Palopegteriparatide (Yorvipath – Ascendis), a parathyroid hormone (PTH) 1-34 analog, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of hypoparathyroidism in adults. The parathyroid hormone analog teriparatide (Forteo, and others), which is approved for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, has been used off-label for treatment of hypoparathyroidism.

With increasing travel, immigration, use of immunosuppressive drugs and the spread of AIDS, physicians anywhere may see infections caused by parasites. The table in this document lists first-choice and alternative drugs for most parasitic infections.

The choice of drugs for treatment of pneumonia depends on the most likely pathogens causing the infection and local antimicrobial resistance patterns. Factors such as severity of illness, presence of co-morbid conditions and whether the infection is community or hospital-acquired also need to be considered.

Smoking tobacco remains the primary preventable cause of death in the US. Smoking cessation often requires both pharmacotherapy and behavioral support.

Cefmetazole sodium (Zefazone - Upjohn), a second-generation parenteral cephalosporin, was recently marketed in the USA for intravenous (IV) treatment of various infections caused by susceptible organisms. Like cefotetan (Cefotan), cefamandole (Mandol), cefoperazone (Cefobid), and moxalactam (Moxam), cefmetazole contains a methylthiotetrazole group that has been associated with prothrombin deficiency.

Felodipine (Plendil - Merck), an extended-release preparation of a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker was recently marketed in the USA for oral treatment of hypertension. An immediate-release formulation is available in some other countries.

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved the marketing of 5% doxepin hydrochloride cream (Zonalon - GenDerm) for treatment of pruritus due to eczematous dermatoses. Oral doxepin is used as a tricyclic antidepressant (Sinequan, and others).

Tolcapone (Tasmar - Roche), a dihydroxy-methyl-nitrobenophenone, has been marketed as an adjunct to levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet, and others) for treatment of Parkinson's disease in both stable patients and those with end-of-dose "wearing off"of levodopa.

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.

The FDA has approved the marketing of the Alair Bronchial Thermoplasty System (Asthmatx) for treatment of severe persistent asthma in patients ≥18 years old whose asthma is not well controlled with inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta₂-agonists.