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New study: Only 1 in 5 parents has their car seat checked

2021-10-05T02:01:00

(BPT) – Are you using your child’s car seat correctly? AAA Northern California and the National Safety Council are sharing new research that sheds light on the extent to which parents and caregivers in the U.S. are informed about car seat installation and use.

A new general consumer survey found that only 1 in 5 parents and caregivers seek expert help installing a car seat or securing a child in a car seat. However, more than half (52%) of all car seats brought in for inspection to Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) are incorrectly installed or used, according to the National Digital Car Seat Check Form database.

What mistakes do parents make when it comes to car seats?

The National Digital Car Seat Check Form database reveals the three most common errors identified by CPSTs:

  1. Having the car seat installed too loosely.
  2. Failing to use the tether when installing a forward-facing car seat with either the lower anchors or seat belt.
  3. Leaving the harness straps too loose when securing the child in the seat.

These common mistakes can make car seats less effective in protecting your child in the event of a collision.

Car safety for toddlers and older children

The survey also found many parents are moving children to the next stage of car seat, booster or seat belt before it is safe to do so:

  • 1 in 4 children are moved from forward-facing car seats to booster seats before they’ve reached the appropriate height and weight.
  • More than 90% of children using lap-and-shoulder seat belts under age 10 should still be in car seats or booster seats.

The transition to the next level seat is dependent on the child’s height and weight, not age. Additionally, it’s safest to keep the child in the earlier form of the car seat until they reach the maximum weight and height limits recommended by the seat manufacturer.

The study also found caregivers are less likely to complete car seat checks as their child grows:

  • Child safety technicians inspect about 4 times as many rear-facing car seats as forward-facing car seats.
  • Inspections of booster seats for children aged 7 and older made up less than 3% of all car seats inspected by CPSTs.
  • Nearly half (47%) of car seats meant for children 7 and older are not properly installed.

What can you do to improve car safety for your child?

To help ensure your child passenger is protected, AAA recommends parents and caregivers educate themselves and take advantage of free resources, such as virtual or in-person car seat inspections.

“We urge parents and caregivers to educate themselves and look for free resources, such as a virtual or in-person car seat inspection in their area,” said Michelle Donati, AAA Northern California spokesperson. “Making sure a car seat or booster seat is installed and used correctly can provide peace of mind.”

Here are free resources to help ensure you are using your child’s car seat correctly:

  • Car Seat Basics is a free online course that helps participants understand the four stages of child passenger safety.
  • AAA.com/carseats offers a free car seat safety guide and educational videos about car seat safety, including information about when to safely transition to the next car seat.

Visit AAA.com/carseats for more information or to find a car seat inspection site near you.

Are you sure you’re using your child’s car safety seat correctly? A new survey found that while over 3 out of 4 parents and caregivers (77%) feel confident about installing and securing their child in a car seat correctly, only 28% report completing a car seat check with a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). And the study, conducted for AAA by Ipsos, also showed that among the parents and caregivers who did complete a car seat check, over half of them were improperly installed.

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Breast Cancer Awareness for Self-Care and Wellness

2021-10-04T11:09:00

(BPT) – Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among U.S. women (except for skin cancers), with the American Cancer Society estimating that 281,550 new cases will be diagnosed this year. Because breast cancer screenings are a regular part of women’s wellness visits, it is common to hear about the importance of breast self-awareness, mammograms and the role genetics play, yet many women feel unprepared to talk with their doctor on these topics.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a great time to kickstart conversations about breast health. Dr. Janie Lee, Director of Breast Imaging at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) and Professor of Radiology at the University of Washington, shares answers to common questions about breast cancer and preventative screening.

What is my risk?

Women in the U.S. have a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. Risk increases with age — most women are diagnosed after age 50, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The American Cancer Society notes that while the disease impacts women of all races, white women have the highest prevalence, and Black women are more likely to develop aggressive, advanced-stage cancer and are more likely to die from the disease.

The American Cancer Society also states that about 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary, commonly due to a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. Women with mutations on these or the lesser-known PALB2 gene are more likely to be diagnosed younger. The BRCA1 mutation increases the chance of diagnosis by age 80 to 70%. If you have a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing to assess your risk may be an option.

Dense breasts also bring higher risk and can mask tumors on a mammogram. Women with dense breasts should talk with their doctor about their breast cancer risk. While not all women with dense breasts are at high risk for developing breast cancer, some women with increased risk might add breast MRI to mammography for preventative screenings.

When and how frequently should I be screened?

Regular screenings increase the potential to detect breast cancer early, before symptoms begin and the disease has progressed. Early detection is also more likely to improve survival outlook.

Most women should begin annual mammograms at 40, but those at high risk or with a family history should speak to their doctor about starting screenings sooner. According to American Cancer Society guidelines, average-risk women aged 55 and older who had a normal mammogram within the last year can elect to be screened every other year.

To make mammograms more accessible, the SCCA MammoVan brings onsite screenings to communities around Seattle — check with your providers to see if a mobile mammogram service is offered in your area.

What are my screening options?

The most common screening technique is a mammogram, a low-dose X-ray of the breast. 3D mammography, also called digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), is now the more common type of mammogram and the preferred method at SCCA — an American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. This method takes many pictures at once and offers better odds of early detection.

For women at high-risk, doctors may recommend an MRI and a mammogram. SCCA offers both with leading-edge technology and is also engaged in research to improve early detection with imaging.

A supplemental way for women to monitor their breast health is to be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel, and report changes to a healthcare provider.

What changes should I be on the lookout for?

Mammograms find more than 85% of breast cancer in women who are without symptoms. Some women may develop a lump or other symptoms. If you notice any of these, it’s important to be evaluated:

  • New lump in the breast or armpit
  • Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
  • Irritation, dimpling, redness or flaky skin
  • Pain in the nipple or any area of the breast
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk
  • Change in the size or shape of the breast

While these details may help provide clarity on breast cancer risks and screening options, further information and guidance are available on the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance website.

This year, pledge to prioritize your health by speaking to your healthcare provider, scheduling your mammogram and incorporating self-checks into your routine. There’s no better form of self-care.

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How one company levels the playing field for new career seekers

2021-10-04T10:19:00

(BPT) – Over half of Americans (55%) now in the workforce will be looking for a new position over the next year, according to a survey from Bankrate.com. For the many Americans seeking new employment, whether recent grads, anyone just out of the military or leaving an unstable or low-paying job — the hardest part can be finding opportunities to learn a new trade without going into debt.

Environmental services company Republic Services is putting students’ needs first — reinventing how they address that challenge to grow their talent pipeline. Their industry-first Republic Services Technical Institute in Dallas offers tuition-free education to students who qualify as they complete 12 weeks of training, followed by 21 months of on-the-job training at one of their 180 business units nationwide. Students will receive:

  • Full-time, paid, in-shop training throughout the program
  • Company-provided relocation, housing and travel expenses
  • A toolbox stocked with tools

Students will commit to work for the company for two years after the training and apprenticeship are completed. And the best part? Anyone can apply for the two-year program, without any prior knowledge or experience as a mechanic or technician.

The company partnered with the U.S. Department of Labor and Lincoln Tech to create the cutting-edge curriculum, in a brand-new building with two labs and high-tech classrooms. The Institute goes beyond technical training to educate the whole student, providing life skills education including financial management, emotional intelligence and mental wellness.

“This is an investment in people, further demonstrating our commitment to being the place where the best people come to work,” said Jon Vander Ark, president and CEO of Republic Services. “We look forward to welcoming new graduates as they contribute to our highly trained workforce, increasing the reliability and consistency of our customer experience.”

Diversity and inclusion

The company is also looking to train and hire a more diverse and inclusive workforce both for their technician and driver positions.

For example, while women currently make up only a small percentage of the waste and recycling workforce, Republic is working to change that through its She Drives initiative, which seeks to broaden the driver candidate pool and increase the number of women hired for driver positions. Just one year into the initiative, the hiring rate of women drivers increased by one-third, placing Republic Services above the national average.

“I’m proud to say that I’ve been in the vocational educational industry for more than two decades and I’ve never seen this level of commitment to bringing on new talent by leadership,” said Misty Ross, director of the Republic Services Technical Institute and a U.S. Air Force veteran. “The financial commitment of $35,000 per student is fully covered by Republic, which will have a lasting impact as we develop the next generation of diesel technicians.”

To learn more and to apply for the program, visit www.RepublicServices.com/Tech-Institute.

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Are your contact lenses causing dryness? Here is how you can help address it

2021-10-04T08:01:01

(BPT) – With so many people working from home or attending school virtually this past year, many of us have been spending a lot more time looking at screens. Although Zoom meetings and streaming our favorite shows may continue to be the daily norm, all this time on digital devices may be straining our eyes.

For contact lens wearers, excessive screen use can lead to contact lens dryness, which is experienced by approximately one third of the 45 million lens wearers in the United States. According to one survey among contact lens wearers, 29% of patients cited contact lens dryness as a main obstacle to wear, and some people even drop out of contact lens wear altogether due to this discomfort.

If you’re one of the many people struggling to combat contact lens dryness, it may be time to find a contact lens, like Bausch + Lomb INFUSE®, that maintains nearly all of its moisture for 16 hours (based on a laboratory study).

By their nature, contact lenses alter the balance of the eye’s surface, making it important to find a lens to maintain hydration and help minimize symptoms of contact lens dryness. If you’re experiencing contact lens dryness and discomfort, here are a few tips that can help:

1. Look away from your screen. Give your eyes a break by taking time away from screens and follow the 20–20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

2. Recognize symptoms of contact lens dryness. Determining if contact lens wear is contributing to your dryness can be the first step in supporting your eye health, and your eye care professional can help identify the right contact lens for your vision needs.

3. Find a supportive contact lens. A contact lens like Bausch + Lomb INFUSE® is exceptionally moist, soft and flexible. Visit https://www.bauschinfuse.com/ for more information.

4. Stay hydrated. Insufficient water intake can cause the eyes to stop producing tears and feel dry. Be sure to drink enough liquids throughout the day and avoid caffeine if possible.

5. Keep your environment free from dust and dryness. Be sure to clear away dust on a regular basis and use a humidifier if the air in your home seems too dry.

In an increasingly digitally connected world, our eyes have to work overtime. Advances in contact lens technology are giving people more options to address their symptoms as a result of increased screen use, such as contact lens dryness. Make an appointment with your eye care professional to see if a lens like Bausch + Lomb INFUSE® may be right for you.

INFUSE is a trademark of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

©2021 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

INF.0223.USA.21

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The power of your plasma: 5 reasons to consider donating today

2021-10-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – Throughout the past year, you may have heard about plasma in terms of its potential use in treating COVID-19. However, for more than 80 years, plasma has been a lifeline for thousands of people who live with rare and chronic complex conditions. Plasma donations are critical in helping save lives because they are used to make life-sustaining medicine. Even with the global pandemic shedding light on the role of plasma in fighting disease, many people may not know how thousands around the country rely on plasma every day.

Here are 5 key reasons why you should consider donating plasma today.

1. Plasma is used to make life-saving medicine

Plasma carries out a variety of functions in the body, including helping the body fight disease. Plasma donations are processed into life-saving medicine for people with rare and chronic conditions including immunodeficiency disorders. Often, there are no alternative treatments for these conditions. Plasma donations are life-changing and provide an opportunity for patients around the country to live a happier and healthier life.

2. Plasma cannot be manufactured in a lab

Even with all of the scientific advances we have in the health care industry, medicine developed from plasma can only be made from plasma donated from healthy adults. Plasma cannot be manufactured in a lab or any other artificial environment. Because of this, plasma has become a scarce yet life-changing resource for people who rely on these plasma-based medicines.

3. The plasma donation process is safe and fast

Thousands of people donate plasma safely every day. Donating plasma is a low-risk procedure with minimal or no side effects. On a donor’s first visit to a plasma donation center, the whole process, including a physical examination, medical screening and the plasma donation, usually takes about two hours. Future visits take less time.

Because the body quickly replenishes the plasma removed during the donation process, healthy individuals may donate as often as twice in a seven-day period, with at least one day between donations. To learn more about the donation process visit www.biolifeplasma.com.

4. Many individuals are eligible to donate plasma

To donate plasma, an individual must be at least 18 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and pass all other required donor eligibility criteria in order to protect the donor’s health and safety of the plasma. That said, healthy individuals who are eligible to donate their plasma can do so, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.

5. There is an urgent need for plasma donations

With plasma donations lower than usual through the pandemic and the demand for medicine developed from plasma growing worldwide, the need for plasma is more urgent than ever. Global demand for these therapies has increased over the past 20 years — and continues to grow due to more rare diseases being identified as well as more patients being diagnosed. However, all of us have the power to make a difference through plasma donation and potentially help save lives.

How can you help?

The need for plasma is greater than ever and BioLife Plasma Services is welcoming plasma donors to help at centers around the country. In addition to potentially making a positive impact on someone’s life, plasma donors are compensated in recognition of the time, commitment and the effort required for their donation. Find a plasma donation center near you at www.biolifeplasma.com, or by downloading the BioLife App.

BioLife Plasma Services is part of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited.

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Food is like a house: Breaking down exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and the importance of nutrition

2021-10-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – Digestive diseases affect between 60 and 70 million Americans each year. Good nutrition becomes critical for people living with gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). EPI is a condition in which your body doesn’t provide enough pancreatic enzymes to properly break down food. It continues to be under-recognized, leading to many being undiagnosed. EPI causes unpleasant symptoms and may prevent you from getting the necessary nutrition from the foods you eat. Many of these symptoms mimic other GI issues, which are more well-known, such as diarrhea, gas, bloating, stomach pain, unexplained weight loss and oily stools. This may lead to delays in diagnosis and continuation of uncomfortable symptoms.

To better understand EPI, it’s important to take a closer look at the pancreas and its functions, including the endocrine and exocrine functions. The endocrine function makes insulin, which helps the body process the sugar we eat. The exocrine function makes enzymes to help digest food so the body can absorb it. In people with EPI, the exocrine function is affected, which is why they have difficulty digesting their food.

Zachari Breeding, a Food Operations Manager at VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Owner of Sage Nutritious Solutions and Founder and President of Mandy Wagner Foundation for people living with cystic fibrosis, recognizes how crucial nutrition is and lends his expertise to people with GI conditions like EPI. Zachari shares that “as a professional chef and clinical dietitian, I know that delicious nutrition is essential to managing GI conditions. I love what I do as a dietitian, and getting to help people with GI issues better control their symptoms through healthy eating can allow them to experience a bounty of foods.”

When connecting with individuals living with GI conditions, Zachari shares tips to empower them to make healthy choices in their daily lives.

1. Ensure your diet is well-balanced. Incorporate some fat to help absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K. Vitamins come from a variety of different foods and resources. Vitamins A and K come from colorful vegetables, vitamin D comes from the sun and vitamin E comes from fatty foods, like olive oil and salmon.

2. Food is like a house. When you start with a good foundation of flavor with wonderful herbs and spices, you don’t need a lot of salt and fat to cover up the flavor that is already there. Every ingredient stands out on its own.

3. A GI-friendly meal is one that doesn’t upset your belly. Zachari says, “My gut isn’t your gut and your diet helps isolate the things that might not be so GI-friendly.” It’s vital to observe how your symptoms correspond with your diet and choose foods that work best with your individual digestion as every diet and body are different.

4. Choose foods that you love, that don’t cause symptoms. Living with a GI condition like EPI doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice diverse ingredients and flavor; you just need to be more selective about what and how much you consume. For delicious GI-friendly meal options, check out Epicured.com.

It’s important to speak with your doctor and dietitian to find out if your symptoms are due to a GI condition like EPI. While GI symptoms may feel like an embarrassing or uncomfortable topic, speaking with your physician is vital to getting to the root of what’s causing your symptoms. This is the key step to managing the issue. IdentifyEPI.com, sponsored by AbbVie, is a great place to learn more about EPI and take the Symptom Checker to help inform the conversation with your doctor.

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Receiving scam texts? [Infographic]

2021-10-04T05:01:00

(BPT) – Text message phishing, or SMiShing, is a text message scam that can compromise your finances and your identity. According to the Federal Trade Commission, popular tactics include asking to verify purchases, claiming issues with payment information, and offers to claim prizes or gift cards. With a little bit of caution, you can take steps to protect yourself, such as these tips from Navy Federal Credit Union.

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Flu Season 101: Six Tips for a Healthy, Balanced Immune System

2021-10-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Flu season is here, and this year, there are continued concerns and uncertainties and even more reason to be prepared. In the United States, flu season lasts from October to May, and there’s no better time to focus on strengthening your immune system to help mitigate against flu and other viruses.

Traditionally people look for ways to boost, but a healthy immune system is all a matter of balance. Only a healthy, balanced immune system can protect against the threat of virus and other health concerns associated with the fall and winter seasons.

How do you achieve a balanced immune system? Follow these six tips to keep you immune healthy now, during flu season, and all year long!

Look for opportunities to reduce stress. Lowering your stress level is crucial and may be one of the most important changes you can make. Consider daily meditation or a 10-minute yoga flow, either to start or end your day. Look for opportunities to build some downtime into your day whether it’s a walk on your lunch break or mid-day cup of tea. Finding time to unwind is so important and will make a difference in how you feel and enhance your immune system.

Make time for exercise. Exercise increases metabolic activity, mitochondria functions, better absorption from food, and better blood flow that increases nutrition supply to cells and detoxification processes on the cell and organ level. With better cell nutrition and energy supply, all organs work better, including the brain. Exercise helps to reduce stress and your immune system to perform at a high level. You should try to get in at least 30 minutes a day of moderate cardio like walking, swimming, biking or running. If you need a nudge, set a reminder in your phone or smartwatch to make sure you move!

Get enough sleep. When it comes to your health, sleep plays an important role. Without sufficient sleep, your body makes fewer cytokines which are a type of protein that targets infection and inflammation to effectively create an immune response. Additionally, chronic sleep loss makes the flu vaccine less effective by reducing your body’s ability to respond. So, make sure you get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to strengthen your defenses.

Balance, don’t boost, your immune system. Incorporate a daily immune support supplement to help keep your immune system balanced throughout the year. An all-natural immune supplement such as del-IMMUNE V Daily will replicate the intestine’s natural immune function which is to turn on and off when needed. During flu season when the threat of virus is high and throughout the year when bacteria, environmental agents and stress are a concern, you may want to consider stronger immune formulas such as del-IMMUNE V Defense.

Practice good hygiene. Hygiene is high on the list of priorities these days, and for good reason. Washing your hands is a small activity that can lead to big health benefits, as well as general cleaning and disinfecting of your home and work spaces. Here are some others:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are under the weather.
  • Continue to mask up to protect yourself and others.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Take time to get a flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine by the end of October to help protect against flu viruses.

Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious flu complications including young children, pregnant women, those with certain chronic conditions, and people 65 years and older. However, everyone’s situation is unique so discuss vaccination with your doctor to help make the best decision for you.

The benefits of a balanced immune system far outweigh the risk of flu, and adopting these small changes and habits will make a big difference. But, keep in mind that strengthening your immune system should always be a priority. So, start being immune healthy today, so that your healthy, balanced immune system will be prepared for flu season.

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What to Know: Resuming Your Pre-Pandemic Routine With Overactive Bladder Symptoms

2021-10-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – As vaccinations have become more widely available,[1] many people are starting to resume pre-pandemic activities.[2] For the 30 million Americans ages 40 and older impacted by overactive bladder or “OAB”, [3] returning to pre-pandemic activities can be stressful, as well as embarrassing, if they are worrying about the whereabouts of the nearest restroom.4 Unfortunately, this feeling of embarrassment means many with OAB are reluctant to discuss their symptoms, even with their own doctor.[4]

To call attention to the issue, TV host and journalist Debbie Matenopoulos connected with a women’s healthcare provider and patient to learn about the condition.

“While this is not something I’m dealing with in my life, OAB can affect women especially those my age and older,”2 said Matenopoulos. “I wanted to learn more about it and encourage anyone who may be reluctant to get help.”

Matenopoulos interviewed a woman named Marie, diagnosed by her physician with overactive bladder 8 years ago, as well as women’s health care expert Jo Ann Fisher, NP, to learn more about the symptoms, behavioral modifications and treatments for overactive bladder.

What is OAB?

“Overactive bladder is a condition marked by symptoms of urinary urgency, that ‘gotta go’ feeling, and frequent urination — generally eight or more times per day — and sometimes leaking urine,”2,[5] explained Fisher. “Overactive bladder can occur at any time of life, although it is more common in people as they age.”2,3

These symptoms can impact daily routines, especially when away from the home environment.[6]

“If I was at the pool swimming, I’d have to get out of the water and rush to the bathroom, quickly trying to undo my wet bathing suit while feeling that strong urge to urinate,” said Marie. “When I was at the gym, I’d get set up on the treadmill and frequently have to run to the ladies’ room. Exercising became really difficult.”

What can you do about OAB symptoms?

“Talk to your healthcare provider,” recommended Fisher. “It may not be easy to bring up, but your doctor is trained to understand OAB symptoms and can offer you the best advice.” [7]

If you’re mapping out where the bathrooms are or wearing darker clothing in case of leakage, it may help you to tell your doctor about what symptoms you’re experiencing.3

“When I started experiencing OAB symptoms, I was in tears. My husband encouraged me to talk to my doctor,” said Marie. “I have a friend who started experiencing symptoms of urinary urgency and frequency during the quarantine. She was at home anyway near her bathroom, but now that restrictions have lessened, she’s worried about her frequent need to run to the restroom. I shared my experience with her, and I hope to share it with others, because these symptoms can be managed.”

Management and treatment of OAB

Fisher recommends proactive measures that can help manage OAB symptoms, which your doctor may also advise. These include:

  • Avoiding dietary triggers that can worsen OAB symptoms, such as caffeine or acidic foods and drinks like red wine, tomato products and citrus.[8]
  • Keep a “bladder diary” to discover what foods or beverages make your symptoms worse.6
  • Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by learning to do “kegel” exercises.[9]
  • Prescription medication. Your doctor may also recommend prescription medication. For example, Myrbetriq (mirabegron extended-release tablets) is a prescription medicine for adults used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary urgency, frequency and leakage.[10]

“Myrbetriq has been on the market for nearly a decade since being FDA approved in 2012,”9 said Fisher. “It can help the bladder store urine.9 I talk to my patients about risks associated with Myrbetriq, including the potential for increased blood pressure, inability to empty the bladder and angioedema.”9 Please see additional Important Safety Information below.

Matenopoulos will be sharing highlights from her interview with Marie and Jo Ann Fisher via her social media. The full interview will be available for viewing on Myrbetriq.com.

“I learned a lot from this interview, and want to thank Jo Ann and Marie for sharing their experiences with me,” said Matenopoulos. “While I personally do not have OAB, I think it’s important for women with this condition to know they are not alone and that there is help out there.”

To learn more about Marie’s story and treatment for overactive bladder symptoms, visit Myrbetriq.com.

Use of Myrbetriq

MYRBETRIQ® (mirabegron extended-release tablets) is a prescription medicine for adults used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urgency, frequency and leakage.

Important Safety Information

Do not take MYRBETRIQ if you are allergic to mirabegron or any ingredients in MYRBETRIQ.

MYRBETRIQ may cause your blood pressure to increase or make your blood pressure worse if you have a history of high blood pressure. You and your doctor should check your blood pressure while you are taking MYRBETRIQ. Call your doctor if you have increased blood pressure.

MYRBETRIQ may increase your chances of not being able to empty your bladder. Tell your doctor right away if you have trouble emptying your bladder or you have a weak urine stream.

MYRBETRIQ may cause an allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue with or without difficulty breathing. Stop using MYRBETRIQ and go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take including medications for overactive bladder or other medicines especially thioridazine (Mellaril™ and Mellaril-S™), flecainide (Tambocor®), propafenone (Rythmol®), digoxin (Lanoxin®) or solifenacin succinate (VESIcare®). MYRBETRIQ may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how MYRBETRIQ works.

Before taking MYRBETRIQ, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems.

The most common side effects of MYRBETRIQ include high blood pressure, pain or swelling of the
nose or throat (nasopharyngitis), urinary tract infection, and headache.

For further information, please talk to your healthcare professional and see accompanying Patient Product Information and complete Prescribing Information for MYRBETRIQ® (mirabegron extended-release tablets).

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

To learn more about Marie’s story and treatment for overactive bladder symptoms, visit Myrbetriq.com.

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program. This article is sponsored by Astellas. Marie is a real Myrbetriq patient. Astellas compensated Marie to share her story. This article features other participants, including a healthcare professional, who have been compensated by Astellas.

Myrbetriq® is a registered trademark of Astellas Pharma Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

© 2021 Astellas Pharma US, Inc. All rights reserved.


[1] CDC. Key Things to Know About COVID-19 Vaccines (08-19-2021). https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/keythingstoknow.html. Accessed 08-26-2021.

[2] The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The June 2021 AP-NORC Center Poll (06-18-2021). https://apnorc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COVID-June-topline.pdf. Accessed 08-02-2021.

[3] Coyne KS, Sexton CC, Vats V, Thompson C, Kopp ZS, Milsom I. National community prevalence of overactive bladder in the United States stratified by sex and age. Urology 2011;77(5):1081-7.

[4] MacDiarmid SA. Maximizing the treatment of overactive bladder in the elderly. Rev Urol 2008;10(1):6-13.

[5] Gormley EA, Lightner DJ, Burgio KL, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of overactive bladder (non-neurogenic) in adults: AUA/SUFU guideline. American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. 2019.

[6] Reynolds WS, Fowke J, Dmochowski R. The burden of overactive bladder on U.S. public health. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep 2016;11(1):8-13.

[7] Wyman JF, Burgio KL, Newman DK. Practical aspects of lifestyle modifications and behavioural interventions in the treatment of overactive bladder and urgency urinary incontinence. Int J Clin Pract 2009;63(8):1177-91.

[8] Interstitial Cystitis Network. 2012 ICN Food List for Interstitial Cystitis, Bladder Pain Syndrome, Overactive Bladder (2012). http://icnetwork.com/downloads/2012icnfoodlist.pdf. Accessed 04-21-2021.

[9] National Institutes of Health. What I Need to Know About Bladder Control for Women. NIH Publication No. 07-4195. Bethesda, MD: National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, 2007.

[10] Myrbetriq [package insert]. Northbrook, IL; Astellas Pharma U.S., Inc.