‘We are against the diminishment of critical thought and the prescribed acceptance of how things are supposed to be because someone on tv said so.’
March Madness TV and Prolonged Sitting Lead to Sweaty Backsides and Stupider Americans
March 19, 2019 -- Sweaty backsides, soaked underwear, and related ‘stank’ will afflict millions of men during the NCAA basketball tournament this month, according to the makers of SwampButt Underwear. But there are other deleterious side effects from protracted sitting and staring at the television. Prolonged inactivity by men who sweat more than normal leads to a sweaty backside which means there will be butts stuck to chairs, sofas and barstools along with the inevitable butt prints left as a calling card that says, ‘a fat guy was sitting here.’ Swamp butt does not discriminate, it can and does strike the most good natured and generous among us. As bad as sitting for hours is for clothes and furniture it’s worse for the human brain.
TV Makes Us Stupid and Poorer Judges of Everything
A dangerously bad effect of excessive television watching, the way millions will during ‘March Madness’, is that it can hinder the ability to think. Whether on a table or wall mounted unit or hand held internet device, television delivers quick information, opinions positioned as facts, speculation as accomplished, analysis and criticism for just about everything in the world of sports. It leads us to stop using our own critical thinking skills and be led by ‘what the tv said.’
What the TV Said
As a consequence, American sports fans are easily misinformed and manipulated, same as voters. “You hear and see on TV that ‘Coach K’ and Duke are the greatest, or that none of the LSU players knew anything about their coach and all that stuff on tape and are shocked, shocked to learn about this,” said indignant basketball fan and SwampButt Underwear spokesman Nick Heraldson. “When enough people believe any of these, they become de-facto doctrines,” Heraldson said. “Once the basketball viewing public accepts that ‘one and done’ at Duke is acceptable and good for the game then it is.”
Sports reporters in general and ESPN in particular decide which schools are deserving and which ones are not. Duke, North Carolina, Gonzaga, LSU, Texas, and Michigan State are examples of the ordained and acceptable. Houston, Cincinnati, Texas A&M, Iowa State, Northwestern, Sam Houston State, or Ole Miss are not part of the basketball elite. So, they are ranked lower, get worse seeds in the tournament, if they are invited at all, and are sent to the least desirable locations. (Yes, we know Texas is in the NIT).
The TV and March Madness are Bad for Your Health
A study conducted by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health indicates that watching too much television can significantly increase the risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes. Another study carried out at the University of Rhode Island found that prolonged television watching decreases viewers’ sense of self-efficacy in maintaining personal health. And these are just a couple of studies among dozens. “So perhaps you’d be better off if you limited the time you spend keeping your body immobile staring at an electronic screen,” Heraldson asked rhetorically. “I see friends, family and complete strangers stuck to the couch like a fly on a toffee,” said Heraldson. “Staring at the tv hour after hour, sometimes not even blinking. It’s not normal.”
March, Meh
March is an odd month. It’s not winter but not really spring. It has two unofficial holidays in Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day and one official in the President’s Day holiday but none of those has the ‘let’s all go see the family’ whimsy of a Thanksgiving or July 4th. The one thing March does have that makes it uniquely ‘endearing’ is the NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament. Sixty-four schools’ men’s basketball teams will play single elimination games and advance to a championship series with the remaining four teams, known as the ‘final four.’ The final four is in 2019 is in Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN this year. Minneapolis is an odd choice given that winter lasts there through mid-June.
A few thousand lucky people will get to attend the final four in person. But tens of millions will watch the games on television, or some internet-based hand-held device. More people still gamble on the tournament by selecting winners from each game in their ‘brackets.’ It’s fun, relatively inexpensive and gives people in offices something to talk about that is not work related. “Don’t misunderstand, we are not against fun,” Heraldson said defensively. “We aren’t even against sweaty butts given the business we are in. But we are against the diminishment of critical thought and the prescribed acceptance of how things are supposed to be because someone on tv said so.”
About SwampButt Underwear
SwampButt Underwear™ is a real company that makes and sells a product that helps to solve a problem. SwampButt Underwear™ is trademarked in the U.S. and foreign countries. We paid a lot for it so please do not use it without written permission.
CAPTION: Too much television makes viewers fatter and stupider.
Cipher Pharmaceuticals Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2018 Financial Results
Canadian product revenue increased 30% to $6.9 million for the year Completed six (6) strategic business transactions enhancing long-term value
OAKVILLE, ON, March 19, 2019 /CNW/ - Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc. (TSX:CPH) ("Cipher" or "the Company") today announced its financial and operating results for the three and twelve months ended December 31st, 2018. Unless otherwise noted, all figures are in U.S. dollars.
2018 Highlights (all figures compared to the relative prior-year period, unless otherwise noted)
The Company continues to execute on its revised corporate strategy focusing on long-term growth. Utilizing cash flows from its profitable, global licensing business, the Company continues to invest in, and build a diversified portfolio of prescription products, across a select range of therapeutic areas that address unmet medical needs. In 2018, Cipher completed six transactions that demonstrate meaningful progress in the execution of its growth strategy, launched two new products in Canada and advanced pipeline products through regulatory events. Key highlights during the year include:
Revenue from Canadian products increased 30% to $6.9 million.
Cash generated from operating activities was $11.3 million.
In January, Cipher launched OZANEX™, a novel bactericidal topical antibiotic cream indicated for impetigo in patients aged 2 months and older.
In February, Cipher acquired the exclusive Canadian rights from Synergy Pharmaceuticals Inc. to TRULANCE®, an FDA-approved once-daily tablet for adults with chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Cipher filed a New Drug Submission (NDS) that was accepted for review by Health Canada in December.
In April, Cipher acquired the exclusive Canadian rights to A-101 40%, a topical solution indicated for the treatment of raised seborrheic keratoses. A-101 40% was approved by the FDA in December 2017 and is marketed by Aclaris Therapeutics, Inc. in the U.S. under the tradename Eskata™. Cipher filed an NDS that was accepted for review by Health Canada in December.
In May, Cipher closed a transaction pursuant to which it acquired the Canadian business portfolio of Cardiome Pharma Corp., which included two commercial products (Brinavess® and Aggrastat®) and two late-stage pipeline products (Xydalba™ and Trevyent®) used in hospitals.
In July, Cipher amended its distribution and supply agreement with Sun Pharmaceuticals Inc. ("Sun") to provide Sun with the ability to launch new isotretinoin products used to treat severe acne prior to the expiry of the current agreement in November 2022. Cipher will receive a royalty on net sales of all Sun's isotretinoin products launched prior to December 2024.
In September, Cipher acquired the exclusive rights to MOB-015 from Moberg Pharma AB ("Moberg"). MOB-015 is a patented proprietary formulation of terbinafine for the topical treatment of onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the nail.
In September, Cipher received Health Canada approval of Xydalba (dalbavancin hydrochloride), the first and only one-dose treatment option for acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections in adults available in Canada.
In October, Cipher re-launched Brinavess (vernakalant hydrochloride) for the rapid conversion of recent onset atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR), for patients in both the surgical and non-surgical setting.
"2018 was a transformational year for Cipher with exceptional operational execution and solid financial results," said Robert Tessarolo, President and CEO of Cipher. "Our Canadian Commercial business posted outstanding 30% organic growth in product revenue powered by Epuris which now holds 35% market share nationally and is the #1 prescribed isotretinoin by Dermatologists. In our Licensing business, albeit a challenging year for this business, we were pleased Absorica TRx levels stabilized over the last 4 months. While investing in our future growth we continued our debt retirement practices through practical management of expenses and our ability to generate significant cash from operations."
"In 2018 we diversified our portfolio through the execution of several strategic business transactions. Most importantly, we advanced product approvals, launches and Health Canada filings and have added five (5) highly innovative assets with clear advantages vs. current standards of care, with low regulatory risk given prior FDA approval and promising commercial and reimbursement profiles.
Mr. Tessarolo added, "By amending our distribution and supply agreement for Absorica with Sun Pharmaceuticals we achieved our objective of extending the marketing of Absorica and bringing innovative new isotretinoin products to the U.S. market. Addressing this key enterprise risk was the capstone on our transformation."
Q4 and Full Year 2018 Financial Review (All figures are in U.S. dollars)
Total revenue was $6.4 million for Q4 2018 compared to $12.1 million for Q4 2017. The year-over-year decrease mainly reflects lower licensing revenue from Absorica®. As previously disclosed, fiscal 2017 was an unusually strong year for Absorica revenue based on the success of Cipher's partner's promotional program, which drove significant market share gains prior to the end of the program in November 2017. Total revenue was $22.7 million for the year end December 31, 2018 compared to $40.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Licensing revenue for Q4 2018 was $4.6 million compared to $10.6 million for Q4 2017. Absorica licensing revenue was $3.7 million for Q4 2018, compared to $9.4 million for Q4 2017. Licensing revenue from Lipofen® products decreased as expected to $0.7 million for Q4 2018 compared to $0.9 million in Q4 2017. Licencing revenue from tramadol products (Conzip® and Durela®) was $0.1 million compared to $0.4 million in Q4 2017. Licensing revenue was $15.9 million for the year end December 31, 2018 compared to $34.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Product revenue increased by 18% to $1.8 million for Q4 2018 compared to $1.5 million for Q4 2017. The increase was primarily driven by Epuris®, which generated revenue of $1.5 million in the period compared to $1.3 million in Q4 2017. Epuris achieved market share of more than 35% during the quarter, compared to 28% for the same period last year. Product revenue was $6.9 million for the year end December 31, 2018 compared to $5.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Total operating expenses increased to $5.8 million for Q4 2018 compared to $4.3 million for Q4 2017. The increase related to costs associated with launching a new product in the fourth quarter of 2018, regulatory submissions for plecanatide and A-101 40% and costs related to the 2019 launch of Xydalba. Total operating expenses were $19.4 million for the year end December 31, 2018 compared to $15.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and included an impairment of intangible assets of $1.8 million and transaction and integration costs of $1.2 million.
Loss from continuing operations was $0.5 million, or $0.02 per basic and diluted share in Q4 2018, compared to income from continuing operations of $3.9 million, or $0.14 per basic and diluted share in Q4 2017. Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2018 decreased to $1.1 million, compared to $8.1 million in Q4 2017. Income from continuing operations was $1.2 million, or $0.04 per basic and diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to income from continuing operations of $10.6 million, or $0.40 per basic and diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2017. Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased to $6.9 million, compared to $26.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
The Company has $10.4 million in cash at December 31, 2018 compared with $28.2 million at the end of 2017. The Company generated $11.3 million in cash from operating activities and used approximately $26.1 million in cash during the year as consideration for the multiple transactions that were completed and repaid $5.7 million in debt. The Company has $17.6 million in debt at December 31, 2018.
Paragraph IV
On December 19, 2018, the Company received notice of a Paragraph IV Certification in an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) No. 212333 advising Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Ltd., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., and Galephar Pharmaceuticals Research, Inc. (Galephar) that Upsher Smith Laboratories, LLC (Upsher Smith) has filed an ANDA with the FDA seeking approval to manufacture, use, or sell a generic version of Absorica (10 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg) prior to the expiration of U.S. Patent Nos. 7,435,427; 8,367,102; 8,952,064; 9,078,925; and 9,089,534. On January 30, 2019, Sun, Cipher and Galephar filed a complaint against Upsher Smith asserting infringement of the five patents. On February 12, 2019, Upsher Smith filed its answer to the complaint.
Outlook
Cipher anticipates several key milestones in 2019 that will continue to enhance long term value, including:
Xydalba launch in first half of 2019
DTR-001 pre-clinical results in Q2 2019
Regulatory approval for plecanatide from Health Canada in Q4 2019
Regulatory approval for A-101 from Health Canada in Q4 2019
Top line results for MOB-015 Phase 3 study in North America expected in late Q4 2019
The Company expects its licensing business to provide a solid base of high-margin royalty revenue which provides non-dilutive financing to support future growth and the identification of opportunities that enhance shareholder value.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of Cipher has granted Mr. Craig Mull observation rights to attend Cipher board meetings. Mr. Craig Mull is a representative of 1207407 Ontario Limited, a significant shareholder of Cipher. Mr. Mull is the son of Dr. John Mull, a director of the Company.
Financial Statements and MD&A
Cipher's Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 and Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018 are available on the Company's website at www.cipherpharma.com in the "Investors" section under "Financial Reports" and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
Notice of Conference Call
Cipher will hold a conference call today, March 19, 2019, at 8:30 a.m. (ET) to discuss its financial results and other corporate developments. To access the conference call by telephone, dial (416) 764-8609 or (888) 390-0605 and use conference ID 05671895. A live audio webcast will be available at https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/1961627/A8608EF7931C988866CBF1E7013080C9 or the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at http://www.cipherpharma.com. An archived replay of the webcast will be available for 90 days.
About Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Cipher (TSX:CPH) is a specialty pharmaceutical company with a robust and diversified portfolio of commercial and early to late-stage products. Cipher acquires products that fulfill unmet medical needs, manages the required clinical development and regulatory approval process, and markets those products either directly in Canada or indirectly through partners in Canada, the U.S., and South America. Cipher is focused on a three-pronged growth strategy – including acquisitions, in-licensing, and selective investments in drug development – to assemble a broad portfolio of prescription products that serve unmet medical needs. For more information, visit www.cipherpharma.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to our objectives, goals and strategies to achieve those objectives and goals, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. The words "may", "will", "could", "should", "would", "suspect", "outlook", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "forecast", "objective", "hope" and "continue" (or the negative thereof), and words and expressions of similar import, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, which give rise to the possibility that predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved. Certain material factors or assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of important factors, many of which are beyond our control, could cause our actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, our ability to enter into in-licensing, development, manufacturing and marketing and distribution agreements with other pharmaceutical companies and keep such agreements in effect; our dependency on a limited number of products; our dependency on protection from patents that will expire; integration difficulties and other risks if we acquire or in-license technologies or product candidates; reliance on third parties for the marketing of certain products; the product approval process is highly unpredictable; the timing of completion of clinical trials, regulatory submissions and regulatory approvals; reliance on third parties to manufacture our products and events outside of our control that could adversely impact the ability of our manufacturing partners to supply products to meet our demands; we may be subject to future product liability claims; unexpected product safety or efficacy concerns may arise; we generate license revenue from a limited number of distribution and supply agreements; the pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive; requirements for additional capital to fund future operations; products in Canada may be subject to pricing regulation; dependence on key managerial personnel and external collaborators; no assurance that we will receive regulatory approvals in the U.S., Canada or any other jurisdictions and current uncertainty surrounding health care regulation in the U.S.; certain of our products are subject to regulation as controlled substances; limitations on reimbursement in the healthcare industry; limited reimbursement for products by government authorities and third-party payor policies; products may not be included on list of drugs approved for use in hospitals; hospital customers may make late payments or not make any payments; various laws pertaining to health care fraud and abuse; reliance on the success of strategic investments and partnerships; the publication of negative results of clinical trials; unpredictable development goals and projected time frames; rising insurance costs; ability to enforce covenants not to compete; risks associated with the industry in which it operates; we may be unsuccessful in evaluating material risks involved in completed and future acquisitions; we may be unable to identify, acquire or integrate acquisition targets successfully; legacy risks from operations conducted in the U.S.; inability to meet covenants under our long term debt arrangement; compliance with privacy and security regulation; our policies regarding returns, allowances and chargebacks may reduce revenues; certain current and future regulations could restrict our activities; additional regulatory burden and controls over financial reporting; reliance on third parties to perform certain services; general commercial litigation, class actions, other litigation claims and regulatory actions; the difficulty for shareholders to realize in the United States upon judgments of U.S. courts predicated upon civil liability of the Company and its directors and officers who are not residents of the United States; the potential violation of intellectual property rights of third parties; our efforts to obtain, protect or enforce our patents and other intellectual property rights related to our products; changes in U.S., Canadian or foreign patent laws; litigation in the pharmaceutical industry concerning the manufacture and supply of novel and generic versions of existing drugs; inability to protect our trademarks from infringement; shareholders may be further diluted if we issue securities to raise capital; volatility of our share price; the actions of a significant shareholder; we do not currently intend to pay dividends; our operating results may fluctuate significantly; and our debt obligations will have priority over the Common Shares in the event of a liquidation, dissolution or winding up.
We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When reviewing our forward-looking statements, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Additional information about factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, and about material factors or assumptions applied in making forward-looking statements, may be found in the "Risk Factors" section of the Management's Discussion & Analysis and the Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2018, and elsewhere in our filings with Canadian securities regulators. Except as required by Canadian securities law, we do not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf; such statements speak only as of the date made. The forward-looking statements included herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary language.
1)
Source: IQVIA
2)
EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure. The term EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization,) does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement IFRS measures by providing a further understanding of operations from management's perspective. The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation of property and equipment, amortization of intangible assets, loss on debt extinguishment, non-cash share-based compensation, changes in fair value of derivative financial instruments, impairment of intangible assets and goodwill and foreign exchange gains and losses from the translation of Canadian cash balances.
(IN THOUSANDS OF U.S. DOLLARS)
2018
2017
$
$
Restated(1)
Income from continuing operations
1,201
10,625
Add back:
Depreciation and amortization
828
967
Interest expense, net
712
5,292
Income taxes
1,922
3,463
EBITDA
4,663
20,347
Change in fair value of derivative financial instrument
(530)
(34)
Loss from the translation of Canadian cash balances
87
35
Loss on debt extinguishment
-
5,223
Impairment of intangible assets
1,832
561
Share-based compensation
802
338
Adjusted EBITDA
6,854
26,470
(1)
Amounts have been restated upon the full retrospective adoption of IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
SOURCE Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Nyxoah Receives European CE Mark Approval for the Genio® System, a Disruptive Neurostimulation Solution for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Therapy
MONT-SAINT-GUIBERT, Belgium, March 19, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Nyxoah S.A., a healthtech company focusing on the development of innovative solutions and services for sleep related disorders, today announced that the company has received CE Mark approval for the Genio® system in Europe.
The Genio® system is the world's first and only battery-free, leadless and minimally invasive neurostimulator, capable of delivering bilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation for moderate to severe OSA patients who have failed conventional Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy.
The CE Mark approval was based on data from the Nyxoah BLAST OSA (BiLAteral Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea) clinical study. The BLAST OSA trial is a prospective study that evaluated the safety and performance of the Genio® system in 7 centers in France and Australia. The BLAST OSA study results will be published in a leading medical journal later in 2019.
Robert Taub, Chairman of the Nyxoah Board said: "Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common Sleep Disordered Breathing condition. International sleep experts recently estimated that nearly 1 Billion people worldwide suffer from sleep apnea. Existing therapeutic solutions are often not accepted or are poorly tolerated by patients. The sleep community is looking for alternative solutions for OSA patients who refuse currently available therapies or are not compliant. The Genio® system will help many OSA patients in need for a better solution. Having now received CE mark, the Nyxoah Genio® system is well on its way to fulfil this need."
"Patients from the BLAST OSA study show a major improvement in their sleep apnea symptoms and their Quality of Life," said Enrique Vega, Chief Executive Officer of Nyxoah S.A. "The BLAST OSA study results and the continuous dedication of the whole Nyxoah team were instrumental in obtaining CE approval, which marks a major milestone for Nyxoah."
Nyxoah is now focusing on gathering additional clinical evidence on the Genio® system, initiating European market development activities and working toward gaining approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
About Nyxoah Nyxoah S.A., headquarted in Mont-Saint-Guibert – Belgium, is a healthtech company focused on the development of innovative, neurostimulation-based solutions and services for sleep related disorders. Nyxoah S.A. was co-founded in 2009 by Robert Taub.
Caution – Investigational device in the USA. Limited by federal law to investigational use.
Avicanna announces filing of amended & restated preliminary prospectus
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAWS./
TORONTO, March 19, 2019 /CNW/ - Avicanna Inc. ("Avicanna" or the "Corporation"), a company focused on the eventual development and manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products, is pleased to announce that it has filed an amended and restated preliminary prospectus (the "AmendedProspectus"). The Amended Prospectus was filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario (the "Qualifying Jurisdictions"). A copy of the Amended Prospectus is available under Avicanna's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
The Amended Prospectus discloses that we intend to complete a second tranche closing (the "Second Tranche") of special warrants of the Corporation (the "Special Warrants"). A total of 540,484 Special Warrants were issued on December 13, 2018 (the "First Tranche") at a price of $8.00 per Special Warrant to purchasers in the Qualifying Jurisdictions, and the United States and certain other jurisdictions pursuant to an agency agreement dated December 13, 2018 (the "Agency Agreement") entered into among the Corporation and Sprott Capital Partners LP ("Sprott") and Paradigm Capital Inc. (the "Agents"). The Special Warrants that may be issued under the Second Tranche are not being offered or sold under the Amended Prospectus.
The Second Tranche contemplates an additional issue of up to 1,459,516 Special Warrants and is expected to close on or before April 5, 2019, or such other date that the Corporation and the Agents agree (the First Tranche and Second Tranche collectively referred to as the "Offering"). The Agency Agreement provides the Agents with an over-allotment option allowing them to place up to an additional 20% of the total number of Special Warrants sold under the Offering, subject to certain conditions being met.
Each Special Warrant will be automatically exercised, without payment of additional consideration into one common share in the capital of the Corporation (each, a "Common Share") and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole common share purchase warrant, a "Warrant") at 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) upon the earlier of: (a) the date that is 120 days from the closing date; and (b) the third business day after the issuance of a receipt for a final prospectus qualifying the distribution of the Common Shares and Warrants.
Each Warrant, when issued, shall entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share at a price of $10.00 for two years, subject to acceleration such that, if the Common Shares are listed and posted for trading on a stock exchange and the volume weighted average price of the Common Shares on such stock exchange is equal to or greater than $12.50 for a period of 10 consecutive trading days, the Corporation may at its option elect to accelerate the expiry of the Warrants by providing notice to the holders thereof, in which case the Warrants will expire on the 30th calendar day following delivery of such notice.
The Amended Prospectus is currently being reviewed by the Ontario Securities Commission ("OSC") and has not yet become final for the purpose of the distribution securities, and there can be no assurance that the OSC will issue a receipt for the Corporation's final prospectus.
About Avicanna
Avicanna is an Ontario corporation focused on the eventual development and manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products through its two main business segments, cultivation and research and development.
Avicanna's research and development business is primarily conducted out of Canada at its headquarters in the Johnson & Johnson Innovation Centre, JLABS @ Toronto. Avicanna's scientific team develops products, and Avicanna has also engaged the services of researchers at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto for the purpose of optimizing and improving upon its products.
Avicanna's two majority owned subsidiaries Sativa Nativa S.A.S. and Santa Marta Golden Hemp S.A.S., both located in Santa Marta, Colombia are the base for Avicanna's cultivation activities. These two companies are licensed to cultivate and process cannabis for the production of cannabis extracts and purified cannabinoids including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Avicanna's research and development and cultivation activities are focused on the development of its key products, including plant-derived cannabinoid pharmaceuticals, phyto-therapeutics, derma-cosmetics and Extracts (defined as plant-derived cannabinoid extracts and purified cannabinoids, including distillates and isolates), with a goal of eventually having these products manufactured and distributed through various markets.
Advisories
There can be no assurance that the OSC will issue a receipt for a final prospectus qualifying the distribution of the securities underlying the Special Warrants. The Prospectus contains important information relating to Avicanna, the Special Warrants and the securities issuable upon conversion thereof and is still subject to completion or amendment. For more information, readers should consult the Prospectus, including the risk factors described therein. There will not be any sale or any acceptance of an offer to buy the Special Warrants pursuant to the Prospectus. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved the content of this release.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.
Forward Looking Information
This release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, and forward looking statements, within the meaning of applicable United States securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), which reflects management's expectations regarding the Corporation's future growth, results from operations (including, without limitation, future production and capital expenditures), performance (both operational and financial) and business prospects and opportunities. Wherever possible, words such as "predicts", "projects", "targets", "plans", "expects", "does not expect", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "anticipate" or "does not anticipate", "believe", "intend" and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative or grammatical variation thereof or other variations thereof, or comparable terminology have been used to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to: receipt for the final prospectus of the Corporation qualifying the distribution of the securities underlying the Special Warrants and consequential conversion of the Special Warrants and the Corporation's business plans and outlook. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee and are based on a number of estimates and assumptions management believes to be relevant and reasonable. For more information on these risks please see the Prospectus.
Have you ever had a friend tell you that they stopped taking their anti-depressant because they feel happy now? Or what about the boyfriend who stops taking his high blood pressure meds because, “everything is fine, and he’s working out and eating right?” Lastly, how you ever suffered from anxiety and been prescribed Valium or Clonopin and abruptly stopped taking it because you were no longer anxious? If any of these are familiar scenarios, know that abruptly ceasing certain medications at best, can make you sick, and at worst can cause death. We turned to Dr. Niket Sonpal an NYC Internist and Gastroenterologist and Dr. Duy Nguyen, a Psychiatrist at Beachway Drug and Alcohol Center in Florida. With their combined expertise, they explain the prescription drugs that are dangerous to stop without consulting a doctor and tapering down. See if one your meds is on this list!
Blood Pressure Medications
Medication to control high blood pressure only works if you take it. If you stop taking anti-hypertensive medication without discussing it with your doctor, you put yourself at risk for a stroke. High blood pressure is the most important preventable risk factor for stroke, according to the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Stroke Association (ASA). Dr. Sonpal says that “The higher the blood pressure, the higher the risk for stroke and other health consequences such as brain aneurysm. Unfortunately, some people with high blood pressure stop taking their medication. If their blood pressure returns to normal, they may feel that they no longer need the medication. But normal blood pressure means the medication is doing its job; halting medication will allow blood pressure to rise again, putting the person at risk for stroke and other complications of hypertension.”
Antidepressants
Dr. Duy Nguyen has seen many a patient stop taking drugs such as Prozac, Wellbutrin, Celexa, and Zoloft without first consulting with him. He is adamant that patients don’t go this route. He says, “Withdrawal from antidepressants can cause insomnia, confusion, anxiety, panic, agitation, nightmares and worsened depression. People may also experience fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscle spasms, headaches and loss of coordination. If you wish to be off of an anti-depressant or switch to another, speak to your doctor first and have them devise a safe schedule to titrate you down and/or replace with another.”
Benzodiazepines
You are likely familiar with these under the brand names Valium, Clonopin, Xanax, and Ativan. These are most commonly used to treat anxiety and panic. For people who only take these once in a blue moon (for fear of flying or public speaking), the body and brain are not addicted. For those who take one or more of these medications daily, they cannot be stopped cold turkey! Dr. Nugyen strongly cautions that, “Benzodiazepine drugs can cause serious withdrawal symptoms including seizures, tremors, hallucinations, heart palpitations, insomnia, nausea, and increased anxiety. If you wish to stop or reduce your intake of these drugs, consult with your doctor to develop a titration schedule. If you have been taking high doses of these drugs over a long period of time, you may need more supervised medical support such as a drug detox program where you are monitored 24/7 by nurses and given supplementary non-benzo medications to ease withdrawal symptoms.”
Prednisone and other steroids.
Prednisone is prescribed as a potent anti-inflammatory for a variety of conditions, including asthma, allergies, hives, inflammatory arthritis and gout. If you’ve been taking prednisone for more than one to two weeks and just stop it, you may get into trouble. Dr. Sonpal explains that “When you are taking prednisone tablets, your own adrenal gland production of cortisol declines. When you abruptly stop taking prednisone, the result may be low cortisol. This causes weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. It’s not fun and can be very serious. Wean off of it under the schedule determined by your doctor”
Antibiotics
Too often patients with a bacterial infection begin a course of antibiotics with every intention of following their doctor’s orders, then cutting their treatment short when they’re feeling better. “What they don’t realize is that this can cause problems in the future. Antibiotics are prescribed in the dose that ensures every last bit of the targeted bacteria in your body will be destroyed,” explains Dr. Sonpal. He adds. “If you stop taking your antibiotics a few days before you’re supposed to, any remaining strains of the bacteria, the ones that were already strong enough to make it through the first few doses of the medicine, will survive in your system, and will be resistant the next time you take those same antibiotics.”
Opioid pain medications.
Opioids are prescription analgesics like codeine, morphine, and hydrocodone (an active ingredient in Vicodin), and if you’ve been taking any of them long term, abrupt discontinuation can cause symptoms like diarrhea, generalized pain, restlessness, and anxiety. “Withdrawing from opioids is no joke,” says Dr. Nguyen. He adds, “Depending on your level of addiction, a patient may need in-patient medical detox followed by a drug rehab program, the latter of which will deal with the emotional aspects of eliminating the addiction.”
Diabetes Medication
When your blood sugar seems to be under control, you may decide you want to stop taking your diabetes medications. Dr. Sonpal explains that “If you’re a type 1 diabetic, your body will never be able to create its own insulin, so it’s pretty clear that you can never stop taking insulin. But if you’re a type 2 diabetic, you may be able to explore alternatives with your physician. Since this type of diabetes evolves and changes over time, you need to consistently evaluate your treatment plan with your doctor.” This could involve reducing the dose of your current medication or trying newer medications. But it’s imperative that you not take any action on your own with regard to adjusting your medication without first consulting with your physician.
Thyroid Medication
If you have hypothyroid—whether due to Hashimoto's, Graves' disease treatment, thyroid surgery, or congenital hypothyroidism—failing to take your thyroid hormone replacement medication can pose many risks to your health. If you don't feel better after taking your medication for several months, you may need a dosage adjustment or a change in medication—not a complete stop of your regimen. Dr. Sonpal explains that “There isn't a natural or herbal replacement for thyroid hormone. Much like patients with type 1 diabetes and their need for insulin, your system needs thyroid hormone for survival. But there are no natural substitutes for antithyroid medications.”
Some Risks of Ceasing Thyroid Medicine Include:
Blood pressure irregularities
Elevated cholesterol, including treatment-resistant high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease
Dr. Niket Sonpal is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine and Clinical instructor at Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center, Brooklyn who specializes in Gastroenterology. He is a graduate of the Medical University of Silesia – Hope Medical Institute in Poland. After completing his residency in Internal Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital, he was selected to be the 2013‐2014 Chief Resident at Lenox Hill Hospital–Northshore LIJ Health System. Dr. Sonpal has completed his Fellowship in Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Lenox Hill Hospital and continues his work in the field of medical student and resident test preparation. He now serves as the associate program director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Brookdale University medical center.
He is the co‐author for the best-selling Master the Boards: USMLE Step 2 CK, Master the Boards Step 3, And Master the Boards: Internal Medicine. He is also the Chief Operating Officer for Medquest Test Prep, Director of Medical Education for Picmonic Test Prep, and a recognized expert on medical test prep.
New Treatment Option Now Available in Canada for Newly Diagnosed Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer
KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) in Combination with Pemetrexed and Platinum Chemotherapy Reduced the Risk of Death by Half Compared to Chemotherapy Alone
Every day, approximately 78 Canadians are diagnosed with lung cancer and 58 die from iti
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common form of lung cancer, making up 80 to 85 per cent of all casesii
The five-year survival rate for advanced NSCLC is currently estimated to be 2 to 13 per centiii
KIRKLAND, QC, March 18, 2019 /CNW/ - Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, today announced that Health Canada has expanded the label for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, to include approval for the treatment of metastatic non-squamous NSCLC, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, in adults with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumour aberrations, and no prior systemic chemotherapy treatment for metastatic NSCLC.
"Lung cancer is the deadliest form of cancer in Canada. It is vital that we continue to develop new approaches to treating this, sadly, too common disease," said Dr. Normand Blais, medical oncologist at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montréal. "Immuno-oncology therapies are changing the way we treat lung cancer in Canada and helping to change survival expectations for these patients."
In the pivotal, Phase 3 KEYNOTE-189 trial of patients regardless of PD-L1 tumour expression status, KEYTRUDA®, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival (OS) (HR=0.49 [95% CI, 0.38-0.64]; p<0.00001), reducing the risk of death by half compared to chemotherapy alone. The study also showed a significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) compared to chemotherapy alone (HR=0.52 [95% CI, 0.43-0.64]; p<0.00001).iv
Changing survival expectations "When I first learned I had metastatic lung cancer, I was devastated. Like most people diagnosed with this disease, it is at a late stage and the prognosis was poor," said Larry Frydman, a Toronto lung cancer survivor. "I quickly learned that science was in overdrive. Today's news of new innovative treatment options brings much needed hope to Canadians living with lung cancer."
"Health Canada's decision means that Canadians living with lung cancer will have a new tool to fight this disease," said Shem Singh, Executive Director of Lung Cancer Canada. "This is important as innovative treatment options provide metastatic lung cancer patients with the possibility of improved outcomes and the hope for more time with family and loved ones."
About Lung Cancer Lung cancer, which forms in the tissues of the lungsv, usually within cells lining the air passages, is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide.vi Each year, more people die of lung cancer than die of colon and breast cancers combined.vii The two main types of lung cancer are non-small-cell and small-cell. NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 80 to 85 percent of all cases.viii The five-year relative survival rate for patients suffering from highly advanced, metastatic (Stage IV) lung cancers is estimated to be between 2 and 13 per cent.ix
Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers).x It is the leading cause of death from cancer for both men and women in Canada. In 2017, an estimated 28,600 Canadians were diagnosed with lung cancer; representing 14 per cent of all new cancer cases, and 21,100 Canadians died from lung cancer, representing 26 per cent of all cancer deaths.xi
About KEYTRUDA® KEYTRUDA® is an anti-PD-1 therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body's immune system to help detect and fight tumour cells. KEYTRUDA® is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumour cells and healthy cells.
KEYTRUDA® was first approved in Canada in 2015 and currently has eight indications in a number of disease areas, including non-small cell lung cancer, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, melanoma and bladder cancer.
Merck has the industry's largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 750 trials studying pembrolizumab across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. This clinical program seeks to understand the role of pembrolizumab across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient's likelihood of benefitting from treatment with this medication, including exploring several different biomarkers.
Our Focus on Cancer Our goal is to translate breakthrough science into innovative oncology medicines to help people with cancer worldwide. At Merck Oncology, helping people fight cancer is our passion and supporting accessibility to our cancer medicines is our commitment. Our focus is on pursuing research in immuno-oncology and we are accelerating every step in the journey – from lab to clinic – to potentially bring new hope to people with cancer.
About Merck Canada For over a century, Merck, a leading global biopharmaceutical company known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, has been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the world's most challenging diseases. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to health care through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships.
Today, Merck continues to be at the forefront of research to advance the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and communities around the world – including cancer, cardio-metabolic diseases, emerging animal diseases, Alzheimer's disease and infectious diseases including HIV and Ebola. For more information about our operations in Canada, visit www.merck.ca and connect with us on YouTube and Twitter @MerckCanada.
Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co. Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., USA (the "company") includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.
Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company's ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company's patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.
The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company's 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC's Internet site (www.sec.gov).
Peanuts Integral to MIND Diet and Brain Health New Study Finds MIND Diet Associated with Reduced Incidence and Delayed Progression of Parkinson’s
Albany, Ga. (March 15, 2019) – A recent study published in the journal Nutrition, Health & Aging found the MIND diet, which was specifically developed as a dietary pattern to prevent cognitive decline, can reduce and delay the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Previous research has shown the MIND diet may also reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by as much as 53 percent.
The MIND diet is a daily eating pattern that combines elements from the heavily researched Mediterranean and DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diets. The MIND diet recommends Americans structure their eating around 10 brain-healthy food groups to improve brain function and prevent dementia. The food categories include green leafy vegetables and other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil and a small amount of wine a day.
“I consider the MIND diet very approachable and sustainable because it offers flexibility and variety. For example, you don’t have to eat berries everyday—just twice per week. And, if you’re tired of strawberries, try blueberries,” says Dr. Samara Sterling, director of research for The Peanut Institute. “To reach the five servings of nuts per week that are recommended, you can have a peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread or grab a handful of peanuts as a snack. Peanuts are a healthy, convenient and affordable way to hit that MIND target.”
Peanuts are also a stand-out because they contain high levels of niacin and are a good source of vitamin E – two nutrients that have long been known to protect against Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline.Plus, they’re packed with protein and 19 vitamins and minerals, making them a true superfood.
To meet the MIND diet guidelines, Dr. Sterling suggests eating a handful of peanuts or two tablespoons of peanut butter almost every day.
In addition to the MIND diet recommendations, peanuts are being highlighted in many scientific studies as researchers focus more and more on the impact dietary patterns have on chronic disease prevention.
“People who eat peanuts regularly have a lower risk of heart disease; and there is growing evidence that the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease is associated with risk of cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Frank Sacks, professor of cardiovascular disease prevention, department of nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “We surmise that peanuts could be an important component of a diet that prevents cognitive decline with aging. That is one reason why we included peanuts in the MIND study.”
According to Dr. Sterling, the foods that are emphasized in the MIND diet are nutrient-dense and plant-based.
“Vegetables, whole grains and nuts are filled with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are not only beneficial for the brain, but for the entire body as well. So, adherence to the MIND diet can help a person get these and other nutrients in their diet,” says Sterling.
Dr. Samara Sterling is a Nutrition Scientist with expertise in the use of plant-based nutrition for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. She currently serves as the Research Director for The Peanut Institute and has also worked as a nutrition consultant for various community-based nutrition projects. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University, a master’s degree from Andrews University and a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Based in Albany, Ga., The Peanut Institute is a non-profit organization supporting nutrition research and developing educational programs to encourage healthful lifestyles that include peanuts and peanut products. The Peanut Institute pursues its mission through research programs, educational initiatives and the promotion of healthful lifestyles to consumers of all ages. As an independent forum, The Peanut Institute is uniquely positioned to work with all segments of the food industry, the research community, academia, consumer organizations and governmental institutions.
References
Agarwal, P., et al., MIND Diet Associated with Reduced Incidence and Delayed Progression of ParkinsonismA in Old Age. J Nutr Health Aging, 2018. 22(10): p. 1211-1215.
Chen, X., et al., Dietary Patterns and Cognitive Health in Older Adults: A Systematic Review. J Alzheimers Dis, 2019. 67(2): p. 583-619.
Shoppers Drug Mart continues to support front-line fight against Canada's opioid epidemic
TORONTO, March 15, 2019 /CNW/ - Canada is facing an opioid crisis, which continues to cause significant harm to many Canadians. Today, Shoppers Drug Mart, and its parent company Loblaw Companies Limited, reaffirmed their longstanding commitment to the front-line fight against the opioid epidemic by releasing a comprehensive strategy to build on the existing efforts taken by their more than 1,700 pharmacy teams across the country in their ongoing fight to help to address this crisis and help save lives.
"This is a problem in nearly every neighbourhood, affecting our patients, customers, friends and family members. We want to be a positive force for change, as we continue to support the front-line fight against Canada's opioid epidemic," said Jeff Leger, President, Shoppers Drug Mart. "Over the past few years, our pharmacy teams have been called upon to help more and more patients struggling with opioid addiction. Today's announcement represents a concerted effort to build upon our existing work and ensure that our efforts are having the most meaningful impact possible."
Shoppers Drug Mart is reinforcing its support strategy with a renewed focus on the following comprehensive five-pillared approach:
Promoting Appropriate Use through detection tools and ongoing management of patients' opioid use.
Empowering Pharmacists through continuing education, clinical practice tools, and narcotic monitoring and pharmacy systems for a holistic approach to patient care.
Optimizing Therapy by managing patients' treatment and conducting pain management assessments or medication reviews when appropriate and supporting advocacy efforts to limit quantities dispensed.
Providing Pharmacy Treatment and Rescue Options by ensuring broad access to treatment for opioid dependence, alternate options for pain management, and naloxone kits through our pharmacies.
Building a Community of Support by improving access to community resources and driving fundraising and program development support.
"We are committed to identifying innovative ways in which we can continue to contribute to fighting this crisis and are encouraged by the increased awareness and focus from all stakeholders," said Leger. "We continue to advocate for government support, specifically to include pharmacists as practitioners within the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, which would allow them to adapt prescriptions to ensure patients receive the safest and most effective therapy for their specific need."
Additionally, Shoppers Drug Mart is committed to working collaboratively with all key stakeholders, including government, physicians, payors and professional associations, to curb the surge in opioid-related deaths. Shoppers Drug Mart will host a series of community town halls across the country, bringing together community members with key healthcare stakeholders to discuss actionable outcomes for local impact.
About Shoppers Drug Mart Shoppers Drug Mart is one of the most recognized and trusted names in Canadian retailing. The company is the licensor of full-service retail drug stores operating under the name Shoppers Drug Mart (Pharmaprix in Québec). With almost 1,300 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores operating in prime locations in each province and two territories, the company is one of the most convenient retailers in Canada. The company also licenses or owns 47 medical clinic pharmacies operating under the name Shoppers Simply Pharmacy (Pharmaprix Simplement Santé in Québec), and provides cosmetic dermatology services at one standalone location, the Beauty Clinic by Shoppers Drug Mart. As well, the company owns and operates 36 corporate Shoppers Home Healthcare stores, seven Wellwise by Shoppers Drug Mart stores and an ecommerce site Wellwise.ca, making it the largest Canadian retailer of home health care products and services. In addition to its retail store network, the company owns Shoppers Drug Mart Specialty Health Network Inc., a provider of specialty drug distribution, pharmacy and comprehensive patient support services, and MediSystem Inc., a provider of pharmaceutical products and services to long-term care facilities. Shoppers Drug Mart is an independent operating division of Loblaw Companies Limited.
SOURCE Shoppers Drug Mart
The 5 Biggest Disruptors
Wreaking Havoc On Your Hormones
As 2019 dawns, some people are taking a “new year-new you” approach. They’re determined to make self-improvements that provide a fresh, positive outlook and strong sense of well-being.
But sometimes health factors undermine those good intentions, such as depression and its link to hormone imbalances. There are myriad ways both men and women suffer adverse effects to their hormones, says Don Colbert, M.D., and many of them are avoidable.
“We are exposed to thousands of toxic chemicals on a regular basis in the air, water and food,” says Colbert (https://drcolbert.com), author of Dr. Colbert's Hormone Health Zone. “Some of them are hormone disruptors because they disturb your endocrine system, wreaking havoc and creating hormonal imbalances.
“Not only are the effects of all these disruptors depressing to think about; they actually cause depression, along with countless other ailments such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and more. But the basic principle is this: decreasing the number of disruptions will improve your health.”
Dr. Colbert breaks down the top hormone disruptors affecting men and women along with ways to minimize the disruption or stop it:
Lifestyle choices. “Whether it’s weight gain and a lack of exercise, anger and unforgiveness, drinking too much alcohol or some other thing that can be controlled, your hormone levels drop and you begin a slow slide to poorer health,” Dr. Colbert says. “Make better choices, and that dramatically decreases the chances of having any hormone deficiency symptoms.”
Medications. Medications affect the body’s cells, and sometimes side effects manifest in major problems. For example, Dr. Colbert cites Mayo Clinic research showing a prescription statin drug that lowered cholesterol could result in liver damage, memory loss or type 2 diabetes. “I estimate that 55 percent of the entire US population is taking pills that directly and negatively affect hormone levels,” Dr. Colbert says. “Get off these harmful medications you hate.”
Things you touch. Chemicals entering the body through the skin can cause long-term damage. Dr. Colbert notes phthalates, disruptors found in household cleaners, cosmetics, toys and numerous other products. “Phthalates negatively affect both men’s and women’s ability to use the testosterone that is in our bodies,” Dr. Colbert says. “Another is BPA (bisphenol A), found on the inside of metal-canned foods and plastic food-storing containers. Specifically, BPA has been found to cause or contribute to cancer, fertility problems, developmental issues and heart disease. I recommend buying glass jars of food and storing in ceramic containers.”
Diet deficiencies. “The standard American diet is usually low in key nutrients that support a healthy thyroid,” Dr. Colbert says. “Many patients with hormone imbalances have low iodine. The best solution is eat more vegetables, ideally raw or steamed.”
Aging. Dr. Colbert says estrogen levels for women begin to decline around the age of 50; for men, testosterone levels can drop low around age 45-50. “Aging is a natural combatant as a hormone disruptor,” he says, “but we can slow the acceleration of the effects of aging by optimizing our hormones. Healthy habits can make a huge difference.”
“Symptoms of serious problems indicated by hormonal imbalance can be reversed by those who focus on health in their diet, lifestyle and living environment,” Dr. Colbert says. “Then they can enable all of their systems to function optimally.”
About Don Colbert, M.D.
Don Colbert, M.D. (https://drcolbert.com), is the author of Dr. Colbert's Hormone Health Zone. He has been a board-certified family practice doctor for more than 25 years and has offices in Orlando, Fla., and Dallas. The author of over 40 books, he wrote two New York Times best-sellers - The Seven Pillars of Health and Dr. Colbert’s “I Can Do This” Diet - has sold more than 10 million books and treated 50,000-plus patients. Dr. Colbert is a frequent show guest of Christian leaders Joyce Meyer, John Hagee, and Kenneth Copeland and has been featured on The Dr. Oz Show, Fox News, ABC World News Tonight, and in periodicals such as Newsweek and Reader’s Digest.
Homewood Ravensview, a Landmark Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centre on Saanich Peninsula, Announces Opening Date of May 22
New centre to offer a combination of innovative treatment programs
VICTORIA, March 14, 2019 /CNW/ - Homewood Ravensview, part of Homewood Health, will begin providing inpatient treatment for mental health, addiction and concurrent conditions on May 22, 2019.
"When we open the doors in May," said Homewood Health president and CEO Jagoda Pike, "Homewood Ravensview will immediately become the most comprehensive private mental health and addiction treatment centre in Western Canada. We've recruited an experienced and highly credentialed team to oversee treatment programs based on 135-years of Homewood excellence combined with the latest in evidence-based innovation."
Dr. Lyn MacBeath, the founding medical director at Homewood Ravensview, said, "Our programs are truly unique in Canada. Our Guardians program for first responders and members of the military – both active duty and veterans – is designed specifically for the challenges these real-life heroes face. Then we have our Cornerstone program for adults and the My Path program for young adults, each delivering evidence-based treatment with the latest innovations in care. We're also proud to launch the Vanguard program to meet the specific needs of executives and professionals."
"The diversity and quality of the treatment we provide means everything to us," Pike added, "and we also know that the work we'll do at Ravensview to help people living with addiction and mental health conditions connects to so many other important issues." She expressed particular pride for the strong partnership Homewood Health has with the Pauquachin First Nation.
Ravensview will also have a positive impact on the local economy, bringing 80 high-quality full-time jobs to the region while relieving pressure on the provincial healthcare system as it deals with, for example, the opioid crisis and growing recognition of post-traumatic stress.
The comfortable accommodations at Ravensview, along with the beauty of the forested 28-acre site with mountain and ocean views set the Ravensview experience apart as well. Before Ravensview accepts its first clients on May 22, Homewood Health is offering bridge counselling to assist people who are waiting for the programs at Homewood Ravensview to begin.
Ravensview accepts referrals from medical or healthcare professionals, but a referral is not necessary for treatment. Anyone interested in learning more about Ravensview programs or self-admission should visit ravensview.com/contact or call 1.866.203.1793.
A formal opening ceremony for Homewood Ravensview will take place in June.
About Homewood Health Homewood Health is the Canadian leader in mental health and addiction services. With more than 135 years of experience, Homewood achieves outstanding outcomes through its national network of more than 4,500 employees and clinical experts. Homewood's complete suite of services includes organizational wellness, employee and family assistance programs, assessments, outpatient and inpatient treatment, recovery management, return to work and family support services, all customized to meet the needs of individuals and organizations. Homewood Health is redefining mental health and addiction services to help Canadians live healthier, more productive and more fulfilling lives.
About Homewood Ravensview Homewood Ravensview, part of Homewood Health, offers treatment for mental health, addiction and concurrent conditions. The centre is located on 28-acres of forested hillside on Vancouver Island's Saanich Peninsula and focuses on creating individualized client experiences. Homewood Ravensview features forest and ocean views from private and semi-private bedrooms, suites and welcoming common areas. Homewood Ravensview is scheduled to open May 22, 2019 with 75 beds and will employ more than 80 full-time staff.
SOURCE Homewood Health Inc.
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