The FDA reminds patients who use fentanyl patches for pain to take special care storing, using, and discarding them.

Recently the FDA evaluated 26 cases of children’s accidents that involved the patches including 10 deaths and 12 hospitalizations. Sixteen children were under two years of age.

Problems included curious children finding patches in the trash or stored within their reach. In addition, loose patches transferred the potent narcotic medicine to children who were being held or carried. Even used patches can still contain significant amounts of fentanyl, enough to seriously hurt a child.

Before using either the brand name Duragesic® or generic fentanyl transdermal system patches, read the FDA approved Medication Guide. Read the rest of this entry »

The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new opiate drug for severe breakthrough cancer pain.  However, Onsolis® will only be available through a restricted distribution program.

As part of an FDA-required Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, only health care providers, pharmacies, and patients registered with the FOCUS program will be able to prescribe, dispense, and use the medicine. Read the rest of this entry »

Despite more resources in large cities, patients were more often diagnosed with cancer at a late stage in cities in Illinois compared to rural areas. Phone calls and personalized diet and exercise plans helped long-term cancer survivors lose weight and gain strength, and scientists have found changes in the blood of family caregivers that promote inflammation and may lead to illness.

In other headlines, both patients and doctors liked virtual, computer videoconferencing visits, and the FDA reports that shortages of fentanyl patches have been resolved. Read the rest of this entry »