GLG News by Pulmonologists (US)

This Circulation paper is the first peer reviewed data on the 2 pivotal Phase III trials on ambrisentan that lead the FDA to approving it for the treatment of PAH in July 2007. This paper is critically important since all new research needs to withstand the rigor of peer-review for...

This recent report characterizes a newly discovered anti-IgE monoclonal antibody (mAb12) which appears dramatically more potent than omalizumab (Xolair) in its ability to reduce systemic IgE levels. If further studies confirm this enhanced reduction of IgE and IgE-bearing cells, mAb12 has significant...

The PROSPER Trial is important because it is not.There are many ways to diagnose the Metabolic Syndrome offered by "Expert Consensus", and that is the red flag to make the disticntion between data and information. Information is actionable, data is just that- data, and must be interpreted. Researchers...

Since its launch those involved in the treatment of hypertension have been hoping for more data on the effectiveness of Tekturna. Results of this study add evidence that the product is just beginning to solidly position itself in the antihyptertensive armamentarium, and is therefore encouraging. But...

 Study will be ridiculed.   1) Comparator drug is not appropriate. 2) Not an outcomes study. 3) Time frame too short to be clinically significant. 4) Drug too expensive for first line use. 5) Long term safety not established.

IMS, a publically traded healthcare consutancy has concerns about the CATT study, funded by the National Eye Institute. Given their award winning reputation, one might worry that IMS has uncovered a real problem. Think again. 1. Among IMS' main customers are those who seek pharmaceutical intelligence...

The FDA is investigating Merck's Singulair for a possible link to suicidal thought and action.  With over 28 million prescriptions last year and a 12 year record of safety in children and adults, the evidence must be evaluated closely before coming to any conclusion. Of note antihistamines, including...

 A bottle of 30 Generic Zyrtec can be purchased for $15.  No one is going to get Xyzal that inexpensively. There are no head to head studies showing Xyzal to be better than Zyrtec.  Even though Xyzal claims a 6% sedation rate compared to Zyrtec's 14% rate, it's not apples to apples. ...

Use of Asmanex will continue to increase with this approval down to age 4. Its dose counter tells you exactly how many doses are left in the device.  Pulmicort uses a system that counts down 120---90---60---30---0. A lot of patients on Pulmicort complain to me about this "approximate" dose...

It is difficult to imagine why taking Singulair would increase the risk that someone would complete suicide.  After all, what does a leukotriene receptor antagonist have to do with mental health?  I don't know. But doctors, ask yourself, have you ever had a Singulair patient stop taking it...