Category: Brandpoint Health

2022-07-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sunshine and warm weather inspire many people to lighten their style, from the easy-breezy clothes they wear to the tone of their hair. Going blonde or bronde (brunette blonde) is in for summer 2022. Luckily there is an easy, affordable and quick way to achieve the perfect shade from the comfort of your home.

Blonde It Up is an advanced blonding system by Clairol that lightens hair up to five levels without bleach. Anyone can now dye their hair blonde at home in just a few easy steps. What’s the secret? The patented AminoLift Technology effectively lifts pigments inside the hair, while the AminoGlycine Complex helps protect hair’s natural keratin and protein to keep its structure intact.

Step 1. Prepare for amazing hair

A little preparation can help ensure incredible results. Remember to do an allergy test per the kit’s instructions 48 hours before coloring. Additionally, do a strand test to determine optimal timing and results so you get the color you want. When you’re ready to color, pour the AminoLift Lightening Cream completely into the Activator Applicator Bottle. Close the bottle and shake.

Step 2. Initial, all-over application

Part hair into sections and start at the darkest part of your hair. Apply mixture to the hair keeping it away from the scalp. Gently smooth the mixture through to the hair ends avoiding the root area. Leave on for 10 minutes and check the progress. Once you’re happy with level of lightness, apply product to the roots and gently smooth the mixture through all your hair. Check every 10 minutes for a maximum of 60 minutes until you achieve an overall lightening.

Step 3. Touch-up, root application

As your hair grows you can easily touch up your roots to maintain your look. Start by parting hair into sections and start at the darkest part of your head. Apply mixture to only new growth at roots. Leave the mixture for 30 minutes and check progress. Check every 10 minutes for a maximum of 60 minutes until you reach the lightness desired.

Step 4. Rinse, shampoo, and condition

Whether the initial application or the root touch-up, after desired lightness is achieved, it’s important to rinse, shampoo and condition the hair. Apply the CC ColorSeal Conditioner and continue to use once a week until product is gone. The kit also includes a bonus packet of Shimmer Lights Violet Toning Mask you should use immediately after you have lightened for a cool natural tone or 1-2 weeks after lightening to prevent any unwanted brassy tones.

After these four simple steps, your hair will be vibrant, smooth and blonder, ideal for summer!

To learn more about Blonde It Up or other at-home hair coloring products, you can visit Clairol.com. You can buy Blonde It Up at all major retailers near you.

2022-06-28T09:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is an active time when schools let out for vacation, travel and social plans heat up, and daily routines can be quick to change — all of which can disrupt consistent sleep practices and start patterns, challenging healthy sleep. How do you enjoy the long days of summer while still protecting your sleep?

How much sleep do you really need?

While the exact amount of sleep needed to feel rested and alert is different for everyone, experts from the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recommend the following sleep duration ranges, by age:

• Newborns (0-3 months): 14-17 hours
• Infants (4-11 months): 12-15 hours
• Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours a night
• Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours a night
• School age children (6-13 years): 9-11 hours a night
• Teenagers (14–17 years): 8-10 hours a night
• Adults (18–64 years): 7-9 hours a night
• Older adults (65+ years): 7-8 hours a night

If you or your family members aren’t getting enough quality sleep, you may experience fatigue/sleepiness, lack of energy, mood swings, irritability and difficulty focusing.

The good news is, you can take some small steps today to help you get the sleep you need. The NSF has tips to help you be your “Best Slept Self™”, the renewed ‘you’ after taking small steps each day and night that make a big difference in your sleep health. Check out the tips below:

1. Get a healthy amount of light exposure

Bright light during the day and dimmer light at night helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, the natural sleep/wake process behind healthy sleep. Spend time in bright light during the day (natural light or an equivalent brightness), especially in the morning when possible. Take advantage of earlier sunrises and warmer temperatures to spend more time outside overall.

2. Exercise regularly for a deeper sleep

Physical activity is effective at increasing your drive to sleep at night, as well as reducing stress and improving your mood. Unfortunately, nearly 1 in 6 Americans report doing no moderate activity, such as brisk walking, and almost half (45%) did no vigorous activity, such as jogging. To help you get a better sleep at night, aim for 30 minutes of exercise a day, 5 days a week.

3. Eat meals at consistent times

Regular meals can also help you maintain a healthier sleep/wake cycle, but 4 in 10 Americans eat meals at irregular times. The whole family should avoid heavy meals and caffeine before bedtime, and adults should also avoid nicotine and alcohol before going to sleep.

4. Avoid heavy meals, nicotine, caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.

The whole family should avoid heavy meals and caffeine before bedtime. Adults should also avoid nicotine and alcohol before going to sleep.

5. Use a consistent wind-down routine in the evening so you can get the sleep you need.

Try different things to discover what works best for you, such as taking a warm shower or bath, having a cup of noncaffeinated tea, listening to soft music or reading a book.

6. Make a sleep-friendly environment.

Using electronic devices close to bedtime can keep your mind active when it should be winding down. Turn them off an hour before going to sleep and keep your bedroom dark, cool, quiet and ready for sleep.

Enjoy the long days of summer and still practice good sleep habits! Visit TheNSF.org for more tips and information about how to be your Best Slept Self this summer — and all year long.

2022-06-27T06:01:00

(BPT) – National Acne Awareness Month comes around every June, but this year promises to offer acne sufferers an exciting new option to get clear skin.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), acne is the most common skin condition in the U.S., affecting 40-50 million people.^[1] 85% of young adults will experience acne but it can pop up at any stage of life; from teens up to menopause. For some adults, acne can persist into their 30s and 40s or even longer.

There is more than just one type of acne and it tends to vary from one person to the next. Causes can range from hormones, stress, genetics, diet or skin clogging products. The most common forms of acne range from whiteheads to blackheads, papules and pustules that can be red and tender, to nodules or cysts that are deep in the skin. Up until now, the most common treatments recommended to help control acne were topical creams and lotions, antibiotics, painful extractions, monthly facials, and makeup to cover up redness and scarring.

Enter AviClear™, the first and only FDA-cleared energy device for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe acne. Leading dermatologists are buzzing about the cutting-edge technology that helps people of all ages, skin types, and acne severities take control of their acne experience without the side effects of other treatment options.

“The engineers at Cutera developed an advanced system that is light years ahead of anything else on the market. AviClear’s unique 1726 nm wavelength was designed to treat acne at the source by selectively targeting and suppressing the sebaceous gland, safely and effectively,” says dermatologist Omar Noor, M.D., F.A.A.D. of Rao Dermatology in New York City. “With the AviCool™ contact cooling, the treatment is safe and comfortable for patients, and the rapid clearing of inflammatory lesions is impressive.”

Another important benefit, according to Dr. Noor, is the long-term resolution of acne across all skin types including skin of color. “We are impressed that future breakout episodes seem to be shorter, less intense, and less frequent after a course of AviClear treatments. Results continue to improve over time as the energy targets and suppresses the sebaceous glands that cause active acne,” he says.

Mira Kaga, M.D., Director of the Kaga Institute in Marlboro, NJ, explains how acne can affect kids and teens, “Acne can show up at any time during adolescence. We recommend early intervention to prevent recurring pimples from becoming full-blown acne that can take a toll on kids’ emotional health. It can lead to a poor self-image and feelings of depression if it’s not treated in a timely manner.”

She continues, “Acne doesn’t stop when puberty ends either. We see moms who bring their teenage kids to us and are still having breakouts of their own. AviClear checks all the boxes of an effective solution for mild to severe acne for all skin types.”

Looking for a new way to resolve your acne breakouts?

Find an AviClear provider near you at https://aviclear.com/locations/

2022-06-29T09:01:00

(BPT) – Paid Story by Genentech and Novartis

For Robin, the itchiness started on her scalp and the back of her neck. Suspecting that she had hives, she saw a dermatologist, who prescribed a topical medication. Unfortunately, it didn’t help Robin’s symptoms and it would be two months before she had an accurate diagnosis.

“I’m the type of person who doesn’t complain,” she says, “so as bad as the hives were, I still pushed forward with my daily life.”

But the hives spread, so Robin continued her search for the right doctor, visiting both a rheumatologist and dermatologist. “They gave me topical creams and steroids which helped initially, but the hives quickly came back,” she recalls. Finally, the dermatologist recommended she see an allergist.

That allergist, Dr. Ari Zelig diagnosed Robin with chronic spontaneous urticaria, or CSU — chronic hives with no known trigger. “Hives are itchy welts that can be caused by an allergic reaction — but not always,” says Dr. Zelig. “When there is no apparent cause and the hives come back repeatedly for more than six weeks, this is CSU.” Chronic hives can affect each person differently, but itchiness and skin discomfort are common symptoms for many living with the condition.

Dr. Zelig suggested Robin try Xolair^® (omalizumab), the first and only FDA-approved biologic treatment used to treat CSU in people 12 years of age and older who continue to have hives after receiving antihistamines. Robin and Dr. Zelig discussed its benefits and risks, including anaphylaxis, a severe life-threatening allergic reaction.

“Dr. Zelig said I was one of the worst cases of CSU that he had ever seen,” says Robin. “But after several months, I started Xolair and my hives finally started to improve.”

For many patients with CSU, seeing a specialist like an allergist is one of the most important steps. CSU impacts approximately 1.6 million people in the U.S. and patients can have trouble finding the right doctor to diagnose it.

Sarah, another person living with CSU, developed hives across her arms, legs and stomach, and ultimately her whole body. “I was in my allergist’s office broken out in hives from head to toe, I was so ready to be rid of them, and she told me it was going to be okay.”

After trying antihistamines, her allergist recommended Xolair, which Sarah says helped clear up most of her hives.

Dr. Zelig points out that every patient’s response to treatment is different. Sarah and her allergist discussed the side effects, including the risk for a severe life-threatening allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis. Therefore, once a CSU diagnosis is made, an allergist will work with patients to develop a plan and monitor response to treatment. Sarah says that her hives are far fewer and less frequent — and for her, that’s a success.

“Some people will see their hives go away, possibly even completely,” says Dr. Zelig, “while others will still have some hives sporadically. CSU symptoms, such as constant itchiness and hives can be debilitating, so reducing the number and severity of outbreaks is a win.”

Sam, a college student, also had a long path to the right doctor and treatment for his CSU. He first developed hives when he was home one summer and started feeling itchy after exercising. “I looked down, and there were hundreds of hives all over my body,” he recalls. When the same thing happened the next day, he decided to see his family doctor.

The doctor thought it was allergies and prescribed antihistamines, which Sam says did not reduce his breakouts.

Ultimately, when Sam was back in college, he saw an allergist who quickly recognized his hives as CSU. “She put me on Xolair and my hives began improving after several months,” says Sam.

“Because CSU has no known trigger, it can be harder to diagnose than other conditions,” says Dr. Zelig. “But the welts and itchiness can cause extreme discomfort. If you think you might have CSU, speak with an allergist.”

+++

Xolair U.S. Indication

What is XOLAIR?

XOLAIR^® (omalizumab) for subcutaneous use is an injectable prescription medicine used to treat chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU, previously referred to as chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU), chronic hives without a known cause) in people 12 years of age and older who continue to have hives that are not controlled with H1 antihistamine treatment. It is not known if XOLAIR is safe and effective in people with CSU under 12 years of age.

XOLAIR is not used to treat other forms of hives.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

Severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can happen when you receive XOLAIR. The reaction can occur after the first dose, or after many doses. It may also occur right after a XOLAIR injection or days later. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death. Go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have any of these symptoms of an allergic reaction:

• wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, or trouble breathing
• low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, rapid or weak heartbeat, anxiety, or feeling of “impending doom”
• flushing, itching, hives, or feeling warm
• swelling of the throat or tongue, throat tightness, hoarse voice, or trouble swallowing

Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for symptoms of an allergic reaction while you are receiving XOLAIR and for a period of time after treatment is initiated. Your healthcare provider should talk to you about getting medical treatment if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Do not receive and use XOLAIR if you are allergic to omalizumab or any of the ingredients in XOLAIR.

Before receiving XOLAIR, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have a latex allergy or any other allergies (such as food allergy or seasonal allergies). The needle cap on the XOLAIR prefilled syringe contains a type of natural rubber latex
• have ever had a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis
• have or have had a parasitic infection
• have or have had cancer
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if XOLAIR may harm your unborn baby.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if XOLAIR passes into your breast milk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while you receive and use XOLAIR.

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

How should I receive and use XOLAIR?

• When starting treatment XOLAIR should be given by your healthcare provider in a healthcare setting.
• If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver may be able to give your own XOLAIR prefilled syringe injections, you should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject XOLAIR.
• Do not try to inject your XOLAIR prefilled syringe until you have been shown the right way to give XOLAIR injections by a healthcare provider. Use XOLAIR exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. For children 12 years of age and older, XOLAIR prefilled syringe may be self-injected under adult supervision.
• See the detailed Instructions for Use that comes with XOLAIR for information on the right way to prepare and inject XOLAIR.
• XOLAIR is given in 1 or more injections under the skin (subcutaneous), 1 time every 2 or 4 weeks.
• In people with chronic hives, a blood test is not necessary to determine the dose or dosing frequency.
• Do not decrease or stop taking any of your other hive medicine unless your healthcare providers tell you to.
• You may not see improvement in your symptoms right away after XOLAIR treatment.
• If you inject more XOLAIR than prescribed, call your healthcare provider right away.

What are the possible side effects of XOLAIR?

XOLAIR may cause serious side effects, including:

• Cancer. Cases of cancer were observed in some people who received XOLAIR.
• Fever, muscle aches, and rash. Some people get these symptoms 1 to 5 days after receiving a XOLAIR injection. If you have any of these symptoms, tell your healthcare provider.
• Parasitic infection. Some people who are at a high risk for parasite (worm) infections, get a parasite infection after receiving XOLAIR. Your healthcare provider can test your stool to check if you have a parasite infection.
• Heart and circulation problems. Some people who receive XOLAIR have had chest pain, heart attack, blood clots in the lungs or legs, or temporary symptoms of weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or altered vision. It is not known whether these are caused by XOLAIR.

The most common side effects of XOLAIR in people with chronic spontaneous urticaria: nausea, headaches, swelling of the inside of your nose, throat or sinuses, cough, joint pain, and upper respiratory tract infection.

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

You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555 or Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation at (888) 669-6682.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide for additional Important Safety Information.

©2022 Genentech USA Inc. and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. All rights reserved.

2022-06-28T16:13:00

(BPT) – Despite having asthma, Nichole Steward (pictured, right) considered herself a typical 39-­year-­old living an active life, frequently visiting the beach and participating in roller derby. Though she was surprised when she began experiencing heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue, Nichole figured that it was nothing serious and might resolve on its own.

As many women do, Nichole tried to explain away her symptoms. The heart palpitations could be due to stress and caffeine, and her constant exhaustion was likely related to her asthma. But when her symptoms persisted, Nichole decided to visit her primary care provider.

Her doctor initially concluded that the symptoms were likely associated with stress and anxiety. However, Nichole, remaining mindful of her family’s history of heart disease, was not ready to accept that answer, and requested additional testing and a referral to a cardiologist.

Prioritizing herself

In June 2018, after the testing she advocated for, Nichole was diagnosed with chronic heart failure, a long-­lasting condition that worsens over time. Heart failure affects six million Americans, and its prevalence is on the rise as the population ages.

Chronic heart failure can change the structure and/or function of the heart and places patients at risk for hospitalization. News of her diagnosis sparked fear and shock for Nichole. “I was worried I had received a death sentence,” she says.

Once diagnosed, Nichole received support from her family and health care team, including a new cardiologist who empowered her to proactively manage her condition. Together, they developed a treatment plan that was right for her, including eating a low-salt diet, maintaining regular physical activity, managing her stress, and taking medicines. As part of her treatment regimen, Nichole takes a medicine specifically made for heart failure called ENTRESTO^® (sacubitril/valsartan), which helps reduce the risk of death and hospitalization in adults with chronic, heart failure, and works better when the heart cannot pump a normal amount of blood to the body. ENTRESTO is the number one heart failure brand prescribed by cardiologists. Like all medicines, ENTRESTO is not for everyone, including those who are or plan to become pregnant. See below for Important Safety Information.

By advocating for herself, working with her cardiologist, and surrounding herself with a strong support system, Nichole has come to terms with her diagnosis.

An all­-too-­common story

Unfortunately, Nichole’s story is not unique; women with heart failure can face challenges such as delayed diagnosis and treatment. Nichole encourages women to prioritize their health and stand up for themselves if they don’t feel heard. “It is so important for people — all people, but especially women — to pay attention to their body and any symptoms they may be experiencing,” she says. “As women, we often tend to just suck it up and deal with it.”

Women living with heart failure often report a poorer quality of life than men. It is important for women to prioritize their health and well-being, despite the many other competing priorities in their day-to-day lives.

Today, Nichole continues to live a happy life that she is proud of, and enjoys spending time with loved ones and working at her own small business — a spiritual and metaphysical boutique — and her full­-time job. Hospitalizations are common for people with heart failure, so she keeps her treatment plan top of mind. While everyone’s experience is different, since starting ENTRESTO, Nichole has continued to stay out of the hospital for heart failure.

Nichole encourages those currently living with heart failure to work with their health care provider to determine a treatment plan that is right for them.

To learn more about heart failure and ENTRESTO, visit ENTRESTO.com.

What is ENTRESTO?

ENTRESTO is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with long-­lasting (chronic) heart failure to help reduce the risk of death and hospitalization. ENTRESTO works better when the heart cannot pump a normal amount of blood to the body.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

ENTRESTO can harm or cause death to your unborn baby. Talk to your doctor about other ways to treat heart failure if you plan to become pregnant. If you get pregnant during treatment with ENTRESTO, tell your doctor right away.

Do not take ENTRESTO if you:

• are allergic to any of the ingredients in ENTRESTO
• have had an allergic reaction including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, throat (angioedema) or trouble breathing while taking a type of medicine called an angiotensin-­converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
• take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Do not take ENTRESTO for at least 36 hours before or after you take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking ENTRESTO if you are not sure if you take an ACE inhibitor medicine
• have diabetes and take a medicine that contains aliskiren

Before taking ENTRESTO tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have a history of hereditary angioedema
• have kidney or liver problems
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant; are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. You should either take ENTRESTO or breastfeed. You should not do both

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over­-the-­counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your doctor if you take potassium supplements or a salt substitute; nonsteroidal anti-­inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); lithium; or other medicines for high blood pressure or heart problems such as an ACE inhibitor, ARB, or aliskiren.

What are the possible side effects of ENTRESTO? ENTRESTO may cause serious side effects including:

• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue and throat (angioedema) that may cause trouble breathing and death. Get emergency medical help right away if you have symptoms of angioedema or trouble breathing. Do not take ENTRESTO again if you have had angioedema while taking ENTRESTO
• People who are Black or who have had angioedema and take ENTRESTO may have a higher risk of having angioedema
• low blood pressure (hypotension), which may become more common if you take water pills. Call your doctor if you become dizzy or lightheaded, or if you develop extreme fatigue
• kidney problems
• increased amount of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia)

The most common side effects were low blood pressure, high potassium, cough, dizziness, and kidney problems.

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.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING, and Patient Prescribing Information.

Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation
East Hanover, New Jersey 07936-1080    © 2022 Novartis  5/22  197641

2022-06-23T08:03:00

(BPT) – Allergies and asthma are serious public health concerns. In the U.S., approximately 25 million people live with asthma, and more than 50 million people experience various types of allergies each year, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). While many people have asthma and allergies, these conditions are still often misunderstood, leading to many misconceptions on symptom management, especially when it comes to environmental factors.

The reality is that you can’t cure allergies and asthma, and you should follow the advice of your medical provider. It is also important to look at your indoor environment and how you can reduce asthma and allergy triggers. Below are five myths about allergies and asthma and how you can improve your indoor home environment.

1. Myth: Allergies are only caused by pollen and outdoor allergens

While pollen allergies are common, it’s not the only thing that can cause an allergic reaction. Allergens are any foreign substances that cause your immune system to react, such as common airborne allergens like pet dander, dust mites, cockroaches and mold — all of which can be found inside your home. Not only can allergens trigger an allergic reaction, but according to the Mayo Clinic, they can also cause allergy-induced asthma, also called allergic asthma.

One way to mitigate airborne allergen triggers indoors is to improve indoor air quality. People on average spend 90% of their day indoors, so reducing indoor allergy triggers in your living space is an important way to manage allergy and asthma symptoms. Check your HVAC system and replace your air filters regularly (at least once every three months) to maintain efficiency and good airflow. If you need help with your air quality and home comfort needs, you can contact a local Trane Residential Comfort Specialist.

You can find many more ways to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergy and asthma triggers at: aafa.org/healthyhome.

2. Myth: All hypoallergenic products are created equal

Many products on the market claim to be “hypoallergenic,” but there are no regulations as to what this means. Often, products are labeled hypoallergenic, but this is a marketing label that requires no testing or validation. People with asthma and allergies need products and services backed by science.

Luckily, AAFA and Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) have collaborated on the asthma & allergy friendly^® Certification Program to help consumers identify quality products that work to provide a healthier home environment. Products that have earned the certified asthma & allergy friendly^® mark have been tested against strict scientific standards to ensure they help with indoor air quality.

If you’re looking for a home air cleaner to help manage home allergens, you should consider Trane’s CleanEffects Whole Home Air Cleaner, which has been certified asthma & allergy friendly^® by ASL and AAFA. The air cleaner was placed in an environmentally controlled chamber and tested with dust containing dust mite allergen, cat dander, and pollen to make sure that it can reduce allergens in the indoor environment.

3. Myth: Humidity doesn’t affect allergies and asthma

Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. Too much or too little humidity can worsen allergy or asthma symptoms. Maintaining your home’s humidity level between 30-50% can contribute to better indoor air quality and health. Mold and dust mites thrive in high humidity (above 50%) and can trigger allergies and asthma. Low humidity can cause your skin, eyes, nose and lips to dry out, can result in a dry, sore throat and can worsen asthma.

The best way to control humidity in the home is by monitoring humidity levels through a reliable HVAC thermostat or a device called a hygrometer. If your home’s humidity level is too high, you can lower it by running the air conditioning or using a dehumidifier.

4. Myth: Allergies go away in winter

Since you typically spend more time indoors during the colder months, you might be even more prone to indoor allergies during the winter. The top indoor allergy triggers are dust mites, pet dander and mold, which can also trigger your asthma. Also, according to the AAFA, cold, dry air can narrow your airway and induce an asthma attack.

Keep your home at a comfortable, warm temperature during winter and consider adding a more effective filter to your central furnace. If needed, use a humidifier to add moisture to your indoor air, keeping in mind that the ideal level is between 30% and 50%. Lower indoor humidity can reduce dust mites and mold.

5. Myth: Moving to a different climate can cure your allergies

While it’s fun to dream about living in a more temperate climate, moving isn’t likely to cure your allergies. Airborne allergens are everywhere and can travel great distances. Also, if you relocate, you may expose yourself to new allergy triggers in addition to your existing ones.

Every state in the U.S. has pollen that can cause allergy symptoms. For example, ragweed pollen — one of the most common causes of fall pollen allergies — can be found in 49 states. AAFA’s yearly Allergy Capitals^TM report explores how challenging it is to live with spring or fall allergies in the top 100 U.S. cities.

If you do move, think about your new indoor living space too. One task that should definitely be on your list to help manage your allergy and asthma triggers is to inspect your new living environment and make the appropriate changes to reduce allergens.

Remember these five myths and accompanying tips the next time your asthma or allergy symptoms flare up so you can take control of your environment, improve indoor air quality, and reduce allergy and asthma triggers.

2022-06-23T11:01:00

(BPT) – Kristen had experienced extreme daytime sleepiness for as long as she could remember. She noticed it the most in the afternoons, especially when sitting in long meetings at work. Her extreme sleepiness made many aspects of her life more challenging.

Kristen had unknowingly been living with narcolepsy for years. Narcolepsy is a rare neurological disorder that can affect a person’s daily life and overall well-being. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), an estimated 165,000 people in the U.S. live with narcolepsy. However, the number is likely much higher because it is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as other conditions.

Kristen’s concerns and frustration over the overwhelming sleepiness she felt throughout the day were overlooked until she was finally diagnosed in the summer of 2018. What ultimately led Kristen to her diagnosis was reaching out to a new doctor who had her take the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Based on the results from the ESS, the doctor recommended she see a sleep specialist who formally diagnosed Kristen with narcolepsy following a sleep study.

“It’s been a blessing to receive a diagnosis. It has allowed me to be gentler to myself, and granted me a new level of understanding, after feeling for so long that I knew that something was going on with me.”

Searching for a treatment

The two most common symptoms of narcolepsy are:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS): Persistent sleepiness, regardless of how much sleep an individual gets at night.
• Cataplexy: The sudden, brief loss of muscle strength or tone while a person is awake. It is often triggered by strong emotions such as laughter or surprise and can cause the person to collapse completely, but more often affects specific areas of the body such as the hands or eyelids.

“Learning to live with narcolepsy can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be,” said Maggie G. Lavender, MSN, FNP-C, a nurse practitioner specializing in sleep medicine. “It can impact all aspects of your life, from having to plan your day around a nap to other adjustments that may affect relationships, family and career. People living with narcolepsy can work with a healthcare provider on a treatment plan that may include medication to help manage symptoms of narcolepsy and lifestyle modifications to help better manage their day-to-day life.

One treatment Lavender discusses with her patients is WAKIX­® (pitolisant) tablets, a first-of-its-kind, once-daily prescription medication that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat excessive daytime sleepiness or cataplexy in adults with narcolepsy.

Kristen started taking WAKIX in April 2020. She initially became interested in learning more about WAKIX after hearing about it from other people in the narcolepsy community and discovering that it’s not a controlled substance. This led her to want to learn more about how it works.

While the way WAKIX works is not fully understood, it is thought that WAKIX reduces EDS or cataplexy by increasing histamine levels in the brain. Histamine is a natural chemical in the brain that works to help you stay awake by increasing brain activity in areas that help you wake up, as well as decreasing brain activity in areas that help you sleep, including areas that paralyze your muscles while you are asleep.

When Kristen met with her healthcare provider, he explained the titration process and how it could take a little bit of time to achieve a response to the medication, and that they would focus on getting the right dosage over time.

“When healthcare professionals prescribe WAKIX, we take our patients through a titration process. We start patients at a low dose and then may increase their dose each week until the right dose for each patient is reached, up to the maximum recommended dose. We also remind patients that WAKIX is not a stimulant and make sure patients understand the common side effects could include insomnia, nausea, or anxiety,” said Lavender. “Although these are not all the possible side effects of WAKIX, it is important for patients to communicate with their healthcare provider about how they are feeling and managing their symptoms.”

A few weeks after Kristen was titrated to the dose that was right for her, she noticed incremental shifts in her overall wakefulness, and a decrease in excessive daytime sleepiness in the afternoon. Lavender highlighted that with WAKIX, “individual results may vary and for some patients, it may take up to 8 weeks to achieve a response.”

During a follow-up doctor’s appointment after she had been taking WAKIX for a little while, Kristen retook the ESS test and they saw that her score improved.

Living with narcolepsy

While there is no cure for narcolepsy, there are ways to help manage living with narcolepsy. Kristen does several things to help manage her diagnosis, including using time management to structure her day, yoga and exercise to help reduce stress levels, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and sleep routine. These lifestyle modifications have made it easier for Kristen to live with narcolepsy while still enjoying her daily life.

If you or someone you know is an adult experiencing EDS or cataplexy with narcolepsy, speak with a healthcare provider to see if WAKIX could be an option. Read more about WAKIX below. To hear more about Kristen’s experience living with narcolepsy and how WAKIX became a critical part of her treatment plan, visit WAKIX Personal Stories.

Indications and Usage

WAKIX is a prescription medicine used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) or sudden onset of weak or paralyzed muscles (cataplexy) in adults with narcolepsy.

Important Safety Information

Do not take WAKIX if you are allergic to pitolisant or any ingredient in WAKIX, or if you have severe liver disease.

Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you have heart rhythm irregularities, were born with a heart condition, or the levels of electrolytes in your blood are too high or too low. WAKIX has an effect on the electrical activity of the heart known as QT/QTc prolongation. Medicines with this effect can lead to disturbances in heart rhythm, which are more likely in patients with risk factors such as certain heart conditions, or when taken in combination with other medicines that affect QT. Tell your healthcare provider about all the other medicines you take.

The risk of QT prolongation may be greater in patients with liver or kidney disease. WAKIX is not recommended in patients with end-stage kidney disease.

The most common side effects seen with WAKIX were insomnia, nausea, and anxiety. Other side effects included headache, upper respiratory infection, musculoskeletal pain, heart rate increased, and decreased appetite. These are not all the possible side effects of WAKIX. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take or plan to take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Some medicines can increase the amount of WAKIX that gets into your blood and some medicines can decrease the amount of WAKIX that gets into your blood. The dosage of WAKIX may need to be adjusted if you are taking these medicines.

WAKIX can also decrease the effectiveness of some medicines, including hormonal birth control methods. You should use an alternative non-hormonal birth control method during treatment with WAKIX and for at least 21 days after discontinuation of treatment.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women who are exposed to WAKIX during pregnancy. You are encouraged to enroll in the WAKIX pregnancy registry if you become pregnant while taking WAKIX. To enroll or obtain information from the registry, call 1-800-833-7460.

The safety and effectiveness of WAKIX have not been established in patients less than 18 years of age.

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. You can also report negative side effects to Harmony Biosciences at 1-800-833-7460.

Please see Full Prescribing Information.

For more information about living with narcolepsy, visit WAKIX.com/Living-With-Narcolepsy.

WAKIX is a registered trademark of Bioprojet Europe, Ltd.
© 2022 Harmony Biosciences. All rights reserved.
US-WAK-2200090/June 2022

2022-06-22T16:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Pfizer

Living with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) – also known as eczema – can be challenging.^[1] In addition to having the physical burden that includes flare-ups of red, itchy, painful skin, there is also the emotional and social impact.^{[2],[3],[4],[5]} Those living with eczema aren’t alone – in fact AD is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases, impacting people of all genders, races, ethnicities and ages.^{2,[6],[7],[8]} If you’re living with eczema, a proactive approach and self-advocacy can make a big difference in feeling empowered versus overpowered by your moderate-to-severe AD. Here are six ways to help you feel more confident and in control:

1. Take charge of living with eczema

You know your body best – if you think you have eczema or it may be worsening, speak up and consult with your doctor. Talk with your health care team about steps you can take to try to identify or eliminate triggers and irritants for your moderate-to-severe AD.^2,[9] Consider keeping a log of your symptoms and bringing this with you to doctor’s appointments to help understand what might be aggravating your skin. Openly sharing your concerns with your doctor may also help you to identify a treatment plan and options that might be helpful for you. A few simple steps now may make a big difference in how you look and feel in the future.

2. Establish a health care support team

Having a health care team you trust and feel comfortable with is critical. You should be able to speak candidly with your doctor and feel like you are being heard. If this is lacking, consider finding a different doctor, or getting a second opinion – many medical professionals even encourage this. Don’t hold back when it comes to finding the right fit for you.

3. Make the most of appointments

Whether in person or virtually, each appointment you have is an opportunity to see your physician and share the status of your eczema symptoms. But it’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about your eczema. Consider writing your concerns and questions down ahead of time and bringing the list to the appointment to ensure you don’t forget anything and nothing is overlooked. You may also want to capture pictures of the eczema on your skin to share with them. This preparation can help ensure you make the most of the time you may have with your doctor during the visit.

4. Understand your insurance process

Health insurance policies vary greatly. It’s important to understand deductibles, copays and coverage before proceeding with any appointments or treatments, so you can plan accordingly. Call your health insurance provider to review the process and what you can expect, including prescription coverage.

5. Know you are not alone

Having moderate-to-severe AD can feel isolating but understand that you are not alone.^[10] Try to connect with others who are living with or caring for someone with the disease through support networks, advocacy groups or on social media. It may help to share your own experience with others.

6. Research and explore treatment options

Although there is no cure for eczema, there are different treatment options available depending on various factors, such as age and eczema severity.^[11],[12] Current therapeutic approaches include applying over-the-counter moisturizers and emollients, or prescription topical, oral and injectable medications, and phototherapy.¹² One option may be CIBINQO (abrocitinib) – a prescription medicine to treat adults with moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) that did not respond to other treatment and is not well controlled with prescription medicines, including biologics, or when they cannot be tolerated.^[13] Learn more at www.CIBINQO.com.

If you’ve had success with CIBINQO, consider sharing your story to help inspire others at www.CIBINQO.com/share-your-experience. It can feel great to make a positive impact for others, especially those who may be struggling.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION AND INDICATION FOR CIBINQO

CIBINQO may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious infections. CIBINQO can lower your immune system’s ability to fight infections. Do not start CIBINQO if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body, have occurred in people taking CIBINQO or other similar medicines. Some people have died from these infections. Your risk of developing shingles may increase while taking CIBINQO.

Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before treatment with CIBINQO and monitor you closely for signs and symptoms of TB infection during treatment.

Before and after starting CIBINQO, tell your doctor right away if you have an infection, are being treated for one, or have symptoms of an infection, including:

• fever, sweating, or chills
• muscle aches
• cough or shortness of breath
• blood in your phlegm
• weight loss
• warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
• diarrhea or stomach pain
• burning when you urinate or urinating more often than usual
• feeling very tired

CIBINQO can make you more likely to get infections or worsen infections you have.

There is an increased risk of death in people 50 years and older who have at least one heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor (such as CIBINQO).

Cancer and immune system problems. CIBINQO may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People, especially current or past smokers, have a higher risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and lung cancers, while taking a JAK inhibitor. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice about having your skin checked for skin cancer during treatment. Limit the amount of time you spend in sunlight and avoid using tanning beds or sunlamps. When in the sun, wear protective clothing and use SPF 30+ sunscreen. This is especially important if you have very fair skin or a family history of skin cancer. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

There is an increased risk of major cardiovascular (CV) events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years and older who have at least one heart disease (CV) risk factor and are taking a JAK inhibitor, especially for current or past smokers.

Some people taking CIBINQO have had major cardiovascular events.

Get emergency help right away if you develop any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking CIBINQO, including:

• discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
• severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
• pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• weakness in one part or on one side of your body
• slurred speech
• shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
• breaking out in a cold sweat
• nausea or vomiting
• feeling lightheaded

Blood clots. Blood clots in the veins of your legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE) can happen in some people taking CIBINQO. This may be life-threatening. Blood clots in the veins of the legs and lungs have happened more often in people 50 years and older, with at least one heart disease (CV) risk factor, taking a JAK inhibitor. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs in the past.

Get medical help right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots including swelling, pain, or tenderness in one or both legs; sudden, unexplained chest or upper back pain; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Changes in certain laboratory test results. Your doctor should do blood tests before and during treatment with CIBINQO to check your lymphocyte, neutrophil, red blood cell, and platelet counts. You should not take CIBINQO if these counts are too low. Your healthcare provider may stop treatment for a period of time if there are changes in these blood test results. You may also have changes in other laboratory tests, such as your blood cholesterol levels. Your doctor should do blood tests about 4 weeks after you start treatment and 4 weeks after any increase in dose to check blood cell counts and as often as needed for other laboratory tests.

During the first 3 months of treatment with CIBINQO, do not take medicines that prevent blood clots except low-dose aspirin (≤81 mg daily), if prescribed.

Before taking CIBINQO, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• have an infection, are being treated for one, or have one that won’t go away or keeps returning
• have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system
• have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB
• have had shingles (herpes zoster)
• have had hepatitis B or hepatitis C
• live, have lived, or traveled to certain areas (such as Ohio & Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections. These infections may happen or worsen when taking CIBINQO. Ask your healthcare provider if you’re unsure if you have lived in an area where these infections are common
• have had any type of cancer
• have had blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs
• are a current or past smoker
• have had a heart attack, other heart problems, or stroke
• have kidney or liver problems
• have abnormal blood tests (low platelet count or white blood cell count)
• have any eye problems, including cataracts or retinal detachment
• have recently received or are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. People who take CIBINQO should not receive live vaccines
• are or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if CIBINQO will harm your unborn baby. Pfizer has a Pregnancy Exposure Registry for pregnant women who take CIBINQO to check your health and the health of your baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking CIBINQO, ask your healthcare provider how you can join this pregnancy registry or call 1-877-311-3770 to enroll
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if CIBINQO passes into your breast milk. You should not take CIBINQO while breastfeeding
• are taking other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. CIBINQO and other medicines may affect each other, causing side effects. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take aspirin or any antiplatelet therapies. Ask your healthcare provider if you are unsure

The most common side effects of CIBINQO include common cold, nausea, headache, herpes simplex including cold sores, increased blood level of creatinine phosphokinase, dizziness, urinary tract infection, tiredness, acne, vomiting, mouth and throat pain, flu, stomach flu, bacterial skin infection, high blood pressure, allergic skin rash to something you contacted, stomach pain, shingles, and low platelet count.

CIBINQO may cause fertility problems in females, which may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about fertility.

Separation or tear to the lining of the back part of the eye (retinal detachment) has happened in people treated with CIBINQO. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any sudden changes in your vision.

These are not all of the possible side effects of CIBINQO.

What is CIBINQO (si-BINK-oh)?

CIBINQO (abrocitinib) is a prescription medicine to treat adults with moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) that did not respond to other treatment and is not well controlled with prescription medicines, including biologics, or when they cannot be tolerated.

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

You are encouraged to report adverse events related to Pfizer products by calling 1-800-438-1985 (U.S. only). If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Visit www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

CIBINQO is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg pills.

Please click for full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING, and Medication Guide or visit CIBINQO.com

This article is sponsored by Pfizer Inc.

PP-ABR-USA-0747

2022-06-20T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sometimes medications that work for some have adverse effects for others, and finding the right treatment can become a diagnostic odyssey, wasting both time and money. Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is the understanding of how genes impact response to medications. PGx helps to take the guesswork out of finding a solution and illuminates which medications could work as effectively as possible for each individual.

2022-06-18T05:01:00

(BPT) – From beach days to girls getaways, the warm weather of summer provides opportunities to spend more time outdoors doing the activities you love. However, as you’re making the most of the sunshine and warm breezes, you may notice you’re not feeling as fresh as you normally do. The heat of the season impacts the body in many ways, but fortunately there are some simple steps you can take to stay fresh this summer.

Wear sunscreen daily: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen protection everyday with at least SPF 30 or higher and that provides broad-spectrum protection (against those UVA and UVB rays) on any exposed skin. Re-apply every two hours, especially if you’ve spent time in the water. Adding hats and sunglasses to your outfit provides some more protection while boosting your style.

Spray on freshness: Summer heat can cause you to perspire more. That’s why it’s essential to use an effective antiperspirant deodorant, like the new Secret Weightless Dry Spray that provides 48-hour sweat and odor protection. The targeted spray gets right where the product is needed, plus the redesigned fragrances provide superior all-day freshness. This spray is free of heavy waxes and alcohol, and is made with pH balancing minerals to help stop odor before it starts.

Summertime hygiene: Summer means more time outdoors in the heat. Take shorter, cooler showers as over showering can lead to dry skin. A shower in the evening helps wind down your body and mind, relaxing you and promoting better sleep.

Switch up your scent: Experiment with a new scent that reflects your personality and style this summer. The new Secret Dry Spray comes in six fresh scents including antiperspirants in wild rose, vanilla, waterlily and white peach, and aluminum-free deodorants in lavender and coconut. Great for use at home or to throw in your beach or weekender bag.

Freshen up your hair and makeup routine: A new hairstyle and makeup routine can also help you stay cool and keep your style fresh. Summer is a time to try that new haircut or wear your hair up more often. Try out a fun head scarf or hair wrap for added sun protection, or add a pop of color to your lips with a tinted SPF lipstick.

Update your gym bag: Warmer weather workouts can leave you feeling not so fresh. Make sure your gym bag includes an antiperspirant that provides 48-hour sweat and odor protection so that you leave your workout feeling and smelling fresh. Each of the Secret Dry Sprays are made with freshness-on-demand technology that deliver moisture- and motion-activated fragrance bursts to help you stay fresh all day long.