Acetaminophen

Pregnancy challenges for women with epilepsy include medication risks like valproate's link to autism and lower IQ, and the need for dose adjustments due to faster metabolism. A study followed 298 children of women with epilepsy to age 6, finding no difference in verbal abilities compared to healthy women's children, though medication levels in the third trimester had nuanced effects. Folate supplementation was beneficial, while acetaminophen showed risks. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of various epilepsy drugs and genetic factors influencing outcomes.

Elite Pharmaceuticals launched its generic Norco® (hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen tablets) in 2.5mg/325mg, 5mg/325mg, 7.5mg/325mg, and 10mg/325mg strengths, indicated for severe pain requiring opioid analgesics. Annual sales for this product reached $300 million by September 2024.

Savara Inc. announces encore presentation of IMPALA-2 trial results at BTS Winter Meeting on Nov 29, 2024, focusing on inhaled molgramostim's impact on aPAP patients.

Despite no cure for the common cold, the US Cold & Cough Remedies market is projected to generate $11.19 billion in 2024. The FDA proposed removing phenylephrine, a common but ineffective OTC cold medicine ingredient, after a 17-year petition. Medical experts advise against using phenylephrine alone and recommend nasal saline, honey for cough, and hydration for cold relief. Prevention, including handwashing and avoiding face touching, is emphasized as the best strategy against colds.

Jazz Pharmaceuticals' Ziihera (zanidatamab-hrii) receives FDA accelerated approval for previously treated, unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive biliary tract cancer, becoming the first dual HER2-targeted bispecific antibody treatment. Produced via recombinant DNA technology in Chinese hamster ovary cells, Ziihera's recommended dose is 20 mg/kg every two weeks, with pre-treatment to avoid infusion reactions. Based on the HERIZON-BTC-01 trial, 52% of patients saw improvements, with a median duration of response of 14.9 months. Ongoing phase 3 trials explore Ziihera's effectiveness in combination with standard-of-care therapy and other cancer types.

Climate change linked to 1 in 5 dengue cases; could cause 40-60% increase by 2050. Dengue thrives in 68-82°F, posing higher risk as temperatures rise. 257 million people in areas where cases could double in 25 years. No specific treatment, vaccine available for high-risk children.

FDA workshop discusses PREA Act requirements for OTC acetaminophen, ibuprofen NDAs, focusing on unmet needs in children's drugs, labeling clarity for low health literacy consumers, and education for healthcare providers.

Evan's addiction journey began at 15 with Percocet, leading to heroin and a fatal overdose at 19. His parents, John and Stephanie Greene, founded the Evan G Foundation to educate youth on drug dangers. Massachusetts, unlike 31 other states, restricts access to an FDA-approved treatment for fentanyl overdoses, despite fentanyl being responsible for 93% of opioid deaths in the state.