Matching articles for ""

Addendum: Effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 14, 2024;  (Issue 1713)
A reader of our article on the 2024-2025 formulations of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) asked us to provide more information on the data that...
A reader of our article on the 2024-2025 formulations of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) asked us to provide more information on the data that supported their licensure.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Oct 14;66(1713):e168 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Plaque Psoriasis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 30, 2024;  (Issue 1712)
Mild to moderate plaque psoriasis can be treated with topical drugs and phototherapy. Patients with moderate to severe disease generally require systemic therapy. Guidelines for the treatment of psoriasis...
Mild to moderate plaque psoriasis can be treated with topical drugs and phototherapy. Patients with moderate to severe disease generally require systemic therapy. Guidelines for the treatment of psoriasis with topical therapy, phototherapy, and systemic drugs have recently been published.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Sep 30;66(1712):153-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Comparison Table: Some Drugs for Plaque Psoriasis (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 30, 2024;  (Issue 1712)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Drugs for Plaque Psoriasis
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Sep 30;66(1712):e160-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Betibeglogene Autotemcel (Zynteglo) for Beta Thalassemia (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 30, 2024;  (Issue 1712)
Betibeglogene autotemcel (Zynteglo — Bluebird Bio), an autologous lentiviral vector cell-based gene therapy, has been approved by the FDA for one-time treatment of transfusion-dependent beta...
Betibeglogene autotemcel (Zynteglo — Bluebird Bio), an autologous lentiviral vector cell-based gene therapy, has been approved by the FDA for one-time treatment of transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia in children and adults. Exagamglogene autotemcel (Casgevy), a cell-based gene therapy that uses CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology, was approved earlier this year for the same indication in patients ≥12 years old.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Sep 30;66(1712):e167-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for COPD

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 2, 2024;  (Issue 1710)
The main goals of treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are to relieve symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations, prevent disease progression, and reduce...
The main goals of treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are to relieve symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations, prevent disease progression, and reduce mortality. GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) guidelines for treatment of COPD were updated recently. Treatment of acute exacerbations is not discussed here. Drugs available for treatment of COPD are listed in Tables 1 and 3.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Sep 2;66(1710):137-44 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 5, 2024;  (Issue 1708)
When used for the appropriate seizure type, antiseizure medications (ASMs) are roughly equivalent in efficacy. In addition to the seizure type, the choice of drug is usually based on factors such as ease of...
When used for the appropriate seizure type, antiseizure medications (ASMs) are roughly equivalent in efficacy. In addition to the seizure type, the choice of drug is usually based on factors such as ease of use, spectrum of activity, adverse effects, interactions with other drugs, presence of comorbid conditions, suitability for elderly persons and those with childbearing potential, and cost. Treatment should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures persist, expert clinicians generally try at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs at the same time.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Aug 5;66(1708):121-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Nifurtimox (Lampit) for Chagas Disease (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 22, 2024;  (Issue 1707)
The FDA has approved the nitrofuran antiprotozoal drug nifurtimox (Lampit – Bayer) for treatment of Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) in children who weigh ≥2.5 kg. Nifurtimox was previously...
The FDA has approved the nitrofuran antiprotozoal drug nifurtimox (Lampit – Bayer) for treatment of Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) in children who weigh ≥2.5 kg. Nifurtimox was previously available in the US only through a CDC-sponsored Investigational New Drug (IND) program.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Jul 22;66(1707):e123-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 8, 2024;  (Issue 1706)
Pharmacologic treatment is recommended for postmenopausal women who have bone density T-scores (standard deviations from normal mean values in the spine, femoral neck, total hip, or distal radius) of -2.5...
Pharmacologic treatment is recommended for postmenopausal women who have bone density T-scores (standard deviations from normal mean values in the spine, femoral neck, total hip, or distal radius) of -2.5 or below, T-scores between -1.0 and -2.5 with a history of fragility (low-trauma) fracture of the hip or spine, or T-scores between -1.0 and -2.5 with a FRAX 10-year probability of ≥3% for hip fracture or ≥20% for major osteoporotic fracture.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Jul 8;66(1706):105-12 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Comparison Table: Some Drugs for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 8, 2024;  (Issue 1706)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Drugs for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Jul 8;66(1706):e112-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Head Lice

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 10, 2024;  (Issue 1704)
Pediculosis capitis (head lice infestations) occur in all age groups, but especially in elementary school children. In most cases, transmission occurs by head-to-head contact. Pharmacologic treatment...
Pediculosis capitis (head lice infestations) occur in all age groups, but especially in elementary school children. In most cases, transmission occurs by head-to-head contact. Pharmacologic treatment is recommended for persons with live lice or eggs (nits) within 1 cm of the scalp. Topical pediculicides should be tried first. Oral therapy is occasionally required for refractory infestations.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Jun 10;66(1704):89-92 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Budesonide Oral Suspension (Eohilia) for Eosinophilic Esophagitis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 10, 2024;  (Issue 1704)
Eohilia (Takeda), an oral suspension formulation of the corticosteroid budesonide, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in patients ≥11 years old. It is the first...
Eohilia (Takeda), an oral suspension formulation of the corticosteroid budesonide, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in patients ≥11 years old. It is the first oral drug to be approved in the US for this indication. The subcutaneously injected interleukin (IL)-4 receptor antagonist dupilumab (Dupixent) is approved for treatment of EoE in patients ≥1 year old who weigh ≥15 kg.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Jun 10;66(1704):93-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Menopausal Symptoms

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 4, 2024;  (Issue 1697)
The primary symptoms of menopause are genitourinary and vasomotor. The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) includes symptoms such as burning, irritation, dryness, dyspareunia, dysuria, and recurrent...
The primary symptoms of menopause are genitourinary and vasomotor. The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) includes symptoms such as burning, irritation, dryness, dyspareunia, dysuria, and recurrent urinary tract infection. Vasomotor symptoms (VMS; hot flashes, night sweats) often disrupt sleep.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Mar 4;66(1697):33-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Tenapanor (Xphozah) for Hyperphosphatemia in Chronic Kidney Disease

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 4, 2024;  (Issue 1697)
The FDA has approved the sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitor tenapanor (Xphozah – Ardelyx) to reduce serum phosphorus in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis as add-on therapy...
The FDA has approved the sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitor tenapanor (Xphozah – Ardelyx) to reduce serum phosphorus in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis as add-on therapy when phosphate binders are ineffective or as monotherapy when phosphate binders cannot be tolerated. Tenapanor is the first NHE3 inhibitor to be approved in the US for hyperphosphatemia. It was previously approved as Ibsrela to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Mar 4;66(1697):38-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Acne

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 5, 2024;  (Issue 1695)
Acne is common among adolescents and adults. Guidelines for treatment of acne were last published by the American Academy of Dermatology in...
Acne is common among adolescents and adults. Guidelines for treatment of acne were last published by the American Academy of Dermatology in 2016.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Feb 5;66(1695):17-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Tirzepatide (Zepbound) for Chronic Weight Management

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 25, 2023;  (Issue 1692)
The injectable glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)/glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist tirzepatide, which was approved by the FDA as Mounjaro for treatment of type 2 diabetes in...
The injectable glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)/glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist tirzepatide, which was approved by the FDA as Mounjaro for treatment of type 2 diabetes in 2022, has now been approved as Zepbound (Lilly) for chronic weight management in adults who have a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 or a BMI ≥27 kg/m2 and at least one weight-related comorbidity. The injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists liraglutide (Saxenda) and semaglutide (Wegovy) are approved for chronic weight management in patients ≥12 years old.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Dec 25;65(1692):205-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Depression

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 11, 2023;  (Issue 1691)
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is generally used for initial treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). A serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), bupropion (Wellbutrin SR,...
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is generally used for initial treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). A serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), bupropion (Wellbutrin SR, and others), and mirtazapine (Remeron, and others) are reasonable alternatives. Improvement in symptoms can occur within the first two weeks of treatment with these drugs, but a substantial benefit may not be achieved for 4-8 weeks.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Dec 11;65(1691):193-200 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Etrasimod (Velsipity) for Ulcerative Colitis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 27, 2023;  (Issue 1690)
The oral sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator etrasimod (Velsipity – Pfizer) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults. It is...
The oral sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator etrasimod (Velsipity – Pfizer) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults. It is the second oral S1P receptor modulator to be approved in the US for this indication; ozanimod (Zeposia) was the first.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Nov 27;65(1690):187-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Influenza Vaccine for 2023-2024

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 16, 2023;  (Issue 1687)
Annual vaccination in the US against influenza A and B viruses is recommended for everyone ≥6 months old without a contraindication. Influenza vaccines that are available in the US for the 2023-2024...
Annual vaccination in the US against influenza A and B viruses is recommended for everyone ≥6 months old without a contraindication. Influenza vaccines that are available in the US for the 2023-2024 season are listed in Table 2.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Oct 16;65(1687):161-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Influenza Vaccine for 2023-2024

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 16, 2023;  (Issue 1687)
Annual vaccination in the US against influenza A and B viruses is recommended for everyone ≥6 months old without a contraindication. Influenza vaccines that are available in the US for the 2023-2024...
Annual vaccination in the US against influenza A and B viruses is recommended for everyone ≥6 months old without a contraindication. Influenza vaccines that are available in the US for the 2023-2024 season are listed in Table 2.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Oct 16;65(1687):161-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Osimertinib (Tagrisso) for Adjuvant Treatment of NSCLC (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 7, 2023;  (Issue 1682)
The FDA has approved osimertinib (Tagrisso – AstraZeneca), an oral kinase inhibitor, for adjuvant treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after tumor resection in adults who have epidermal growth...
The FDA has approved osimertinib (Tagrisso – AstraZeneca), an oral kinase inhibitor, for adjuvant treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after tumor resection in adults who have epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations. Osimertinib is the first targeted therapy to be approved in the US for this indication. The drug was previously approved for first-line treatment of adults with NSCLC with EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations and for treatment of EGFR T790M mutation-positive NSCLC in adults whose disease progressed on or after EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Aug 7;65(1682):e131-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Tafasitamab (Monjuvi) for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 7, 2023;  (Issue 1682)
Tafasitamab-cxix (Monjuvi – Morphosys), a CD19-directed cytolytic antibody, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for use in combination with lenalidomide (Revlimid) for treatment of relapsed...
Tafasitamab-cxix (Monjuvi – Morphosys), a CD19-directed cytolytic antibody, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for use in combination with lenalidomide (Revlimid) for treatment of relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), not otherwise specified, including DLBCL arising from low grade lymphoma, in adults who are not eligible for autologous stem cell transplant. Accelerated approval was based on overall response rates.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Aug 7;65(1682):e133 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Inspire for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 24, 2023;  (Issue 1681)
The FDA recently expanded the eligibility criteria (see Table 1) for treatment with the surgically implanted hypoglossal nerve stimulation system (Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation – Inspire...
The FDA recently expanded the eligibility criteria (see Table 1) for treatment with the surgically implanted hypoglossal nerve stimulation system (Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation – Inspire Medical Systems). The device has been advertised lately on radio and television.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Jul 24;65(1681):118-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Metformin to Prevent Long Covid?

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 29, 2023;  (Issue 1677)
Results from a double-blind trial suggest that off-label use of the oral antihyperglycemic drug metformin in patients with COVID-19 may decrease the risk of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2...
Results from a double-blind trial suggest that off-label use of the oral antihyperglycemic drug metformin in patients with COVID-19 may decrease the risk of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection ("long COVID").
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 29;65(1677):87-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Choice of Contraceptives

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 15, 2023;  (Issue 1676)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the etonogestrel implant are the most effective reversible contraceptive methods available. Hormonal oral contraceptives, patches, rings, and injectables are also effective...
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the etonogestrel implant are the most effective reversible contraceptive methods available. Hormonal oral contraceptives, patches, rings, and injectables are also effective in preventing pregnancy. When used alone, barrier and behavioral methods generally have higher failure rates than other methods (see Table 1). Selection of a contraceptive method is usually based on patient-specific factors and personal preference
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 15;65(1676):73-80 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Vibrant – An Oral Vibrating Capsule for Chronic Idiopathic Constipation

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2023;  (Issue 1675)
The Vibrant orally administered vibrating capsule (Vibrant Gastro), an FDA-cleared medical device, is now available by prescription for treatment of adults with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) who...
The Vibrant orally administered vibrating capsule (Vibrant Gastro), an FDA-cleared medical device, is now available by prescription for treatment of adults with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) who have not experienced relief of their bowel symptoms by using laxative therapies at the recommended dosage for at least one month. It is the first drug-free treatment to be authorized by the FDA for this indication.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 1;65(1675):65-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Altuviiio – A Longer-Acting Factor VIII Product for Hemophilia A

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2023;  (Issue 1675)
The FDA has approved Altuviiio (Sanofi), a von Willebrand Factor (VWF)-independent, recombinant factor VIII concentrate, for routine prophylaxis, on-demand treatment to control bleeding episodes,...
The FDA has approved Altuviiio (Sanofi), a von Willebrand Factor (VWF)-independent, recombinant factor VIII concentrate, for routine prophylaxis, on-demand treatment to control bleeding episodes, and perioperative management of bleeding in children and adults with hemophilia A. The manufacturer claims that Altuviiio, which was previously called efanesoctocog alfa, delivers normal to near-normal factor VIII levels for most of the week with once-weekly intravenous dosing.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 1;65(1675):67-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Lenacapavir (Sunlenca) for Multidrug-Resistant HIV

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2023;  (Issue 1675)
The FDA has approved oral and injectable formulations of the HIV-1 capsid inhibitor lenacapavir (Sunlenca – Gilead) for use with other antiretroviral drugs to treat multidrug-resistant HIV-1...
The FDA has approved oral and injectable formulations of the HIV-1 capsid inhibitor lenacapavir (Sunlenca – Gilead) for use with other antiretroviral drugs to treat multidrug-resistant HIV-1 infection (MDR-HIV) in heavily treatment-experienced adults whose current regimen is failing. Lenacapavir is the third drug to be approved exclusively for treatment of MDR-HIV; the intravenously administered CD4-directed antibody ibalizumab-uiyk (Trogarzo) and the orally administered HIV-1 gp120-directed attachment inhibitor fostemsavir (Rukobia) were approved earlier.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 1;65(1675):68-70 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Cyclosporine Ophthalmic Emulsion (Verkazia) for Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2023;  (Issue 1675)
The FDA has approved Verkazia (Santen), a 0.1% ophthalmic emulsion formulation of the calcineurin inhibitor cyclosporine, for treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Verkazia is the first product to...
The FDA has approved Verkazia (Santen), a 0.1% ophthalmic emulsion formulation of the calcineurin inhibitor cyclosporine, for treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Verkazia is the first product to be approved in the US for this indication.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 1;65(1675):70-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Over-the-Counter Narcan Nasal Spray

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2023;  (Issue 1675)
The FDA has approved the over-the-counter (OTC) sale of Narcan (Emergent), a nasal spray that delivers 4 mg of the opioid antagonist naloxone. Narcan nasal spray has been available by prescription since...
The FDA has approved the over-the-counter (OTC) sale of Narcan (Emergent), a nasal spray that delivers 4 mg of the opioid antagonist naloxone. Narcan nasal spray has been available by prescription since 2015 for emergency treatment of opioid overdose. Generic formulations of Narcan have also been approved; the manufacturers of these products will be required to switch them to OTC status and amend their labeling accordingly. Kloxxado, an 8-mg naloxone nasal spray, remains available only by prescription.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 May 1;65(1675):72 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Rezvoglar - Another Insulin Glargine Product Interchangeable with Lantus

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 3, 2023;  (Issue 1673)
Insulin glargine-aglr (Rezvoglar – Lilly), which was approved by the FDA as a biosimilar to the reference product Lantus in 2021 and received interchangeability status with Lantus in 2022, will become...
Insulin glargine-aglr (Rezvoglar – Lilly), which was approved by the FDA as a biosimilar to the reference product Lantus in 2021 and received interchangeability status with Lantus in 2022, will become available in the US on April 1, 2023. It is the second biosimilar insulin product to be designated as interchangeable with Lantus; Semglee was the first. Rezvoglar did not receive interchangeability status with Lantus at the time of its initial approval because the manufacturer of Semglee had exclusivity for 12 months.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Apr 3;65(1673):56 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antiviral Drugs for COVID-19 in Vaccinated Outpatients

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 6, 2023;  (Issue 1671)
Three products are currently available in the US for treatment of high-risk,1 nonhospitalized adults with mild to moderate COVID-19: oral ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid), IV remdesivir (Veklury),...
Three products are currently available in the US for treatment of high-risk,1 nonhospitalized adults with mild to moderate COVID-19: oral ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid), IV remdesivir (Veklury), and oral molnupiravir (Lagevrio). Remdesivir is FDA-approved for such use; nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and molnupiravir are available under an FDA Emergency Use Authorization. Because the pivotal clinical trials of these products for outpatient use were conducted in patients who were not vaccinated against COVID-19, some clinicians have questioned whether they can benefit vaccinated outpatients.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Mar 6;65(1671):33-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Live Fecal Microbiota (Rebyota) for Prevention of CDI Recurrence

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 6, 2023;  (Issue 1671)
The FDA has approved Rebyota (Ferring), a rectally-administered, live fecal microbiota suspension, for prevention of additional recurrences of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) following antibiotic...
The FDA has approved Rebyota (Ferring), a rectally-administered, live fecal microbiota suspension, for prevention of additional recurrences of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) following antibiotic treatment for a recurrent episode of CDI in adults. Rebyota is the first microbiome-based treatment to be approved for this indication. It is not approved for initial treatment of CDI. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been used in patients with multiple CDI recurrences.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Mar 6;65(1671):35-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Semaglutide (Wegovy) for Weight Loss in Children

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 20, 2023;  (Issue 1670)
The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist semaglutide (Wegovy), which was approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults, has now been approved for chronic weight...
The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist semaglutide (Wegovy), which was approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults, has now been approved for chronic weight management in children ≥12 years old with an initial BMI in the ≥95th percentile for age and sex.Semaglutide is also available as Ozempic and Rybelsus for treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 20;65(1670):31-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Expanded Access to Mifepristone

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 20, 2023;  (Issue 1670)
First approved in 2000 for termination of pregnancies of ≤49 days' gestation, the indication for the oral antiprogestin mifepristone (Mifeprex, and generics) was expanded in 2016 to include pregnancies...
First approved in 2000 for termination of pregnancies of ≤49 days' gestation, the indication for the oral antiprogestin mifepristone (Mifeprex, and generics) was expanded in 2016 to include pregnancies of up to 10 weeks' gestation. A single 200-mg oral dose of mifepristone followed 24-48 hours later by a single 800-mcg buccal dose of the prostaglandin analog misoprostol terminates early intrauterine pregnancies in about 95% of women.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 20;65(1670):31 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Lecanemab (Leqembi) for Alzheimer's Disease

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 6, 2023;  (Issue 1669)
Lecanemab-irmb (Leqembi – Biogen/Eisai), an IV amyloid beta-directed monoclonal antibody, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The label states that...
Lecanemab-irmb (Leqembi – Biogen/Eisai), an IV amyloid beta-directed monoclonal antibody, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The label states that treatment with Leqembi should be initiated in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia, the population in which the drug was initiated in clinical trials. Lecanemab is the second IV amyloid-beta directed monoclonal antibody to be approved for this indication; aducanumab (Aduhelm) was approved in 2021 and has the same restrictions on treatment initiation.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 6;65(1669):17-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Dupilumab (Dupixent) for Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Prurigo Nodularis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 6, 2023;  (Issue 1669)
The FDA has approved the subcutaneously injected interleukin (IL)-4 receptor alpha antagonist dupilumab (Dupixent – Sanofi/Regeneron) for treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in patients ≥12...
The FDA has approved the subcutaneously injected interleukin (IL)-4 receptor alpha antagonist dupilumab (Dupixent – Sanofi/Regeneron) for treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in patients ≥12 years old who weigh ≥40 kg and treatment of prurigo nodularis in adults. Dupilumab is the first drug to be approved in the US for each of these indications. It is also FDA-approved for treatment of atopic dermatitis, asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 6;65(1669):18-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Epsolay - A Benzoyl Peroxide Cream for Rosacea

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 6, 2023;  (Issue 1669)
Epsolay (Galderma), a 5% benzoyl peroxide cream, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea in adults. It is the first product containing benzoyl peroxide to be...
Epsolay (Galderma), a 5% benzoyl peroxide cream, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea in adults. It is the first product containing benzoyl peroxide to be approved in the US for treatment of rosacea. Benzoyl peroxide formulations approved for acne have been used off-label to treat rosacea for years, but itching and burning have limited their use.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 6;65(1669):21-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Transdermal Dextroamphetamine (Xelstrym) for ADHD

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 6, 2023;  (Issue 1669)
The FDA has approved a dextroamphetamine transdermal patch (Xelstrym – Noven) for once-daily treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients ≥6 years old. Xelstrym is the...
The FDA has approved a dextroamphetamine transdermal patch (Xelstrym – Noven) for once-daily treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients ≥6 years old. Xelstrym is the first transdermal amphetamine product to be approved in the US. A methylphenidate transdermal patch (Daytrana, and generics) has been available for years for treatment of ADHD.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 6;65(1669):22-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Evusheld Unlikely to Neutralize XBB.1.5 Omicron Variant (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 6, 2023;  (Issue 1669)
The FDA has warned that the investigational long-acting monoclonal antibodies tixagevimab and cilgavimab (Evusheld – AstraZeneca) are unlikely to neutralize the XBB.1.5 Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2....
The FDA has warned that the investigational long-acting monoclonal antibodies tixagevimab and cilgavimab (Evusheld – AstraZeneca) are unlikely to neutralize the XBB.1.5 Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. Evusheld is available under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for IM pre-exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 in persons ≥12 years old who weigh ≥40 kg and have either a history of a severe adverse reaction that prevents their vaccination against COVID-19 or moderate or severe immune compromise.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 6;65(1669):e25 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: A New Indication for Dabrafenib (Tafinlar) and Trametinib (Mekinist) Combination Therapy (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 6, 2023;  (Issue 1669)
The oral kinase inhibitors dabrafenib (Tafinlar – GSK) and trametinib (Mekinist – Novartis) have received accelerated approval by the FDA for use together for a fifth indication: treatment of...
The oral kinase inhibitors dabrafenib (Tafinlar – GSK) and trametinib (Mekinist – Novartis) have received accelerated approval by the FDA for use together for a fifth indication: treatment of unresectable or metastatic solid tumors with a BRAF V600E mutation in patients ≥6 years old who have progressed following prior treatment and have no satisfactory alternative treatment options. The combination is not approved for treatment of colorectal cancer because of known intrinsic resistance to BRAF inhibition and dabrafenib is not approved for use in patients with wild-type BRAF melanoma, anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), or solid tumors.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Feb 6;65(1669):e26-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Furoscix - A Subcutaneous Furosemide Infusor for Heart Failure

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 23, 2023;  (Issue 1668)
The FDA has approved Furoscix (scPharmaceuticals), a subcutaneous formulation of the loop diuretic furosemide administered via a single-use, on-body infusor, for treatment of congestion due to...
The FDA has approved Furoscix (scPharmaceuticals), a subcutaneous formulation of the loop diuretic furosemide administered via a single-use, on-body infusor, for treatment of congestion due to fluid overload in adults with New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class II-III chronic heart failure (HF). Furosemide (Lasix, and generics) has been available for years in oral and IV formulations.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Jan 23;65(1668):14-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Teplizumab (Tzield) to Delay Onset of Type 1 Diabetes

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 9, 2023;  (Issue 1667)
Teplizumab-mzwv (Tzield – Provention Bio), an anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody, has been approved by the FDA to delay the onset of stage 3 type 1 diabetes in patients ≥8 years old who have stage 2 type...
Teplizumab-mzwv (Tzield – Provention Bio), an anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody, has been approved by the FDA to delay the onset of stage 3 type 1 diabetes in patients ≥8 years old who have stage 2 type 1 diabetes. It is the first drug to become available in the US that delays the onset of type 1 diabetes.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Jan 9;65(1667):7-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Oral Minoxidil for Hair Loss

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 26, 2022;  (Issue 1666)
Topical minoxidil (Rogaine, and others), which is available over the counter, has been used for treatment of hair loss in men and women for more than 30 years. Recently published trials suggest that...
Topical minoxidil (Rogaine, and others), which is available over the counter, has been used for treatment of hair loss in men and women for more than 30 years. Recently published trials suggest that off-label use of a low dose of oral minoxidil may also be effective.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Dec 26;64(1666):208 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Margetuximab (Margenza) for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 28, 2022;  (Issue 1664)
The FDA has approved margetuximab-cmkb (Margenza – MacroGenics), a HER2/neu receptor antagonist, for use in combination with chemotherapy for treatment of metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor...
The FDA has approved margetuximab-cmkb (Margenza – MacroGenics), a HER2/neu receptor antagonist, for use in combination with chemotherapy for treatment of metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer in adults who received ≥2 prior anti-HER2 regimens, at least one of which was for metastatic disease.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 28;64(1664):e195-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Mobocertinib (Exkivity) for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 28, 2022;  (Issue 1664)
Mobocertinib (Exkivity – Takeda), an oral kinase inhibitor, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with...
Mobocertinib (Exkivity – Takeda), an oral kinase inhibitor, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 20 insertion mutations in adults whose disease has progressed on or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Accelerated approval was based on the overall response rate and duration of response. Mobocertinib is the second drug to become available in the US for this indication; the IV EGFR-MET bispecific antibody amivantamab (Rybrevant) was approved earlier.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 28;64(1664):e197-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Alpelisib (Vijoice) for PIK3CA-Related Overgrowth Spectrum (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
The oral kinase inhibitor alpelisib (Vijoice – Novartis) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of patients ≥2 years old with severe manifestations of PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS)...
The oral kinase inhibitor alpelisib (Vijoice – Novartis) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of patients ≥2 years old with severe manifestations of PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS) who require systemic treatment. Alpelisib is the first drug to be approved in the US for this indication. It was also approved in 2019 as Piqray for use in combination with fulvestrant for treatment of certain types of breast cancer.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e186-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Amivantamab (Rybrevant) for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
Amivantamab-vmjw (Rybrevant – Janssen), an EGFR-MET bispecific antibody, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for IV treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung...
Amivantamab-vmjw (Rybrevant – Janssen), an EGFR-MET bispecific antibody, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for IV treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 20 insertion mutations in adults whose disease has progressed on or after platinum-based chemotherapy. It is the first bispecific antibody to become available in the US for this indication. Accelerated approval of the drug was based on the overall response rate and duration of response.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e184-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Idecabtagene Vicleucel (Abecma) for Multiple Myeloma (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
The FDA has approved idecabtagene vicleucel (Abecma – BMS), a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed genetically-modified cellular product, for treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma...
The FDA has approved idecabtagene vicleucel (Abecma – BMS), a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed genetically-modified cellular product, for treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma in adults who received ≥4 prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory drug, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. Abecma is an individualized cellular product prepared from the patient’s own T cells, which are genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) and then infused back into the patient. Ciltacabtagene autoleucel (Carvykti), another CAR T-cell product, is also available for the same indication.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e190-1 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Neratinib (Nerlynx) for Metastatic HER2-Positive Breast Cancer (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
The oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor neratinib (Nerlynx – Puma Biotechnology) has been approved by the FDA for use in combination with capecitabine (Xeloda, and generics) for treatment of advanced or...
The oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor neratinib (Nerlynx – Puma Biotechnology) has been approved by the FDA for use in combination with capecitabine (Xeloda, and generics) for treatment of advanced or metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer in adults who received ≥2 prior anti-HER2-based regimens for metastatic disease. It was previously approved for use as monotherapy for extended adjuvant treatment of adults with early-stage, HER2-positive breast cancer following adjuvant trastuzumab (Herceptin)-based therapy. HER2 is overexpressed in about 20% of breast cancers. Up to 30% of early-stage, HER2-positive breast cancer cases treated with trastuzumab-based adjuvant therapy recur. Neratinib is the only HER2-directed small molecule approved for treatment of early-stage and metastatic HER2-postive breast cancer.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e192-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

A New Indication for Axicabtagene Ciloleucel (Yescarta) (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
The FDA recently approved axicabtagene ciloleucel (Yescarta – Kite), a CD19-directed genetically modified cellular product, for treatment of large B-cell lymphoma that is refractory to first-line...
The FDA recently approved axicabtagene ciloleucel (Yescarta – Kite), a CD19-directed genetically modified cellular product, for treatment of large B-cell lymphoma that is refractory to first-line chemoimmunotherapy or that relapses within 12 months of first-line treatment. It was previously approved for treatment of relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphoma after ≥2 lines of systemic therapy and for treatment of relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma after ≥2 lines of systemic therapy. Yescarta is an individualized cellular product prepared from the patient's own T cells, which are genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) and then infused back into the patient.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e194-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Teclistamab-cqyv (Tecvayli) For Multiple Myeloma (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
Teclistamab-cqyv (Tecvayli – Janssen), a bispecific B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed CD3 T-cell engager, has been granted accelerated approval by the FDA for treatment of relapsed or refractory...
Teclistamab-cqyv (Tecvayli – Janssen), a bispecific B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed CD3 T-cell engager, has been granted accelerated approval by the FDA for treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma in adults who received ≥4 prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory drug, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. Accelerated approval was based on response rate. Teclistamab is the first bispecific BCMA-directed CD3 T-cell engager to be approved in the US.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e196-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Lurbinectedin (Zepzelca) for Small-Cell Lung Cancer (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022;  (Issue 1663)
The alkylating agent lurbinectedin (Zepzelca – Jazz) has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of metastatic small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) in adults with disease progression on or...
The alkylating agent lurbinectedin (Zepzelca – Jazz) has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of metastatic small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) in adults with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Accelerated approval was based on the overall response rate and duration of response. About 13-15% of lung cancers are small-cell cancers. Most SCLCs occur in patients who are current or former smokers.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Nov 14;64(1663):e198-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Novavax Vaccine Authorized for Booster Immunization (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2022;  (Issue 1662)
The FDA has expanded its Emergency Use Authorization for the adjuvanted protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax to include its use as a first booster dose in adults who completed a primary...
The FDA has expanded its Emergency Use Authorization for the adjuvanted protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax to include its use as a first booster dose in adults who completed a primary series with any COVID-19 vaccine ≥6 months previously and are unable or unwilling to receive a booster dose of a bivalent mRNA vaccine. The Novavax vaccine is not authorized for use in persons who have received a booster dose of any other COVID-19 vaccine.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 31;64(1662):e1-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Two Vonoprazan Combinations (Voquezna) for H. pylori

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2022;  (Issue 1662)
The FDA has approved vonoprazan, a potassium-competitive acid blocker, copackaged with amoxicillin (Voquezna Dual Pak – Phathom) and with amoxicillin and clarithromycin (Voquezna Triple Pak) for treatment...
The FDA has approved vonoprazan, a potassium-competitive acid blocker, copackaged with amoxicillin (Voquezna Dual Pak – Phathom) and with amoxicillin and clarithromycin (Voquezna Triple Pak) for treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in adults. Vonoprazan is the first potassium-competitive acid blocker to be approved in the US. It has been available in Japan for treatment of various acid-related disorders since 2014. Vonoprazan is not available alone in the US.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 31;64(1662):169-72 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Two New Oral Testosterone Products for Hypogonadism

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2022;  (Issue 1662)
The FDA has approved two new oral formulations of testosterone undecanoate — Kyzatrex (Marius) and Tlando (Antares) — for treatment of males with a deficiency of endogenous testosterone due to...
The FDA has approved two new oral formulations of testosterone undecanoate — Kyzatrex (Marius) and Tlando (Antares) — for treatment of males with a deficiency of endogenous testosterone due to conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome, orchiectomy, toxic damage from chemotherapy or alcohol, or pituitary-hypothalamic injury caused by tumors, trauma, or radiation. Jatenzo, another oral testosterone undecanoate formulation, was approved for the same indication in 2019. No testosterone products are approved for treatment of low testosterone levels due solely to aging.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 31;64(1662):172-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors for Alzheimer's Disease?

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2022;  (Issue 1662)
A reader asked us to review use of the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor sildenafil for treatment of Alzheimer's disease...
A reader asked us to review use of the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor sildenafil for treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 31;64(1662):174-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: OTC Azelastine Nasal Spray 0.15% (Astepro Allergy) for Allergic Rhinitis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2022;  (Issue 1662)
The 0.15% nasal spray formulation of the H1- antihistamine azelastine hydrochloride (Astepro Allergy; Children's Astepro Allergy – Bayer) is now available over the counter (OTC) for temporary relief of...
The 0.15% nasal spray formulation of the H1- antihistamine azelastine hydrochloride (Astepro Allergy; Children's Astepro Allergy – Bayer) is now available over the counter (OTC) for temporary relief of nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose due to allergic rhinitis in adults and children ≥6 years old. It is the first intranasal antihistamine to be approved by the FDA for OTC use. Other drugs that are available OTC for treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms include oral antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, and mast cell stabilizers.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 31;64(1662):175-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Ruxolitinib Cream (Opzelura) for Nonsegmental Vitiligo

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 3, 2022;  (Issue 1660)
The 1.5% cream formulation of the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor ruxolitinib (Opzelura – Incyte) has been approved by the FDA for topical treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV) in patients ≥12 years...
The 1.5% cream formulation of the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor ruxolitinib (Opzelura – Incyte) has been approved by the FDA for topical treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV) in patients ≥12 years old. Opzelura is the first product to be approved by the FDA for this indication. It was previously approved for treatment of atopic dermatitis.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 3;64(1660):158-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Bivalent Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines for Booster Immunization

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 3, 2022;  (Issue 1660)
The FDA has amended its Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) to permit use of bivalent formulations of the...
The FDA has amended its Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) to permit use of bivalent formulations of the products as a single booster dose in persons ≥12 years old (Pfizer) or ≥18 years old (Moderna) whose most recent COVID-19 vaccine dose was a monovalent product given ≥2 months previously as a booster or for completion of a primary series. The bivalent formulations are not authorized for primary immunization. Monovalent Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are no longer authorized for use as booster doses in persons ≥12 years old.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 3;64(1660):159-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Novavax Vaccine Authorized for Adolescents 12-17 Years Old (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 3, 2022;  (Issue 1660)
The FDA has expanded its Emergency Use Authorization for the adjuvanted protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax to include use of the vaccine as a two-dose primary series in adolescents...
The FDA has expanded its Emergency Use Authorization for the adjuvanted protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax to include use of the vaccine as a two-dose primary series in adolescents 12-17 years old. The vaccine was authorized for primary immunization of adults in July 2022.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Oct 3;64(1660):e160 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Prevention and Treatment of Monkeypox

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 5, 2022;  (Issue 1658)
An outbreak of monkeypox has recently spread around the globe and across the US. Updated information about the current outbreak is available from the...
An outbreak of monkeypox has recently spread around the globe and across the US. Updated information about the current outbreak is available from the CDC.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Sep 5;64(1658):137-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Baricitinib (Olumiant) for Severe Alopecia Areata

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 5, 2022;  (Issue 1658)
The oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor baricitinib (Olumiant – Lilly), which was previously approved by the FDA for treatment of moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis and treatment of COVID-19...
The oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor baricitinib (Olumiant – Lilly), which was previously approved by the FDA for treatment of moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis and treatment of COVID-19 in certain hospitalized adults, has now been approved for treatment of severe alopecia areata in adults. Baricitinib is the first systemic treatment to be approved in the US for this indication.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Sep 5;64(1658):139-41 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Nalmefene Returns for Reversal of Opioid Overdose

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 5, 2022;  (Issue 1658)
The FDA has approved a generic injectable formulation of the opioid antagonist nalmefene (Purdue) for the management of known or suspected opioid overdose. Revex, the reference product, was withdrawn from...
The FDA has approved a generic injectable formulation of the opioid antagonist nalmefene (Purdue) for the management of known or suspected opioid overdose. Revex, the reference product, was withdrawn from the market in 2008 for commercial reasons.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Sep 5;64(1658):141-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Upadacitinib (Rinvoq): A Second JAK Inhibitor for Ulcerative Colitis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 5, 2022;  (Issue 1658)
The FDA has approved the oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor upadacitinib (Rinvoq – Abbvie) for treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults who have had an inadequate response to...
The FDA has approved the oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor upadacitinib (Rinvoq – Abbvie) for treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults who have had an inadequate response to or cannot tolerate one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. Upadacitinib is the second JAK inhibitor to be approved for this indication; tofacitinib (Xeljanz) was the first. Upadacitinib is also approved for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, atopic dermatitis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Sep 5;64(1658):142-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: FDA Authorizes Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 8, 2022;  (Issue 1656)
The FDA has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for an adjuvanted protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. The vaccine is indicated for use as a two-dose primary series to prevent...
The FDA has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for an adjuvanted protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. The vaccine is indicated for use as a two-dose primary series to prevent COVID-19 in adults; it is not authorized for use in children or as a booster dose. Three other COVID-19 vaccines are available in the US for primary immunization of adults; the mRNA vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) are FDA-licensed for this indication, and the adenovirus-based vaccine manufactured by Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) is available under an EUA for use in adults who are unable or unwilling to receive another COVID-19 vaccine.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Aug 8;64(1656):121-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Dosing Interval for Tixagevimab/Cilgavimab (Evusheld) (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 8, 2022;  (Issue 1656)
The FDA has amended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the investigational long-acting monoclonal antibodies tixagevimab and cilgavimab (Evusheld – AstraZeneca) to recommend repeat dosing every 6...
The FDA has amended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the investigational long-acting monoclonal antibodies tixagevimab and cilgavimab (Evusheld – AstraZeneca) to recommend repeat dosing every 6 months in patients who require ongoing protection against COVID-19. Evusheld is authorized for IM pre-exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 in persons ≥12 years old who weigh ≥40 kg and have either a history of a severe adverse reaction that prevents their vaccination against COVID-19 or moderate or severe immune compromise
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Aug 8;64(1656):e122-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Tapinarof Cream (Vtama) for Psoriasis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 8, 2022;  (Issue 1656)
The FDA has approved Vtama (Dermavant), a 1% cream formulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist tapinarof, for treatment of adults with plaque psoriasis. It is the first AhR agonist to...
The FDA has approved Vtama (Dermavant), a 1% cream formulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist tapinarof, for treatment of adults with plaque psoriasis. It is the first AhR agonist to be approved by the FDA.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Aug 8;64(1656):122-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Oteseconazole (Vivjoa) for Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 8, 2022;  (Issue 1656)
The FDA has approved oteseconazole (Vivjoa – Mycovia), a new oral azole antifungal, to reduce the incidence of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) in females with a history of RVVC. Oteseconazole...
The FDA has approved oteseconazole (Vivjoa – Mycovia), a new oral azole antifungal, to reduce the incidence of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) in females with a history of RVVC. Oteseconazole is the first drug to be approved in the US specifically for treatment of RVVC.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Aug 8;64(1656):124-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

A Donepezil Patch (Adlarity) for Alzheimer's Disease (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 8, 2022;  (Issue 1656)
A once-weekly transdermal formulation of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil (Adlarity – Corium) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's disease (AD)...
A once-weekly transdermal formulation of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil (Adlarity – Corium) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. Donepezil is the second acetylcholinesterase inhibitor to become available in a transdermal formulation; transdermal rivastigmine (Exelon Patch), which is applied once daily, has been available for years for the same indication. Donepezil is also available in oral formulations (Aricept, and generics) for treatment of AD dementia.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Aug 8;64(1656):e128-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Update: Prescription of Paxlovid by Pharmacists (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 8, 2022;  (Issue 1656)
The FDA has amended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Paxlovid (Pfizer), the investigational oral antiviral drug nirmatrelvir copackaged with oral ritonavir, to allow for it to be prescribed by licensed...
The FDA has amended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Paxlovid (Pfizer), the investigational oral antiviral drug nirmatrelvir copackaged with oral ritonavir, to allow for it to be prescribed by licensed pharmacists in certain situations. Paxlovid is authorized for oral treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in high-risk outpatients ≥12 years old who weigh at least 40 kg. NIH guidelines list it as the treatment of choice for COVID-19 in high-risk adult outpatients.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Aug 8;64(1656):e124 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Tezepelumab (Tezspire) for Severe Asthma

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 21, 2022;  (Issue 1644)
Tezepelumab-ekko (Tezspire – AstraZeneca/Amgen), a subcutaneously administered thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) blocker, has been approved by the FDA for add-on maintenance treatment of severe asthma...
Tezepelumab-ekko (Tezspire – AstraZeneca/Amgen), a subcutaneously administered thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) blocker, has been approved by the FDA for add-on maintenance treatment of severe asthma in patients ≥12 years old. It is the first TSLP blocker to become available in the US and the first biologic drug to be approved for treatment of severe asthma without phenotypic or biomarker limitations.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Feb 21;64(1644):25-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Remimazolam (Byfavo) for Short-Term Procedural Sedation

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 21, 2022;  (Issue 1644)
The FDA has approved remimazolam (Byfavo – Acacia Pharma), an ultra-short-acting IV benzodiazepine, for induction and maintenance of sedation in adults undergoing procedures of up to 30 minutes'...
The FDA has approved remimazolam (Byfavo – Acacia Pharma), an ultra-short-acting IV benzodiazepine, for induction and maintenance of sedation in adults undergoing procedures of up to 30 minutes' duration.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Feb 21;64(1644):26-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Odevixibat (Bylvay) for Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis-Associated Pruritus

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 21, 2022;  (Issue 1644)
Odevixibat (Bylvay – Albireo), an oral ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of pruritus in patients ≥3 months old with progressive familial...
Odevixibat (Bylvay – Albireo), an oral ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of pruritus in patients ≥3 months old with progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC). It is the first drug to be approved in the US for this indication.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Feb 21;64(1644):28 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Cabotegravir (Apretude) for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 21, 2022;  (Issue 1644)
The FDA has approved Apretude (ViiV Healthcare), an IM extended-release (ER) formulation of the integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) cabotegravir, for use every 2 months to prevent sexually...
The FDA has approved Apretude (ViiV Healthcare), an IM extended-release (ER) formulation of the integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) cabotegravir, for use every 2 months to prevent sexually acquired HIV-1 infection in at-risk adolescents and adults. Apretude is the first ER formulation to be FDA-approved for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) of HIV-1 infection.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Feb 21;64(1644):29-31 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

COVID-19 Updates

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 21, 2022;  (Issue 1644)
The IV antiviral drug remdesivir (Veklury – Gilead) has been available for treatment of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients since 2020. Now, the FDA has approved remdesivir for treatment of mild to...
The IV antiviral drug remdesivir (Veklury – Gilead) has been available for treatment of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients since 2020. Now, the FDA has approved remdesivir for treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in outpatients ≥12 years old who weigh ≥40 kg and are at high risk for progression to severe disease, including hospitalization or death; they also issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing its use in any other high-risk outpatient who weighs ≥3.5 kg.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Feb 21;64(1644):31-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Booster Doses of COVID-19 Vaccines

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 29, 2021;  (Issue 1638)
The FDA has expanded the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) and the adenovirus-based...
The FDA has expanded the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) and the adenovirus-based vaccine manufactured by Johnson & Johnson/Janssen to include administration of a booster dose in select populations after primary immunization with either the same COVID-19 vaccine or a different one.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Nov 29;63(1638):186-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Two New Pneumococcal Vaccines - Prevnar 20 and Vaxneuvance

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 29, 2021;  (Issue 1638)
The FDA has licensed two new pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) for prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease in adults: Prevnar 20 (PCV20; Pfizer), which contains antigens from 20 serotypes...
The FDA has licensed two new pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) for prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease in adults: Prevnar 20 (PCV20; Pfizer), which contains antigens from 20 serotypes of pneumococcus, and Vaxneuvance (PCV15; Merck), which contains antigens from 15 serotypes. Two other pneumococcal vaccines are available in the US: Prevnar 13 (PCV13; Pfizer), a 13-valent conjugate vaccine licensed for use in persons ≥6 weeks old, and Pneumovax 23 (PPSV23; Merck), a 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine licensed for use in persons ≥2 years old.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Nov 29;63(1638):188-90 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Olanzapine/Samidorphan (Lybalvi) for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 29, 2021;  (Issue 1638)
The FDA has approved Lybalvi (Alkermes), a fixed-dose combination of the second-generation antipsychotic olanzapine (Zyprexa, and generics) and samidorphan, a new opioid antagonist, for treatment of adults...
The FDA has approved Lybalvi (Alkermes), a fixed-dose combination of the second-generation antipsychotic olanzapine (Zyprexa, and generics) and samidorphan, a new opioid antagonist, for treatment of adults with schizophrenia or with manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder. The addition of samidorphan is intended to mitigate the weight gain that occurs with olanzapine. This is the first FDA approval for samidorphan.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Nov 29;63(1638):191-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Children 5-11 Years Old

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 29, 2021;  (Issue 1638)
The FDA has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a lower-strength (10 mcg/0.2 mL) formulation of the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) for use in children...
The FDA has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a lower-strength (10 mcg/0.2 mL) formulation of the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech (Comirnaty) for use in children 5-11 years old. The original formulation of (Comirnaty) (30 mcg/0.3 mL) is FDA-licensed for use in persons ≥16 years old and available under an EUA for use in adolescents 12-15 years old.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Nov 29;63(1638):185 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Dapagliflozin (Farxiga) for Chronic Kidney Disease

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 26, 2021;  (Issue 1629)
The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor dapagliflozin (Farxiga – AstraZeneca) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at risk of...
The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor dapagliflozin (Farxiga – AstraZeneca) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at risk of progression (not defined in the label). Dapagliflozin is the first SGLT2 inhibitor to be approved in the US for treatment of CKD.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Jul 26;63(1629):115 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Sunscreens

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 26, 2021;  (Issue 1629)
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. Sunscreens are widely used to reduce these risks, but questions remain about their effectiveness and...
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. Sunscreens are widely used to reduce these risks, but questions remain about their effectiveness and safety. The FDA has issued a proposed rule that would require manufacturers to perform additional safety studies for some sunscreen active ingredients and would mandate better UVA protection in sunscreen products. Some sunscreen products containing FDA-approved active ingredients are listed in Table 2.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Jul 26;63(1629):115-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Addendum: Aducanumab (Aduhelm) for Alzheimer's Disease

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 26, 2021;  (Issue 1629)
In June 2021, the FDA approved the IV amyloid beta-directed monoclonal antibody aducanumab (Aduhelm) for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The approval did not restrict use of the drug to patients with...
In June 2021, the FDA approved the IV amyloid beta-directed monoclonal antibody aducanumab (Aduhelm) for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The approval did not restrict use of the drug to patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia, which was the population enrolled in the clinical trials. Now, Biogen, with the permission of the FDA, has made an addition to the labeling of the drug that says: Treatment with Aduhelm should be initiated in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage of disease, the population in which treatment was initiated in clinical trials. There are no safety or effectiveness data on initiating treatment at earlier or later stages of the disease than were studied.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Jul 26;63(1629):120 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine Suspended (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 3, 2021;  (Issue 1623)
On April 13, 2021, the FDA and CDC advised suspending use of the Johnson & Johnson adenovirus-based COVID-19 vaccine while the agencies investigate 6 cases of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST)...
On April 13, 2021, the FDA and CDC advised suspending use of the Johnson & Johnson adenovirus-based COVID-19 vaccine while the agencies investigate 6 cases of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) and thrombocytopenia that occurred following administration of the vaccine. In an April 14 emergency meeting, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended continuing the suspension until more data become available. About 7 million people in the US have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 May 3;63(1623):e1 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction