Category: Brandpoint Health

2022-02-11T15:19:00

(BPT) – February 14 might be known best as Valentine’s Day, but it is also fittingly National Donor Day. On a day dedicated to showing friends, family and neighbors how much they mean to us, there isn’t a better way to spread the love than having a heartfelt conversation with loved ones about organ, eye and tissue donation.

Kelly Lang of Golden, Colo. is grateful every day that she discussed and knew her daughter Perri’s decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor.

Perri tragically passed away in a car accident when she was just 20 years old. The day she died was also the day she became a hero. Perri was able to give the gift of life to three people, donating her liver and both kidneys. She was able to change the lives of many more people through cornea and tissue donation.

“At the time that Perri and I discussed organ, eye and tissue donation I assumed we were talking about my wishes to be a donor,” said Lang. “Naturally, it seemed that Perri would be part of facilitating those wishes on my behalf. Not the other way around. But things don’t always go according to plan, and that is the primary reason for starting the conversation about donation. It’s never too soon.”

It takes heart to choose organ donation, but it also takes heart to tell your loved ones about your decision. There are many opportunities to second-guess the decisions made at the end of a loved one’s life. Lang said that knowing Perri’s decision and having had that heartfelt conversation removed any doubt about what Perri wanted.

“It just might be at the top of the list of the most loving things she ever did for me,” said Lang.

How you can help on National Donor Day

Right now, more than 1,500 people across Colorado and Wyoming are waiting on a lifesaving transplant. Anyone can sign up to become an organ, eye and tissue donor by saying Yes when they get or renew a driver license or state ID, or anytime at DonateLifeColorado.org or DonateLifeWyoming.org.

Just one donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal more than 75 lives through eye and tissue donation. By signing up to become a donor and talking to your friends and family about donation, you can help save more lives. Starting the conversation can be hard, but your decision to become a donor cannot be changed by your family so it’s important for your loved ones to know about your decision to help others. Visit this guide for tips on how to start the conversation.

2022-02-11T11:31:00

(BPT) – People living with a chronic condition may experience stigmatization on a daily basis. Diane Talbert can relate; a patient-turned-advocate, she has fought her own battle with plaque psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) for decades.

Diane often felt misunderstood and dismissed as the visible signs of her disease did not match with the images seen in medical textbooks. Delays in diagnosis and treatment compounded the effects of her psoriasis as she navigated the healthcare system as a Black woman, resulting in seemingly insurmountable medical and emotional challenges and obstacles.

She is not alone; living with plaque PsO and PsA is often more difficult for people of color, who may experience a different disease course compared to white patients. A study of African American patients with psoriasis showed that quality of life was worse in people of color compared to Caucasian patients.^1,2,3 Engaging medical professionals with knowledge of these conditions for skin of color could be a factor in mitigating delayed treatment.²

Diane turned her situation into a positive experience by learning the power of her voice and serving as a resource for others going through a similar struggle. To help change the psoriatic disease experience for all people affected, she has become an advocate, annual visitor to Capitol Hill, and speaker about autoimmune disease to a variety of groups.

Dr. Lynn McKinley-Grant, associate professor of dermatology at Howard University College of Medicine and president of the Skin of Color Society, and Diane are two of the passionate experts who have partnered with Janssen, a pharmaceutical company focused on innovations for some of the most devastating diseases and complex medical challenges of our time. This initiative, called Determi-Nation, comprises both healthcare and patient experts motivated to spark a health movement within plaque PsO and PsA. Members of this diverse, cross-functional team are all paid consultants for Janssen, and together are working to develop solutions with communities of color – bridging treatment and diagnosis gaps.

Respectively, Diane and Dr. McKinley-Grant reflected on the challenges of living with, and treating people who have, plaque PsO or PsA, and compiled five ways people of color can confidently advocate for their skin health.

1. Choose Providers Familiar with Skin of Color

On Caucasian skin, plaque PsO typically appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, or “scale.” However, on skin of color, plaques can be thicker with more scales than the surrounding skin and appear darker, less red, and more violet.^4,5,6 A diagnostic presentation for psoriasis is the plaques are symmetrical in all skin types.⁶ Therefore, Dr. McKinley-Grant stresses the importance of looking for healthcare providers experienced with skin of color.

“Find out where the dermatologist trained, if it was a community with people of color and if they have experience in treating psoriasis in patients of color,” Dr. McKinley-Grant says. “Research into the doctor’s background takes more effort in the beginning but may result in finding the best provider for your plaque psoriasis.” Also getting referrals from other patients and reading reviews on the internet are ways to assess the doctor.

2. Prioritize Clear Communication

Dr. McKinley-Grant considers active listening critical in the patient-provider relationship, saying that “clear, engaged communication can go a long way toward better disease management.” She goes on to note, “you should try to be open and honest about what you are experiencing and observe whether your provider is actively listening while you describe your condition.”

3. Listen to Your Body

As someone living with plaque PsO and PsA, Diane found strength in being an expert on her own disease by paying close attention to her body.

“Providers should understand that my life matters, and I deserve a diagnosis,” she says. “I had already versed myself in the limited research that was out there, and I wish I knew then that it’s okay to speak up and take note of what I’m noticing with my body.”

4. Bring Your Support Network

Living with a chronic disease, and implementing these learnings, understandably can seem like an enormous task. This is especially true for people with plaque PsO, who endure considerable challenges due to visible signs of the disease. As a result, they may have anxiety and can become depressed.^7,8

Recognizing that this disease can be an uncomfortable subject, Diane has found it helpful to lean on her husband, a trusted member of her support network, during the difficult moments. Having emotional support is invaluable when managing any chronic disease.

5. Utilize Resources

While people ultimately strive for in-person visits to cultivate the doctor-patient relationship, ask about remote ways to access information. Virtual office visits have numerous benefits, including the convenience of sharing your experiences and questions from a comfortable place.^9,10

There are also organizations, like the National Psoriasis Foundation, dedicated to supporting people living with these diseases.¹¹

While there is much work to do, Dr. McKinley-Grant, Diane, and the entire Determi-Nation expert team know that the most important step is to simply start the conversation!

For more information on Determi-Nation, visit https://www.jnj.com/health-and-wellness/advocating-for-yourself-at-the-dermatologist.

______________

¹ Kerr GS, Qaiyumi S, Richards J, et al. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in African-American patients–the need to measure disease burden. Clin Rheumatol. 2015;34(10):1753-1759.

² The National Psoriasis Foundation. Treating Skin of Color. Last accessed December 15, 2021. https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/treating-skin-of-color/

³ Aslam T, Mahmood F, Sabanathan A, Waxman R, Helliwell PS. A clinical and radiographic comparison of patients with psoriatic arthritis from different ethnic backgrounds. Rheumatology. 2021 Jan; 60(1):340-345.

⁴ The National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriasis Statistics. Last accessed December 15, 2021. https://www.psoriasis.org/psoriasis-statistics/

⁵ Alexis AF, Blackcloud P. Psoriasis in skin of color: epidemiology, genetics, clinical presentation, and treatment nuances. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(11):16-24.

⁶ Skin of Color Society. Psoriasis. Last accessed December 15, 2021. https://skinofcolorsociety.org/patient-dermatology-education/psoriasis/#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20a%20common%20chronic,in%20African%20and%20Hispanic%20ethnicities.&text=It%20usually%20presents%20as%20thickened,elbows%2C%20knees%2C%20and%20back

⁷ Ferreira BI, Abreu JL, Reis JP, Figueiredo AM. Psoriasis and Associated Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review on Etiopathogenesis and Clinical Correlation. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016;9(6):36-43. PMCID: PMC4928455.

⁸ Armstrong A, Schupp C, et al. Quality of Life and Work Productivity Impairment among Psoriasis Patients: Findings from the National Psoriasis Foundation Survey Data 2003–2011. PLOS ONE. 2012;7(12):1-6.

⁹ Gkrouzman E, Wu DD, et al. Telemedicine in Rheumatology at the Advent of the COVID-19 Pandemic. HSSJ. 2020;16(Suppl 1):108–111.

¹⁰ The National Psoriasis Foundation. Telemedicine Tears Down Barriers to Your Doctor. Last accessed December 15, 2021. https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/telemedicine-tears-down-barriers-to-your-doctor/

¹¹ The National Psoriasis Foundation. About Psoriasis. Last accessed December 15, 2021. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/

2022-02-11T10:17:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company

The winter season is a special time of year. Many look forward to spending time with family and friends, sipping hot cocoa or getting cozy by the fire. Unfortunately, however, this festive time of year can also be accompanied by stress and discomfort for someone living with chronic diseases. Nearly 125 million people globally live with psoriasis – an autoimmune disease impacting their skin. The most typical form of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, which presents as raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells.

Sam is a husband, father, youth mentor and basketball coach, and he is one of the millions of people impacted by moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. For years, he experienced discomfort and everyday difficulties due to his skin plaques. Fortunately, Sam was able to find relief with Taltz^® (ixekizumab) injection 80 mg/mL. Learn more about patients like Sam and their experience with Taltz.

Taltz is a prescription medicine for people 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or treatment using ultraviolet or UV light (phototherapy). Taltz affects the immune system. It may increase your risk of infections, which can be serious. Do not use Taltz if you have any symptoms of infection, unless your doctor tells you to. If you have a symptom after starting Taltz, call your doctor right away.

Think you might have plaque psoriasis? Understanding key signs and symptoms

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune disease that may begin in childhood or adulthood and occurs when the immune system is overactive. This leads new skin cells to grow too rapidly. The most typical result is red, scaly patches that develop on your body. For Sam, these symptoms began in his teens and gradually worsened. “When I was first diagnosed, it was in fairly small areas that were irritating and itchy, and as it progressed to cover more parts of the body, especially my legs and torso, I was devastated.”

The plaques on his skin made Sam’s job as a basketball coach challenging and uncomfortable, especially as areas such as his legs and arms were often exposed to teammates during practice. As the air became more dry in the winter, Sam’s itchiness and skin dryness often increased. “Continued scratching meant the scales were everywhere – in my bed after sleeping, in my socks, especially if I was wearing dark clothes. Sometimes they would be on my legs from the knees down or on my arms. When they were on my scalp, I looked like I had bad dandruff.”

Psoriasis in the winter months

The winter season is a time Sam enjoys spending with his loved ones. “I love the holidays! My mom used to bring our family together, and I’d like to think I’ve continued that tradition. There’s nothing like family, and we all love to spend time with each other. During the holidays, all of us – my siblings, our kids – get together to have dinner. It’s a nice tradition that we look forward to every year.”

However, as the cold weather arrived, Sam’s symptoms often worsened. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), nearly half of people living with psoriasis rank the winter season as the most difficult time for their disease due to factors such as reduced sunlight exposure, lack of humidity and heightened stress levels around the holidays.

“In Michigan, it’s very dry in the wintertime. That’s mainly when it would result in flaky and patchy skin. It was very embarrassing.”

Sam leans on his family for support

While Sam cherishes seasonal activities with his loved ones, his plaque psoriasis impacted his desire to see family and friends around the holidays. “Family is more loving, but it still bothered me because I knew it was there. If it was visible and people could see it, it would make me feel self-conscious and embarrassed. Younger kids or siblings who didn’t understand would sometimes ask, ‘What’s up with Uncle Sam?’”

Sam described the impactful meaning of his family’s support and his desire to strengthen connections with his loved ones. “At the beginning, no one really understood what it was. My mom and my dad helped me. My dad used to say, ‘Don’t worry about what people think! It’s not contagious and you’re not going to hurt anyone. Have confidence in yourself.’ Now, my family doesn’t even remember I have it.”

Searching no more: Taltz (ixekizumab) helped Sam find relief

Sam was looking for a new treatment that could offer him a chance at completely clear skin. After his dermatologist recommended and started him on Taltz, an FDA-approved treatment for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. After beginning treatment with Taltz, Sam quickly experienced symptom relief in the areas of his skin that were bothering him the most. “I started to see relief from Taltz quickly, and I am so happy with the results. I don’t see the traces of psoriasis that I used to. Now that I’m on Taltz, my skin is virtually clear.”

Since experiencing relief of his symptoms, Sam chooses clothing he previously struggled to wear and proudly enjoys coaching and mentoring his athletes. “I used to only grab for sweatpants and long sleeve shirts all the time because I was ashamed, and it was incredibly uncomfortable. It was stressful because it inhibited me from doing what I wanted to do. It’s so important to me to be able to show my legs and show some skin like basketball players do!”

With clear skin, he also looks forward to spending time with his family each holiday season. “Time flies and tomorrow isn’t promised, so over the years you never know who’s going to be with you. I really believe there’s nothing like family, and I love and cherish the time spent with my family.”

Ask your doctor about treatment options like Taltz

Sam recommends talking to your doctor about available treatment options, including Taltz, if you are looking for the possibility of complete skin clearance. “When I come across people with plaque psoriasis, I tell them that they should see their dermatologist,” said Sam.

Sam discovered Taltz Together^TM, a program that provides assistance as you begin Taltz and offers resources throughout your treatment. The program aided Sam in navigating the approval process with his insurance company, and he suggests it to anyone who feels concerned about their treatment costs.

If you have moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, talk to your doctor about Taltz to see if it is the right treatment for you.

*This article represents Sam’s personal experiences. While Sam saw complete clearance with Taltz, individual results may vary. In clinical trials, at 12 weeks, up to 90 percent of people saw significant improvement of their psoriasis, and four out of ten people achieved completely clear skin.

Sam was compensated for his time.

PURPOSE AND SAFETY SUMMARY

Important Facts About Taltz^® (tol-ts). It is a prescription medicine also known as ixekizumab.

Taltz is an injectable medicine used to treat:

• People 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or treatment using ultraviolet or UV light (phototherapy).
• Adults with active psoriatic arthritis.
• Adults with active ankylosing spondylitis.
• Adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis with objective signs of inflammation.

It is not known if Taltz is safe and effective in children for conditions other than plaque psoriasis or in children under 6 years of age.

Warnings

• Taltz affects the immune system. It may increase your risk of infections, which can be serious. Do not use Taltz if you have any symptoms of infection, unless your doctor tells you to. If you have a symptom after starting Taltz, call your doctor right away.
• Your doctor should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before you start Taltz, and watch you closely for signs of TB during and after treatment with Taltz.
• If you have TB, or had it in the past, your doctor may treat you for it before you start Taltz.
• Do not use Taltz if you have had a serious allergic reaction to ixekizumab or any other ingredient in Taltz, such as: swelling of your eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, feeling faint, throat or chest tightness, or skin rash. Get emergency help right away if you have any of these reactions. See the Medication Guide that comes with Taltz for a list of ingredients.
• Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (inflammatory bowel disease) can start or get worse with Taltz use. Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms or if they get worse: stomach pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
• You should not get live vaccines while taking Taltz. You should get the vaccines you need before you start Taltz.

Common side effects

The most common side effects of Taltz include:

Injection site reactions	Upper respiratory infections
Nausea	Fungal skin infections

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects. You can report side effects at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before using

Before you use Taltz, review these questions with your doctor:

• Are you being treated for an infection?
• Do you have an infection that does not go away or keeps coming back?
• Do you have TB or have you been in close contact with someone with TB?
• Do you have possible symptoms of an infection such as fever, cough, sores, diarrhea, or other symptoms? Ask your doctor about other possible symptoms.
• Do you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis?

Tell your doctor if:

• You need any vaccines or have had one recently.
• You take prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
• You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Taltz can harm an unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: If you become pregnant while taking Taltz, you are encouraged to enroll in the pregnancy registry. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider or call 1-800-284-1695 to enroll in the registry.

• You are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if Taltz passes into breastmilk.

How to take

See the instructions for use that come with Taltz. There you will find information about how to store, prepare, and inject Taltz. Adults may self-inject after receiving training from a healthcare provider.

For people under 18 years of age:

• Weighing less than 50 kg (i.e., 110 lb): Taltz must be given by a healthcare provider.
• Weighing more than 50 kg (i.e., 110 lb): If your healthcare provider decides that your caregiver may give your injections of Taltz at home, your caregiver should ask and receive training from a healthcare provider on the right way to prepare and inject Taltz.

Learn more

For more information, call 1-800-545-5979 or go to taltz.com.

This summary provides basic information about Taltz and is not comprehensive. Read the information that comes with your prescription each time your prescription is filled. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor. Be sure to talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider about Taltz and how to take it. Your doctor is the best person to help you decide if Taltz is right for you.

IX CON BS 06JAN2022

PP-IX-US-5281 01/2022 ©Lilly USA, LLC 2022. All rights reserved.

Taltz Together™ is a trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.

Taltz^® is a registered trademark owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.

2022-02-11T09:01:00

(BPT) – Jeff was in his late teens when he broke out into a rash of dark, itchy spots that eventually drove him to see a dermatologist. This doctor diagnosed him with systemic mastocytosis (SM), a rare disease that causes the body to overproduce mast cells – a key cell type of the immune system. What Jeff didn’t know was the skin rash was just the beginning of his journey with SM.

It’s been 30 years since Jeff’s diagnosis and since then, his doctors determined he has Advanced SM, a subtype of SM. About 95% of patients with Advanced SM have a KIT D816V mutation – a genetic change that can cause abnormal mast cells to build up in different organs, such as the skin, bone marrow and digestive tract, and may lead to life-threatening effects. While everyone’s experience with Advanced SM is unique, Jeff has had a number of recurring and unpredictable symptoms.

“I had a skin rash known as urticaria pigmentosa all over my body, which would sometimes clump together and look like large bruises or lesions,” said Jeff. “On top of being in physical pain due to the disease, my skin condition caused me to be self-conscious in public.”

He eventually ended his career in construction. He had a swollen spleen, and swelling in his legs made it a “project” to walk up a flight of stairs.

“People with Advanced SM often have limited ability to perform daily activities, because the disease can cause a range of serious, unpredictable symptoms,” said Lauren Denton, Executive Director of The Mast Cell Disease Society.

At one point, Jeff’s disease caused severe anemia and he was hospitalized for multiple weeks to receive blood transfusions. Although Jeff recovered, years later he faced significant weight loss of about 25% of his body weight and critical anemia recurred, requiring transfusions once again.

Jeff visited his local healthcare team, who were unable to help manage the disease’s complications. After trying a form of chemotherapy, he had been told that there were no other options to manage his disease.

“For patients with Advanced SM, additional therapeutic options are needed to help reduce the disease burden and its impact on the body’s organs. It’s also important for these patients to be educated on how to manage their activities of daily living,” said Valerie Slee, Board Chair of The Mast Cell Disease Society.

Targeting the Primary Cause of Advanced Systemic Mastocytosis

Before losing hope, Jeff connected with a family friend who recommended he visit a medical specialist who was treating patients with Advanced SM.

In January 2018, this doctor enrolled Jeff in a clinical trial for avapritinib (now known as AYVAKIT^®). The treatment was designed to help slow the growth of mast cells and target the underlying KIT D816V mutation that drives about 95% of Advanced SM cases.

AYVAKIT is a prescription medicine approved by the FDA in June 2021 to treat adults with Advanced SM, including aggressive SM, SM with an associated hematological neoplasm, and mast cell leukemia. AYVAKIT is not recommended for the treatment of Advanced SM in people with low platelet counts (less than 50 x 10⁹/L). It is not known if AYVAKIT is safe and effective in children. AYVAKIT may cause serious side effects including bleeding in the brain, cognitive side effects and embryo-fetal toxicity.

Please see Important Safety Information below.

Impact of Treatment

While individual experiences will vary, Jeff continues to respond to AYVAKIT since he started the treatment. His strength has improved, and the amount of skin lesions has reduced. The swelling in Jeff’s legs has eased, although it can flare up after a long day on his feet. He is participating in activities he loves, including golfing and playing softball, and has taken on part-time jobs, such as coaching youth sports.

Jeff works with his healthcare team to help manage side effects, including nausea and swelling in his hands and face, while he is on treatment. The most common side effects of AYVAKIT in people with Advanced SM include fluid retention or swelling, diarrhea, nausea, tiredness, and changes in certain blood tests. Jeff’s doctors also closely monitor his blood counts for treatment response and other potential side effects.

“My biggest piece of advice for people living with Advanced SM is to seek out disease specialists and ask about treatment options that may be right for them,” said Jeff.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR AYVAKIT

AYVAKIT may cause serious side effects, including:
Bleeding in your brain. Serious bleeding in the brain may happen during treatment with AYVAKIT and may lead to death. Stop taking AYVAKIT and tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any symptoms such as severe headache, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or severe weakness on one or more side of your body. Your healthcare provider will check your platelet counts before and during treatment with AYVAKIT.

Cognitive effects. Cognitive side effects are common 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.

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

• have low platelet counts
• have bulging or weakening of a blood vessel wall (aneurysm) or history of bleeding in your brain
• have a history of stroke within the last year
• 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. Talk to your healthcare provider prior to starting a new medicine.

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 AdvSM include fluid retention or swelling, diarrhea, nausea, tiredness, and changes in certain blood tests.

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 may decrease sperm production in males, which may affect your ability to have a child. 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 negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see the full Prescribing Information and Patient Information for AYVAKIT at www.AYVAKIT.com.

This content was developed by Blueprint Medicines Corporation, the manufacturer of AYVAKIT.

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

01/2022 USBP-CORAVAASM-21.003.1

2022-02-10T11:01:00

(BPT) – Between the flu virus and COVID-19, germs are spreading rapidly this season. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to help keep you and your loved ones healthy.

“We have to make many decisions to protect our family and ourselves. This is why prevention is the most important tool that we have: Using hygiene, cleaning high-contact surfaces and vaccines can help us create a barrier between what we love the most — our family — and these viruses,” said Dr. Ilan Shapiro, family physician and Clorox spokesperson.

Here are some important steps you and your family can take to help prevent the spread of viruses this season, including COVID-19 and the flu:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others or indoors in public spaces. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and put six feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household.
• Wash hands regularly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. If your kids are small this is a great time to practice counting or sing a song together. For example, it takes about 20 seconds to sing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”
• Use Clorox Disinfecting Wipes to disinfect surfaces and frequently touched areas such as doorknobs, countertops, light switches, handles, stair rails, remotes and even phones.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. This is how many germs enter the body and then have the chance to make you ill.
• Stay home if you experience any cold-like symptoms. Rest up and watch your symptoms. Contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
• Take care of your physical health by getting a good night’s sleep, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet.

Dr. Shapiro explains that while the virus that causes COVID-19 spreads through the air, flu germs can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours — that’s why cleaning and disinfecting are an important part of a holistic strategy to help reduce the spread of germs that can cause illness. Spaces to be mindful of in your home may include kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, mudrooms/entryways and playrooms.

It’s also important to clean and disinfect areas outside of your home that you are touching — especially during cold and flu season — like grocery cart handles and the inside of car doors. Dr. Shapiro recommends Clorox Disinfecting Wipes On the Go that allow you to keep germ-killing power right at your fingertips, anywhere, anytime. The versatile pack fits perfectly in a purse, glove compartment or backpack for easy access.

To learn more about how to prevent the spread of germs that cause illness, visit Clorox.com.

2022-02-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – Pregnancy can be one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life but it can also be a period full of great uncertainty. Thanks to recent technological advancements, moms-to-be can opt to have non-invasive prenatal testing, or NIPT, the most accurate type of prenatal screening test. Through NIPT, millions of women have discovered more about their baby’s health — all from a simple blood draw.

By analyzing tiny pieces of genetic information from the baby floating around in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy, also known as cell-free DNA, women can better understand their baby’s risk of having certain genetic conditions, plan for their baby’s care and may be able to improve their baby’s health.

“NIPT is a good option for those who are pregnant and want an early genetic screening test. Many people use NIPT to try to avoid an invasive procedure that may pose a risk to their pregnancy,” shares Melissa Maisenbacher, a board-certified genetic counselor at Natera. “There is an incredible amount of information to be gained from NIPT that can guide patients towards their next best steps. By knowing more, earlier, you can choose the right diagnostic test for your pregnancy, either during or after the pregnancy, and if necessary, you can prepare medically, financially and emotionally, and may improve your baby’s health outcomes. As a genetic counselor, I encourage all women to discuss NIPT with their health care provider to determine if it’s the right option for their family.”

Here’s what all moms-to-be should know about NIPT:

1) NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. NIPT can tell you whether the risk of your baby having specific genetic conditions is high or low, but not if your baby has the condition. If the risk is high, prenatal diagnostic testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), should be done either during the pregnancy or after birth to confirm the presence of the condition. Many women choose NIPT as a first step as it may reduce the need for diagnostic testing and poses no risk to the mother or baby.

2) NIPT screens for chromosomal differences including Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome), and other genetic conditions as early as nine weeks into pregnancy. This includes genetic conditions caused by microdeletions, which are small, missing parts of a chromosome. The most common of these is the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (DiGeorge syndrome/VCFS) which was recently found to be more frequently identified than previously believed.

3) NIPT is a highly reliable screening option. While NIPTs are screening tests, they are more accurate and effective than ever before. The accuracy varies based on the lab selected and by the condition being screened for. For example, Natera’s Panorama^® NIPT has greater than 99% accuracy when screening for Down syndrome as indicated in a recent study of over 20,000 patients.

4) All women can have NIPT. Until recently, it was recommended that only women over 35 years of age have NIPT. However, in 2020, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) released an updated practice bulletin recommending that NIPT be offered to all women, regardless of age or risk factors. This was a major step forward for pregnant women that later helped to expand health care coverage and access to NIPT.

5) You’re not alone in this process: NIPT is a personal decision that should be made only after fully considering the benefits and limitations of the test. If you have questions or want to know more about your options, speak with your health care provider or a board-certified genetic counselor.

For more information, visit Natera.com.

2022-02-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 50 million Americans experience some form of tinnitus. It’s also the most reported disability among veterans who have returned from active duty.

In addition, the CDC has received several reports during the pandemic that people have experienced tinnitus and other hearing problems after having COVID.

Because of the rising prevalence of tinnitus, it’s important to know what it is and how it manifests. There are plenty of misconceptions about tinnitus. Below are seven myths and the truth behind this symptom.

Myth 1: Everyone with tinnitus hears ringing

Tinnitus is commonly portrayed as ringing in the ear that no one else can hear. While some people do hear ringing, everyone experiences tinnitus differently.

According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA), someone with tinnitus might hear static, buzzing, hissing, clicking or pulsing. Some people may hear multiple sounds, and the pitch and loudness vary from person to person.

Myth 2: Tinnitus is a disease

Tinnitus is not a disease, disorder or condition. It is a symptom that damage or change has occurred in the ear. The most common cause of tinnitus is hearing loss, but it’s not the only one. According to the ATA, common causes of tinnitus include:

• Ear blockage
• Head and neck trauma
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
• Sinus pressure
• Medications

Myth 3: Only older folks experience tinnitus

According to a survey by the CDC, almost 20% of people in their 20s experience some form of hearing loss and may not be aware of it. Because hearing loss is one of the leading causes of tinnitus, young people should be mindful of what can affect their hearing long term.

Myth 4: Tinnitus isn’t treatable

Tinnitus is treatable, and many people manage tinnitus with a combination of treatments. Because tinnitus is often connected to how the brain processes sound, sound therapies can help reduce the effects of tinnitus.

White noise machines can mask the sound of tinnitus, allowing you to relax or concentrate on tasks. However, it can be difficult to always have a white noise machine on hand. That’s why many people may use hearing aids to mask tinnitus sounds by amplifying external noises.

According to leading tinnitus expert Dr. Julie Prutsman, “Hearing aids have long been an effective treatment for tinnitus, but not all hearing aids are the same. An invisible hearing aid like the Phonak Lyric sits close to the eardrum and utilizes the natural ear anatomy to process sound. It can be worn all day, every day for months at a time and has been clinically proven to provide relief in some patients with tinnitus and hearing loss.”

Myth 5: Tinnitus isn’t a big deal

Tinnitus can be an early indicator of several health problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, tinnitus can be related to the following conditions:

• Changes in the ear bone
• Muscle spasms in the inner ear
• Head and neck tumors
• Blood vessel disorders

If you’re experiencing tinnitus, don’t ignore it. Talk with your doctor, and you may be able to catch a serious health condition before it becomes more severe.

Myth 6: You can’t prevent tinnitus

While anyone can experience tinnitus, you can reduce your risk with some lifestyle changes. If you’re in a job or environment where you can’t avoid loud noises, remember to always use hearing protection. For music lovers, be sure that you and your children are not listening to music at high volume—especially when wearing earbuds or headphones. If you love going to concerts, bring a pair of earplugs so you can enjoy the show and preserve your hearing.

Myth 7: Tinnitus only affects your hearing

Tinnitus can affect every facet of your life. Many people experiencing tinnitus report it negatively impacts their ability to do work, relax and socialize. Tinnitus can make you feel isolated from the world around you, including your family and friends, which can severely impact your mental health.

If you’re experiencing tinnitus, don’t ignore it. Visit a hearing care professional for a hearing evaluation. They can help diagnose you, investigate any causes or related symptoms and help you decide what treatment best suits your needs.

2022-02-09T08:01:00

(BPT) – A runny nose that won’t let up. Congestion to the point of discomfort. Is it allergies? A cold? Or could it be sinusitis?

Sinusitis affects about 1 in 8 adults in the United States, resulting in more than 30 million annual diagnoses, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. Those with chronic sinusitis typically suffer from a combination of nasal congestion, facial pain and pressure, decreased sense of smell, and other symptoms that can impact quality of life.

With symptoms that can mimic a bout of allergies or a common cold, people with chronic sinusitis may misdiagnose themselves, reaching for an over-the-counter remedy, like cold medicine or nose spray, but these medications only offer the temporary relief of symptoms.

That’s why it’s important to see a primary care doctor or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist to receive a proper diagnosis. A growing number of Americans are turning to a minimally invasive procedure performed by Ear, Nose and Throat physicians (ENTs) that may be an effective solution for millions of sinusitis suffers.

Lauren G. was doing all she could to manage her chronic sinusitis and relied on medication to reduce her coughing, shortness of breath, and postnasal drip.

“Even though my symptoms got better when I was on antibiotics, my symptoms would get worse again when I came off them. Because my symptoms continued to return whenever I got off antibiotics, my doctor recommended balloon sinuplasty as an alternative since it was minimally invasive.”

When medication wasn’t able to control Lauren’s sinusitis, she opted for a balloon sinuplasty procedure. This minimally invasive treatment offered a successful solution to her chronic sinusitis.

“I would definitely recommend the balloon sinuplasty to a family or friend because the recovery time was easy, and I no longer have symptoms,” Lauren said.

“As an ENT I see people suffer needlessly when we have good treatment options available,” said Ryan Vaughn, M.D., otolaryngologist, Exhale Sinus and Facial Pain Center. “There are long-term solutions available to millions of people who write off their symptoms as an allergy or a cold. The best thing a person can do is see an ENT specialist and end the suffering.”

What You Need to Know About Sinusitis

Sinusitis is often classified by duration as acute sinusitis when symptoms last for less than 4 weeks or chronic sinusitis when symptoms last more than 12 weeks. While acute sinusitis is typically caused by viruses or bacteria, chronic sinusitis usually stems from prolonged inflammation rather than a longstanding infection. Distinguishing between the type of infection is important as it will determine the best treatment option. For example, while chronic sinusitis is typically treated first with medication, at least 20% of people do not respond adequately to such treatment and may require sinus surgery, according to the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy.

Your doctor should determine the right treatments based on your symptoms. When speaking with your doctor, here are some treatment options available to consider and discuss:

Natural remedies include cool and hot mist vaporizers, steam, nasal irrigation, and sinus rinsing.

Medical Management of sinusitis includes nasal steroids, antibiotics, mucus thinning drugs, decongestants, nasal sprays, oral steroids, and over-the-counter pain relievers. An estimated 20% of chronic sinusitis patients are not successfully treated with medical therapy.

Sinus surgery may be recommended when medical management methods are not enough to relieve patients’ symptoms. Surgical treatment may include Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.

Balloon Sinuplasty is an effective treatment for sinusitis and may be a preferred option for many patients, in fact, 96% of patients experience symptomatic improvement at 52 weeks with balloon-only treatment.

A helpful resource is available at sinusitisanswers.com where you can learn more about sinusitis symptoms, treatment options, and common questions. A patient questionnaire is available for download to help you navigate your conversation with your doctor.

2022-02-08T09:01:00

(BPT) – Everywhere you look, you’re bombarded by ads offering solutions to help you lose weight. Each product or program claims to have “the secret” to weight loss. Celebrity endorsers and before-and-after photos offer compelling testimonies, but how can you sort out fact from fiction? Here are some simple steps to make sure you’re making the right choice.

Determine your goal and timeline

Ask yourself what result you want. Are you looking to drop a quick 10 pounds for an upcoming occasion? If so, you can find dozens of quick-fix diet solutions. These plans generally provide simple, easy-to-use programming to help you lose weight — at least temporarily. The trick is keeping it off once the plan ends.

However, if you’re one of the millions of Americans who’s tired of dieting year after year and are looking for a long-term transformation, quick-fix solutions won’t cut it. Instead, you need to find a plan designed to provide long-term changes.

Build long-term, sustainable health

“Most weight-loss programs simply focus on calorie reduction until you hit your goal weight,” says Chelsie Comstock, a registered dietitian and a Profile health coach. “But after you hit that number, you’re right back to your old nutrition and activity habits. Sure, you hit your goal, but you haven’t changed your behaviors or made meaningful changes along the way.”

For true transformations, it’s important to set process-based goals. Rather than sticking to strict deadlines to complete a task with an end date — like losing 10 pounds before your high school reunion — the goal is to develop a consistent routine and healthy habits over time. Process-based goals might include reducing takeout meals to twice a week or committing to three months of strength training. At first this can be difficult, but a professional health coach can help you develop a plan and support you along the way.

“Many of our members are tired of the yo-yo diets and failing time and time again,” Comstock adds. “It’s not that they failed — they’re just focused on the wrong things. That’s where health coaching makes all the difference.”

Benefits of working with a health coach

Most people seeking to lose weight or improve their health will benefit from working with a health coach. Even if you’re an independent, self-motivated individual, a wellness professional can take you further in your health journey. Studies have shown that people who work with a health and wellness coach lose more weight than if they did it on their own. Some of the many benefits to working with a health coach include:

• Flexible/customizable plans: A health coach can help you set realistic, measurable goals, and personalize a program for your unique situation.
• Accountability: It can be challenging to stay on track with any lifestyle change. Profile health coaches meet with you each week to discuss your progress and support you throughout your program.
• Non-scale victories: It’s important to recognize certain milestones that are not tied to weight. Non-scale victories (NSVs) better track your overall health and fitness, and may include gaining muscle mass, increasing endurance, or simply fitting into your clothes better.

To connect with a health and wellness coach and learn more about a process-based weight loss program to help you meet your long-term goals, visit ProfilePlan.com.

2022-02-04T12:31:00

(BPT) – By BRANDPOINT

Sponsored by Incyte Corporation

As a dermatologist, Dr. Amy Spizuoco has a front-row seat to the experience of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). For many of her patients, controlling AD can be challenging despite having tried at-home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and prescription medications.

Life with AD

AD is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation and constant itch impacting more than 21 million people ages 12 years and older in the U.S.^[1] Other symptoms include irritated skin, red lesions that may ooze and crust, and dry scaly patches.^[2] AD most commonly occurs on the face, inside the elbows, or behind the knees,^[3] and is triggered by a dysregulation of the immune system.^[4]

The persistent itch and discomfort of AD can significantly impact people’s lives, interfering with everyday activities and even disrupting sleep.^[5] Nearly two out of three people report experiencing itch most days of the week.^[6] AD can also come and go, making the condition more frustrating to manage for some.^[4]

Dr. Spizuoco, associate clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and president-elect of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, empathizes with her patients’ frustrations:

“People with AD often come to me exhausted because they can’t get their condition under control. The discomfort from symptoms, including persistent itch, often prevents them from enjoying daily activities. One of my top priorities is to create a simple treatment plan that meets their individual needs. AD can be difficult to manage for some, and there are treatment options available that can help.”

Management Challenges

People may try different approaches to manage their AD, such as using lotion to keep skin moisturized^[7] or medications like topical corticosteroids, either over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor.^[8] Some may find success with one of these approaches while others may not find relief or may lose the response to treatment over time, depending on how their body responds.

“AD manifests differently depending on the patient, which often results in patients cycling through different therapies trying to find solutions that address their particular experience,” says Dr. Spizuoco. “Many people end up using a complicated mix of products, which can feel overwhelming. It’s important that people with AD partner with a dermatologist early on to determine the best and most direct approach to get their condition under control. While treatment options for AD have been limited to date, there have been recent advances and we now have new treatment options to consider for some patients. For people living with AD who haven’t found relief, I recommend reaching out to a dermatologist to revisit the conversation and discuss a new approach.”

Determining if it’s Time for a New Treatment Approach

Novel therapies for the treatment of AD have recently become available. Opzelura™ (ruxolitinib) cream 1.5% is one of the newest treatments for mild to moderate AD, recently approved by the FDA for the short-term and non-continuous treatment of mild to moderate AD in patients 12 years and older without weakened immune systems whose disease is uncontrolled with topical prescription therapies, or when those therapies are not recommended.^[9] It is a non-steroidal topical cream that targets a pathway believed to be a source of the itch and inflammation behind AD.

“Opzelura meets an important need in the treatment of AD, as a non-steroidal topical therapy,” Dr. Spizuoco said. “The way it works may make an impact on itch. In clinical trials, we saw that patients treated with Opzelura experienced significantly clearer skin and itch reduction, compared to those treated with non-medicated cream.^[9] As a clinician, I’m encouraged by these results, and welcome a new treatment option for certain patients with mild to moderate AD.”

The most common (≥1%) adverse reactions associated with Opzelura are nasopharyngitis, diarrhea, bronchitis, ear infection, eosinophil count increased, urticaria, folliculitis, tonsillitis and rhinorrhea.^[9] Please see below for Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warnings for serious infections, mortality, malignancy, major adverse cardiovascular events and thrombosis.

“It is important to note that the FDA has required that certain warnings and precautions be included for JAK inhibitors, including Opzelura,” says Dr. Spizuoco. “I will carefully review risk factors with my patients to evaluate if this is an appropriate treatment for them, and I encourage people to work with their healthcare providers to discuss the appropriate use of Opzelura – and any therapy – as part of their individualized treatment plan.”

Opzelura may work for some but not all patients. To learn more, visit www.Opzelura.com.

Tips for Managing AD

Dr. Spizuoco shares the following tips to encourage people with AD to take an active role in managing their condition:

• Learn as much as possible about AD – knowledge is power!
• Identify individual triggers to understand what may be driving flares
• Build a strong relationship with a trusted dermatologist and work together on a personalized treatment approach
• Come to appointments prepared with questions and openly express any concerns – big or small
• Do research and work with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about potential treatment options
• Connect with other people with similar experiences, and consider joining a local support group or advocacy group
• Lean on family and friends – don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed

“While difficult, AD can be successfully managed,” said Dr. Spizuoco. “There are therapies that can help. Stay positive! Most importantly, work closely with a dermatologist who can be a strong advocate and help navigate any challenges that may arise along the way.”

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

OPZELURA cream is for use on the skin only. Do not use OPZELURA cream, in your eyes, mouth or vagina.

OPZELURA may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious Infections: OPZELURA cream contains ruxolitinib. Ruxolitinib belongs to a class of medicines called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. JAK inhibitors are medicines that affect your immune system. JAK inhibitors can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Some people have had serious infections while taking JAK inhibitors by mouth, including tuberculosis (TB), and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have been hospitalized or died from these infections. Some people have had serious infections of their lungs while taking OPZELURA. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with OPZELURA.

OPZELURA should not be used in people with an active, serious infection, including localized infections. You should not start using OPZELURA if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. You may be at a higher risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster) while using OPZELURA.

Increased risk of death from all causes, including sudden cardiac death, has happened in people taking JAK inhibitors by mouth.

Cancer and immune system problems: OPZELURA may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Some people have had lymphoma and other cancers while taking JAK inhibitors by mouth, especially if they are a current or past smoker. Some people have had skin cancers while taking OPZELURA. Your healthcare provider will regularly check your skin during your treatment with OPZELURA.

There is an increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or cardiac death in people with cardiovascular risk factors and who are current or past smokers while using JAK inhibitors to treat inflammatory conditions.

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 OPZELURA. This may be life-threatening.

Low blood cell counts: OPZELURA may cause low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), low red blood cell counts (anemia), and low white blood cell counts (neutropenia). If needed, your healthcare provider will do a blood test to check your blood cell counts during your treatment with OPZELURA and may stop your treatment if signs or symptoms of low blood cell counts happen.

Cholesterol increases: Cholesterol increase has happened in people when ruxolitinib is taken by mouth. Tell your healthcare provider if you have high cholesterol or triglycerides.

Before starting OPZELURA, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• have an infection, are being treated for one, or have an infection that keeps coming back
• have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system
• have or had TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB
• have had shingles (herpes zoster) or hepatitis B or C
• live, have lived in, or have traveled to certain parts of the country (such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections. These infections may happen or become more severe if you use OPZELURA. Ask your healthcare provider if you do not know if you have lived in an area where these infections are common.
• think you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection such as:

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

• have ever had any type of cancer, or are a current or past smoker
• have had blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs in the past
• have high cholesterol or triglycerides
• have or have had low white or red blood cell counts
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if OPZELURA will harm your unborn baby. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for individuals who use OPZELURA during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. If you become exposed to OPZELURA during pregnancy, you and your healthcare provider should report exposure to Incyte Corporation at 1-855-463-3463.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if OPZELURA passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with OPZELURA and for about 4 weeks after the last dose.

After starting OPZELURA:

• Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of an infection. OPZELURA can make you more likely to get infections or make worse any infections that you have.
• Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while using OPZELURA, 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
  • shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
  • breaking out in a cold sweat
  • nausea or vomiting
  • feeling lightheaded
  • weakness in one part or on one side of your body
  • slurred speech
• Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots during treatment with OPZELURA, including: swelling, pain or tenderness in one or both legs, sudden, unexplained chest or upper back pain, or shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
• Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop or have worsening of any symptoms of low blood cell counts, such as: unusual bleeding, bruising, tiredness, shortness of breath or fever.

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

The most common side effects of OPZELURA include: pain or swelling in your nose or throat (nasopharyngitis), diarrhea, bronchitis, ear infection, increase in a type of white blood cell (eosinophil) count, hives, inflamed hair pores (folliculitis), swelling of the tonsils (tonsillitis), and runny nose (rhinorrhea).

These are not all of the possible side effects of OPZELURA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Incyte Corporation at 1-855-463-3463.

Please see the Full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning, and Medication Guide for OPZELURA.

INDICATION AND USAGE

OPZELURA is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) for short-term and non-continuous treatment of mild to moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) in non-immunocompromised people 12 and older whose disease is not well controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not recommended.

The use of OPZELURA along with therapeutic biologics for atopic dermatitis, other JAK inhibitors, or strong immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine is not recommended.

REFERENCES: