a workout, a sporting event or a road trip.

“Beef jerky and sticks made from grass-fed beef are an easy, on-the-go snack option that can help fuel you throughout the day, and are good for post-workout recovery,” adds Shapiro. “Whole foods are a must, but when convenience and ease are top of mind, portable snacks like jerky and beef sticks made with grass-fed beef are great choices.”

Looking for more snacking tips? Visit LorissasKitchen.com/blog.

Having ALS Doesn’t Stop Me from Living My Best Life Every Day

2023-05-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – This content is sponsored by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA) and is intended for U.S. audiences only. Debra is an actual patient who is taking RADICAVA® (edaravone).

The information provided here is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You are strongly encouraged to seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

Individual results may vary. Please see Important Safety Information below, full Prescribing Information and Patient Information on Radicava.com.

Who I Am and How I Find Joy

I retired after working for 30 years in the medical field. I’m used to being the one everyone turns to for care, so having ALS and accepting help has been a real adjustment for me.

I try to focus on the important things beyond my ALS. One thing that brings me much joy is spending time with my new grandbaby. She’s 20 months old and being with her reminds me how precious every day on this earth really is.

My Journey to ALS Diagnosis

Around six months prior to being diagnosed, I’d lost 60 pounds and couldn’t swallow. My doctor in Nashville did a scope to see what the diagnosis could be. After the scope she woke me right up and said, “Debra, I think it’s ALS.” So, mentally I prepared myself to hear the news as best as I could — but I don’t think you can truly be ready for that kind of diagnosis.

My husband was with me the day I was diagnosed, and he asked the physician “What can we do?” The physician told him “You just need to take her home and enjoy every minute.” My husband is very supportive, and my family has been right there with me at every step.

Learning How to “Embrace My Now” and Live My Life with ALS

I have Bulbar ALS, so my speech is affected, which I sometimes feel insecure about. But that doesn’t stop me from living my life and doing the things that make me happy. I “Embrace My Now” by enjoying being outside, tending to the garden, and planting new seeds. Today, I’m lucky that I’m still able to drive and do everything I need to do.

Thankfully, I get a lot of support from important people in my life, like the nurse practitioner I see for my ALS care. She’s somebody who really listens, and I’m so happy with the help she gives me. And after my diagnosis, my sister and I have become very close. She’s my go-to person who listens when I need to talk, and she’s been a huge source of support. She’s my ride-or-die partner.

How I Chose to Focus on Fighting

I went back to work the day after I was diagnosed and didn’t really accept that I had ALS. But being in the medical field for over 30 years helped me research the disease and options available. It was then that I chose to fight every day and not quit. Everybody’s journey is different, but I decided to get up every day and keep going.

How I Found RADICAVA® and Started on RADICAVA ORS® (edaravone)

In my research about ALS treatments, I found out about RADICAVA®. I spoke to my doctor about wanting to try it, and she agreed it would be a good option for me, so I began taking Radicava® IV infusions in 2019.

Talk to your doctor to see if RADICAVA® is right for you.

I kept up with the latest research and knew when the oral form — RADICAVA ORS® — got approved. I was very excited by the news, so I contacted my doctor and asked her if I was a candidate to switch. She said yes, and I recently started RADICAVA ORS®.

RADICAVA ORS® really fits into my life’s routines. I’d encourage people with ALS to talk with their doctor about RADICAVA®.

Want to learn more about RADICAVA® Watch the How RADICAVA® May Help video at HowRadicavaMayHelp.com.

Individual results may vary. RADICAVA® is shown to slow the loss of physical function as measured by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R).

Talk to your doctor about all the benefits and risks associated with treatment.

RADICAVA IV and RADICAVA ORS are indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Do not receive RADICAVA (edaravone) IV or RADICAVA ORS (edaravone) if you are allergic to edaravone or any of the ingredients in RADICAVA IV and RADICAVA ORS.

Please See Important Safety Information below and full Prescribing Information and Patient Information on RADICAVA.com.

My Experience with RADICAVA ORS®

Knowing that a lot of people with ALS already use RADICAVA® made me feel more comfortable to start treatment. My doctor tells me how much RADICAVA ORS® to take and how often to take it. I follow the same schedule I did with infusions — 10 days on and then off for 2 weeks. With the oral treatment, I don’t have to sit and wait for an infusion to go in, so I think it’s a lot more comfortable for me. I also like that it shakes up well and is convenient for me to take at home. If I could sum up the experience of switching from RADICAVA® IV to RADICAVA ORS®, it would be streamlined administration.

I make sure to follow these instructions my doctor told me:

  • Take RADICAVA ORS® first thing every morning after fasting overnight
  • Wait at least 1 hour after taking it before eating or drinking anything except water
  • RADICAVA ORS® should be stored upright at room temperature between 68°F-77°F and protected from light
  • Read the Instructions for Use before you take RADICAVA ORS®

My Advice to Others Living with ALS

Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional about what options are available to you. Everybody’s journey is different with ALS, and everybody progresses at different levels. I don’t know any other people that have ALS, so hearing others’ stories was really helpful for me to not feel so alone. I wanted to share my story because I know it will help people like me who need to hear others’ experiences.

If you want to hear more from me, you can watch my video at DebraALSStory.com.

Sharing My Story
When I was diagnosed with ALS, I was lucky to have people in my personal life, like my sister and husband, that I could talk to about my thoughts and feelings. I’m grateful for their support but hearing from others living with ALS about their treatment experience through the Share Your Story program has been comforting. The Share Your Story program allows real people living with ALS and/or their caregivers to share their own experiences of living with ALS and why treatment with RADICAVA® or RADICAVA ORS® matters to them.

Interested in sharing your story about ALS and RADICAVA®? Learn more about participating in the Share Your Story program at ShareYourALSStory.com.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not receive RADICAVA (edaravone) or RADICAVA ORS (edaravone) if you are allergic to edaravone or any of the ingredients in RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS.

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

  • have asthma.
  • are allergic to other medicines.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS passes into your breastmilk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will receive RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS or breastfeed.

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 RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS?

RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS may cause serious side effects, including hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions and sulfite allergic reactions.

  • Hypersensitivity reactions have happened in people receiving RADICAVA or taking RADICAVA ORS and can happen after your medicine has been given.
  • RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS contain sodium bisulfite, a sulfite that may cause a type of allergic reaction that can be serious and life-threatening. Sodium bisulfite can also cause less severe asthma episodes in certain people. Sulfite sensitivity can happen more often in people who have asthma than in people who do not have asthma.
  • Tell your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest emergency room if you have any of the following symptoms: hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; fainting; breathing problems; wheezing; trouble swallowing; dizziness; itching; or an asthma attack (in people with asthma).

Your healthcare provider will monitor you during treatment to watch for signs and symptoms of all the serious side effects and allergic reactions.

The most common side effects include bruising (contusion), problems walking (gait disturbance), and headache.

These are not all the possible side effects of RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS. 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 www.fda.gov/medwatch or Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. at 1-888-292-0058.

INDICATION
RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS are indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

For more information, including full Prescribing Information, please visit www.RADICAVA.com.

RADICAVA® and RADICAVA ORS® are registered trademarks of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation.

© 2023 Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. All rights reserved.

CP-OE-US-0494 4/23

What You Need to Know About Endometrial Cancer and a Potential Treatment Option

2023-04-28T00:00:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by GSK — An estimated 948,000 women will be diagnosed with cancer this year.[i] While breast and cervical cancer may come to mind, a lesser-known, but equally important disease is endometrial cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus. Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the US.[ii] Approximately 1 out of 4 people with endometrial cancer have either advanced or recurrent cancer.[iii]

Until recently, people with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer had limited options.[iv] Unlike breast or cervical cancer, there are no standardized screening tests or exams to detect endometrial cancer early.[v] In addition, advancements in treatment have been slower, especially for recurrent or advanced forms of the disease and for those with specific biomarkers.[vi] A biomarker is a biological marker found in blood, tissue, or cells in the body.[vii] Biomarkers can help your doctor diagnose cancer and may help decide which treatment options may be right for you.[viii] For approximately 25% of people with endometrial cancer, one particular biomarker is mismatch repair deficiency, or dMMR.[ix]

In normal cells, mismatch repair (MMR) is a process that ensures DNA is copied without errors during natural cell growth and replication.[ix] When a repair mechanism is defective, it is known as mismatch repair deficient (dMMR). A dMMR system results in the accumulation of errors, which may lead to an increased risk of cancer.[ix]

To date, there have been limited Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment options for those with dMMR recurrent or advanced endometrial cancer whose disease progresses on or after initial treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy; and the prognosis for these patients is poor.[ix] However, with new cases rising and increased attention given to awareness and research, progress is being made for patients.[x]

In 2021, the FDA approved a treatment option, known as JEMPERLI (dostarlimab-gxly for injection 500 mg), for this population of patients with high unmet need, as well as for those with dMMR recurrent or advanced solid tumors.

JEMPERLI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with certain cancers that have been shown by a laboratory test to be dMMR, and your cancer has returned, or it has spread (advanced cancer). JEMPERLI may be used when:

  • you have a kind of uterine cancer called endometrial cancer, and you have received chemotherapy that contains platinum and it did not work or is no longer working and your cancer cannot be treated by surgery or radiation.
  • you have a solid tumor that progressed during treatment or after treatment, and you have no satisfactory treatment options. This use is approved based on how many patients responded to treatment and how long they responded. Studies are ongoing to confirm the clinical benefit of JEMPERLI for this use.

JEMPERLI is a medicine that may treat certain cancers by working with your immune system. JEMPERLI can cause your immune system to attack normal organs and tissues in any area of your body and can affect the way they work. These problems can sometimes become severe or life-threatening and can lead to death. You can have more than one of these problems at the same time. These problems may happen anytime during treatment or even after your treatment has ended.

Please see below for additional Important Safety Information and full Prescribing Information.

Endometrial cancer has the highest rate of dMMR across all types of tumors.[xi] Tumors with dMMR have certain properties that may make them more likely to respond to an immunotherapy like JEMPERLI.[xii]

For those with dMMR recurrent or advanced endometrial cancer, this treatment may give them, as well as their providers, more tools in their arsenal to face this disease.

As research continues to progress, awareness of the disease and the patients it affects remains important.

JEMPERLI is being studied in other types of cancers. JEMPERLI was studied in 209 patients with dMMR recurrent or advanced solid tumors who had progressed on or following systemic therapy and had no satisfactory alternative treatment options. Some of the dMMR tumor types studied included the following: colorectal cancer, small intestinal cancer, gastric cancers, pancreatic carcinoma, biliary neoplasm, liver cancer, ovarian cancer, adrenal cortical cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, malignant neoplasm of the female genitals, pleural cancer and renal cell carcinoma. It is a positive step forward to see treatments being developed for eligible patients who need them.

Those impacted by dMMR recurrent or advanced solid tumors, including endometrial cancer, should talk to their doctors about potentially available treatment options, such as JEMPERLI and visit jemperli.com to learn more.

Approved Uses

JEMPERLI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with certain cancers that have been shown by a laboratory test to be mismatch repair deficient (dMMR), and your cancer has returned, or it has spread (advanced cancer).

JEMPERLI may be used when:

  • you have a kind of uterine cancer called endometrial cancer, and you have received chemotherapy that contains platinum and it did not work or is no longer working and your cancer cannot be treated by surgery or radiation.
  • you have a solid tumor that progressed during treatment or after treatment, and you have no satisfactory treatment options. This use is approved based on how many patients responded to treatment and how long they responded. Studies are ongoing to confirm the clinical benefit of JEMPERLI for this use.

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

Important Safety Information

JEMPERLI is a medicine that may treat certain cancers by working with your immune system. JEMPERLI can cause your immune system to attack normal organs and tissues in any area of your body and can affect the way they work. These problems can sometimes become severe or life-threatening and can lead to death. You can have more than one of these problems at the same time. These problems may happen anytime during treatment or even after your treatment has ended.

Call or see your healthcare provider (HCP) right away if you develop any new or worsening signs or symptoms, including:

Lung problems. Signs and symptoms may include cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain.

Intestinal problems. Signs and symptoms may include diarrhea or more bowel movements than usual; stools that are black, tarry, sticky, or have blood or mucus; or severe stomach-area (abdomen) pain or tenderness.

Liver problems. Signs and symptoms may include yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, severe nausea or vomiting, pain on the right side of your stomach area (abdomen), dark urine (tea colored), or bleeding or bruising more easily than usual.

Hormone gland problems. Signs and symptoms may include headaches that will not go away or unusual headaches, eye sensitivity to light, eye problems, rapid heartbeat, increased sweating, extreme tiredness, weight gain or weight loss, feeling more hungry or thirsty than usual, urinating more often than usual, hair loss, feeling cold, constipation, your voice gets deeper, dizziness or fainting, changes in mood or behavior such as decreased sex drive, irritability, or forgetfulness.

Kidney problems. Signs and symptoms may include change in the amount or color of your urine, blood in your urine, swelling in your ankles, or loss of appetite.

Skin problems. Signs and symptoms may include rash; itching; skin blistering or peeling; painful sores or ulcers in your mouth or in your nose, throat, or genital area; fever or flu-like symptoms; or swollen lymph nodes.

Problems can also happen in other organs and tissues. These are not all of the signs and symptoms of immune system problems that can happen with JEMPERLI. Call or see your HCP right away for any new or worse signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms may include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, swelling of ankles; confusion, sleepiness, memory problems, changes in mood or behavior, stiff neck, balance problems, tingling or numbness of the arms or legs; double vision, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, eye pain, changes in eyesight; persistent or severe muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps; low red blood cells, bruising.

Infusion reactions that can sometimes be severe or life-threatening. Signs and symptoms of infusion reactions may include chills or shaking, itching or rash, flushing, shortness of breath or wheezing, dizziness, feel like passing out, fever, back or neck pain.

Rejection of a transplanted organ. Your HCP should tell you what signs and symptoms you should report and monitor you, depending on the type of organ transplant that you have had.

Complications, including graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), in people who have received a bone marrow (stem cell) transplant that uses donor stem cells (allogeneic). These complications can be serious and can lead to death. These complications may happen if you underwent transplantation either before or after being treated with JEMPERLI. Your HCP will monitor you for these complications.

Getting medical treatment right away may help keep these problems from becoming more serious. Your HCP will check you for these problems during treatment with JEMPERLI and may treat you with corticosteroid or hormone replacement medicines. If you have severe side effects, your HCP may also need to delay or completely stop treatment with JEMPERLI.

Before receiving JEMPERLI, tell your HCP about all of your medical conditions, including immune system problems such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or lupus; received an organ transplant; have received or plan to receive a stem cell transplant that uses donor stem cells (allogeneic); have received radiation treatment to your chest area; have a condition that affects your nervous system, such as myasthenia gravis or Guillain-Barré syndrome.

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your HCP. JEMPERLI can harm your unborn baby. If you are able to become pregnant, your HCP will give you a pregnancy test before you start treatment. Use an effective birth control method during treatment and for 4 months after your last dose of JEMPERLI. Tell your HCP right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with JEMPERLI.

If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, tell your HCP. It is not known if JEMPERLI passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with JEMPERLI and for 4 months after your last dose.

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

The most common side effects of JEMPERLI include tiredness and weakness, low red blood cell count (anemia), diarrhea, nausea, decreased number of certain white blood cells, decreased albumin in the blood, increase in certain liver blood tests, decreased salt (sodium) in the blood.

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

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 or visiting www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide for patients.

Trademarks are property of their respective owners.

©2023 GSK or licensor. DSTCOCO230004 March 2023 Produced in USA.

[i] American Cancer Society. Cancer facts & figures 2023. Accessed February 22, 2023. https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/all-cancer-facts-figures/2023-cancer-facts-figures.html.

[ii] Mahdy H, Casey MJ, Crotzer D. Endometrial Cancer. StatPearls [Internet]. January 2022. [Updated September 26, 2022]. Accessed February 22, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525981/

[iii] CancerMPact® Patient Metric, Cerner Enviza. Accessed February 22, 2023. https://cancermpact.khapps.com/

[iv] Halla K. J Adv Pract Oncol. 2022;13(1):45­59.

[v] National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Endometrial Cancer Screening. Bethesda, MD: U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH); 2021. Accessed February 22, 2023. https://www.cancer.gov/types/uterine/patient/endometrial-screening-pdq

[vi] Brooks RA, et al. CA Cancer J Clin. 2019;69(4):258­279.

[vii] National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. Bethesda, MD: U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH); 2021. Accessed February 22, 2023. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/biomarker

[viii] National Cancer Institute (NCI). Biomarker Testing for Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH); 2021. Accessed February 22, 2023. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/biomarker-testing-cancer-treatment

[ix] Lorenzi M, et al. J Oncol. 2020;2020:1­17.

[x] Ferriss JS, et al. Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2021;31:1165­1174.

[xi] Le DT, et al. Science. 2017;357(6349):409­413.

[xii] Le DT, et al. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(26):2509­2520.

Stop Adult Acne in Its Tracks with the Treatment That Dermatology Experts are Buzzing About

2023-04-27T09:01:00

(BPT) – While hormonal acne tends to be associated with the teenage years, it can affect adults of all ages, and is especially common in women with monthly hormonal changes and the onset of menopause. Some adults continue to get acne well into their 30s, 40s and even 50s, and you may even get acne for the first time as an adult, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.1 So what’s the source of these breakouts? Overproduction of sebum is to blame and is one of the leading causes of acne at all ages.2

Enter AviClear™, the future of clear skin, and the first and original FDA-cleared energy device for the treatment of mild, moderate and severe acne.3 According to Mary Jane Salo, Family Nurse Practitioner at Wellness Marketplace Spa in American Canyon, CA, “AviClear treats acne at the source by selectively targeting and suppressing the oil glands. We can selectively deliver energy and damage the glands to suppress sebum production.

“My patients are very excited about this safe and effective acne laser treatment. I have seen results after their very first AviClear session, and they continue to see improvement over the course of three treatments, which demonstrates the long-term effects of this novel therapy. Another plus is that no topical numbing is needed and patients can go back to their normal activities right after a treatment,” says Nurse Salo.

Among the benefits of AviClear, when compared to over-the-counter creams and topical medications, is that it delivers clear skin that lasts. “We are seeing that results continue to improve over time for our clients. It works for all skin types and severities of acne from mild to moderate and even severe breakouts,” says Heather Callahan, PA-C at Dermestetics in Vienna, VA. “They are loving these treatments because it is quick, safe and comes with adjustable comfort due to the addition of AviCool™ cooling technology. Patients can get back to work and their busy lives immediately, while achieving the results they want quickly and effectively,” she says.

Studies have shown long-lasting results with up to two-year clearance that continues to improve over time, even after the initial series of treatments are complete.4 Ninety-three percent of patients saw visible improvement after their final treatment session with two-thirds of patients assessed as clear or almost clear 12 months after their final treatment session.3

So, if acne breakouts are affecting your quality of life and stopping you from enjoying social events, find an AviClear practice near you and say buh-bye to stubborn acne once and for all.

1https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/really-acne/adult-acne

2O’Neill AM, Gallo RL. Host-microbiome interactions and recent progress into understanding the biology of acne vulgaris. Microbiome. 2018;6:177.

3Data on file. FDA clearance study. Cutera, Inc.

4Data on file. FDA clearance study. Cutera, Inc

These 5 benefits of spending time outside may surprise you

2023-04-26T10:25:00

(BPT) – Many of us know the basics for positive wellbeing — exercise consistently, sleep well, eat right — but what if we’re overlooking a crucial and simple component of health? Emerging research shows that adding time outside to our wellness routines can bring powerful benefits.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we’re encouraged to evaluate the state of our own wellbeing and integrate helpful tips for managing stress and staying healthy. L.L.Bean recently partnered with Mental Health America to help raise awareness by “going off the grid” (logging off our social channels) and sharing tips, research and insights on how to make the most of what is all around us. Together with L.L.Bean wellness operations expert Stephanie Harvie, we explored some of the facts that surprised us the most about nature’s power in our lives.

1. Nature can positively affect our mood and mental health

Exploring nature can provide wide-reaching benefits, helping to alleviate stress and providing physiological benefits like lower blood pressure and enhanced immune system function. “Being mindful in nature helps re-center your mind and energy level and can have a really big impact in controlling your nervous system and preparing yourself for the rest of the day,” Harvie said.

And, studies show self-reported improvements in focus, mood and even depression following time spent outside. In one experiment, researchers “cleaned and greened” empty lots in urban areas, removing trash and planting trees, flowers and grass. They found that a staggering 41.5% of nearby residents of one green lot reported a decrease in depressive feelings compared to those who lived by untouched lots.

2. Even a small amount of daily outside time makes a difference

Though it’s tempting to equate “spending time in nature” with long hikes, all-day fishing trips and other time-intensive activities, evidence suggests that even a few minutes outside can make a difference in our mental health. “I want to normalize the idea that doing anything has impact,” Harvie said. “If you don’t have much time, changing your position or going outside can help.”

In a meta-analysis of studies, scientists found that just 10 minutes in nature provides psychological and physiological benefits. And, the more time spent outside the better. Researchers conducted a survey of 20,000 people and found respondents who spent 120 minutes outside weekly are substantially more likely to say they feel a strong sense of wellbeing.

3. Outdoor experiences make us better people

An emerging area of research called “The Science of Awe” studies the distinct feelings of mystery and wonder we experience in nature and the impressive range of benefits received from them. L.L.Bean partner and researcher Dr. Paul Piff found that experiencing awe helps increase ethical decision making, generosity and “pro-social” values like compassion. When we connect with the spaces around us, it also helps us plug into our communities, offering societal benefits beyond the individual.

4. Even hearing or thinking of nature can help

Engaging your senses through nature creates surprising effects. Scientists found that people who were exposed to nature sounds — like crickets chirping or waves crashing — performed better on tests than those who listened to sounds from the city. And other research noted that visualizing nature can help provide physiological benefits, meaning we can access the power of the outdoors at any time and from anywhere. “I would recommend having a place in mind that has been meaningful to you, or a place that inspires you to feel peace outdoors,” Harvie said.

5. Some spaces seem to have more healing power

It’s clear that enjoying nature in any capacity is helpful, but scientists are finding that not all spaces are created equal. Though green spaces have long been confirmed as aids to our wellbeing, research has found that blue spaces (waterside locations), remote areas, nature reserves and habitats are also highly beneficial. In fact, studies show that exposure to a variety of natural environments can produce positive outcomes.

As we learn more about the benefits of nature, it is clear that there are seemingly endless ways to experience the restorative power of the outdoors. So, don’t be discouraged by your level of experience or time constraints. Rather, establish a routine that inspires you, and find spaces that give you an easy opportunity to tap into the health benefits provided by time spent outside.

“Taking care of yourself is mission critical,” Harvie added. “Learning how to manage stress helps you bring your fullest self to work and to life.”

Join L.L.Bean in “going off the grid” and heading outside during Mental Health Awareness Month, and learn more by checking out these resources from L.L.Bean.