Health Canada Approves Pomalyst®-Based Triplet Combination for Patients With Multiple Myeloma
POMALYST®, in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, provides a new medication option for patients living with multiple myeloma
TORONTO, July 10, 2019 /CNW/ - Celgene Inc. announced today that Health Canada has approved a POMALYST® (pomalidomide)-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone. This is a new treatment option for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who have received at least one prior treatment regimen that included REVLIMID® (lenalidomide).
POMALYST® is an oral medication taken daily and is indicated, in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, for the treatment of adult patients with MM who have received at least one prior treatment regimen that included lenalidomide.1,2
"The treatment landscape for multiple myeloma has significantly changed over the years. New treatment options like this POMALYST®-based triplet combination allow patients and their physicians to work together to find the best early-line treatment regimen," says Dr. Reece, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. "In the pivotal clinical trial, OPTIMISMM, we saw the POMALYST®-based triplet combination improve and provide a sustained progression-free survival for multiple myeloma patients who were exposed to, and for the most part refractory to lenalidomide. This is important, as over the last few years lenalidomide has become a standard of care in front-line treatment of multiple myeloma in Canada and until OPTIMISMM, the patient population exposed or refractory to lenalidomide in front line was not well studied. The POMALYST®-based triplet combination is a positive step forward in the treatment journey for multiple myeloma patients and their loved ones."
MM is an increasingly prevalent blood cancer originating from bone marrow plasma cells.3 In Canada, the number of patients living with the disease is on the rise, with eight Canadians diagnosed each day.4
"Multiple myeloma is a complex disease which can impact each patient differently," says Martine Elias, Executive Director, Myeloma Canada. "It is encouraging to see how new treatment options, like the POMALYST®-based triplet combination, successfully treat Canadian myeloma patients."
Health Canada's approval of the POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone is based on OPTIMISMM, the first prospective phase 3 trial, including 559 MM patients, to evaluate a POMALYST®-containing triplet regimen in patients.5 Patients participating in this trial were all previously treated with REVLIMID® and the majority, 70 per cent, were REVLIMID® refractory.6,7 All patients had received 1-3 prior antimyeloma regimens and demonstrated disease progression on or after the last therapy.8
Patients who received the POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in the clinical trial had a significantly longer progression-free survival (PFS) of 4.1 months more than those who received only bortezomib and dexamethasone (median PFS 11.2 months versus 7.1 months, respectively).9,10
About Multiple Myeloma
MM is a life-threatening blood cancer characterized by tumor proliferation and suppression of the immune system.11,12 It is a rare but deadly disease – around 2,900 people are diagnosed with MM in Canada and 1,450 Canadians die from the disease each year.13 The typical MM disease course includes periods of symptomatic myeloma followed by periods of remission, and eventually, the disease becomes refractory (non-responsive).14 While all MM patients may experience different symptoms during and after treatment, patients may also experience physical issues.15 These may include bone complications, anemia, infections, kidney damage, high blood calcium and other blood complications, osteonecrosis of the jaw, side effects of medication, as well as bone pain, nerve pain and neuropathy.16MM patients may also experience emotional health issues, with 40 per cent of cancer patients experiencing depression or anxiety.17
About OPTIMISMM
OPTIMISMM is the first phase 3 trial designed to compare the safety and efficacy of a POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone versus only bortezomib and dexamethasone as an early line of therapy in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (with 1-3 prior regimens of therapy) and prior REVLIMID® exposure, including REVLIMID®-refractory patients.
This multi-center, international, open-label, randomized phase 3 clinical trial included 559 patients (281 patients in the POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone arm and 278 in the bortezomib and dexamethasone arm). Demographic, baseline, and prior disease characteristics were generally well balanced between the two treatment arms. All patients had prior treatment with REVLIMID®, with the majority being REVLIMID® refractory (71 per cent in the POMALYST®-based triplet combination arm versus 69 per cent in the bortezomib and dexamethasone arm) and 70 per cent versus 66 per cent, respectively, were refractory to their last treatment. Median follow-up was 16 months.
Results from OPTIMISMM showed that patients receiving the POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone treatment achieved a significantly longer PFS than those in the bortezomib and dexamethasone treatment arm (11.20 months versus 7.10 months, respectively [HR 0.61, p= < 0.0001; 95 per cent CI: (0.49-0.77)]), reducing the risk of disease progression by 39 per cent in the POMALYST®-based triplet combination arm. In an exploratory sub-group analysis of patients with one prior line of therapy, median progression-free survival with the POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone was 20.73 months versus 11.63 months with bortezomib and dexamethasone (HR 0.54; 95 per cent CI: 0.36, 0.82).
Patients were stratified based on age (< 75 years old versus 75 years old), number of prior anti-myeloma regiments (1 vs. > 1) and β2-microglobulin levels (<3.5 mg/L versus > 3.5 to < 5.5 mg/L versus > 5.5 mg/L). Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive the POMALYST®-based triplet combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone or bortezomib and dexamethasone. In 21-day cycles, patients received POMALYST® 4 mg on days 1-14 (POMALYST®-based triplet combination arm only); bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 on days 1, 4, 8 and 11 for cycles 1-8 and on days 1 and 8 for cycles 9 and onwards; and dexamethasone 20 mg/day (10 mg if aged > 75 years) on the days of and after receiving bortezomib treatment.
About Celgene's Immunomodulatory Drugs
IMiD® agents are Celgene's proprietary small molecule, orally available compounds for the treatment of some blood cancers. IMiD® agents are hypothesized to have multiple mechanisms of action. They have been found to enhance T cells and (NK) cell-mediated immunity. In addition to immunomodulatory properties, IMiD® agents are hypothesized to have tumoricidal and antiangiogenic activity. Celgene's portfolio of IMiD® agents have become a foundation of multiple myeloma research, with a growing number of studies exploring these compounds as combination partners across a range of settings of the disease.
About POMALYST® (pomalidomide)
POMALYST® in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone is indicated in the treatment of adult patients with MM who have received at least one prior treatment regimen that included lenalidomide. It belongs to a group of drugs called immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs®).
About Celgene
Celgene is an integrated global biopharmaceutical company engaged primarily in the discovery, development and commercialization of novel therapies for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases through gene and protein regulation. For more information, please visit the company's website at www.celgene.ca.
Indications and Clinical Use:
POMALYST® in combination with dexamethasone and bortezomib is indicated in the treatment of adult patients with MM who have received at least one prior treatment regimen that included lenalidomide.
POMALYST® in combination with dexamethasone is indicated for patients with multiple myeloma for whom both bortezomib and lenalidomide have failed and who have received at least two prior treatment regimens and have demonstrated disease progression on the last regimen.
Geriatrics (> 65 years of age):
Concomitant administration of dexamethasone may increase the risk of infection, particularly pneumonia; dexamethasone dosing may need to be reduced or interrupted in case of infection. Reduce dexamethasone dose by half in patients >75 years of age.
Contraindications:
Pregnant women and women at risk of becoming pregnant
Breastfeeding women
Male patients unable to follow or comply with the required contraceptive measures
Hypersensitivity to POMALYST®, thalidomide, lenalidomide or to any ingredient in the formulation or component of the container
Controlled Distribution Program:
Available only through a controlled distribution program called RevAid®
Serious warnings and precautions:
POMALYST® should be administered under the supervision of a qualified physician experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Pregnancy: Potential for human birth defects, stillbirths, and spontaneous abortions
Hematologic: Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia
Infections, including fatal cases
Venous thromboembolism: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
Hepatic: Hepatotoxicity, including fatal cases
Hepatitis B virus reactivation, including fatal cases
Severe dermatologic reactions: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), including fatal cases
Tumour lysis syndrome, including fatal cases
Other Relevant Warnings and Precautions:
Cardiovascular disorders
Second primary malignancies
Immune reactions: Use in patients with active hepatitis A, B, or C infection; hypersensitivity reactions (angioedema, urticaria)
Interstitial lung disease
Neurologic: Possible impairment of mental and/or physical abilities; peripheral neuropathy
Use in hepatic impairment or renal impairment
Monitoring and Laboratory testing required
Combination treatment with bortezomib; consult bortezomib Product Monograph prior to initiating treatment
For More Information:
Please consult the Product Monograph at pomalystpm.ca for important information relating to adverse reactions, drug interactions and dosing information. The Product Monograph is also available by calling 1-877-923-5436.
ProMIS Neurosciences to Present Data at 2019 Alzheimer's Association International Conference
Abstracts selected for oral and poster presentation
TORONTO and CAMBRIDGE, MA, July 10, 2019 /CNW/ - ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. (TSX: PMN) (OTCQB: ARFXF), a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of antibody therapeutics targeting toxic oligomers implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, will give an oral presentation on its lead clinical candidate, PMN310 for Alzheimer's disease, at the annual Alzheimer's Association International Conference® (AAIC), which occurs July 14-18. A second poster presentation focuses on the behavior of misfolded TDP43 involved in the development of neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia.
AAIC® is the largest, most influential international meeting focused on advancing dementia science. The annual conference convenes the world's leading basic science and clinical researchers, next-generation investigators, clinicians and the care research community to share research discoveries supporting new methods of prevention, treatment and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.
ProMIS' Chief Development Officer Dr. Johanne Kaplan will deliver the oral presentation, "Selective Targeting of Amyloid-Beta Oligomer Species By PMN310, a Monoclonal Antibody Rationally Designed for Greater Therapeutic Potency in Alzheimer's Disease," on Thursday, July 18, 2019 from 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM in Concourse Hall 151. Dr. Kaplan's slide presentation will be available on the company's website immediately following the presentation.
ProMIS' Chief Science Officer Dr. Neil Cashman will deliver the poster (#33496), "The Pathological Interactome of Tdp-43 Includes Human Wildtype SOD1" on Wednesday, July 17, 2019 in South Hall GH.
The conference takes place at the Los Angeles Convention Center. For more information, visit www.alz.org/aaic.
About the ProMIS Pipeline ProMIS Neurosciences' lead candidate, PMN310, is a monoclonal antibody for Alzheimer's disease created with the ProMIS drug discovery and development platform, a novel, proprietary method for discovering and developing antibodies that can uniquely and precisely target toxic forms of otherwise normal proteins. PMN310 selectively targets the toxic oligomeric species of amyloid beta (Aß), a root cause of Alzheimer's disease. Preclinical studies show PMN310 demonstrates a high degree of binding to toxic oligomers without binding to non-toxic forms of amyloid beta protein and greater selectivity versus other Aß-directed antibodies. ProMIS has developed antibody candidates that demonstrate high selectivity for the toxic species of naturally occurring proteins in the brain, including other antibody candidates for Alzheimer's disease that selectively target toxic Tau, antibody candidates for Parkinson's disease that show best-in-class selectivity for toxic forms of alpha-synuclein, and antibody candidates for ALS that target the toxic form of TDP43.
About ProMIS Neurosciences ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. is a development stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing antibody therapeutics selectively targeting toxic oligomers implicated in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The Company's proprietary target discovery platform is based on the use of two complementary thermodynamic, computational discovery engines - ProMIS and Collective Coordinates - to predict novel targets known as Disease Specific Epitopes on the molecular surface of misfolded proteins. Using this unique precision approach, the Company is developing novel antibody therapeutics for AD, ALS and PD. ProMIS is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, with offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts. ProMIS is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PMN, and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol ARFXF.
The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This information release contains certain forward-looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
SOURCE ProMIS Neurosciences Inc.
Spectrum Therapeutics partners with Canadian Mental Health Association's Not Myself Today® initiative
SMITHS FALLS, ON and TORONTO, July 10, 2019 /CNW/ - Spectrum Therapeutics ("Spectrum"), the medical division of Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED) (NYSE: CGC) (the "Company" or "Canopy Growth") is pleased to announce a partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association ("CMHA"). The initiative, a first of its kind for a leading cannabis company and a national mental health organization, will see the CMHA in collaboration with Spectrum Therapeutics develop an educational content module related to cannabis in the workplace as part of CMHA's Not Myself Today workplace mental health program. The module, slated to launch early next year, will feature a host of physical and digital engagement tools aimed to reduce stigma in the workplace on the use of cannabinoid based medicines. In addition, it will encourage greater healthcare practitioner oversight when patients use cannabis to treat a medical condition. The content will also include video resources featuring medical cannabis subject matter experts and fact sheets that provide detailed information and direct readers to further resources.
"The stigma surrounding medical cannabis and mental illness prevents meaningful action and dialogue among those affected. One of the goals of this partnership is to break that stigma by empowering conversations about mental health informed by evidence-based educational resources," said Dr. Mark Ware, Chief Medical Officer, Canopy Growth. "For Spectrum Therapeutics, this partnership presents a powerful opportunity to improve lives by enhancing physical and mental health through access to education that sparks learning along with conversations about medical cannabis in the workplace."
Estimates suggest one in two Canadians have or will have a mental illness by age 40.[1] Fifty-three percent of Canadians consider anxiety and depression to be epidemic in the country[2] and mental illness is a leading cause of disability claims in the workplace in Canada.
Not Myself Today is an evidence-based initiative designed to help employers and employees transform mental health at work. The program is embraced by more than 500 organizations across Canada and the U.S., reaching more than 350,000 employees. By breaking down barriers and making the topic of mental health engaging and accessible to all employees, Not Myself Today improves mental health literacy, reduces stigma, and shifts workplace culture to be more supportive of every employee's mental health and well-being. For the past six years, the initiative has evolved into a highly-regarded program and counts many of Canada's largest and most respected employers across corporate, government and social sectors as its champions.
"The mental health-care system of the future is not just in clinics or hospitals—it's in settings like the workplace, where we can promote the skills, knowledge and practices that can improve mental health for the broad population instead of limiting our focus to individual patients," said Fardous Hosseiny, interim National CEO, CMHA. "With the support of partners like Spectrum Therapeutics, our Not Myself Today program will educate, reduce stigma, and foster safe and supportive cultures for the one in five Canadians who experience mental illness in a given year—and for the five in five Canadians who have mental health."
The research on cannabis use and mental illness is still in its infancy and CMHA highlights that more studies are needed to understand the relationship between mental health and cannabis use, both in terms of possible benefits and risks. CMHA and Spectrum Therapeutics strongly advise that individuals speak with a health-care practitioner for advice on any mental health treatment including medical cannabis.
Spectrum Therapeutics has identified mental health as an area with high unmet medical needs and is currently engaged in clinical research in partnership with leading academic institutions and research centres to determine the role cannabis can play in addressing mood and anxiety disorders. Today's announcement builds on Spectrum Therapeutics and Canopy Growth's legacy of furthering the public's understanding of cannabis which includes partnerships with the likes of:
Parent Action on Drugs and Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy to educate parents, adult caregivers and youth on how to make responsible decisions about cannabis.
The Arthritis Society to create evidence-based resources to help people with arthritis learn more about the potential of medical cannabis as a treatment.
The University of British Columbia by way of a $2.5 million donation to conduct controlled trials examining the potential utility of cannabis in addressing the opioid overdose crisis and to establish the Canopy Growth Professorship of Cannabis Science.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition to conduct an extensive research review that formed the basis for MADD Canada's recommendations on responsible cannabis use and sober driving.
Through these partnerships and support for campaigns such as Not Myself Today, Canopy Growth and its medical division, Spectrum Therapeutics is proud to provide education for patients, their families and healthcare providers on medical cannabis and its role in mitigating some of our most common healthcare issues.
Here's to Future Growth (and promoting mental wellness).
[1] Smetanin et al. (2011). The life and economic impact of major mental illnesses in Canada: 2011-2041. Prepared for the Mental Health Commission of Canada. Toronto: RiskAnalytica.
Not Myself Today® is a registered trademark of the Canadian Mental Health Association.
About Canadian Mental Health Association Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is the most established, most extensive community mental health organization in Canada. Through a presence in more than 330 communities across every province and one territory, CMHA provides advocacy, programs and resources that help to prevent mental health problems and illnesses, support recovery and resilience, and enable all Canadians to flourish and thrive. For more information, visit cmha.ca.
About Canopy Growth Corporation Canopy Growth (TSX:WEED, NYSE:CGC) is a world-leading diversified cannabis, hemp and cannabis device company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms, as well as medical devices through Canopy Growth's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. Canopy Growth has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents.
Canopy Growth's medical division, Spectrum Therapeutics is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Spectrum Therapeutics sells a range of full-spectrum products using its colour-coded classification Spectrum system as well as single cannabinoid Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics.
Canopy Growth operates retail stores across Canada under its award-winning Tweed and Tokyo Smoke banners. Tweed is a globally recognized cannabis brand which has built a large and loyal following by focusing on quality products and meaningful customer relationships.
From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis icons Snoop Dogg and Seth Rogen, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House Seeds, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth owns 12 licensed cannabis production sites with millions of square feet of production capacity, including more than one million square feet of GMP certified production space. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com
About Spectrum Therapeutics Spectrum Therapeutics, the medical division of Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED, NYSE: CGC), is dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, furthering the public's understanding of medical cannabis and its various applications, and cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Founded in Canada, Spectrum Therapeutics operates in Australia, South America, Africa and across Europe. Its products are available in a wide range of potencies and formats designed to simplify the dialogue around strength and dosage by applying a colour-coded spectrum to categorize medical cannabis according to THC and CBD levels.
Spectrum Therapeutics' offerings include whole flower cannabis, oils and new innovations such as Softgels in addition to single cannabinoid medicine Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics. Through product simplification, robust clinical research and ongoing education of healthcare professionals, Spectrum Therapeutics is committed to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients around the globe.
Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include "aimed to reduce stigma in the workplace on the use of cannabis as a medicine", and "content will also include video resources featuring medical cannabis subject matter experts and fact sheets". Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including content development and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 24, 2019 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws.
SOURCE Spectrum Therapeutics
Numbering You Won’t Stop the Opioid Crisis
by: Jane M. Orient, M.D.
People are dying all over the country from opioid overdoses. There’s a movement to have the antidote naloxoneavailable in all ambulances and even over the counter. This temporarily reverses the fatal effect of opioids, which stop the patient’s breathing. First responders themselves may need a dose because of contact with a tiny amount of fentanyl, an extremely potent narcotic, while attending a patient.
No, the fentanyl does not come from the patient’s bottle of legal prescription drugs.
Rep. Bill Foster (D-Ill.) introduced a proposal that he claims would “go a long way to fight the practice of doctor shopping for more prescription pain pills amid a deadly opioid crisis.” Doctor shopping “involves visiting multiple doctors.” Hardly new, this proposal, now passed by the House of Representatives as an amendment to a $99.4 billion Health and Human Services appropriations bill, lifts the ban on funding a Unique Patient Identifier (UPI).
The UPI is part of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996. You don’t have one yet because former congressman Ron Paul, M.D., (R-Tex,) sponsored a prohibition on funding it as part of a 1999 appropriations bill. Rep. Foster’s amendment repeals Dr. Paul’s prohibition.
So how is this 1996 idea supposed to work? And why would it be better than the Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) now in effect in nearly every state? Every prescription for a controlled substance must be reported to the PDMP, and the doctor must check it before writing a prescription, to be sure the patient is not lying about having prescriptions from other doctors. This costly program that creates time-consuming hassles for doctors has not prevented opioid deaths.
PDMPs are ineffective because doctor shopping is not the cause of the problem. Only 2.5 percent of misused prescription pain medicine was obtained by doctor shopping. And this small percentage apparently increased after PDMPs. More than 97% of misused medications are obtained from a single physician—or from an illicit source. The spike in opioid deaths after 2013 was caused by illicit fentanyl, as Dr. John Lilly concludes from painstaking analysis of official data.
If Rep. Foster’s amendment is not removed, you might have to have a UPI to get legitimate medical care—“no card, no care”—but the drug cartel won’t mind. You can shop drug dealers as much as you like. There is a flood of fentanyl, mostly from Mexico or China, coming across our borders. Rep. Foster is apparently unaware of the armed lookouts protecting the smuggling routes in the Tucson sector. And once here, the drugs go to distributors—such as illegal aliens protected in sanctuary cities.
So, what about the other touted benefits of the UPI? “Specifically, assigning a unique number to a patient would give doctors a way to immediately identify a patient’s medical history,” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.). He says it “would lower the cost of medical mix-ups due to misidentification.” His elderly father was nearly given the wrong medication.
To prevent medical errors, you need alert nurses and doctors—and the UPI is not going to fix the hazards of the electronic health record. The EHR, touted as the solution that will bring efficient, quality care, has created its own type of errors.
There is no guarantee that a UPI will improve access to the record, and critical information will still be buried in voluminous, repetitious data of dubious reliability, some of which may have been cut-and-pasted from another patient’s record. There may be critical gaps as patients withhold information they don’t want in a federal database. The new problem that brings the patient to the hospital won’t be in the old record—but may be the result of an old misdiagnosis that should be corrected instead of copied.
Patients need to be able to shop for doctors, especially if the one they have has not solved their problems. Some of them desperately need opioids, which are increasingly difficult to obtain. They do not need a UPI, and neither does their doctor.
The UPI is ideally suited for government tracking and control of all citizens. People like J. Edgar Hoover or Lois Lerner might find it very useful. But it would be the end of privacy, and the foundation for a national health data system.
###
Jane M. Orient, M.D. obtained her undergraduate degrees in chemistry and mathematics from the University of Arizona in Tucson, and her M.D. from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1974. She completed an internal medicine residency at Parkland Memorial Hospital and University of Arizona Affiliated Hospitals and then became an Instructor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and a staff physician at the Tucson Veterans Administration Hospital. She has been in solo private practice since 1981 and has served as Executive Director of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS) since 1989. She is currently president of Doctors for Disaster Preparedness. She is the author of YOUR Doctor Is Not In: Healthy Skepticism about National Healthcare, and the second through fifth editions of Sapira's Art and Science of Bedside Diagnosis published by Wolters Kluwer. She authored books for schoolchildren, Professor Klugimkopf’s Old-Fashioned English Grammar and Professor Klugimkopf’s Spelling Method,published by Robinson Books, and coauthored two novels published as Kindle books, Neomorts and Moonshine. More than 100 of her papers have been published in the scientific and popular literature on a variety of subjects including risk assessment, natural and technological hazards and nonhazards, and medical economics and ethics. She is the editor of AAPS News, the Doctors for Disaster Preparedness Newsletter, and Civil Defense Perspectives, and is the managing editor of the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons.
Newron’s commercialization partner Zambon and Valeo Pharma announce the launch of Onstryv® (safinamide) for Parkinson’s disease in Canada
Milan, Italy and Montreal, Quebec – July 10, 2019 - Newron Pharmaceuticals S.p.A. (“Newron”) (SIX: NWRN, XETRA: NP5.XE), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel therapies for patients with diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system, is pleased to report that its partner Zambon S.p.A. and Valeo Pharma Inc. announced today the launch of Onstryv® (safinamide) for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease in Canada.
“This marks another key milestone for Newron and its commercial partners in providing availability of safinamide in Canada for the treatment of patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease,” commented Newron CEO Stefan Weber. “Now, with the Canadian launch, safinamide is available across the North American region.”
The full text of the announcement from Zambon S.p.A and Valeo Pharma Inc. is as follows:
Valeo Pharma Announces the Canadian Launch of Onstryvâ (Safinamide Tablets) for the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
· First new oral treatment for Parkinson’s Disease approved in over a decade
· Parkinson’s Disease affects a growing number of Canadians with over 100,000 currently afflicted
· Total Canadian market for Parkinson’s Disease drugs exceeds $100 million per year
MONTREAL, QUEBEC, July 10, 2019 – Valeo Pharma Inc. (CSE:VPH) (“Valeo”), a Canadian specialty pharmaceutical company with a primary focus on Neurodegenerative Diseases and Oncology, today announced the launch of Onstryv® (safinamide tablets) for the treatment of patients suffering from Parkinson’s Disease in Canada. Valeo has the exclusive rights to commercialize Onstryv® in Canada under a license agreement signed with Zambon S.p.A.
Valeo announced the approval of Onstryv® by Health Canada, on January 15, 2019, as an add-on therapy to a regimen that includes levodopa for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease in patients experiencing “off” episodes.
Onstryvâ is a prescription medication now available at pharmacies across Canada and comes in 50mg and 100mg tablets. Valeo’s national sales team has launched a physician awareness and information campaign which is being supported by marketing and social media activities.
“The number of Canadians afflicted with Parkinson’s Disease is expected to grow by more than 50% over the next decade as the Canadian population ages,” said Steve Saviuk, Chief Executive Officer of Valeo. “Onstryv® is the first new oral treatment for Parkinson’s Disease to be approved in Canada in well over a decade. Many patients experience progressive symptom difficulties with currently available treatments, and we are proud to bring a new option to address this growing need for Canadian patients. Valeo is committed to building and supporting relationships with healthcare professionals, patients and other stakeholders to build awareness and ensure access to this new treatment for Parkinson’s Disease.”
Roberto Tascione, CEO of Zambon said: “Since 1906, Zambon is committed to provide innovative medicines for patients and doctors and this launch is another significant step forward to fulfill our vision: Innovating Cure & Care to make patients’ lives better. Right now, with this important milestone, Safinamide has been launched in 14 European Union countries, Switzerland, U.S.A., Australia and Canada and has recently been approved in Brazil and Colombia.”
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disease involving the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. While tremors are the best-known symptom, Parkinson’s Disease also causes other symptoms including slowed movement, rigid muscles, impaired posture and balance, speech and writing difficulties. On a per capita basis, Canada has amongst the highest incidences of Parkinson’s Disease in the world and the number of patients is expected to grow significantly over the next thirty years as the median population age increases.
About Onstryv® (safinamide)
Safinamide, known as Onstryv® in Canada and Xadago® in the rest of the world, is a new chemical entity with a unique mode of action including selective and reversible MAO-B-inhibition. Clinical trials have established its efficacy in controlling motor symptoms and motor complications in the short term, maintaining this effect over 2 years. Results from 24-month double-blind controlled studies suggest that safinamide shows statistically significant effects on motor
fluctuations (ON/OFF time) without increasing the risk of developing troublesome dyskinesia. Onstryv® is a once-daily dose and has no diet restrictions due to its high MAO-B/MAO-A selectivity. Zambon acquired rights from Newron Pharmaceuticals (www.newron.com) to develop and commercialize Xadago® globally, excluding Japan and other key Asian territories where Meiji Seika Pharma has the rights to develop and commercialize safinamide. The rights to commercialize Xadago® in the USA have been granted to US WorldMeds, by Zambon.
About Valeo Pharma
Valeo Pharma is a specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated to the commercialization of innovative prescription products in Canada. With a focus on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Oncology, Women’s Health and Hospital Specialty Products, Valeo Pharma has a growing portfolio of innovative products and the full infrastructure to properly manage these products through all stages of commercialization. Headquartered in Kirkland, Quebec, Valeo Pharma has all capabilities internally to register and market health care solutions for Canadian patients. For more information, please visit www.valeopharma.com.
About Zambon
Zambon is a multinational pharmaceutical and fine-chemical company that focuses on innovation and development with the aim to improve the quality of people’s health and patients’ lives. Based on a valuable heritage but strongly focused on the future, its goal is to improve people’s health through the development of innovative and quality medicines. Zambon products are commercialized in 86 countries. The company has 20 subsidiaries in three different Continents – Europe, America and Asia – and owns manufacturing units in Italy, Switzerland, France, China and Brazil. The company today has a strong focus on the treatment of rare diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis and specialties, such as Parkinson’s disease, and it’s well-established in 3 therapeutic areas: respiratory, pain and women’s care. Zambon was established in 1906 in Italy and today counts around 2,700 employees all over the world. For details on Zambon please visit www.zambon.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements about Valeo’s objectives, strategies and businesses that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements are “forward-looking” because they are based on our current expectations about the markets we operate in and on various estimates and assumptions. Actual events or results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements if known or unknown risks affect our business, or if our estimates or assumptions turn out to be inaccurate.
NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
New Committee Brings Diverse Patient, Family, and Caregiver Voices to CADTH
OTTAWA, July 10, 2019 /CNW/ - Following a nationwide call for nominations, CADTH is pleased to announce the membership of its new Patient and Community Advisory Committee.
Twelve individuals from across the country have been invited to join the committee as inaugural members. Committee members are patients or family caregivers and reflect the diversity of people and communities across Canada. Members will advise CADTH on all areas of the agency's work from the perspective of individuals using the Canadian health care system.
"This important committee ensures that CADTH is even more inclusive, transparent, and accountable to patients, families, and caregivers," said Dr. Brian O'Rourke, President and CEO of CADTH. "Working closely with patients and communities helps us better serve the health care decision-makers who rely on CADTH to make equitable choices about the appropriate use of health technologies."
The committee will meet four times a year and report to the President and CEO of CADTH.
The members of the CADTH Patient and Community Advisory Committee are:
Marilyn Barrett, the Director of the Health & Wellness Centre at the University of Prince Edward Island. She is a retired community nurse and the former Director of Primary Care for Health for Health PEI. Marilyn has been a caregiver to multiple family members, which required out-of-province care for health treatment.
Jonah Dupuis, a community pharmacist in Northwestern Ontario, who has previously served as a councillor on Nipigon's Town Council and the director of pharmacy at the Nipigon District Memorial Hospital. Jonah is a proud member of the Anishinabek Nation and currently works in a travelling health team that delivers primary health care directly to First Nations communities. He also is a caregiver for his son who lives with a rare genetic condition.
Lilian Hulme-Smith, a retired public servant, who spent the bulk of her career in social and supportive housing administration and risk management. She is a member of the Mackenzie Health Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital Patient Advisory Committee and Medication Safety Committee, as well as a patient advisor at the Central Local Health Integration Network. Lilian lives with primary-progressive multiple sclerosis.
Beth Kidd, the Executive Director of Health Coalition of Alberta, representing more than 90 health charities, as well as individuals, that advocate for improved access to care and greater patient engagement. Beth lives with chronic migraines and is a Board member of Migraine Canada and Dementia Network Calgary.
Marlee McGuire, a medical anthropologist and a doctoral student at the University of British Columbia, where her research focuses on the politics of rare diseases though multi-stakeholder perspectives, including patient and public payer perspectives. Marlee has navigated systems around addiction and chronic conditions as a family member.
David McMullen, a retired engineer and manager with Ontario Power Generation. David has been a multiple myeloma patient since 2012. He is very active with Myeloma Canada, contributing to its objectives of patient and caregiver education and support, research, access to treatments, and awareness. David was the founding Chair of the Myeloma Canada Patient Advisory Council. He has leadership and advisory roles in several myeloma patient support groups. He is also a patient representative in the Canadian Cancer Trials Group.
Devan Nambiar,MSc., an education and training specialist on LGBT2SQ+ health and HIV care for organizations, clinicians, and allied health professionals through Rainbow Health Ontario, Sherbourne Health, with his own consultancy, GHIS.ca. He co-wrote four HIV national publications at CATIE, has served on the Community Advisory Committee for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Canadian HIV Trials Network, HIV Research Ethics Board at the University of Toronto, as well as on the boards of the Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention and CTAC. Devan is a South Asian gay man who has been living with HIV for 34 years.
Paula Orecklin, a disability advocate who shares her experiences living with a disability with youth as a Rick Hansen Foundation Ambassador. She is also a patient and family advisor with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. Paula lives with chronic pain and is involved in the DAWN‒DisAbled Women's Network and the Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities.
Marney Paradis, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Yukon and a Doctor of Education candidate at the University of British Columbia, where her philosophical inquiry focuses on the intersection of anti-oppressive, community-based, and spiritual support systems within frameworks of health advocacy. Marney has a son who lives with type 1 diabetes and she is the President of Yukon T1D Support Network — a non-profit group she helped found to provide education, advocacy, and support to people in Yukon with type 1 diabetes.
Zal Press, the executive director of Patient Commando, an organization dedicated to lifting the veil of silence that so often accompanies the onset of illness. He was the founding co-Chair of The Beryl Institute Global Patient and Family Advisory Board, which works to ensure that the voices of patients and families are a central consideration in the strategic direction and offerings of the Institute. Zal has lived with Crohn disease for more than 38 years. He is passionate about illustrating the need for improved health care policy and delivery by sharing stories that enrich our appreciation of the lived illness experience.
Mary Reeves, a retired education administrator and mediator, and an active volunteer in her community. She is a founding member of the Grand Bay-Westfield Age Friendly Communities Committee, and a past Board member of the Sophia Recovery Centre — a support centre for women recovering from addictions. Mary lives with osteoarthritis and vision impairment, and is aware of the challenges of staying independent as she and her husband age.
Sarah Sandusky, a fundraising and communications specialist with extensive experience working with non-profit organizations focused on homelessness, addiction, mental illness, health, education, and human rights. She previously held leadership roles with the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation in Vancouver, BC Civil Liberties Association, Street League in the UK, and Eva's Initiatives for Homeless Youth in Toronto. Sarah is now a freelance facilitator and fundraising strategist based in British Columbia. She is a Board member of Pain BC and has experienced the impact of chronic pain both personally and professionally.
Engaging with Canadian patients and communities is a strategic priority for CADTH. CADTH offers many opportunities for patients and their families, caregivers, advocacy groups, and communities to read, contribute to, and shape its work. Information about these opportunities is available on the CADTH Patient and Community Engagement Web pages.
About CADTH CADTH is an independent, not-for-profit organization responsible for providing Canada's health care decision-makers with objective evidence to help make informed decisions about the optimal use of drugs and medical devices in our health care system. CADTH receives funding from Canada's federal, provincial, and territorial governments, with the exception of Quebec.
SOURCE Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)
New partnership to advance medical isotope production to treat prostate cancer at Bruce Power
ETOBICOKE, ON, July 10, 2019 /CNW/ - Bruce Power is joining forces with Kinectrics and Framatome to advance an innovative project to enable the production of a key medical isotope used to treat prostate cancer known as Lutetium-177.
"This is a very exciting day as we mark the beginning of a new partnership that sets the groundwork for the production of an isotope that treats prostate cancer," said Mike Rencheck, Bruce Power's President and CEO. "We want to ensure Canada remains at the forefront of global isotope development and production. Today's announcement is a big step forward."
Innovation in targeted cancer therapies is creating a significant worldwide demand for life-saving isotopes like Lutetium-177. Utilizing the reactors at Bruce Power will help to ensure that this key medical isotope will be delivered to patients in Canada and around the world, reliably and affordably.
The partnership will focus on achieving production in 2022 following regulatory and other approvals. Bruce Power will also be working with all levels of government to progress a number of strategic export and business development opportunities connected with this project to align with several key public policy areas.
The partnership will seek to leverage the multi-unit Bruce site to provide a stable, redundant supply of Lutetium-177 for many decades to come. Kinectrics and Framatome Canada Ltd. have teamed up to develop an Isotope Production System deployable on all Bruce Power units that can also support the future production of other isotopes in addition to Lutetium-177.
"This partnership is a very important and exciting opportunity for Kinectrics," said David Harris, Kinectrics' President and CEO. "We are looking forward to working with our partners, Bruce Power and Framatome, to produce new life-saving medicine. This business venture will create many new opportunities for our companies, jobs across the province, and high-tech export sales for Canada."
This new partnership, in conjunction with Bruce Power's Life Extension program, helps to create a framework for isotope production until 2064, which is the expected life of the Bruce Power site following its Life Extension Program launched in 2016 which remains on time and on budget.
"Framatome is proud to join forces with Bruce Power and Kinectrics to produce and deliver medical isotopes that treat cancer, and further supports Canada's leadership in isotope development," said Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome. "This agreement builds on our long-lasting commitment to Bruce Power, and we are pleased to mobilize our world-wide expertise for advancements in the medical sector."
Christine Hogarth, MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore, praised the new partnership as an example of Ontario-based businesses achieving success through innovation.
"This exciting partnership exemplifies Ontario's Open for Business mantra, while contributing to an integrated system of care for cancer patients in Ontario and around the world," said Hogarth. "Leveraging existing infrastructure and expertise in Ontario, and right here in Etobicoke, will help keep hospitals clean and safe while expanding Ontario's leadership role in the global community by supporting new and innovative patient treatments."
Lutetium-177 is used in Targeted Radionuclide Therapy to treat cancers like neuroendocrine tumours and prostate cancer. Medical-grade Lutetium is used to destroy cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected. Bruce Power is also a significant source of Cobalt-60 used for the sterilization of medical equipment around the world as well as a specialized form of cancer treatment called the Gamma Knife.
"An average of 11 men die from prostate cancer every day. We're working with our partners to change that statistic, developing innovative radioisotope treatments," says Peter Coleridge, President and CEO, Prostate Cancer Canada. "Radioisotopes play a crucial role from diagnosis to treating advanced forms of the disease for which there is no cure. That's why we're excited about new treatments in the pipeline that are giving men and their families hope for the future. Together, we can save and improve more lives."
Bruce Power is a founding member of the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC), which will ensure Canada remains a world leader in the production of life-saving radioisotopes by raising awareness and supporting long-term policies at the domestic and international level. Over 30 leading organizations from Canada and around the world have joined the council, which will develop collective solutions to maintain Canada's leadership position on the global isotope stage.
"Canadian researchers and radioisotope producers are working together to deliver innovative new therapies to clinics, and Canada's supply of these critical isotopes is important to new clinical trials and to increasing approved therapies," said James Maloney, MP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore. "Together all three companies will help to ensure Canada is a leading force in global science, while generating tremendous economic and societal benefits for all Canadians."
How it works:
An Isotope Production System on a Bruce Power unit can be used to turn targets into medical isotopes through a process referred to as irradiation. This is a similar process utilized by Bruce Power in the production of Cobalt-60.
Lutetium-177 is made by irradiating a stable isotope, Ytterbium-176.
The Ytterbium-176 is sealed in special containers and placed in the reactor for about two weeks and then it is sent for processing and distribution to health care facilities.
Each container may contain enough Lutetium-177 isotope for about 200 patient treatments.
The production of Lutetium-177 does not generate any nuclear waste as all the materials are either used for treatment of patients or are recycled to be used to produce more of the isotope.
About Bruce Power Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable, low-cost nuclear power to families and businesses across the province. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Learn more at www.brucepower.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
About Kinectrics Kinectrics is the category leader in providing life cycle management services for the electricity industry. Trusted by clients worldwide, our expertise in engineering, testing, inspection, and certification is backed by our independent laboratory and testing facilities, a diverse fleet of field inspection equipment and an award-winning team of over 1,000 engineers and technical experts. From initial design and type testing to operational deployment and maintenance services, Kinectrics collaborates closely with customers to ensure that utility assets perform safely, reliably and efficiently throughout their entire life cycle. Learn more at www.kinectrics.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.
About Framatome Framatome is a major international player in the nuclear energy market recognized for its innovative solutions and value-added technologies for designing, building, maintaining, and advancing the global nuclear fleet. The company designs, manufactures and installs components, fuel and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants and offers a full range of reactor services. With 14,000 employees worldwide, every day Framatome's expertise helps its customers improve the safety and performance of their nuclear plants and achieve their economic and societal goals. Join the energy conversation with Framatome on Twitter: @Framatome, Facebook: @FramatomeUS and LinkedIn: @Framatome.
SOURCE Bruce Power
Keep it keto-friendly this summer with these four simple barbecue tips
With the sunshine and hot weather finally upon us, there are endless reasons to celebrate the season with family and friends. Whether it be a BBQ, patio or picnic, summer is all about eating al fresco and embracing the warmth before it’s gone.
Image Source: Unsplash The keto way of life continues to gain popularity, with social media rife with followers sharing how they’re keeping healthy and fueling their bodies this season. Concerned about carb-filled barbecues throwing a wrench into your health plans? Here are four simple tips to keep you on track and satisfied while dining out with friends and family this season.
Buns out
You don’t have to miss out on the deliciousness of a burger, chicken breast or sausage hot off a sizzling grill. Try eating your protein “naked” or with a lettuce wrap (bibb, sesame or romaine work very well!) to keep it nutritious while satisfying your barbecue craving.
Condiment conditions
Many condiments are full of hidden sugars. If you want to keep it saucy, find some new and exciting low or no sugar condiments, or stick to classics like mayonnaise, mustard and hot sauce.
Veggie forward
Summer brings the best vegetable options to your local farmers market and produce sections. Take advantage of what’s in season and fill up on your favourite leafy greens and colourful peppers to keep you feeling fresh. BBQ portobellos anyone?
Don't desert dessert
You can still satisfy your craving for dessert by swapping out a sugary last course with something that’s sweet and savoury. We recommend trying Atkins Crispy Lemon Flavour Snack Bar or the Chocolaty Peanut Butter Pretzel Bar. Containing between 160 and 200 Calories, with 1 gram of sugar and 3 grams of Net Atkins Count™ per bar, they make the perfect treat to cap off your barbecue fiesta.
Summer doesn’t have to mean taking a hiatus on your health routine and fitness goals. With so many nourishing ways to indulge, you can focus on enjoying your company and perhaps perfecting your burger flip.
About Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. is a growing developer, marketer and seller of Atkins® branded nutritional food and snacking products. Its highly-focused product portfolio consists primarily of protein bars, ready-to-drink shakes, snacks and confectionery products. Over the past 45 years, the Atkins brand has become an iconic brand rooted in the nutritional principles of reduced sugar and a mindful approach to carbohydrates, with a focus on protein and good fats. Atkins products are available online at Atkins.ca and are distributed widely within Canada, the U.S. as well as Internationally. To learn more about Atkins, visit www.atkins.ca
ARE YOU MAKING THESE COMMON MISTAKES AFTER A BAD SUNBURN?
Dermatologist Says Don’t Fry Yourself With The Wrong After Sun Care
Unless you have been living under a rock, you know the importance of SPF and re-applying it.
There are times when, despite your best efforts, you still manage to get burned. Perhaps you were careless, and after too many margaritas forgot to re-apply your sunblock. Now, you are literally burned by your day of fun in the sun. Before you do anything to put yourself out of your stinging, burning agony, read these tips so you know what NOT to do to soothe a sunburn. Dr. Sheel Desai Solomon is a board- certified Raleigh- Durham North Carolina Dermatologist and founder and owner of Preston Dermatology
Here is her list of things to avoid after a bad sunburn.
Wearing Cologne
Some cologne may contain ingredients that make you more prone to burning. "Oil of bergamot is especially notorious for this," explains Dr. Solomon "and can cause a severe, blistering reaction when it's on your skin and exposed to the sun." It's become rarer in the past few years since many fragrance companies started stripping the ingredient from their products. Other perfume ingredients and essential oils, like rosemary and lavender oils, can make your skin more sensitive to the rays, too, Dr. Solomon adds. To play it safe, avoid spraying any scents onto your skin before you go outside.
Medications
Taking an anti-inflammatory medication, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help soothe your skin once you're sunburned. However, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and naproxen, can also leave you more vulnerable to getting burned in the first place.
Dr. Solomon explains, "That's because certain medications contain photosensitizing agents. Those molecules will absorb the sun's UV rays and release them back into your skin, which damages and kills skin cells."
However, NSAIDs aren't the only ones that can raise your risk of getting fried. "There is a whole slew of meds out there that can leave your skin more sensitive to sun's rays," says Dr. Solomon "meaning you need to take extra precautions before spending time outdoors." Common ones include topical acne medications like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, antihistamines, and antibiotics. Even OTC supplements like St. John's Wort can make you burn more easily. Avoiding direct sunlight after applying or taking these medications is your best bet, but if you need to head outside, Dr. Solomon suggests protecting your skin with SPF 30 sunscreen and covering up with long sleeves, hats.
Taking Hot Showers
When your skin gets a little too toasted, you may notice that it tends to feel dry as it heals. Even if you're not in physical pain, taking hot showers can strip your skin of essential oils, which can dry it out even further and make it more sensitive, explains Dr. Solomon.
"This may lead to blistering and possibly prolong the healing process." On top of that, hot water isn't going to feel great, even on a mild sunburn that didn't feel too bad to begin with. While cold showers typically feel uncomfortable, sticking to lukewarm or cool showers when you're burned will ease discomfort. The temperature should be no warmer than what you would expect from a heated pool, which is around 84 degrees.
Wearing Tight Clothing
Wearing tight clothing over sunburnt skin is not advised, because inflammation is setting in. "Your body is trying to respond to the trauma by increasing blood flow to the area to help with healing. This results in redness, warmth, and inflammation to the area," says Dr. Solomon. Wearing tight clothes could amplify the response, which could lead to more intense swelling and blisters. Alternatively, you can avoid sunburns altogether and use the best sunscreen for your skin type.
Don't Use Scented Aloe
Aloe has anti-inflammatory properties and is suitable for your skin after you get a sunburn. However, using a scented aloe can irritate the skin even more. Dr. Solomon suggests using a fragrance-free aloe or using aloe directly from an aloe plant. However, the most beneficial treatment of all is to avoid sunburn in the first place.
Don't Cover that Burn With Makeup
Even though your sunburn might look bad, avoid covering it up with makeup. "The only way the burn will heal is if you let your skin breathe," says Dr. Solomon. "Introducing various makeups through dirty sponges or brushes will only increase your risk for infection or allergic reaction, which will ultimately make it all worse."
Don't Pop Your Blisters
Similar to not peeling your skin, you should never pop blisters. "That extra bubble of skin serves a fundamental purpose in protecting the wound," says Dr. Solomon. "If a blister hurts severely, apply a cream-based unscented aloe vera."
Not Drinking Enough Water
Sunburns dehydrate you from the inside out, so you really should be drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to rejuvenate the skin.
Exfoliating
While scrubbing dead skin off your body helps to you then the skin, it's one of the worst things you can do on a sunburn. When your skin is burnt from the sun, exfoliating only exposes the damaged layer of skin, even more, causing pain and further irritation, explains Dr. Solomon. Instead, use a gentle moisturizer or mask to treat damaged skin.
Don't Use Coconut Oil or Butter
You may have heard before that lathering butter or coconut oil will soothe your burn, but it's a myth. The skin is hot and needs to cool down, applying a fat-based product onto your skin will not only clog the pores and stop the healing process, but it might also aggravate inflammation. "Coconut oil and butter are great for moisturizing the skin in other instances," says. Dr. Solomon, "but when it comes to a burn, you should wait until the skin cools to use it.".
Dr. Sheel Desai Solomon is a Board-Certified Raleigh-Durham, NC Dermatologist with specialty Fellowship training in Dermatopathology, Cosmetic and Laser Surgery.
Prior to founding her own practice, she served as Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology at Duke University Hospital.
She completed her Residency training at the renowned Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU (New York), and has trained at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, including the Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology (New York), The Laser and Skin Surgery Center (New York), St. John's Institute of Dermatology (London, UK). She obtained her undergraduate and medical degrees at King’s College London, University of London.
She is a member of The American Board of Dermatology, The American Academy of Dermatology, The North Carolina Dermatology Association, The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and The American Society For Laser Medicine & Surgery.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, she brings a global perspective to patient care. She is also conversant in several languages including French, German and Japanese.
Medicine is a common thread in Dr. Desai Solomon’s family with many of her family members being physicians and surgeons. Her grandmother Lalita was one of the first women doctors to graduate and practice in India and a noted philanthropist.
Dr. Desai Solomon is excited to use her skills, experience, research and the latest cutting-edge technology to help patients achieve optimal skin health and realize their aesthetic goals.
When not running her busy practice, Dr. Desai Solomon is a wife and a mother of two young children. In her spare time she enjoys keeping active, cooking, charity work and the fine arts.
She believes that body and mind wellness has a huge impact on our skin and encourages a holistic approach with patients.
Canfitpro 2019 will make you sweat on August 16 & 17
TORONTO, July 11, 2019 /CNW/ - Come workout and sweat at Canada's largest fitness event, canfitpro 2019. The canfitpro 2019 trade show will be take place on Friday August 16 and Saturday August 17 with this year's admission being completely free. Trade show passes are available in advance at http://www.canfitpro2019.com.
As Canada's leader in fitness education, more speakers from the fitness industry around the world have been added to the trade show this year. canfitpro 2019 trade show now has a larger, more diverse agenda with over 65 inspiring sessions featuring prominent leaders and speakers; our new experiential trade show zones highlight Group Fitness, Health & Nutrition, Power & Performance and Technology & Innovation.
Some of these educational session highlights include:
FRIDAY AUGUST 16 "Happiness and Exercise" – Dr. Gillian Mandich "Sugar and Mood: Understanding How Sugar Impacts Your Mood & Energy" – Tosca Reno "Joga HIIT: A Program that Bridges the Gap Between Yoga & Sport" – Jana Webb
SATURDAY AUGUST 17 "Longevity Hack – How to Increase Health Span and Improve with Age" – Dr. Marc Bubbs "Regular to Ripped: HIIT the New Fat Burning Zone" – Mike Bracko "Setback to Comeback: The Rise and Fall of the Middle-Aged Athlete" – Fraser Quelch
In Hall D Activity Stage, throughout the two days, come build up a sweat with STRONG by Zumba®, POUND® - Rockout. Workout with the legendary Tae Bo®creator Billy Blanks.
On Saturday August 17, experience the 2019 GNC ALLMAX canfitpro Natural Regional Championships starting at 10am on the Hall E Power & Performance Stage.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS WITHIN THE CANFITPRO 2019 TRADE SHOW:
As part of connecting the fitness industry to professionals and enthusiasts, this year's trade show will include appearances by:
Billy Blanks – creator of Tae Bo® Ashley Callingbull - Actor, Beauty Queen, First Nations Activist Jenalyn Saraza Pacheco and Luka Milacic Perusina - "World of Dance" contestants
The canfitpro 2019 trade show takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Friday August 16 (11:30am to 7pm) and Saturday August 17 (9am to 5:30pm).
canfitpro is the largest provider of education in the Canadian fitness industry. Founded in 1993, canfitpro delivers accessible, quality education, certifications, conferences, trade shows, and membership services. canfitpro's over 24,000 members include some of the world's finest fitness professionals, health club operators, industry suppliers, and fitness consumers.
SOURCE canfitpro
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