Glucose test strips that use the reagent glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinolone quinine (GDH-PQQ) can cause falsely elevated blood glucose results in patients who receive therapeutic products that contain or are metabolized to maltose, xylose, galactose, or certain other nonglucose sugars.
Zicam Zavors, Liqui-Loz
The Zicam line has expanded to include two new cherry-flavored oral zinc cold remedy products. Zicam Zavors are chews with a crunchy shell and soft center. Zicam Liqui-Loz are lozenges with a liquid center.
Commonly available OTC products are involved in more than one third of unintentional pediatric overdoses that prompt emergency department visits each year, according to an analysis of data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS).
A recent Cochrane systematic review found little evidence supporting the use of topical rubefacients for musculoskeletal pain in adults
A “state of the art” review in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found convincing evidence from extensive research over the past 30 years to support beneficial effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated acids (PUFAs) in both primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
In a study of children 3 to 5 years of age, daily probiotic consumption during the winter months proved to be a safe and effective strategy for reducing the incidence and duration of fever, rhinorrhea, and cough. Use of probiotics also reduced the number of antibiotic prescriptions and missed school days.
NSAIDs improve most analgesia-related symptoms caused by the common cold, but there is no clear evidence that they relieve respiratory symptoms such as cough and nasal discharge, according to a recent Cochrane systematic review.
The FDA has issued a final rule that affects the labeling of all nonprescription analgesics now and recommendations that may affect acetaminophen in the future.
With the advent of sunscreen products carrying sun protection factor (SPF) values of 70, 85, and even 100+, does higher equal better?
Prevacid 24HR
The FDA has approved an Rx-to-OTC switch of the proton pump inhibitor lansoprazole. The 15-mg, delayed-release capsules will be marketed as Prevacid 24HR by Novartis and are expected to be available later in 2009.
Today Vaginal Contraceptive Sponge
The Today Vaginal Contraceptive Sponge—a soft polyurethane sponge that releases the spermicide nonoxynol 9 continuously for 24 hours—has returned to the market for the third time. Mayer Laboratories acquired the Today Sponge after the previous manufacturer went bankrupt; the product was relaunched in May 2009.
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