Category: Brandpoint Health

2025-01-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Michel, a psychiatric nurse from Southern California, has always been someone who is deeply committed to helping others take control of their health. He didn’t realize that one day he would be the one needing care.

A few years after being diagnosed with Graves’ disease, a common form of hyperthyroidism, Michel noticed his eyes starting to bulge a bit, accompanied by symptoms of dryness, eye pain and difficulty sleeping because his eyes wouldn’t fully close.

“I assumed it was part of my Graves’ disease and then I went to get a routine eye exam for new glasses and my doctor diagnosed me with Thyroid Eye Disease (TED),” said Michel. “Even though I’m a nurse, I did not know about TED until my diagnosis.”

TED is a chronic autoimmune condition that may affect many people with Graves’ disease. TED occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the muscle and fat tissue behind the eyes, causing eye bulging, eye pain, double vision and pressure behind the eyes. These symptoms can be mild or severe and may flare or get worse over time.

Despite receiving this diagnosis, Michel still had no clear treatment path and his symptoms began to severely impact his life. “I began to withdraw from social situations and struggled with changes in my appearance. I was afraid of unwanted attention and comments from others due to my eye bulging,” said Michel.

Simple tasks, like using a computer or phone, became difficult because of Michel’s double vision and eye pain.

Treatment with TEPEZZA^® (teprotumumab-trbw)

While watching TV, Michel saw a commercial for TEPEZZA, the first and only FDA-approved medication to treat TED, no matter if you’d lived with TED for months or years.

“After four years of struggling with my TED symptoms, I was relieved to learn there was an approved and specific treatment option available for people like me,” said Michel.

After discussing the risks and benefits with his doctor, Michel was connected with a home health service and began receiving his infusions at home. TEPEZZA is administered intravenously every three weeks over a course of eight infusions, with the full treatment lasting about five months. By the second infusion, Michel started noticing positive changes, and after completing his eighth infusion, Michel saw a significant improvement in his symptoms of eye pain and eye bulging.

Michel did experience some side effects during his treatment with TEPEZZA. Common side effects include muscle cramps or spasms, nausea, hair loss, diarrhea, feeling tired, high blood sugar, hearing problems, taste changes, headache, dry skin, weight loss, nail problems and changes in menstruation.

After treatment with TEPEZZA, “I no longer fear unwanted attention. My eye bulging has decreased and my eye pain has subsided,” said Michel. “I look and feel more like myself again.” Infusion reactions, like high blood pressure or difficulty breathing, can happen during or within 24 hours after an infusion of TEPEZZA. Please see Important Safety Information below.

TED Education and Advocacy

With his background in nursing, Michel knows the value of education and self-advocacy. To support others newly diagnosed or living with TED, Michel offers the following advice:

• Advocate for yourself and your symptoms. Even if they aren’t visible, be vocal about how they affect your daily life. Have you stopped doing a hobby you love or find it difficult to use a computer due to your TED symptoms? Tell your doctor.
• Some doctors still think if you have been living with TED for a long time, you are not a candidate for TEPEZZA — but this is not entirely true. Even if you’ve had bulging eyes for years due to TED, you can still experience improvement through treatment with TEPEZZA.
• Not all eye doctors are used to treating TED, which is why you should see a doctor who specializes in it. Make sure you’re seeing a TED Specialist, such as an oculoplastic surgeon, neuro-ophthalmologist or endocrinologist, who has experience with the condition.
• Visit TEPEZZA.com to learn more and find a TED Specialist.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

Infusion reactions can happen during or within 24 hours after your infusion of TEPEZZA. If you have a reaction while receiving TEPEZZA, your doctor or nurse will slow or stop your infusion and treat your reaction. If you have a severe infusion reaction, your doctor may stop your treatment completely.

Tell your doctor or nurse right away if you have any of these symptoms during or after your treatment with TEPEZZA:

High blood pressure	Difficulty breathing
Fast heartbeat	Headache
Redness of the face/Feeling hot	Muscle pain

If you have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, TEPEZZA may make your IBD symptoms worse. Symptoms of worsening IBD may include: an increased number of loose stools with stomach pain or cramps, and blood in your stools. After each TEPEZZA infusion, tell your doctor right away if you have worsening IBD symptoms.

TEPEZZA may cause an increase in your blood sugar. Before starting treatment with TEPEZZA, tell your doctor if you are currently being treated for diabetes, know your blood sugar is high, or have been diagnosed with diabetes. It is important for you to take your treatments and follow an appropriate diet for glucose control as prescribed by your doctor.

TEPEZZA may cause severe hearing problems including hearing loss, which in some cases may be permanent. Tell your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms of hearing problems or changes in hearing.

Before receiving TEPEZZA, tell your doctor if you:

• Have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).
• Are currently being treated for diabetes, have been diagnosed with diabetes, or know your blood sugar is high.
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. TEPEZZA may harm your unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant or suspect you are pregnant during treatment with TEPEZZA.
  • Women who are able to become pregnant should use an effective form of birth control (contraception) prior to starting treatment, during treatment and for at least 6 months after the final dose of TEPEZZA.
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TEPEZZA passes into your breast milk. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to feed your baby during treatment with TEPEZZA.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, dietary and herbal supplements. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

What are the possible side effects of TEPEZZA?

The most common side effects of TEPEZZA include muscle cramps or spasms, nausea, hair loss, diarrhea, feeling tired, high blood sugar, hearing problems, taste changes, headache, dry skin, weight loss, nail problems, and changes in menstruation.

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Tell your doctor or treatment team about any side effect you may have.

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

Please visit TEPEZZA.com for more information.

USE

TEPEZZA is a prescription medicine used to treat Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), no matter if you’ve had TED for months or years.

© 2025 Amgen Inc. All rights reserved. USA-632-80059 01/25

2025-01-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – “I was out of breath all the time.”

For Julie, it was a diagnosis that came as a shock — and had a huge impact on her life. She started having exacerbations that were so bad, she said, “just about anything” made it difficult for her to breathe. And, when she made it to her doctor, the diagnosis she received surprised her: Julie had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

COPD is a progressive disease that can damage the lungs and makes it harder to breathe. People living with COPD can experience constant, persistent cough and difficulty breathing when doing daily activities, such as getting dressed in the morning, walking up the stairs, or going to work.

Julie, who is sharing her story in partnership with Sanofi and Regeneron, had worked as a server at a restaurant in western Florida for 17 years before her COPD became too much and she had to quit. She tried various treatments but was still having symptoms. “The doctor had said that I needed oxygen at night, so I did that for a couple of years. The most difficult was when I had to use a rescue inhaler what seemed like every hour on the hour because I couldn’t breathe well at all.”

Between the impact on her daily life and inhaled treatments that just weren’t doing enough, Julie knew that she had to make a change. So, when she heard about a clinical trial for a new type of COPD medicine, she jumped at the opportunity to participate.

Fast forward six months and Julie noticed a difference after taking Dupixent^® (dupilumab) as part of a clinical trial. Dupixent was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in September 2024 as a prescription medicine used with other medicines for maintenance treatment of adults with inadequately controlled COPD and a high number of blood eosinophils (a type of white blood cell that may contribute to your COPD). In two clinical trials, Dupixent reduced the number of flare-ups and helped patients breathe better with long-lasting lung function improvement over one year.

Dupixent is not used to relieve sudden breathing problems and will not replace an inhaled rescue medicine.

Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in Dupixent. The most common side effects in patients with COPD include injection site reactions, common cold symptoms (nasopharyngitis), high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia), viral infection, back pain, inflammation inside the nose (rhinitis), diarrhea, gastritis, joint pain (arthralgia), toothache, headache, and urinary tract infection.

Please see additional Important Safety Information below.

Julie’s personal experience in the Dupixent clinical trial breathed fresh air into how she approaches her life. “Before I started taking it, I couldn’t walk very far. I would get so out of breath walking the length of my house,” she explained. “Then I started taking Dupixent and I was able to do more and walk farther around the block.” Individual results may vary.

Fifty-one percent of patients that received Dupixent in the clinical trials reported an improvement in their day-to-day lives*.

Encouraged by her improved lung function and less exacerbations, Julie adopted a dog — something she didn’t think would be an option for her. “Now, because I can breathe better, I can have a dog that doesn’t need a fenced-in yard. I can go outside with her in the morning and take her out and we can go on walks.”

In the U.S., approximately 300,000 people live with inadequately controlled COPD and a high number of eosinophils like Julie, and many continue to experience exacerbations, or flare-ups, despite taking inhaled medicines. Upon diagnosis, a blood test measuring the amount of eosinophils can help provide insights into a patient’s COPD and their management plan. Although there’s been some progress in the treatment of COPD, there has been a strong need for novel treatment approaches, particularly for patients whose disease is not well controlled on inhaled therapies alone. Dupixent is a first-of-its-kind add-on maintenance treatment that can reduce the number of flare-ups and can help improve breathing.

Julie is excited for the possibilities that have opened up for her. “I can go to the store and walk around and not be so out of breath like I used to be. I even got a job which I thought was pretty good for a 78-year-old!”

*Assessed by a quality of life tool called SGRQ that measures COPD symptoms physical activity, emotional well-being, and social functioning. In two trials, 51% of patients who received Dupixent + standard of care therapy experienced a quality of life improvement vs 43% and 47% with placebo + standard of care therapy. In one trial, results are descriptive; no definitive conclusions can be made.

Learn more about Dupixent here.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATION

Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT^®.

Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have eye problems.
• have a parasitic (helminth) infection.
• are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” right before and during treatment with DUPIXENT.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby.
  • A pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy collects information about the health of you and your baby. To enroll or get more information call 1-877-311-8972 or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/dupixent/.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

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

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking oral, topical, or inhaled corticosteroid medicines or have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and also have asthma. Do not change or stop your other medicines, including corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine, without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by those medicines to come back.

DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions. DUPIXENT can cause allergic reactions that can sometimes be severe. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms: breathing problems or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, fast pulse, fever, hives, joint pain, general ill feeling, itching, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, or cramps in your stomach-area.
• Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision, such as blurred vision. Your healthcare provider may send you to an ophthalmologist for an exam if needed.
• Joint aches and pain. Some people who use DUPIXENT have had trouble walking or moving due to their joint symptoms, and in some cases needed to be hospitalized. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or worsening joint symptoms. Your healthcare provider may stop DUPIXENT if you develop joint symptoms.

The most common side effects in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease include injection site reactions, common cold symptoms (nasopharyngitis), high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia), viral infection, back pain, inflammation inside the nose (rhinitis), diarrhea, gastritis, joint pain (arthralgia), toothache, headache, and urinary tract infection.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 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.

Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Your healthcare provider will decide if you or your caregiver can inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to prepare and inject DUPIXENT until you or your caregiver have been trained by your healthcare provider.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information including Patient Information.

INDICATION

DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used with other medicines for the maintenance treatment of adults with inadequately controlled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a high number of blood eosinophils (a type of white blood cell that may contribute to your COPD). DUPIXENT is used to reduce the number of flare-ups (the worsening of your COPD symptoms for several days) and can improve your breathing. DUPIXENT is not used to relieve sudden breathing problems and will not replace an inhaled rescue medicine. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease under 18 years of age.

US.DUP.24.11.0062

11/2024

2025-01-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Welcome to 2025! This new year is full of opportunities to improve your life and rethink your priorities. Do you know what goals you want to achieve this year?

If you’re thinking about improving your health and wellness, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey, 79% of people that make resolutions focus them on their health.¹

Not sure where to start? Consider the following habits to kick and adopt in 2025. This year, you can meet your health and wellness goals. Remember, you should strive for progress, not perfection. Every change you make, big or small, brings you one step closer to a better, healthier you in 2025.

What to kick

Smoking is still the leading cause of preventable disease and death, with more than 480,000 deaths per year.² Also, on average, smoking decreases your life expectancy. However, quitting smoking can add as much as 10 years to your life expectancy.³

Quitting smoking is easier said than done. Tobacco can be a difficult addiction to kick. However, you don’t have to quit smoking on your own. There are many resources at your disposal to help you stop smoking for good.

For example, visit your local CVS Pharmacy^® to find smoking cessation products and resources such as gum, lozenges and patches designed to help curb your nicotine craving. As a leading health care organization, CVS^® is the first national chain drug retailer to stop selling tobacco products in 2014.

As part of its commitment to helping consumers live a tobacco-free life, MinuteClinic^®, the medical clinic located inside select CVS Pharmacy locations, created the START TO STOP^® smoking cessation program, which provides individualized support to help patients quit smoking.

3 habits to adopt

1. Hydration: Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways for someone to improve their health and well-being. Regular hydration can improve brain function and digestion, increase energy, prevent kidney stones and aid in weight management.⁴

To help you stay hydrated, keep a reusable water bottle on hand. You can even keep one at home, one in the car and one at the office, so you always have an easy way to drink water all day, every day.

2. SPF: Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer. Not only can sunscreen help prevent skin cancer, but using products with an SPF of 30 or higher can also help prevent premature skin aging, wrinkles and age spots caused by too much unprotected UV exposure.⁵

Get into the habit of using products with an SPF of 30 or higher year-round, not just on sunny days when you’re outdoors. For example, choose an SPF moisturizer to provide daily UV protection.

3. Sleep: Don’t underestimate the benefits of a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep can help people get sick less often, reduce stress, improve mood, attention and memory, and lower the risk of chronic conditions.⁶

If someone has trouble sleeping, going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day, even on the weekends, may help in getting into a better sleep routine. Before going to bed, people generally should lower the lights, turn off screens and do quiet, relaxing activities.

You may also need a sleep aid to help you drift off. If you’re interested in exploring sleep support products that may be right for you, CVS has a variety of options to consider.

To learn more about the resources available to you to help with your healthy habits this year and get started on a tobacco-free life, visit the Stop Smoking Resource Hub at CVS.com.

Sources:

1. Gracia, Shanay. “New Year’s Resolutions: Who Makes Them and Why.” Pew Research Center. Access: www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/29/new-years-resolutions-who-makes-them-and-why/.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “About Health Effects of Cigarette Smoking.” Access: www.cdc.gov/tobacco/about/index.html.

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Benefits of Quitting Smoking.” Access: www.cdc.gov/tobacco/about/benefits-of-quitting.html.

4. National Council on Aging. “10 Reasons Why Hydration Is Important.” Access: www.ncoa.org/article/10-reasons-why-hydration-is-important/.

5. American Academy of Dermatology Association. “Sunscreen FAQs.” Access: https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen

6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “About Sleep.” Access: www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html. Them and Why.” Pew Research Center, 29 Jan. 2024, www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/29/new-years-resolutions-who-makes-them-and-why/.

2025-01-09T13:01:00

(BPT) – For many, winter is a time for ice skating, cozy family gatherings, and hitting the slopes, but for the 28 million people in the U.S. living with asthma, winter can pose unique challenges. Colder weather can mean airway irritation and tightening, increasing the risk of asthma attacks and making this season much trickier to navigate.

We recently spoke with Linda, whose daughter Elle lives with severe asthma, and Dr. Andrea Espinoza, a board-certified pulmonologist, who shared their experiences and tips for navigating asthma during this frosty season.

We’ve all experienced dry hands and lips in the winter, but seasonal dry air can also cause airways in the lungs to narrow, making it harder to breathe and potentially triggering an asthma attack. For Elle, both the winter air inside and outside are irritants. “Elle loves playing outside but the cold air can trigger her asthma, and the dry air caused by central heating does too, which can be tough to avoid,” Linda shared. To prepare for the drier weather, Dr. Espinoza urges those with asthma to “remember to have a rescue inhaler handy.”

2. Say hello to increased hand washing

As the weather cools, seasonal artwork isn’t the only thing that children are bringing home from school. For people with asthma, respiratory illnesses such as the flu, COVID-19 or the common cold can make breathing even more difficult or trigger an attack. Linda recalled a time when Elle caught a cold during the winter season: “It was a very frightening experience because she was having trouble breathing, her lips turned blue and she was having difficulty speaking, and this time her rescue inhaler was not alleviating her symptoms.”

When it comes to combating winter viruses, Dr. Espinoza recommends practicing good hygiene and remembering that “certain common cold symptoms, such as coughing, should not be taken lightly for those with asthma. Cough, fatigue, wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in your chest, or dizziness can be early signs of the airway tightening and should be communicated with a healthcare specialist, especially if symptoms don’t resolve on their own.”

3. Stay safe on (and off) the slopes

Whether you ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or just enjoy sitting by the fire, it’s important to remember that winter vacation destinations are often at much higher elevations, where the air is thinner. When traveling to the mountains, Dr. Espinoza recommends “having an extra rescue inhaler on hand in your carry-on.” She also recommends “keeping a peak flow meter handy, so if there is a decline in peak flow, you know to seek urgent care.” Knowing where to find the nearest urgent care or ER is also helpful when traveling. Most importantly, be sure to talk to your doctor to have the appropriate preparations and treatments in place before traveling.

4. Stay ahead of the chill with an asthma management plan

Some people with moderate-to-severe asthma are living with symptoms that are difficult to control, especially in response to winter-time triggers, so it’s important to be on the lookout for signs that you may need a new or different treatment. According to Dr. Espinoza, considerations for treatment plan changes or additions to treatment would be: increased use of a rescue inhaler more than two times per week, nighttime symptoms of asthma (such as coughing or wheezing) waking you from your sleep or limiting your physical activities due to symptoms. For Elle, Linda said that “her previous treatment regimen wasn’t enough,” so she reached out to a pediatric asthma specialist, who recommended DUPIXENT^® (dupilumab), which is an add-on maintenance treatment for moderate-to-severe eosinophilic or oral corticosteroid dependent asthma that can help prevent attacks.

It targets two of the key sources of airway inflammation in asthma, and can improve lung function, so that you can breathe better in as little as two weeks. Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of treatment with Dupixent, including the most common side effects such as injection site reactions, and some serious side effects including allergic reactions that can sometimes be severe, inflammation of your blood vessels, and joint aches and pain.

“Enjoying wintertime while being prepared may allow both patients and caregivers to do more during the season,” Dr. Espinoza told us. Visit MoreYouLessAsthma.com to learn more about a treatment option and explore educational resources.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATION

Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT^®.

Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have a parasitic (helminth) infection
• are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” right before and during treatment with DUPIXENT.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby.
  • A pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy collects information about the health of you and your baby. To enroll or get more information call 1-877-311-8972 or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/dupixent/.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

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

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking oral, topical, or inhaled corticosteroid medicines or use an asthma medicine. Do not change or stop your corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine to come back.

DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions. DUPIXENT can cause allergic reactions that can sometimes be severe. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms: breathing problems or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, fast pulse, fever, hives, joint pain, general ill feeling, itching, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, or cramps in your stomach-area.
• Inflammation of your blood vessels. Rarely, this can happen in people with asthma who receive DUPIXENT. This may happen in people who also take a steroid medicine by mouth that is being stopped or the dose is being lowered. It is not known whether this is caused by DUPIXENT. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have: rash, chest pain, worsening shortness of breath, a feeling of pins and needles or numbness of your arms or legs, or persistent fever.
• Joint aches and pain. Some people who use DUPIXENT have had trouble walking or moving due to their joint symptoms, and in some cases needed to be hospitalized. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or worsening joint symptoms. Your healthcare provider may stop DUPIXENT if you develop joint symptoms.

The most common side effects in patients with asthma include injection site reactions, high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia), pain in the throat (oropharyngeal pain), and parasitic (helminth) infections.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 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.

Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Your healthcare provider will decide if you or your caregiver can inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to prepare and inject DUPIXENT until you or your caregiver have been trained by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it’s recommended DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult. In children 6 to less than 12 years of age, DUPIXENT should be given by a caregiver.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information including Patient Information.

Indication

DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used with other asthma medicines for the maintenance treatment of moderate-to-severe eosinophilic or oral steroid dependent asthma in adults and children 6 years of age and older whose asthma is not controlled with their current asthma medicines. DUPIXENT helps prevent severe asthma attacks (exacerbations) and can improve your breathing. DUPIXENT may also help reduce the amount of oral corticosteroids you need while preventing severe asthma attacks and improving your breathing. DUPIXENT is not used to relieve sudden breathing problems and will not replace an inhaled rescue medicine. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with asthma under 6 years of age.

2025-01-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – By Satya Jonnalagadda, PhD, MBA, RDN

With obesity rates tripling over the past 60 years, anti-obesity medications have become a game-changing tool in a persistent public health crisis. But they are just that: a tool, not a standalone solution.

The excitement over GLP-1 medications has led to some misconceptions. Many view them as a “miracle shot” for weight loss, but the truth is, there is no single solution for weight loss. Healthy eating, physical activity, and lifestyle changes are the foundation of every weight loss journey, and new research emphasizes the importance of all three when taking a GLP-1.

One challenge with GLP-1 medications is that while you certainly lose weight fast, it also impacts your muscle. A recent study found that up to 50% of weight lost while taking a GLP-1 medication can come from muscle*. Over the course of 12-18 months, the muscle lost is comparable to a decade of age-related muscle loss**.

The research emphasizes that proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and healthy habits can all make a difference. Practical lifestyle strategies and meal plans can help individuals minimize muscle loss while optimizing weight loss. Brands like OPTAVIA have made it simpler by incorporating this advice into new products with higher protein and personalized coaching.

3 steps to healthy, medical weight loss

1. Prioritize protein

Protein is the building block of muscle — an essential nutrient for any weight loss journey, but particularly important for those taking GLP-1s. Since muscle can account for up to half of total weight lost with these medications, adequate high-quality protein intake is critical.

To encourage healthier weight loss, experts recommend consuming at least 1.2 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, spread across meals**.

Nutrition is not simple, but there’s support available. Programs like OPTAVIA offer support with easy-to-follow scientifically backed meal plans and a new high-protein product line tailored to GLP-1 users. Look for resources like this — things that make it easier to meet your protein needs without overcomplicating your routine.

2. Find a community or support system to motivate you to create healthy habits

Sustainable weight loss is about more than numbers on a scale — it’s about creating habits that stick. Trying to overhaul your diet, exercise and habits all at once can be overwhelming. The most successful weight loss journeys incorporate support. That’s where a coach can make all the difference.

Coaches offer guidance — they provide accountability, motivation, and in many cases, personalized support. Look for solutions that incorporate nutrition, exercise and community in one place. OPTAVIA has coaches, tailored meal plans and programs that are useful for everyone pursuing weight loss — with or without medication. For GLP-1 users, there’s even a plan tailored for their specific weight loss and nutritional needs.

3. Combine nutrition and exercise

The most effective way to preserve muscle is to pair a protein-rich diet with regular physical activity.

Exercise doesn’t just burn calories — it’s critical for healthy weight loss. It helps protect and rebuild muscle — making it especially important for those taking GLP-1 medications. Resistance training, like lifting weights or using resistance bands, can be particularly effective. Just two sessions a week targeting all major muscle groups can make a difference.

This synergy between nutrition and exercise enhances the benefits of GLP-1 medications, supporting healthier weight loss and better long-term outcomes.

The path forward

While GLP-1 medications are a powerful tool, one thing is clear: they are only one piece of the puzzle. Like all weight loss journeys, they work best when combined with a holistic approach to health.

Lifestyle changes may seem daunting, but the right support can make it simple. Brands like OPTAVIA offer straightforward, scientifically backed plans, personalized coaching, and a supportive community all in one place. If you’re looking for meal plans and support tailored to your journey while on medication, look into OPTAVIA ASCEND, a new line of products and nutrition plans designed specifically for people on GLP-1 medications. With the right strategies and guidance, you can lose weight in a way that helps you feel strong, energetic and healthy.

*Sargeant JA, Henson J, King JA, Yates T, Khunti K, Davies MJ. A Review of the Effects of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Lean Body Mass in Humans. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul). 2019 Sep;34(3):247-262. doi: 10.3803/EnM.2019.34.3.247.

**Grosicki GJ, Dhurandhar NV, Unick JL, Arent SM, Thomas JG, Lofton H, Shepherd MC, Kiel J, Coleman C, Jonnalagadda SS. Sculpting Success: The Importance of Diet and Physical Activity to Support Skeletal Muscle Health during Weight Loss with New Generation Anti-Obesity Medications. Curr Dev Nutr. 2024 Oct 18;8(11):104486. doi: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.104486.

2025-01-06T04:01:00

(BPT) – As he approached his 40th birthday, Andrew began experiencing strange symptoms — fatigue, bone pain and frequent trips to the bathroom. Though unsettling, “I didn’t think much of them and chalked the symptoms up to things that tend to happen in middle age,” recalls the attorney and father of three. “I felt like I was constantly experiencing a low-level allergic reaction: my skin was itchy, and my eyes were watery and itchy. I felt uncomfortable in my own skin.”

But when he began to develop unusual spots on his torso, his dermatologist recommended a biopsy and a few other tests. A few days later, his doctor called with a shocking diagnosis: a rare disease called indolent systemic mastocytosis, or ISM. “It was incredible to realize all these different symptoms were related,” says Andrew.

ISM is caused by the uncontrolled increase and activity of abnormal mast cells, which play an important role in immune responses. As the cells accumulate and activate in different parts of the body, the disease can cause chronic, potentially debilitating symptoms such as skin lesions, diarrhea, fatigue, bone pain and life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms of ISM are often unpredictable and can be caused by a wide range of triggers including foods and beverages, odors and scents, temperature changes, exercise, stress and more.

In addition to the toll of his physical symptoms, the appearance of his skin spots began to have a negative impact on Andrew mentally. “It made me feel really self-conscious,” he remembers. “I didn’t like looking at them in the mirror, and I avoided taking my shirt off at the pool or beach — I lost some of my confidence.”

Because his dermatologist wasn’t familiar with ISM, Andrew and his wife Shannon found a specialist in Boston. Together, they flew across the country, from their home state of Oregon, in search of help.

Seeking symptom relief

With no approved ISM treatments at the time, Andrew’s plan before he saw a specialist focused solely on reactive care. “I was treating my symptoms with eye drops when my eyes felt itchy, antihistamines when I felt reactive, and antacids when my stomach was upset. Sometimes the medications worked, sometimes they didn’t. I never knew when to expect symptoms. It felt like a game of ‘whack-a-mole’ using various medications to manage the ever-changing and unpredictable symptoms.”

A terrifying experience

A few years after his consultation with an expert on ISM, Andrew was out “in the middle of nowhere” in Idaho on a rafting trip with family and friends, when he was stung by a wasp or bee. “I ended up experiencing anaphylaxis, and because I didn’t know I was allergic, I didn’t have an epinephrine injector. Everyone around me was panicking. Fortunately, my good friend who is a physician brought a medical kit, which included a vial of epinephrine. He injected me, and I believe he saved my life right there.”

“This was an incredibly scary episode for me, and for my family. I would say that was a wake-up call. I became much more interested in researching and exploring different treatment options for ISM that went beyond supportive care. I wanted to take a more proactive approach to my care.”

Targeting the underlying cause

Andrew was now seeing a hematologist who recommended a treatment that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved called AYVAKIT^® (avapritinib) for adults with ISM. Andrew and his hematologist discussed the potential benefits and side effects of AYVAKIT and decided together that Andrew would try it.

AYVAKIT is a once daily pill that works by selectively targeting the KIT D816V mutation, the underlying cause of the disease in ~95% of patients with ISM which results in the overproduction and activation of abnormal mast cells. AYVAKIT is not recommended in people with low platelet counts (less than 50 X 10⁹/L). AYVAKIT for ISM may cause serious side effects such as cognitive effects and skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). AYVAKIT can have harmful effects on pregnancy and fertility as well as cause harm to the unborn baby. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information.

“I was encouraged to hear there was another option for me and hopeful that AYVAKIT could improve some of my most bothersome symptoms.”

Please see Important Safety Information below and click here for full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

‘Comfortable in my own skin’

Andrew started taking AYVAKIT in October of 2023. “I’m glad that I took the leap and decided to try AYVAKIT after talking it over with my doctor. Now I’m more than a year into treatment, and so far, I haven’t experienced cognitive side effects, which I was concerned would impact my work.”

While he still takes precautions on his family adventures rock climbing and skiing, Andrew has noticed changes in his ISM symptoms. “My skin spots are lighter and my tryptase (allergic reactive marker) levels are lower, which is reassuring to me. My spots are still there, and I occasionally feel fatigued, but overall though, I feel my symptoms are better. I feel comfortable in my own skin.”

“I would love to encourage other people with ISM to chart their own course and lean in to finding a solution. Everyone’s experience is going to be different, but there are solutions out there, you just have to find them. So do your own research, ask your own questions, and do what is right for you.”

Please click here to see the full Prescribing Information and Patient Information for AYVAKIT.

WHAT IS AYVAKIT^® (avapritinib)?

AYVAKIT^® (avapritinib) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM). AYVAKIT is not recommended in people with low platelet counts (less than 50 X 10⁹ /L). It is not known if AYVAKIT is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

AYVAKIT^® (avapritinib) may cause serious side effects, including:

Cognitive effects. Cognitive side effects can happen during treatment with AYVAKIT and can be severe. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop any new or worsening cognitive symptoms including forgetfulness, confusion, getting lost, trouble thinking, drowsiness, trouble staying awake (somnolence), word finding problems, seeing objects or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), or a change in mood or behavior.

Skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Your skin may be sensitive to the sun or other forms of light (photosensitivity) during treatment with AYVAKIT. Avoid or limit exposure to direct sunlight, sunlamps, and other sources of ultraviolet radiation during treatment and for 1 week after stopping treatment with AYVAKIT. Use sunscreen or wear clothes that cover your skin if you need to be out in the sun.

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

• history of bulging or weakening of a blood vessel wall (aneurysm) or bleeding in your brain
• have a history of stroke within the last year
• have low platelet counts
• have or have had liver problems
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. AYVAKIT can cause harm to your unborn baby
  • Females who are able to become pregnant: Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start AYVAKIT. You should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with AYVAKIT and for 6 weeks after the final dose of AYVAKIT. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that may be right for you. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with AYVAKIT.
  • Males with female partners who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment and for 6 weeks after the final dose of AYVAKIT.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if AYVAKIT passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with AYVAKIT and for at least 2 weeks after the final dose of AYVAKIT. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during this time

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. AYVAKIT may affect the way other medicines work, and certain other medicines may affect how AYVAKIT works. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take estrogen-containing hormonal birth control or medicines that prevent blood clots.

Do not drive or operate hazardous machinery if you have confusion or trouble thinking during treatment with AYVAKIT.

The most common side effects of AYVAKIT in people with ISM include: swelling around your eyes, dizziness, swelling of your arms and legs, and flushing.

Your healthcare provider may change your dose, temporarily stop, or permanently stop treatment with AYVAKIT if you develop certain side effects. AYVAKIT may cause fertility problems in females and males. Talk to your healthcare provider if this is a concern for you.

These are not all of the possible side effects of AYVAKIT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

AYVAKIT is available in 25 mg tablets.

This promotional content was developed by Blueprint Medicines Corporation, the manufacturer of AYVAKIT. Individual results may vary. Andrew is being compensated by Blueprint Medicines for sharing his story.

AYVAKIT, Blueprint Medicines and associated logos are trademarks of Blueprint Medicines Corporation.

© 2024 Blueprint Medicines Corporation.

To learn more and connect with others about their experience, including AYVAKIT, visit AYVAKIT.com.

2024-12-19T23:01:00

(BPT) – The summer spike in COVID-19 infections, triggered in part by a rise in new variants of the virus, was an unpleasant reminder that COVID-19 is here to stay. As we brace for an anticipated larger wave of COVID-19 cases during the fall and winter respiratory season, healthcare professionals want to remind the public that the virus does not affect everyone equally; some people, because of their age or overall health, may be at greater risk for severe illness.^1,2

Age and other risk factors for severe COVID-19

Age is a major risk factor for severe COVID-19.² As people get older their immune system weakens and they have a harder time fighting off infections, putting them at higher risk for severe outcomes from viruses like COVID-19.² People with severe outcomes from COVID-19 who are at higher risk may need to go to the hospital emergency room (ER) for care; some may need to be admitted to the hospital or even to the intensive care unit (ICU).³ Once admitted, it becomes important to treat them quickly according to COVID-19 treatment guidelines and avoid waiting to see if their symptoms worsen.⁴ Data show that in the U.S. from October 2023 to April 2024, more than 70% of COVID-19-related hospitalizations occurred in people aged 65 and older; this age group also represents more than 81% of COVID-19-related deaths.^2,5

Like the elderly, people who are immunocompromised or are taking medicines that weaken their immune system (such as some cancer treatments) have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes.² People with certain health conditions, such as chronic lung or heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and kidney or liver disease, may also be more likely to get very sick from COVID-19.^4,6 In a recent study, 80% of adults hospitalized with COVID-19 from October 2023 to April 2024 had at least two other medical conditions.⁵

With this understanding of how COVID-19 risk factors might affect different people, a team at Gilead Sciences was keen to understand if there were other ways COVID-19 affects people differently. In partnership with The Harris Poll, the team conducted a survey in the U.S. among 3,000 non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic adults aged 18 years and older who were diagnosed with COVID-19 or long COVID in the past year.⁷

Survey uncovers racial and ethnic differences in COVID-19

Results of the Harris Poll survey, conducted from March 12 to April 1, 2024, suggest that COVID-19 is not just one disease.⁷

Black and Hispanic people who developed COVID-19 or long COVID (a condition in which symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years after a COVID-19 infection) were more likely to experience certain symptoms than White people, such as chronic chest pain or pressure, but less likely to have other associated symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, and headache.⁷ The researchers also assessed the severity of symptoms and found that Hispanic people were more likely than White people to have reported either somewhat or very severe symptoms at the start of their illness.⁷

Gaps in access to healthcare

The survey highlighted disparities in accessing healthcare and its impact on both the severity of COVID-19 and long COVID and how it is treated by healthcare providers.^7,8,9 Hispanic people who developed COVID-19 or long COVID reported having more difficulty accessing care, and both Black and Hispanic people were more likely to receive special medications and early oxygen support, compared with White people.⁷

When asked what factors influenced their care, Black and Hispanic people were about five times and four times more likely, respectively, to report receiving different healthcare based on their race or ethnicity, and about three and two times more likely, respectively, to perceive racial or ethnic discrimination during their medical care, compared with White people.⁷

“Minorities often face cultural, economic, and geographical barriers that may make it harder to obtain healthcare for COVID-19 or long COVID. Delays in receiving needed medical care may worsen a person’s existing condition and put them at higher risk of severe illness,” said Dr. Anu Osinusi, Vice President, Clinical Research for Hepatitis, Respiratory and Emerging Viruses at Gilead. “Understanding the root causes of racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 is crucial for improving care and reducing the high burden of the disease among minority populations.”

To address these inequities, it is important to continue working with communities and influential leaders within these communities to provide the most recent information about COVID-19 and how the disease impacts its members. Gilead’s focus is to evaluate and communicate barriers to healthcare access and equity. The company works with organizations around the world to improve access to care, particularly in communities who are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and other diseases.

The bottom line

• Know your risk for getting very sick, and potentially hospitalized, from COVID-19 and consider testing if you are showing symptoms
• Do not delay — seek medical care immediately if your COVID-19 symptoms worsen. Treatments are available that can help reduce your risk of hospitalization and/or death from COVID-19.⁵

For more information, please visit Springer Nature.

References

1. “Covid-19 Can Surge throughout the Year.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/covid-19-can-surge-throughout-the-year.html. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.
2. “People with Certain Medical Conditions and COVID-19 Risk Factors.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/covid/risk-factors/index.html. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.
3. “Covid-19 – Know When to Go to the ER.” COVID-19 – Know When to Go to the ER, www.emergencyphysicians.org/article/covid19/covid-19-know-when-to-go. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.
4. “Underlying Conditions and the Higher Risk for Severe COVID-19.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/covid/hcp/clinical-care/underlying-conditions.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fhcp%2Fclinical-care%2Funderlyingconditions.html. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.
5. “Covid-19–Associated Hospitalizations among U.S. Adults Aged ≥18 Years – Covid-Net, 12 States, October 2023–April 2024.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 Oct. 2024, www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7339a2.htm#:~:text=Among%20this%20sample%20of%20adults,and%206.9%25%20died%20during%20hospitalization.
6. “COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines Panel. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Treatment Guidelines.” National Institutes of Health. Available at https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/. Updated February 29, 2024.
7. Oppelt, T.F., Polsonetti, B., Caron, M.F. et al. Patient Perceptions of their COVID-19 Inpatient Hospital Experience: a Survey Exploring Inequities in Healthcare Delivery. J. Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities 10, 2775–2782 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615-022-01454-9
8. Zhang, Jin-Jin et al. “Risk and Protective Factors for COVID-19 Morbidity, Severity, and Mortality.” Clinical reviews in allergy & immunology vol. 64,1 (2023): 90-107. doi:10.1007/s12016-022-08921-5
9. “Long Covid Basics.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/covid/long-term-effects/index.html. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.

2024-12-20T13:47:01

(BPT) – While this may be the most wonderful time of the year in many ways, it’s not ideal for your skin. Between frigid temps, brisk wind outside and ultra-dry, overheated air inside — not to mention holiday busyness and stress — your face may not be glowing along with the season.

Here are practical tips to help you care for your skin, so you can look and feel your best as you celebrate with friends and family.

1. Empower your shower

While not everyone can improve their hard water with a water softening system, it’s not hard to install a showerhead filter. Especially if you have dry, itchy or sensitive skin, a showerhead filter can make a huge difference. Good showerhead filters will remove impurities such as chemicals and minerals that could be irritating your skin on a daily basis, improving how your hair and skin look and feel. You can find plenty of options available, as well as videos online showing how to install them.

2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

Yes, you’ve heard it before, but it’s even more true during these challenging winter months. It may seem like an uphill battle, but if you approach moisturizing from a few different angles, you’ll notice the difference.

Your environment: Moisturize the air where you spend the most time. Whether that’s a whole-home humidifier or portable humidifiers in your home office or bedroom, keeping the air around you from getting too dry will pay dividends.

Your body: Skin care specialists and nutritionists alike will tell you staying hydrated on the inside helps keep your skin from getting too dried out, so this may be a great resolution to start ahead of the new year! Fill up that water bottle and keep it handy. Don’t love plain water? Flavor with a little lemon or lime or sip sparkling water throughout the day.

Your skin: How you moisturize your skin from the outside is crucial. Here’s where quality products stand out.

Maintain your holiday glow by prioritizing effective skincare during the busy season — a little self-care goes a long way. The Neocutis Bio Cream Firm smoothing and tightening cream includes proprietary peptides to help support collagen and elastin production, addressing signs of aging including uneven tone and texture and wrinkles. The Neocutis Lumière^® Firm illuminating and tightening eye cream helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, crow’s feet, puffiness and under-eye darkness.

Miami Board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Roberta Del Campo recommends these during the holiday season, noting “holidays can be particularly challenging for your skin with all the travel and festive gatherings. To keep your skin healthy and radiant, I recommend using intensive moisturizing products that support collagen and elastin production, like the Neocutis Bio Cream Firm for an instant glow. In addition to this, I recommend using a rich illuminating eye cream that will vanish any trace of a dark circle, such as the Neocutis Lumière^® Firm.”

You can also give your skin an additional hydration boost with the Neocutis Hyalis^®+, an intensive hydrating serum that is oil-free and includes a deeply moisturizing formulation with multiple types of pure Sodium Hyaluronate, plus key ingredients to help promote smooth, soft and supple skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

All these products are non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested, free of color additives and fragrances. Visit store.neocutis.com to shop and learn more.

3. Double cleanse to remove heavy party makeup

After a fun time celebrating, you’ll want to be sure that you’ve removed every trace of makeup from your skin before calling it a night.

Once you’ve gently removed all of your eye and face makeup, it’s recommended to protect the delicate skin around your eyes with high-quality illuminating eye cream like the Neocutis Lumière^® Firm Riche Eye Cream to help with your post-party or travel recovery.

4. Upgrade your pillowcase

Sleeping on a clean pillowcase can help you maintain your ideal skincare routine. Many dermatologists recommend using a silk pillowcase, because silk is less absorbent than other fabrics like cotton, so it’s less likely to soak up facial products you’re applying before bedtime. Some users also find it less irritating to sensitive skin that’s prone to dryness and itchiness.

Be sure to wash silk pillowcases according to recommended manufacturer’s instructions. You may want to consider having a few available so you can switch them out frequently to keep your skin cleaner overnight.

5. Protect from the sun — even in winter

While you may not be sunbathing when it’s chilly outside, any time spent out in the sun can potentially damage your skin. Whether you’re into winter sports or just going for a wintry walk, don’t forget to protect your skin with sunscreen just as you would during the summertime.

Following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your skin looking and feeling wonderful, so you can relax and enjoy the holiday season.

2024-12-19T11:35:00

(BPT) – Did you know that if you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, you most likely have an over-the-counter (OTC) allowance to help offset the costs of everyday healthcare items? Millions of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries have access to this key benefit, but most don’t use it. According to a study by The Consumer Healthcare Products Association, 70% of OTC benefits are never used, leaving billions of dollars on the table. They also found that on average, every dollar spent on OTC medicines saves the U.S. healthcare system $7.33, resulting in an overall annual savings of $167.1 billion. It is time to double-check your health care plan and make sure you’re taking advantage of all your benefits and supporting your everyday care routines.

How Medicare Advantage OTC plans can help you save

Medicare Advantage enrollment has been on a steady climb for the past two decades. In fact, this year, over half of the eligible Medicare population (ages 65 and older) are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Most Medicare Advantage plans offer OTC allowance benefits, providing an average of $400 in annual allowances per beneficiary to help with practicing everyday self-care. These can be used to pay for certain non-prescription items, including health and wellness products.

However, OTC allowances are a use-it-or-lose-it benefit under many plans. The allowance may not roll over into the new plan cycle, whether it’s on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis — it’s crucial to make the most of them while they last.

Check with your provider to understand how often you receive a new OTC allowance balance, so you don’t miss out. From OTC medications to dental care and skincare products, many of your favorite items may be eligible to purchase with your OTC allowance.

Not sure how to spend your benefits? Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue with 135+ years of experience, is working to help beneficiaries understand and get the most from their OTC allowance to practice everyday self-care. Check out these six suggestions for ways to use this benefit.

1. Pain and arthritis

Do you regularly buy medications for your pain and arthritis symptoms? The next time you head to the pharmacy, use your allowance to purchase pain medication like TYLENOL^® 8-Hour Arthritis Pain Relief to relieve your minor arthritis pain.

2. Cold, cough and flu

Although you can get the cold, flu or a bad cough any time of year, these conditions tend to be more prevalent during the colder months. Now is a perfect time to be prepared with products to relieve your cold, cough and flu symptoms. Make sure to have products like SUDAFED^® and TYLENOL^® Cold & Flu on hand so you don’t have to run to the store when you’re already feeling ill.

3. Digestive health

Whether you regularly suffer from stomach issues, get occasional heartburn, or want to be proactive about your gut health, hit up your local drugstore for digestive health products. For example, pick up a bottle of PEPCID^® Complete to help reduce stomach acid levels and keep heartburn at bay after a hefty meal.

4. Skincare

Are you ready to revamp your skincare routine? Use your OTC allowance to take care of your skin with quality products like Aveeno^® Eczema Therapy.

Don’t forget to pick up eligible suncare products as well! You need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays all year round — not just during the summer. Get in the habit of incorporating SPF items like Neutrogena’s^® line of suncare products, including outdoor essentials like Sport Active Defense SPF 30, Ultra Sheer Lotion SPF 70 and Beach Defense Spray SPF 70, into your skincare routine.

5. Dental care

Impress your dentist and invest in your oral health with OTC-eligible dental care items. For example, LISTERINE^® products including LISTERINE^® Cool Mint are great for keeping that smile fresh and healthy.

6. First aid

Have you ever had a cut or scrape and found out you’re out of bandages? Avoid this frustrating scenario by restocking your medicine cabinet with must-have items from BAND-AID^® Brand such as BAND-AID^® Brand Pro Heal™, which provide 60% better healing^† and are designed to help prevent the appearance of scars**.

Note: Before buying any of these products, be sure to read your plan for product eligibility and allowance usage as plans do vary. Contact your provider for the different methods with which you can spend your allowance, which typically include:

• Catalog, online, phone or mail order through your provider
• Submitting receipts for reimbursement to your provider, or
• Using an OTC debit card at retailers

Don’t wait to invest in your everyday health

Make the most of your Medicare Advantage OTC benefits to improve your everyday care. To learn more about these and other OTC-eligible products, visit kenvuebrands.com/us/medadvantage.

†Based on a 7-day average of percentage of subjects showing improvement of general wound appearance compared to standard of care

**Hydrocolloids create an optimal moist healing environment

2024-12-19T07:01:00

(BPT) – The following story was prepared and sponsored by Novo Nordisk. Calvin, Patrice, and Cam Ward are paid spokespersons of Novo Nordisk.

Picture this—you’re a D1 starting quarterback preparing for your upcoming game. Football has been a part of your life for longer than you can remember, so going over your pre-game to-do list is second nature: organizing equipment, memorizing plays, watching film, and making sure schoolwork doesn’t fall to the wayside. These are typical bullets on a football player’s list and are top-of-mind daily. But there’s one more item on the list for Cam Ward: checking in with his parents, Patrice and Calvin, who live with type 2 diabetes, to make sure they’re staying healthy and on track to come to his next game. After all, they’ve never missed one.

The Wards are highlighting type 2 diabetes as a critical issue affecting far too many. More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes,¹ with the vast majority (~90%-95%) having type 2 diabetes.² Roughly 20% of people with diabetes remain undiagnosed.¹ The Ward family’s story is a window into the power of community, family, and faith when managing type 2 diabetes.

A Family United by Faith, Football, and Firm Persistence

With deep-rooted faith, tight-knit family bonds, and dedication to football, the Ward family is a beacon of resilience and determination. Cam Ward, now a starting division 1 college quarterback, is not only a force on the field but also a supportive son, brother, and champion of his family’s health. Just as Cam is making his mark on the football field, his parents, Calvin and Patrice, are also making an impact in their community. They are just as active, organizing sports camps and fundraisers in their community and volunteering at their church. Together, Calvin and Patrice go the extra yard when it comes to managing their type 2 diabetes—from doing their best to prioritize healthy eating and staying active, even when on the road, to working with their healthcare professional. And Cam supports from the sidelines, checking in daily and making sure they stay on track. It’s clear the teamwork spirit is central to their family playbook.

“Our family does everything together,” said Cam. “Whether it’s traveling, watching sports, having family meals together, or going to church. We’re a team, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Facing the Challenge Head-On

Patrice was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 15 years ago. Despite initial uncertainties, she found strength in her family and faith, navigating her condition while staying active in her community. But the Ward family took another hit when Calvin received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis in 2019.

“Calvin’s diagnosis was shocking. When he was hospitalized, his blood sugar levels were so high that doctors struggled to get a reading,” said Patrice. The Wards now want to share their story to help inform and foster discussions about type 2 diabetes.

The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes

Two in five Americans will develop type 2 diabetes,³ and even when meeting A1C goals, adults living with type 2 diabetes are still at risk for major cardiovascular events such as stroke, heart attack, or cardiovascular death.^4-5 For Black Americans like the Wards, the numbers are even more staggering: in the U.S., Black adults are nearly twice as likely as white adults to develop type 2 diabetes.⁶

“The unfortunate reality is that Black Americans are disproportionately impacted by common risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Michael Radin, Executive Medical Director at Novo Nordisk. “We must work together to address this concerning reality and improve this trend, using every opportunity to educate each other on the risks associated with type 2 diabetes.”

Tackling Type 2 Diabetes: A Treatment Plan that Works

For the Wards, finding a reliable type 2 diabetes management plan was the most crucial play. With guidance from their trusted healthcare professional, Patrice and Calvin have both, along with diet and exercise, lowered their A1C with Ozempic^® (semaglutide) injection. Millions of people with type 2 diabetes have taken Ozempic^® as part of their type 2 diabetes management plan.

+++

What is Ozempic^®?

Ozempic^® (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg is an injectable prescription medicine used:

• along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes
• to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes with known heart disease

It is not known if Ozempic^® can be used in people who have had pancreatitis.
Ozempic^® is not for use in people with type 1 diabetes.
It is not known if Ozempic^® is safe and effective for use in children under 18 years of age.

Important Safety Information

Do not share your Ozempic^® pen with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.

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

Ozempic^® may cause serious side effects, including:

• Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer. Tell your health care provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. In studies with rodents, Ozempic^® and medicines that work like Ozempic^® caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Ozempic^® will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people
• Do not use Ozempic^® if you or any of your family have ever had MTC, or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

+++

The Power of Community

Whether cheering on Cam at the football field or volunteering in their community, the Wards hope to empower others to prioritize and take control of their type 2 diabetes.

“From my own experience, I learned quickly that type 2 diabetes symptoms should not be ignored,” said Calvin. “When it comes to your health, it’s important to take control from the start and talk to your doctor about a treatment plan that works for you. My hope is that this story can help those, who may be ignoring their type 2 diabetes symptoms, avoid what I went through.”

A 2022 survey found that nearly 55% of men do not get regular health screenings.⁷ Taking care of your health means seeking help—by fostering open dialogue with healthcare professionals, friends, and family about type 2 diabetes, and exploring its risks, hereditary aspects, and associated complications.

“Though my story is unique to me, I want others with type 2 diabetes to see what’s possible with the power of community,” Patrice says. “I hope our story shows that supporting each other should be a fundamental part of your type 2 diabetes game plan.”

To learn more about the Ward family, type 2 diabetes, and Ozempic^®, visit Real Ozempic^® Stories on Ozempic.com.

+++

Important Safety Information (continued)

Do not use Ozempic^® if:

• you or any of your family have ever had MTC or if you have MEN 2
• you are allergic to semaglutide or any of the ingredients in Ozempic^®. See symptoms of serious allergic reaction in “What are the possible side effects of Ozempic^®?”

Before using Ozempic^®, tell your health care provider if you have any other medical conditions, including if you:

• have or have had problems with your pancreas or kidneys.
• have a history of diabetic retinopathy.
• are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation)
• are pregnant or breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. It is not known if Ozempic^® will harm your unborn baby or passes into your breast milk. You should stop using Ozempic^® 2 months before you plan to become pregnant

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal supplements, and other medicines to treat diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas.

What are the possible side effects of Ozempic^®?

Ozempic^® may cause serious side effects, including:

• inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis). Stop using Ozempic^® and call your health care provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back
• changes in vision. Tell your health care provider if you have changes in vision during treatment with Ozempic^®
• low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your risk for getting low blood sugar may be higher if you use Ozempic^® with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include: dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability or mood changes, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery
• kidney problems (kidney failure). In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration), which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink fluids to help reduce your chance of dehydration
• serious allergic reactions. Stop using Ozempic^® and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; problems breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting or feeling dizzy; or very rapid heartbeat
• gallbladder problems. Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who take Ozempic^®. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get symptoms which may include: pain in your upper stomach (abdomen), fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools
• food or liquid getting into the lungs during surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation). Ozempic^® may increase the chance of food getting into your lungs during surgery or other procedures. Tell all your healthcare providers that you are taking Ozempic^® before you are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures

The most common side effects of Ozempic^® may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach (abdominal) pain, and constipation.

Please click here for Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

References

1. CDC. National diabetes statistics report. Diabetes. Published 2024. Accessed September 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data­ research/index.html.
2. CDC. About Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes. Published 2024. Accessed October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/abouttype2­ diabetes.html
3. CDC. 2 in 5 Americans Expected to Develop Diabetes. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Published 2022. Accessed October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/communicationresources/2in5­ americans.html#:~:text=Graphic%20text%3A%202%20in%205,2%20diabetes%20in%20their%20lifetime.
4. American Heart Association. Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes. www.heart.org. Published 2021. https://www.heart.org/en/health topics/diabetes/diabetescomplicationsandrisks/cardiovasculardiseasediabetes
5. Martín-Timón I, Sevillano-Collantes C, Segura-Galindo A, Del Cañizo-Gómez FJ. Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease: Have all risk factors the same strength?. World J Diabetes. 2014;5(4):444-470. doi:10.4239/wjd.v5.i4.444
6. Association of Modifiable Risk Factors in Young Adulthood With Racial Disparity in Incident Type 2 Diabetes During Middle Adulthood. Bancks MP, Kershaw K, Carson AP, GordonLarsen P, Schreiner PJ, Carnethon MR. JAMA. 2017 Dec 26;318(24):24572465. doi: 10.1001/jama.2017.19546. PMID: 29279935.
7. Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic Survey Reveals Men’s Top Health Concerns as They Age. Accessed September 2024. https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2022/09/07/clevelandclinicsurveyrevealsmenstophealthconcernsastheyage

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