The FDA has approved edoxaban (Savaysa – Daiichi Sankyo), a once-daily, oral, direct factor Xa inhibitor, for treatment of venous thromoboembolism (VTE) and for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. It is the fourth new oral anticoagulant to be approved for VTE and nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Patients may be asking about Airborne, a dietary supplement that is being heavily promoted for prevention and treatment of colds. It contains 7 herbal extracts, 3 vitamins, 2 amino acids, selenium, zinc and many other ingredients. Airborne Jr is available for children. There are some concerns. First, there is no conclusive evidence that this product or any of its ingredients prevents colds or shortens their duration. Second, the adult tablet contains 1 g of vitamin C, and the directions for use advise taking 1 tablet at the first sign of a cold and repeating the dose every 3 hours as...

The FDA has approved calcitriol ointment (Vectical - Galderma), a vitamin D analog, for topical treatment of mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis in adults ≥18 years old. Ointments are generally considered more potent than creams or solutions.

High plasma homocysteine concentrations, like high cholesterol, have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death (O Nygσrd et al, N Engl J Med 1997; 337:230; RS Vasan et al, JAMA 2003; 289:1251). In one meta-analysis, 25% lower plasma homocysteine concentrations were associated with 11% less coronary heart disease and 19% less stroke (Homocysteine Studies Collaboration, JAMA 2002; 288:2015). Should we be trying to lower serum homocysteine concentrations in our patients?

The FDA recently cleared the AmpliChip CYP450 Test (Roche), which analyzes blood-derived DNA to detect genetic variations in the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 and determines the metabolizer status of the patient. The test is intended to help guide clinicians in prescribing individualized drug therapy. About 25% of all drugs, including many antidepressants and antipsychotics, are substrates of either CYP2D6 or CYP2C19. The test is being promoted initially to psychiatrists.

Two new drugs alendronate (Fosamax - Merck) and salmon calcitonin nasalspray (Miacalcin - Sandoz) are now available in the USA for treatment of postmenopausalosteoporosis. A third drug for treatment of osteoporosis, a slow-release fluoridepreparation (Slow Fluoride -Mission Pharmacal), has been recommended for approvalby an advisory committee of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Various formulationsof fluoride have been available in Europe for this indication for many years.

Bexarotene, a retinoid analog, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment of dermatologic manifestations of refractory cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

Calcipotriene ointment 0.005% (calcipotriol; Dovonex - Westwood Squibb), a synthetic vitamin D 3 analog previously available in Europe and Canada, has now been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of moderate plaque psoriasis, the most common form of the disease.

Full-page newspaper advertisements addressed to patients with type 2 diabetes are promoting the convenience of "NEW once-a-day Glucophage XR (metformin HCl extended-release tablets),"and offering a coupon for a free 30-day supply in the month of March.

Mild to moderate plaque psoriasis can be treated with topical drugs and phototherapy. Patients with moderate to severe disease generally require systemic therapy. Guidelines for the treatment of psoriasis with topical therapy, phototherapy, and systemic drugs have recently been published.