Archive for February, 2007

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (Aranesp)

admin February 19th, 2007

FDA notified healthcare professionals of the results from a large clinical trial evaluating use of an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) to treat anemia in cancer patients not receiving chemotherapy. In this study, patients received either Aranesp, an ESA, according to the approved dosing regimen or placebo. Patients treated with Aranesp had a higher death rate and no reduction in the need for transfusions compared to those treated with placebo. The findings in the Aranesp study may apply to other ESAs. Additionally, the findings show that treating anemic cancer patients not currently on chemotherapy with an ESA may offer no benefit and may cause serious harm.

FDA.

Ranibizumab (Lucentis)

admin February 2nd, 2007

The FDA report and Genentech report on an ongoing study (SAILOR) which confirmed the higher incidence of stroke associated wtih ranibizumab with a 0.5 mg dose group compared to the 0.3 mg dose group (1.2% versus 0.3%, respectively; P=0.02) which used in patients with neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration who received intravitreal Lucentis.

Latest Australian Adverse Drug Reactions Bulletin

admin February 1st, 2007

The latest edition of the Australian Adverse Drug Reactions Bulletin prepared by ADRAC is out, features include:

1. Traditional Indian (Ayurvedic) and Chinese Medicines associated with heavy metal poisoning

2. Zolpidem and bizarre sleep related effects

3. Increased risk of fractures associated with enzyme-inducing antiepileptic medicines