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Brain natriuretic peptide (bnp), also called b-type natriuretic peptide, is mainly secreted by the cardiac ventricles during increased ventricular wall stress. BNP plasma concentration provides important information on the prognosis in patients with heart failure, myocardial infarction, and acute coronary syndromes without ST-segment elevation.
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In September, health officials had concerns about the severity of the upcoming influenza season. Then Chiron Corp. notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta on Oct. 5 that it would not provide its influenza vaccine (Fluvirin) for the year because of contamination issues. This essentially cut the nations trivalent inactivated vaccine supply in half.
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Because of the flu vaccine shortage, it is even more important this year to emphasize with patients the basic of good health habits that can help prevent the spread of flu.
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Two new studies suggest intradermal delivery of a reduced dose could expand the supply of influenza vaccine. This approach may be a promising way to address critical shortages of the flu vaccine, such as those experienced across the country this year. At least one physician, however, doesnt agree.
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FDA moves to strengthen drug safety program; Pfizer to sponsor new celecoxib clinical trial; New drug safety warnings issued.
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Lanthanum carbonate (Fosrenol) by Shire Pharmaceuticals Group, New indication for infliximab (Remicade) by Centocor, New indication for letrozole tablets (Femara) by Novartis.
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Inhibitex has announced that the FDA has granted Aurexis, its humanized monoclonal antibody, fast track designation.
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With the flu vaccine supply cut almost in half this season, health care providers and officials are turning to antivirals to fill in the gap. No one knows, however, if the four antiviral medications amantadine (Symmetrel), rimantadine (Flumadine), zanamivir (Relenza), and oseltamivir (Tamiflu) can meet the demand either. Robert B. Couch, MD, once tried to find out from distributors about the amount of antiviral supply.
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Part 2 of 2: Availability and Cost, Clinical Studies, Critique of Studies, Recommendations/Conclusion.
