FDA approves NSAID Zorvolex

FDA has approved diclofenac (Zorvolex, Iroko Pharmaceuticals) capsules, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, for the treatment of mild-to-moderate acute pain in adults. Zorvolex was approved at dosage strengths that are 20% lower than currently available diclofenac products. » Full article

FDA approves new PAH drug

FDA approved macitentan (Opsumit, Actelion Pharmaceuticals) to treat adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension, a chronic, progressive and debilitating disease that can lead to death or lung transplantation. » Full article

History of falls key in preop evaluation of elderly

A history of 1 or more falls in the 6 months prior to an operation forecasts increased postoperative complications, need for discharge institutionalization, and 30-day readmission across surgical specialties, according to a study published in JAMA Surgery online October 9, 2013. » Full article

Psoriasis: Secukinumab superior to etanercept

Secukinumab (AIN457), an interleukin-17A (IL-17A) inhibitor, was more effective in treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis than the anti-tumor necrosis factor etanercept and current standard of care, according to a head-to-head phase 3 study. » Full article

Will crowdfunding and general solicitation spur orphan drug development for biotechs?

Ever since the passage of the Orphan Drug Act 30 years ago, more than 350 orphan drugs have been developed to help treat patients with rare diseases. FDA has provided many incentives to biotech companies—such as shorter clinical trials, longer patent times, and tax breaks—making it an attractive target for investment for early-stage and emerging growth companies. Add to this that the orphan drug market in 2011 was worth $50 billion globally, and there are many good reasons for biotechs to invest in orphan drug development. » Full article

• CVS Caremark urges controlled prescribing to combat prescription drug abuse

• FDA approves first drug to treat 2 forms of pulmonary hypertension

• Antipsychotic Rx use in nursing homes declines

• Zoster vaccine effective but underused in elderly

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Drug Topics offers the second part of a two-part CPE series, "MTM considerations in osteoporosis care." Earn up to 2 credits by completing this activity. To read and print the October article with TEST QUESTIONS, click here. To proceed to the online exams and earn up to 2 CPE credits, click here to log in.

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