Issue 63 January 2014
7. Drug update
FDA Approves Dapagliflozin for Type 2 Diabetes

The FDA approved dapagliflozin (Forxiga, Bristol-Meyers Squibb and Astra Zeneca), the second sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The drug works by blocking the reabsorption of glucose by the kidney, thus increasing glucose excretion and lowering blood glucose levels. Due to safety concerns, the drug is not recommended for patients with active bladder cancer. In addition, elderly patients with impaired renal function, and patients on diuretics to treat other conditions appear to be more susceptible to renal failure risk. The most common adverse events associated with the use of dapagliflozin include genital mycotic infections and urinary tract infections. Six post-marketing studies are further being required by the FDA.
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FDA issues warning on drugs containing Paracetamol
The Food and Drug Administration is recommending that health professionals stop prescribing combination drugs that contain more than 325 milligrams of acetaminophen (Paracetamol) per tablet, capsule, or other dosage unit, citing the risk of possible liver damage.

Limiting the amount of acetaminophen per dosage unit will reduce the risk of severe liver damage from an inadvertent acetaminophen overdose, which can lead to liver failure, liver transplant, and death.

"There are no available data to show that taking more than 325mg of acetaminophen per dosage unit provides additional benefit that outweighs the added risks for liver injury," the statement read.

Combination acetaminophen drugs are commonly prescribed to consumers to treat pain, such as pain from acute injuries, post-operative pain, or tooth pain following dental procedures.
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