XMWare

2024-03-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Struggling with weight loss is a problem everyone is familiar with – either they themselves or someone close to them has faced challenges in maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity is a disorder involving excessive body fat that increases the risk of health problems.¹ A common, serious and costly chronic disease that affects adults and children, obesity is on the rise in the United States.² About one-third of Americans suffer from obesity.² Many have other chronic, expensive medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.²

“Obesity is a disease caused by many factors, including eating patterns, physical activity levels, sleep routines and genetics,³” said Dr. Anthony Auriemma JD, FOMA, obesity medicine specialist at Ascension Medical Group Illinois. “There is no one size fits all approach to treating obesity, which is a complex condition. While lifestyle intervention is the basis of treatment, it is important to consider the new therapies FDA approved for chronic weight management.⁴”

Obesity is a chronic condition that requires long-term commitment to treatment.⁵ It’s important to consider the range of options as some therapies may be more appropriate than others to help manage weight loss in people with diabetes or cardiovascular disease.⁵ In addition, the benefits of weight loss through medication have been shown to have positive effects on managing other diseases such as high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and heart disease.⁶

“When treating obesity, it’s essential to consider the specific challenges of each person,” said Dr. Anthony Auriemma JD, FOMA. “Many new therapies are now available; It’s essential to look beyond the hype and, together, carefully evaluate the various options before committing to a weight loss strategy.⁵ Specifically, people in partnership with their physician should consider efficacy, safety, ease-of-use, and financial cost when choosing an option that best supports achieving and maintaining healthy weight goals.⁵”

Amid this growing health crisis, there has been much attention focused on recently introduced glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, like semaglutide.⁵ Experts caution these GLP-1 medications may not be suitable for the full range of people struggling with weight loss, and a person or patient should consider the option that best aligns with their individual healthy weight goals.⁵

The good news is there are a number of proven medications for patients who suffer from obesity and are overweight.⁵ For example, Qsymia® (phentermine and topiramate extended-release capsules) CIV in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise has been proven to help adults and children ages 12 to 17 lose weight and maintain weight loss.⁷ The once-daily pill is covered by the majority (81%) of commercial healthcare plans and is indicated for long-term use.⁸

“Obesity continues to threaten the overall well-being of those affected and is a major public health concern – and no one pill will completely reverse the situation,⁵” said Dr. Anthony Auriemma JD, FOMA. “Take the time to learn about each option with your physician. Remember, weight-loss medications may take time to show noticeable results.⁵ Be patient and stay committed to your overall weight-loss plan.”

Sponsored by VIVUS LLC.

Dr. Anthony Auriemma JD, FOMA, obesity medicine specialist at Ascension Medical Group Illinois, is a paid consultant of VIVUS LLC.

About QSYMIA

QSYMIA is a combination of phentermine, a sympathomimetic amine anorectic, and topiramate, indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia. QSYMIA may also be used in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with BMI in the 95th percentile or greater standardized for age and sex.

The effect of QSYMIA on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been established. The safety and effectiveness of QSYMIA in combination with other products intended for weight loss, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, and herbal preparations, have not been established.

For more information on QSYMIA, please visit https://QSYMIA.com/

Important Safety Information

Do not take QSYMIA if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or become pregnant during QSYMIA treatment; have glaucoma; have thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism); are taking certain medicines called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken MAOIs in the past 14 days; are allergic to topiramate, sympathomimetic amines such as phentermine, or any of the ingredients in QSYMIA.

Common side effects of QSYMIA in adults include numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or face (paraesthesia), dizziness, changes in the way foods taste or loss of taste (dysgeusia), trouble sleeping (insomnia), constipation, and dry mouth. Common side effects of Qysmia in children aged 12 years and older include depression, dizziness, joint pain, fever, flu, and ankle sprain.

QSYMIA can cause serious side effects, including birth defects (cleft lip/cleft palate), increases in heart rate, visual field defects (independent of elevated intraocular pressure), suicidal thoughts or actions, serious eye problems, and severe rash with blisters and peeling skin. QSYMIA may slow the increase in height in children 12 years and older.

101225.02-USP

References

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1. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Obesity. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/obesity#tab=tab_1
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, May 17). Adult Obesity Facts. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, September 22). Adult Obesity is a Serious Health Problem. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2023/p0922-adult-obesity.html#:~:text=Obesity%20is%20a%20disease%20caused,one%20size%20fits%20all%20approach.
4. WebMD. (2023, November 9). Prescription Weight Loss Medicine. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/obesity/weight-loss-prescription-weight-loss-medicine
5. Harvard Health Publishing. (2023, November 1). Understanding new weight-loss drugs. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-new-weight-loss-drugs
6. Müller, L., & Müller, V. (2018). Obesity and Breast Cancer: Current Insights on the Role of Fatty Acids and Lipid Metabolism in Promoting Breast Cancer Growth and Progression. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 9, 647. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2018.00647
7. Qsymia. (2023, June). Qsymia (phentermine and topiramate extended-release) capsules, for oral use, CIV. Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://qsymia.com/patient/include/media/pdf/prescribing-information.pdf
8. VIVUS LLC (2023, January 23). VIVUS Provides Update on Pipeline and Program Milestones. Retrieved from https://ir.vivus.com/news-releases/news-release-details/vivus-provides-update-pipeline-and-program-milestones

2024-03-05T09:21:00

(BPT) – Your doctor just recommended you have a colonoscopy and you’re suddenly struck with a feeling of dread. No one looks forward to having a colonoscopy, but due to numerous myths and misconceptions, many people are unnecessarily worried and delay a screening that could ultimately save their life.

A colonoscopy is a routine procedure that lets doctors get a closer look at the health of the colon and rectum. This important procedure screens for colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death overall in the United States, according to “Cancer Statistics, 2023” in the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) journal CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians.

“Detecting colorectal cancer early means it’s more likely to be treatable,” said Dr. Douglas K. Rex, M.D., Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Indiana University School of Medicine and a full-time practicing clinical gastroenterologist. “Don’t delay getting a colonoscopy. In addition to detecting cancer, this important procedure helps screen for other diseases and conditions such as polyps, ulcers, colitis, diverticulitis and more.”

Dr. Rex says many people who delay a colonoscopy realize their worries were unfounded after it’s complete. He shares some of the top misconceptions about colonoscopies and the truths to put your mind at ease in hopes more people will schedule this potentially life-saving procedure.

Myth: No symptoms mean you don’t need a colonoscopy

Fact: It’s tempting to skip a colonoscopy if you don’t have any symptoms. However, lack of symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean your colon is healthy. For example, colon polyps can grow without any symptoms, and they may turn into cancer if not treated properly. Regular colonoscopies are recommended for anyone 45 and older, regardless of the presence of symptoms, because early detection makes treatment possible.

Myth: The prep for a colonoscopy is difficult

Fact: There’s no getting around it — the preparation for a colonoscopy can be unpleasant. However, you no longer need to force yourself to drink a gallon of unpleasant liquid in order to clear your bowels ahead of a colonoscopy. FDA-approved SUFLAVE™ is a low-volume, safe and effective colonoscopy preparation — with a taste similar to a lemon-lime sports drink. The sports drink like taste and lower volume makes for an improved patient experience when preparing for a successful procedure. Ask your doctor about SUFLAVE™ and learn more at Suflave.com.

Myth: Colonoscopies are painful

Fact: A doctor will provide you with a sedative to make you sleepy and relaxed. Once you’re asleep, air is used to expand the colon so the doctor can look at all the interior walls with a tool called an endoscope. Because the colon has no nerve endings, even if polyps are removed, it doesn’t cause pain.

Myth: A polyp indicates cancer

Fact: After your colonoscopy you may learn that the doctor removed polyps. Polyps are noncancerous but they can lead to cancer, so it’s important to have these removed and sent to a laboratory for further testing.

Myth: The procedure and recovery take lots of time

Fact: You’ll be asked to check in for your colonoscopy appointment about an hour before the procedure. The test itself only takes about 30 minutes to complete. You’ll need about another hour to recover from the sedative at the clinic and will need someone else to drive you home once you’re released. Plan to lay low the rest of the day to allow the sedative to fully wear off.

“A colonoscopy takes a bit of time, but it’s a worthwhile investment in your health. Knowing the facts and having access to new options like SUFLAVE™, can improve the prep experience and can make you feel better about getting this important screening done,” said Dr. Rex.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

SUFLAVE^™ (polyethylene glycol 3350, sodium sulfate, potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate, and sodium chloride for oral solution) is an osmotic laxative indicated for cleansing of the colon in preparation for colonoscopy in adults.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: A low residue breakfast may be consumed on the day before colonoscopy, followed by clear liquids up to 2 hours prior to colonoscopy. Administration of two doses of SUFLAVE are required for a complete preparation for colonoscopy. Each bottle must be reconstituted with water before ingestion. Each bottle and one flavor-enhancing packet are equivalent to one dose. An additional 16 ounces of water must be consumed after each dose. Stop consumption of all fluids at least 2 hours before the colonoscopy.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Use is contraindicated in the following conditions: Gastrointestinal obstruction or ileus, bowel perforation, toxic colitis or toxic megacolon, gastric retention, hypersensitivity to any ingredient in SUFLAVE.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Risk of fluid and electrolyte abnormalities: Encourage adequate hydration, assess concurrent medications and consider laboratory assessments prior to and after each use; Cardiac arrhythmias: Consider pre-dose and post-colonoscopy ECGs in patients at increased risk; Seizures: Use caution in patients with a history of seizures and patients at increased risk of seizures, including medications that lower the seizure threshold; Colonic mucosal ulcerations: Consider potential for mucosal ulcerations when interpreting colonoscopy findings in patients with known or suspected inflammatory bowel disease; Patients with renal impairment or taking concomitant medications that affect renal function: Use caution, ensure adequate hydration and consider laboratory testing; Suspected GI obstruction or perforation: Rule out the diagnosis before administration; Patients at risk for aspiration: Observe during administration; Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis: Inform patients to seek immediate medical care if symptoms occur.

ADVERSE REACTIONS: Most common adverse reactions (> 2%) are: nausea, abdominal distension, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drugs that increase risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide

2024 Braintree Laboratories, Inc. 550-853-v1 February 2024

2024-03-05T10:45:00

(BPT) – Whether you spend long hours working in front of a computer or have difficulty reading signs when driving at night, finding a contact lens may be as easy as answering five questions.

“The best contact lenses for you will depend on several factors such as your prescription and the type of lenses that suit your lifestyle,” according to Erin Rueff, OD, PhD, FAAO, chief, Cornea & Contact Lens Services, Southern California College of Optometry.

“While this quiz may help you in your search for contact lenses that meet your needs, it’s important to schedule an eye exam as only an eye doctor can assess your eye health and recommend the appropriate treatment for your individual needs,” added Dr. Rueff. If it has been a while, find a doctor near you here.

1. Do you spend a lot of time on digital devices?

Well, who doesn’t? But, did you know that adults spend 13+ hours a day on digital devices, a 35% increase since 2019? From scrolling on a smart phone to working on a laptop, when looking at a digital screen, you blink 60% less, which can dry out your eyes. Blue-violet light is everywhere, coming from screens, fluorescent light and the sun and scatters more which may result in decreased visual clarity.^*

If you’re one of the many people who are dependent on your digital device, then you may consider ACUVUE^® OASYS MAX 1-Day with TearStable™ Technology, designed to maximize tear-film stability and lock in moisture. These lenses also filter about 60% of blue-violet light.[*]

2. Do you have trouble seeing far away?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a chronic, progressive disease in which the eye grows too long and makes it difficult to see objects far away. Myopia is common in children and is often diagnosed between ages 8 and 12 but can develop earlier. In fact, on average one in three kids in the U.S. have myopia. Abiliti™ Overnight Therapeutic Lenses have shown to be successful for myopia management. These lenses are worn overnight and temporarily reshape the cornea, typically eliminating the need to wear glasses or contacts during the day.[†]

3. Do you have trouble seeing up close?

If you’re over 40, you may have presbyopia. This means you can see things far away but not up close. Spoiler alert! If you squint or pull out the light on your phone to read a menu, then you may have presbyopia. A great option for the 40+ crowd is ACUVUE^® OASYS MAX 1-Day MULTIFOCAL contact lenses. These lenses are designed for crisp, clear vision at all distances and in all lighting conditions plus all-day comfort.

4. Are you active and always on the go?

Whether you’re training for your next marathon or juggling work and kids, your days are packed with activities. When you need clear vision to help you get through the day, the last thing you want to worry about is your contacts. Another great option is 1-DAY ACUVUE^® MOIST contact lenses, which can help keep your eyes hydrated and feeling fresh. With LACREON^® Technology, these lenses create a long-lasting cushion of moisture for 20 hours or more.

5. Do you have astigmatism?

*Always wash your hands when handling contact lenses

If you have astigmatism, a common imperfection in the curvature of the eye that causes blurred or distorted vision at all distances, then you may consider ACUVUE^® OASYS 1-DAY for ASTIGMATISM Brand Contact Lenses designed with HydraLuxe^® Technology. These daily contacts are specifically designed for people with astigmatism and help to provide clear, consistent, stable vision all day long.

Important Information for Contact Lens Wearers

ACUVUE^® Contact Lenses are available by prescription only for vision correction. An eye care professional will determine whether contact lenses are right for you. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. To help avoid these problems, follow the wear and replacement schedule and the lens care instructions provided by your eye doctor. Do not wear contact lenses if you have an eye infection, or experience eye discomfort, excessive tearing, vision changes, redness or other eye problems. If one of these conditions occurs, remove the lens and contact your eye doctor immediately. For more information on proper wear, care and safety, talk to your eye care professional and ask for a Patient Instruction Guide, call 1-800-843-2020, or download the Patient Instruction Guide.

ACUVUE^® Abiliti™ Overnight Therapeutic Contact Lenses are available by prescription only for the management of myopia. An eye care professional will determine whether these contact lenses are right for you. Although rare, serious eye problems including vision loss and blindness can develop while wearing contact lenses. To help avoid these symptoms, follow the wear and replacement schedule and the lens care disinfection instructions provided by your eye care professional. Do not wear these contact lenses if you have an eye infection, or experience eye discomfort, excessive tearing, vision changes, redness or other eye problems. If one of these conditions occurs, remove the lens and contact your eye doctor immediately. For more information on proper wear, care and safety, talk to your eye care professional and review the Patient Instruction Guide, call 1-877-334-3937, or visit www.seeyourabiliti.com.

2024-03-04T13:49:00

(BPT) – Are you considering taking or are currently taking a glucagon-like peptide 1 agonist (GLP-1) medication for weight loss? If so, it’s important to know how these drugs can affect your body. Most importantly, this is because most weight-loss medications’ main impact is through decreasing your desire to eat. While you may be eating far less than you used to, your body’s nutrient needs have not changed. It will be vital to ensure your body gets enough essential nutrients including protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Make sure to talk to your health care provider about potential side effects of these medications, and the best ways to maintain your optimal health while taking these drugs.

“Weight-loss drugs that work using the GLP-1 receptors curb your appetite, so you may have difficulty getting all the nutrients, micronutrients or even physical activity you need for optimal muscular, cardiovascular and brain health,” said Kent L. Bradley, M.D., MBA, MPH and chief health and nutrition officer at Herbalife. “If you’re taking these medications, you should supplement with products that help you get essential nutrients so that when you do eat, your meal is high in nutrient density, while at the same time making the foundational lifestyle changes needed to achieve sustainable weight loss.”

Side effects of GLP-1 medications

GLP-1 medications help regulate your blood sugar levels and make you feel fuller after eating. However, like most drugs, they’re not without potential side effects. According to the Cleveland Clinic, common side effects include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The side effects each person experiences may vary, so it’s always best to consult your health care provider before and while you’re taking medications about any side effects you’re noticing.

Because of the feeling of satiety (fullness) and loss of appetite, typically experienced by people taking these medications, you’re likely going to be eating less while on the medication. This raises the possibility of your body not getting the protein, vitamins and minerals necessary to perform functions like fighting infection, building and repairing muscles and regulating hormones.

“Recent research has shown people taking weight-loss medications like GLP-1 may experience decreases in muscle density,” explained Bradley. “Herbalife is dedicated to addressing nutritional deficiencies through these new combos that include nutrition products designed to deliver protein and fiber, as well as critical vitamins.”

Why are macronutrients and micronutrients important?

You may know the terms macro and micronutrients, but you may not be aware of the impact they have on your body and the role they play in supporting healthy weight loss. Macronutrients like proteins are made up of amino acids that are essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. They can also be used as an energy source. Additionally, a higher protein intake can boost metabolism and reduce appetite by affecting the levels of weight-regulating hormones in your body.

Micronutrients such as vitamins have also been shown to play a part in a healthy metabolism. For example, B-complex vitamins help metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins to use as energy, instead of letting them turn into fat. Additionally, vitamins are necessary for energy production, immune function, blood clotting and other functions, while minerals play an important role in growth, bone health, fluid balance and several other processes.

How to supplement nutrition during weight loss

To help anyone taking GLP-1 medications, the premier health and wellness company and community Herbalife is offering a Herbalife GLP-1 Nutrition Companion, which offers food and supplement product combos intended to support the nutritional needs of individuals on weight-loss medications.

The Herbalife GLP-1 Nutrition Companion has two combo choices:

Classic Product Combo
Formula 1 Healthy Meal Nutritional Shake Mix
Protein Drink Mix
Active Fiber Complex

Vegan Product Combo
HERBALIFE V Plant-Based Classic and Chocolate Protein Shake
HERBALIFE V Plant-Based Digestive Support
HERBALIFE V Plant-Based Greens Booster

Each product bundle provides vital protein to sustain lean muscle and boost your energy, as well as fiber to support good digestion and a healthy gut microbiome. The Classic bundle also offers vitamins and minerals to support overall good health.

Note: The Herbalife product bundle is not a drug. Remember to consult your physician before you make changes to your diet during medically supervised weight loss.

Making the weight loss journey easier

Choosing foods and supplements that provide essential nutrients is a convenient way to take the guesswork out of nutrition and help ensure your body isn’t missing out on crucial nourishment while you’re on your weight loss journey.

“There really is no magic pill or shot. We still need foundational lifestyle changes,” Bradley added. “To sustain your results over time, it’s important that you continue to prioritize good nutrition and regular physical activity as part of your daily routine. It also helps to have the support of a community that understands your journey.”

Herbalife’s independent distributors also create a supportive community and can help you build better eating habits, whether you’re on weight-loss drugs or not — and support you in maintaining those habits after the drug treatment ends, so you can continue to benefit from your efforts.

Learn more from Dr. Kent Bradley, Board Certified Preventive Medicine and Public Health physician, about how good nutrition can support people on a GLP-1 weight-loss journey, by watching this video.

For more healthy lifestyle tips and information, visit Herbalife.com.