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How to prep your home for a new addition to the family

2018-06-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – Whether it’s a baby or pet, a new addition to the family calls for new, unexpected responsibilities, and is bound to come with adjustments for every member of the family. While it would be silly to guarantee zero stress for the new family environment, below are tips for a transition with more playtime and fewer headaches to help you get started.

Here’s what you need to know:

Get ready in style

Prep the space with all the necessities needed to make your new addition’s life as happy as possible. Based on the needs of your new child or pet, this could mean turning your home office or game room into a nursery, or finding the perfect doggy door to install in the back entrance. After checking big-ticket items off your list, consider how moments such as bath time will change in the new dynamic. Choose a product that is stylish and functional, like the Peerless SideKick Shower System, which has interchangeable attachments for parents, pet and baby. Versatile shower additions create a one-stop shop for everyone in the family, limiting mess and making bath time more efficient (and cost-effective!).

Proof! Proof!

When you walk through your front door, you are greeted with the comfort and security of being in a space made just for you. With a new baby or pet, that could all change! It is important to take a careful look at your home and proof for all possible dangers and accidents. Move chemicals and cleaning products onto high shelves, tape electrical cords to baseboards, find ways to secure cabinets and doors that you would prefer not to have curious hands, mouths and noses digging around in, and make sure anything that can induce choking is stored in a safe place, far away from the curious new family member.

Budget for two

A new addition to the family means one more mouth to feed and nurture. It is important to prepare for unexpected expenses. Babies and pets are more prone to illness, injury and accidents because they are constantly exploring their environment. Remember to plan ahead by setting up a monthly savings plan to make room for miscellaneous expenses in your monthly budget. Go the extra mile and save more money by buying clothes and accessories from thrift or consignment stores, using family or friends for backup daycare, and asking relatives to babysit or puppy sit. Remember that planning is key. You’ve got this!

Playtime

Ensure a stress- and mess-free playtime by designating an area for play in your home. If possible, create a gated space to give yourself a sense of control over playtime activities. This will offer peace of mind and allow your new addition to have fun and express themselves without any inhibitions. Bonus: There is less cleanup time as well.

For more shower solutions for the family, please visit peerlessfaucet.com.


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Consumers need to be on guard against common rental scams

2018-06-11T13:15:00

(BPT) – You know the old saying, that if it’s too good to be true, it probably is?

Whether you’re searching for your first rental or are a seasoned renter seeking a new place in a new city, be aware that rental scams are more common than you think.

Here’s how the scam plays out

A scam artist finds a vacant real estate property which is often bank-owned, a vacant vacation home or maybe even a property rented by the scammer, who plans to pull off the scheme several times over. The scam artist advertises the rental property — an apartment, house or room — online, often on a free classified website.

What really stands out about the property is that it is often offered at a lower price point. It’s substantially cheaper than comparable properties in the area, which may not seem entirely unreasonable if you’re in a competitive market. The pictures look great and the listing might even include an image of the floor plan to give you a better sense of what the home is like.

Everything appears legitimate — no misspellings, grammatical errors or anything else that would make you pause or second-guess the ad.

Naturally, you’re interested in the property, so you reach out to the person or “company” posting the ad and say you’d like to see the home. You might get a friendly response that says something along the lines of “I’d love to show you the space; however, I’m a businessman working out of the country and can’t show it to you in person.” That is a red flag, as a legitimate landlord or property manager will be willing to arrange for someone to meet you and show you the inside of the property.

Another red flag is that before they can show you the property, they say that they need to verify whether you have the funds available for the rent. If the landlord wants a higher security deposit than what’s normal, or if upfront fees seem excessive, it could be a sign they want to take your money and run.

Most often, legitimate landlords want to know your credit score or do a criminal background check and employment verification. If a landlord doesn’t seem interested in any form of tenant screening or appears too eager to negotiate the rent and other lease terms with you, think twice.

Scam artists also target travelers researching vacation rentals, students looking for off-campus housing or a roommate and even service members who frequently relocate.

What you can do

Do your research. Investigate the company that has the property listed for rent. If dealing with an individual, make sure he is truly the property owner and you’re not dealing with someone who has no legitimate ties to the property. Scammers often take information from real estate listings to produce phony rental listings. There is never a reason to send money without viewing the rental or meeting in person, especially if the request is for a money transfer.

Whatever situation you’re in, keep these tips in mind:

  • Never pay for a property you found online using a money transfer.
  • Avoid any listing that pressures you or requires you to act immediately.
  • Watch for poorly written correspondence or advertisements that contain misspellings, improper use of language or unusual formatting.
  • Never provide personal identifying information to an unknown individual or entity, especially to persons who respond solely through email.
  • Never send a money transfer to someone you haven’t met in person.

If you send a Western Union Money Transfer and believe you may be a victim of fraud, call our Fraud Hotline at 1-800-448-1492.

More information on scams and how to protect yourself is available at the Western Union Consumer Protection Center: www.wu.com/fraudawareness.

You know the old saying, that if it’s too good to be true, it probably is?

Whether you’re searching for your first rental or are a seasoned renter seeking a new place in a new city, be aware that rental scams are more common than you think.

Here’s how the scam plays out

A scam artist finds a vacant real estate property which is often bank-owned, a vacant vacation home, or maybe even rented by the scammer who plans to pull off this scheme several times over. The scam artist advertises the rental property — an apartment, house or room — online, often on a free classified website.

What really stands out about the property is that it is often offered at a lower price point. It’s substantially cheaper than comparable properties in the area and which may not seem entirely unreasonable if you’re in a competitive market. The pictures look great and the listing might even include an image of the floor plan to give you a better sense of what the home is like.

Everything appears legitimate – no misspellings, grammatical errors, or anything else that would make you pause or second-guess the ad.

Naturally, you’re interested in the property, so you reach out to the person or “company” who posted the ad saying you’d like to see the home. You might get a friendly response that says something along the lines of “I’d love to show you the space; however, I’m a business man working out of the country and can’t show it to you in person.” This is a red flag as a legitimate landlord or property manager will be willing to arrange for someone to meet you and show you the inside of the property.

Another red flag is that before they can show you the property, they need to verify you have the funds available for the rent. If the landlord wants a higher security deposit than what’s normal, or if upfront fees seem excessive, it could be a sign that the they want to take your money and run.

Most often, legitimate landlords want to know your credit score, or do a criminal background check and employment verification. If a landlord doesn’t seem interested in any form of tenant screening or appears too eager to negotiate the rent and other lease terms with you, think twice.

Scam artists also target travelers researching vacation rentals, students looking for off-campus housing or a roommate, and even service members who frequently relocate.

What you can do

Do your research. Investigate the company that has the property listed for rent. If dealing with an individual, make sure they are truly the property owner and you’re not dealing with someone that has no legitimate ties to the property. Scammers often take information from real estate listings to produce phony rental listings. There is never a reason to send money without viewing the rental or meeting in person especially if the request is for a money transfer.

Whatever situation you’re in, keep these tips in mind:

  • Never pay for a property you found online using a money transfer
  • Avoid any listing that pressures you or requires you to act immediately
  • Watch for poorly written correspondence or advertisements that contain misspellings, improper use of language, or unusual formatting
  • Never provide personal identifying information to an unknown individual or entity, especially to persons which respond solely through email
  • Never send a money transfer to someone you haven’t met in person

If you sent a Western Union Money Transfer and believe you may be a victim of fraud, call our Fraud Hotline number at 1-800-448-1492.

More information on scams and how to protect yourself is available at the Western Union Consumer Protection Center: www.wu.com/fraudawareness.


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Mike Golic’s Tips to Stay Healthy This Summer With Your Diabetes Support Team

2018-06-11T07:31:00

(BPT) – Summertime often brings fun family vacations and outings with friends, but with change in routine, it can also be more difficult to keep your health on track. An online survey conducted among 508 US adults aged 18+ with type 2 diabetes in February 2018 found more than half of adults with type 2 diabetes believe it is difficult to maintain a healthy diet and get the recommended levels of exercise (52% and 59%, respectively).[1]

Former professional football player and national sports talk show host Mike Golic follows these tips for staying healthy with the help of his diabetes support team:

  • Work with your support team to stay on track. Part of Mike’s diabetes management plan includes designating people like his wife Chris as his team’s captain, his children as his teammates, and his doctor as his head coach. Set a game plan that includes staying active, eating healthy, and working with your doctor to manage type 2 diabetes.
  • Plan ahead when it comes to meals. Whether Mike and Chris are heading to a cookout or a picnic lunch, it helps to plan ahead to ensure they have healthy options. Having a go-to favorite in mind, like Buffalo Chicken Salad, can help save time and make the meal selection and preparation process much easier.
  • Stay hydrated. Mike knows staying hydrated is an important part of staying healthy every day—especially when he is physically active and in hot weather. He is sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercising. There are a variety of different ways to hydrate for your active life.
  • Exercise with a partner — or even your pet. The American Diabetes Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise at least 5 days a week. Two-thirds of adults with type 2 diabetes (67%) stay active regularly.[1] Varying the types of exercise can help. Mike’s workout plan often includes exercising with Chris and going on walks with his three dogs. To switch up your regular walk, try incorporating dynamic moves such as walking lunges and squats shown in this walking-partner workout. Before any physical activity, be sure to talk to your doctor.
  • Feel confident in your numbers. To help Mike manage his type 2 diabetes, Mike’s doctor prescribes INVOKANA® (canagliflozin). INVOKANA® has been taken by over 1.5 million people since launch and counting to help lower their blood sugar (A1C). Mike likes to take his diabetes numbers as a challenge, and says between doctor’s checkups, “I physically put my numbers somewhere, look at them, and say ‘Next time, this is going to be better!’” INVOKANA® helps Mike to feel confident about his numbers and is an important part of the game plan that he created with his doctor. Learn more about Mike’s tips at ICanImagine.com.

INVOKANA® is a once-daily pill used along with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. In most clinical trials, the majority of people taking INVOKANA® reached an A1C goal of less than 7.0 percent, which is recommended by the American Diabetes Association. INVOKANA® is not for weight loss, but may help people lose weight — on average 2-3 percent. INVOKANA® was also shown in clinical trials to reduce systolic blood pressure (on average 3-5 mmHg), though it is not indicated as a blood pressure medication. Results may vary by dose and when used alone or with certain other diabetes medications. INVOKANA® may increase a person’s risk of lower-limb amputations. The most common side effects of INVOKANA® include genital yeast infections, urinary tract infection, and changes in urination. These specific adverse events were generally mild to moderate in intensity in clinical studies.

Visit INVOKANA.com for more information, and planning and motivation tips. Find enjoyable ways to stay active and browse diabetes-friendly recipes to help stay healthy this summer.

WHAT IS INVOKANA®?

INVOKANA® is a prescription medicine used along with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. INVOKANA® is not for people with type 1 diabetes or with diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in blood or urine). It is not known if INVOKANA® is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

INVOKANA® can cause important side effects, including:

  • Amputations. INVOKANA® may increase your risk of lower-limb amputations. Amputations mainly involve removal of the toe or part of the foot; however, amputations involving the leg, below and above the knee, have also occurred. Some people had more than one amputation, some on both sides of the body. You may be at a higher risk of lower-limb amputation if you: have a history of amputation, have heart disease or are at risk for heart disease, have had blocked or narrowed blood vessels (usually in leg), have damage to the nerves (neuropathy) in the leg, or have had diabetic foot ulcers or sores. Call your doctor right away if you have new pain or tenderness, any sores, ulcers, or infections in your leg or foot. Your doctor may decide to stop your INVOKANA® for a while if you have any of these signs or symptoms. Talk to your doctor about proper foot care
  • Dehydration. INVOKANA® can cause some people to become dehydrated (the loss of too much body water), which may cause you to feel dizzy, faint, lightheaded, or weak, especially when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension). You may be at higher risk of dehydration if you have low blood pressure, take medicines to lower your blood pressure (including diuretics [water pills]), are on a low sodium (salt) diet, have kidney problems, or are 65 years of age or older
  • Vaginal yeast infection. Women who take INVOKANA® may get vaginal yeast infections. Symptoms include: vaginal odor, white or yellowish vaginal discharge (discharge may be lumpy or look like cottage cheese), or vaginal itching
  • Yeast infection of the penis (balanitis or balanoposthitis). Men who take INVOKANA® may get a yeast infection of the skin around the penis. Symptoms include: redness, itching, or swelling of the penis; rash of the penis; foul-smelling discharge from the penis; or pain in the skin around penis

Talk to your doctor about what to do if you get symptoms of a yeast infection of the vagina or penis.

Do not take INVOKANA® if you:

  • are allergic to canagliflozin or any of the ingredients in INVOKANA®. Symptoms of allergic reaction may include: rash; raised red patches on your skin (hives); or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing
  • have severe kidney problems or are on dialysis

Before you take INVOKANA®, tell your doctor if you have a history of amputation; heart disease or are at risk for heart disease; blocked or narrowed blood vessels (usually in leg); damage to the nerves (neuropathy) of your leg; diabetic foot ulcers or sores; kidney problems; liver problems; history of urinary tract infections or problems with urination; are on a low sodium (salt) diet; are going to have surgery; are eating less due to illness, surgery, or change in diet; pancreas problems; drink alcohol very often (or drink a lot of alcohol in short-term); ever had an allergic reaction to INVOKANA®; or have other medical conditions.

Tell your doctor if you are or plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or plan to breastfeed. INVOKANA® may harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking INVOKANA®, tell your doctor right away. INVOKANA® may pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Do not breastfeed while taking INVOKANA®.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your doctor if you take diuretics (water pills), rifampin (used to treat or prevent tuberculosis), phenytoin or phenobarbital (used to control seizures), ritonavir (Norvir®, Kaletra® — used to treat HIV infection), or digoxin (Lanoxin® — used to treat heart problems).

Possible Side Effects of INVOKANA®

INVOKANA® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Ketoacidosis (increased ketones in your blood or urine). Ketoacidosis has happened in people who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, during treatment with INVOKANA®. Ketoacidosis is a serious condition, which may need to be treated in a hospital. Ketoacidosis may lead to death. Ketoacidosis can happen with INVOKANA® even if your blood sugar is less than 250 mg/dL. Stop taking INVOKANA® and call your doctor right away if you get any of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, stomach-area pain, tiredness, or trouble breathing
  • Kidney problems. Sudden kidney injury has happened to people taking INVOKANA®. Talk to your doctor right away if you: 1) reduce the amount of food or liquid you drink, if you are sick, or cannot eat or 2) you start to lose liquids from your body from vomiting, diarrhea, or being in the sun too long
  • A high amount of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia)
  • Serious Urinary Tract Infections: may lead to hospitalization and have happened in people taking INVOKANA®. Tell your doctor if you have signs or symptoms of a urinary tract infection such as: burning feeling while urinating, need to urinate often or right away, pain in the lower part of your stomach (pelvis), or blood in the urine. Some people may also have high fever, back pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). If you take INVOKANA® with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin, your risk of getting low blood sugar is higher. The dose of your sulfonylurea medicine or insulin may need to be lowered while you take INVOKANA®

Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include: headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, confusion, irritability, hunger, fast heartbeat, sweating, shaking, or feeling jittery.

Serious allergic reaction. If you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, stop taking INVOKANA® and call your doctor right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Broken Bones (fractures): Bone fractures have been seen in patients taking INVOKANA®. Talk to your doctor about factors that may increase your risk of bone fracture.

The most common side effects of INVOKANA® include: vaginal yeast infections and yeast infections of the penis; changes in urination, including urgent need to urinate more often, in larger amounts, or at night.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. 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 Scientific Affairs, LLC at 1-800-526-7736.

Please see full Product Information, including Boxed Warning, and Medication Guide for INVOKANA®.

Canagliflozin is licensed from Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation. Trademarks are those of their respective owners.

076190-171006

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[1] Statistic based on an online survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., in February 2018 among 508 US adults aged 18+ with type 2 diabetes. Figures for age, sex, education, income, race/ethnicity, and size of household were weighted to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population.


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Reaching your personal goals with a chronic illness

2018-06-11T08:01:00

(BPT) – Content sponsored and provided by Pfizer.

Janet H., a wife and mother from Alabama, had many things to celebrate in her life — two beautiful children, a wonderful husband, her dog Falco, and a rewarding career. She was proud that even with all of this, she was able to achieve her personal goal of staying active. However, she was diagnosed with a chronic disease the week before her 40th birthday.

Janet enjoyed moderate exercise, so when she began to have persistent joint pain and swelling in her knees, she suspected it was from an old injury. After initial visits with an orthopedic specialist, she was referred to a rheumatologist who diagnosed her with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) — a chronic, autoimmune disease of the joints.[i]

“I remember thinking that if this is what 40 is like, I don’t know if I can handle 50,” she says. “I wasn’t sure how RA would affect my life.”

Unfortunately, this story is all too common, as RA impacts approximately 1.6 million adults in the United States.[ii],[iii] Many living with a chronic condition like RA can feel that their life is put on hold while trying to manage their symptoms, doctor’s appointments, and the daily demands of life. Working toward personal goals can be put on the backburner, but does it have to be?

With her rheumatologist, Janet was motivated to find a treatment plan that could help relieve her RA symptoms before being prescribed XELJANZ® (tofacitinib) 5 mg twice daily tablets, an oral medication for adults with moderate to severe RA in which methotrexate did not work well enough. Janet’s rheumatologist reviewed the potential side effects of XELJANZ and explained that it is taken twice daily and has a BOXED WARNING for serious infections and malignancies.

Within three to six months, Janet felt improvement in her RA symptoms and found herself thinking about ways to become more active. She spoke with her rheumatologist and, together, they came up with exercise goals including yoga classes, cycling, and walking her dog with her husband and children. She also says one of her biggest milestones was walking her daughter down the aisle and gaining a new son-in-law. Eventually, Janet even worked with her rheumatologist to switch to a once-a-day version of XELJANZ, called XELJANZ XR extended release tablets.

Here are some of Janet’s tips to help someone living with a chronic illness work toward their personal goals:

  • Plan ahead: Living with a chronic condition can put a pause on spontaneity. Plan ahead when it comes to things like travel or big life events to allow ample time for adjustments and preparation.
  • Partner up: Find a significant other, friend or sibling who can join you on your journey toward reaching your goals. Sometimes living with a chronic condition requires extra support from others, so having a partner to plan with can help make that support seamless.
  • Consult your doctor: Before considering any new travel or physical activity, make sure to consult your doctor. Discuss your plans and how you and your doctor can work together to help ensure you can meet these goals.

By following these tips, Janet says that she has been able to better manage her RA and have more time to focus on her family, friends and herself.

“I hope my story can help other adults who are living with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis and inspire them to share their stories,” she says.

What is XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is a prescription medicine called a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is used to treat adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis in which methotrexate did not work well.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in people with hepatitis B or C.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is not recommended for people with severe liver problems.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious infections. XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Some people can have serious infections while taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, including tuberculosis (TB), and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR treatment, and monitor you closely for signs and symptoms of TB infection during treatment. You should not start taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay.

You may be at a higher risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster).

Before starting XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, tell your healthcare provider if you:

  • think you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection, such as fever, sweating, or chills; cough; blood in phlegm; warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body; burning when you urinate or urinating more often than normal; muscle aches; shortness of breath; weight loss; diarrhea or stomach pain; or feeling very tired
  • are being treated for an infection
  • get a lot of infections or have infections that keep coming back
  • have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections
  • have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB
  • live or have lived in, or have traveled to certain parts of the country (such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections (histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycosis). These infections may happen or become more severe if you use XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR. Ask your healthcare provider if you do not know if you have lived in an area where these infections are common
  • have or have had hepatitis B or C

After starting XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of an infection. XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR can make you more likely to get infections or make worse any infection that you have.

Cancer and immune system problems. XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, have happened in patients taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

Some people who have taken XELJANZ with certain other medicines to prevent kidney transplant rejection have had a problem with certain white blood cells growing out of control (Epstein Barr Virus–associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder).

Tears (perforation) in the stomach or intestines. Some people taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR can get tears in their stomach or intestine. This happens most often in people who also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or methotrexate.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have fever and stomach-area pain that does not go away and a change in your bowel habits.

Changes in certain lab test results. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests before you start receiving XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, and while you take XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, to check for the following side effects:

  • changes in lymphocyte counts. Lymphocytes are white blood cells that help the body fight off infections.
  • low neutrophil counts. Neutrophils are white blood cells that help the body fight off infections.
  • low red blood cell count. This may mean that you have anemia, which may make you feel weak and tired.

Your healthcare provider should routinely check certain liver tests.

You should not receive XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR if your lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, or red blood cell count is too low or your liver tests are too high. Your healthcare provider may stop your XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR treatment for a period of time if needed because of changes in these blood test results.

Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your cholesterol levels 4-8 weeks after you start XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, and as needed after that.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

Before taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have an infection
  • have liver problems
  • have kidney problems
  • have any stomach area (abdominal) pain or been diagnosed with diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine) or ulcers in your stomach or intestines, or narrowing within your digestive tract
  • have had a reaction to tofacitinib or any of the ingredients in XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR
  • have recently received or are scheduled to receive a vaccine. People taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR should not receive live vaccines but can receive non-live vaccines
  • plan to become pregnant or are pregnant. It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR will harm an unborn baby. You should use effective birth control while you are taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR and for at least 4 weeks after you take your last dose.
    • Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll
  • plan to breastfeed or are breastfeeding

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, especially any other medicines to treat your rheumatoid arthritis. You should not take tocilizumab (Actemra®), etanercept (Enbrel®), adalimumab (Humira®), infliximab (Remicade®), rituximab (Rituxan®), abatacept (Orencia®), anakinra (Kineret®), certolizumab pegol (Cimzia®), golimumab (Simponi®), ustekinumab (Stelara®), secukinumab (Cosentyx®), azathioprine, cyclosporine, or other immunosuppressive drugs while you are taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR. Taking XELJANZ or XELJANZ XR with these medicines may increase your risk of infection.

  • Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

Taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR

When you take XELJANZ XR, you may see something in your stool that looks like a tablet. This is the empty shell from the tablet after the medicine has been absorbed by your body.

What are other possible side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR may cause serious side effects, including hepatitis B or C activation infection in people who carry the virus in their blood. If you are a carrier of the hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR. Tell your healthcare provider if you have the following symptoms of a possible hepatitis B or C infection: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, and nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis).

To learn more about XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, a treatment option for moderately to severely active RA, visit XELJANZ.com.

Please click the direct link to the full US Prescribing Information for XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide: http://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=959.


[i] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services. Handout on health: rheumatoid arthritis. August 2014. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Rheumatic_Disease/default.asp. Accessed December 4, 2017.

[ii] Sacks J, Lou Y, Helmick, C. Prevalence of specific types of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in the ambulatory health care system in the United States 2001-2005. Arthritis Care Res. 2010;62(4):460-464.

[iii] Howden L, Meyer J. 2010 U.S. Census Bureau results — U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 Census Summary File 1.


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Tips for empty nesters to maximize summer travel

2018-06-08T13:01:00

(BPT) – With the kids out of the house and newfound independence, summer is the perfect time of year for empty nesters to embark on bucket list trips they’ve always craved. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by Tracfone, 68 percent of empty nesters say that traveling is a priority now that their kids have left home, but 62 percent are concerned they won’t be able to fulfill their travel goals due to budget concerns.

With the help of your smartphone and a dependable wireless service, you can travel to your dream destination without worry this summer. Follow these easy tips to stay connected and enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank.

1) Be spontaneous: Until now, you’ve been accustomed to traveling with kids, which meant planning an itinerary full of activities once you arrive to your destination. Now that you’re vacationing without the kids, ditch the planning for your next summer adventure. Not only is it liberating to be able to take trips whenever you feel like it, but you also save time on the lengthy planning process. It could even save you money, especially on hotels, which often have last-minute deals to book open rooms.

2) Stay connected: Whether snapping and sharing photos, looking up directions or booking a hotel, it’s essential for travel-bound empty nesters to stay connected. In fact, more than half (51 percent) of empty nesters say they couldn’t live without their cell phone while on vacation.

With Tracfone, you get nationwide coverage on America’s largest and most dependable 4G LTE† networks, so you’ll never have to worry about losing connection while venturing on your trip. Even better, with the 30-day smartphone plan± including talk, text and data for just $15, you can easily capture and share your favorite memories without breaking the bank. Tracfone is there to help you make the most of your summer travels, all while helping you to save.

3) Check out local guides: The best way to enjoy a new town? Connecting with the locals. It’s a quick and easy way to experience what your destination has to offer, and a good way to meet new people! There are a variety of websites that connect travelers with local guides to help create a hometown experience while traveling. Taking the time to make these connections can result in a more authentic and exciting trip.

4) Take the road less traveled: Traveling by interstate on a road trip may save you time, but you also risk passing up the small-town treasures that can only be uncovered by taking the scenic route. Prior to your trip, use your smartphone to uncover the hidden gems and locations that you can visit on the way to your destination. Once you’re on your way, take advantage of the navigation tools on your smartphone to uncover the best restaurants and hotspot attractions that only the locals know about.

This summer, turn your dream vacation into a reality. Visit www.Tracfone.com to learn more about how Tracfone can help you make the most of your summer travels.

±These plans do not triple your minutes, texts, or data.

†To get 4G LTE speed, you must have a 4G LTE capable device and 4G LTE SIM. Actual availability, coverage and speed may vary. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Please refer always to the latest Terms and Conditions of Service at Tracfone.com.

This survey was commissioned by Tracfone conducted by Survata, an independent research firm in San Francisco. Survata interviewed 1,001 U.S. Empty Nesters (ages 50-65) between May 7, 2018 and May 15, 2018. For further information, visit www.survata.com.


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Maintaining a healthy pH balance ‘down there’: 3 common triggers for elevated vaginal pH and why it matters

2018-06-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Many women do not realize the vagina is an ecosystem that requires a balanced environment to remain healthy; and events like menstruation, sex, and hormonal changes can throw off that balance. The result can be odor and discomfort, according to Lauren Streicher, M.D., Medical Director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause and Associate Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University. Many women never have the benefit of a frank, open discussion about vaginal health and the importance of maintaining a healthy pH balance “down there.” Healthy pH and beneficial lactobacillus are the keys to reducing the risk of vaginal issues. pH refers to the vagina’s acidity level. A vaginal pH of 3.5 – 4.5 indicates that the vagina is populated by good bacteria (lactobacilli) without overgrowth of the bad bacteria that can cause odor and irritation and an elevated pH means that the healthy flora of the vagina may struggle to survive, while harmful bacteria thrive.

Yet women experience many of the triggers for elevated pH on a regular basis:

1. Period – The pH of blood is 7.4, which is much more alkaline than normal vaginal pH (3.5 – 4.5) which can lead to elevated vaginal pH.

2. Sex – Semen has a pH of 7.1 to 8 and can increase vaginal pH.

3. Hormones – Pregnancy, menopause and your normal monthly cycle can cause hormone changes that alter vaginal pH.

As Dr. Streicher points out in her blog, When Your Vagina’s in a pHunk, to eliminate vaginal odor and relieve discomfort, women should know that often the cause is unbalanced vaginal pH. RepHresh Vaginal Gel, available without a prescription, is specifically designed to bond to the vaginal walls and provide long-lasting support to maintain healthy vaginal pH and eliminate odor.

By learning how to maintain a healthy pH, women can maintain vaginal health and help avoid any issues that could stem from elevated pH.

Additionally, RepHresh Pro-B contains the strains of probiotics that specifically designed to promote vaginal health to balance yeast and bacteria every day. Pro-B contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1™ and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14™, two clinically documented probiotic lactobacilli specifically optimized for vaginal health as opposed to a probiotic or yogurt that supports immunity or digestion.

Taking control of pH means taking control of the natural vaginal environment, putting an end to unpleasant odor, discomfort and itching.


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Myths and facts about pain management in childbirth

2018-06-08T09:13:00

(BPT) – Nearly half of first-time moms (46 percent) said the labor and delivery pain they experienced with their first child was better than they expected, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA).

The survey findings suggest that being proactive in managing pain with your physician anesthesiologist is important, whether laboring moms demand an epidural right away, choose other medical pain management methods, use complementary techniques only or opt for a combination. Nine out of 10 women said pain management was effective, no matter what method they chose.

The survey also revealed that many first-time moms held some false beliefs about labor pain management before they experienced childbirth:

* 74 percent thought you couldn’t have an epidural after a certain time in labor (you can have one up until the baby’s head begins emerging, known as crowning)

* 44 percent feared pain at the epidural injection site would last for a prolonged time

* 26 percent believed an epidural slows labor

* Most concerning, 20 percent believed only one pain management option could be provided during labor and 16 percent didn’t know

Expectant mothers should work with their health care providers, including their physician anesthesiologist, to discuss what pain management methods may work best for them.

“A wide variety of options exist to manage pain, from epidural to massage, nitrous oxide to breathing techniques and it’s acceptable to change methods or use a combination during nearly every stage of labor,” said ASA President Dr. James D. Grant, M.B.A., FASA. “But it’s also important to be flexible, since it may be necessary to change pain-management methods based on the labor process itself.”

When it hurt most and what it was like

While slightly more than half said having contractions was the most painful aspect of delivery, about one in five noted pushing or post-delivery was most painful. Moms 18 to 39 were more likely to say post-delivery pain was the most painful aspect than those 40 and older. The most common description of the level of pain experienced was extreme menstrual cramps (45 percent), while 16 percent said it was like bad back pain and 15 percent compared it to a broken bone.

So, what pain management did they choose?

While the epidural was the most common option, chosen by 73 percent, 40 percent used complementary techniques (breathing, water birth, massage, visualization or hypnosis). Thirty-one percent used both medical (epidural, medication delivered through an IV or injection, spinal block or nitrous oxide) and complementary methods.

Nitrous oxide was rarely used. Only 2 percent of moms had nitrous oxide, and none 40 and older or who lived in the Midwest used it to manage labor pain. “This suggests that despite the buzz, nitrous oxide may not be widely available yet, or that mothers aren’t convinced it would be very helpful,” said Grant.

In the future

If they were to give birth again, most moms would choose the pain management method, whether medical and/or complementary, they originally chose during their first childbirth, with the majority (60 percent) opting again for an epidural to manage their pain.

“Every woman’s pain during labor is different and talking with your health care provider and physician anesthesiologist can help you decide which pain management method will give you the best labor and delivery experience,” said Dr. Grant.

The ORC International Caravan Omnibus Survey was conducted online among 912 mothers (18 years or older) of children ages 0-8, whose first child was born either via vaginal childbirth or Cesarean section (C-section) after the onset of labor. Ultimately, 73 percent had a vaginal childbirth.

For more information about pain management during labor and delivery and the importance of seeing a physician anesthesiologist, visit asahq.org/labor.

To learn more about the ASA, an educational, research and scientific society with more than 52,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology, visit asahq.org.


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Ready to switch wireless carriers? Answer these 6 important questions first

2018-06-08T07:01:00

(BPT) – Changing your wireless carrier is an important (and potentially expensive) decision. Before you make the switch, answer these simple questions to make sure you make the move that’s right for you.

1. Are you free to go?

While carrier contracts in the U.S. are quickly becoming things of the past, you still have to make sure you’re free and clear of obligations to start up somewhere new without getting hit with penalty fees. If you’ve bought a phone from another carrier, double-check to make sure you’ve paid it off in full, or else you may need to pay the rest of what you owe before you can cancel your service.

2. Will you need to buy a new phone, or do you have one already?

Unless you’re bringing your own existing cellphone to your new network, you’ll need to buy one, which means you’ll be paying for the whole thing up front, or via monthly installments. These are payments you’ll need to factor in as you calculate how much you want to pay your new carrier each month.

If you plan to bring your own phone, make sure it’s unlocked and works on your new carrier’s network (GSM, such as AT&T and T-Mobile versus CDMA, like Sprint and Verizon). When in doubt, give their customer service departments a call.

3. Individual or family plan?

Are you looking for yourself or for a group? A shared plan or family plan, which splits a monthly allotment of data among multiple phone lines, usually winds up being cheaper per month than going solo. The downsides? You get a smaller amount of data for yourself, and you can’t predict how much everyone else on your plan will use. Carriers can also vary widely on how much they charge for adding extra lines to your account, so be sure to compare to find the best price.

4. Is low price something or everything?

How important is price to you? If you simply need the lowest rate, look for seasonal sales or promotional offers. Some carriers will cut you a better deal if you bring your number over from a previous carrier or trade in your old phone. Occasionally, you’ll find a deal that pairs a specific phone model with a particular rate plan. And sometimes you’ll flat out find a great overall deal: Consumer Cellular, for instance, regularly receives top recognition in independent consumer surveys for its low-priced, no-contract service, as well as its outstanding customer support.

5. How flexible do you need to be?

Carriers have largely done away with two-year contract pricing, but you can still get it if you want, which often comes with a free or reduced-price device. You can also buy your phone outright in a lump sum, or through monthly installment pricing. As a benefit of this, the dreaded early termination fees of yesterday are gone, though you’re still on the hook for paying off the hardware before you switch (see number one above).

It’s also a good idea to find out if the new carrier offers a grace period, just in case things don’t work out. Many provide a 14- to 30-day trial, so if it turns out the service doesn’t meet your needs, you can cancel without penalties.

6. How good is carrier coverage in your area?

The fanciest phone on the market won’t get you anywhere if you can’t get data or voice service. Ask your friends, colleagues and neighbors how good their reception and signal strength are where you work and live.

There’s no shortage of competition for your cellphone dollars these days. By finding the right answer to these questions, you’re sure to find a carrier that fits your needs, and at a price you’re satisfied with.


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Bite on these 5 tips for sensitive teeth this summer

2018-06-07T14:01:00

(BPT) – A frozen ice pop on the porch. A tart and sweet lemonade at a picnic. A chilled beer with friends at the game. Perfect summer moments to make you smile, right? Not if you are one of the 40 million Americans who has sensitive teeth.

Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common dental complaints for people across the country, but many think that living with discomfort or even pain is unavoidable. The good news is that there are tried-and-true options, as well as some breakthrough solutions that are changing the way people manage sensitive teeth. Start with some of these five tips to keep smiling all summer long.

1. Limit acidic drinks

If fresh-squeezed OJ sounds more like a burden than breakfast, you probably have sensitive teeth. Instead of avoiding drinks you love, try using a straw to bypass contact with teeth, while still enjoying some of your favorites. Another tip is to avoid brushing your teeth right before or after drinking beverages with high acidity. You may want to, but it can actually make things worse in the moment. Try a glass of milk to neutralize the acidity instead.

2. Get some expert protection

The oral care experts at Colgate just released two new products, both available online, to protect all of those sensitive smiles out there. Their Colgate Anywhere, Anytime™ serum is – as the name implies — an on-the-go solution, while Colgate Pro-Relief™ is for at-home prep. It starts working on contact — just massage into sensitive areas for one minute and you’re good to go!

3. Ease up with the toothbrush

Don’t stop brushing your teeth twice a day like the dentist says, but ease up on the vigor. Brushing too hard or with a hard-bristle brush can wear down the enamel that protects your teeth’s nerves. Opt for a soft-bristle brush and be sure you’re brushing gently back-and-forth. A little TLC can go a long way to reducing sensitivity.

4. Avoid the grind … literally

We’ve come a long way from those night guards of the 1980s, but that doesn’t mean they’re not useful. If you grind your teeth at night, that can wear on enamel and cause sensitivity. Check with your dentist or even pick up a mouth guard in the oral care section of your local drug store. You can look like a pro athlete and avoid the daily grind. (Wasn’t that always the dream anyway?)

5. Consult a professional

Whether you have sensitive teeth now or think they may be starting to get a little more sensitive, talking to your dentist is vital. She or he will have insights specific to your mouth and lifestyle to continue to protect your enamel for a lifetime.