Health Journal Online

Category: Diseases & Conditions

  • Journavx, New Type Of Non-Opioid Pain Relief Drug Gets FDA Approval

    Journavx, New Type Of Non-Opioid Pain Relief Drug Gets FDA Approval

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Suzetrigine, a new non-opioid pain relief drug sold under the brand name Journavx, to treat moderate to severe acute pain in adults.

    Journavx from Vertex Pharmaceuticals marks the first new class of pain reliever to receive FDA approval in over two decades. It will be sold as 50-milligram prescription pills that work by blocking pain signals at their source by targeting sodium channels in the nervous system and stopping pain before it reaches the brain.

    “Today’s approval is an important public health milestone in acute pain management. A new non-opioid analgesic therapeutic class for acute pain offers an opportunity to mitigate certain risks associated with using an opioid for pain and provides patients with another treatment option. This action and the agency’s designations to expedite the drug’s development and review underscore FDA’s commitment to approving safe and effective alternatives to opioids for pain management,” Dr. Jacqueline Corrigan-Curay, acting director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research said in a news release.

    Non-opioid pain relief is a crucial step forward in addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. With over 80 million Americans requiring pain relief, around half are prescribed opioids. However, nearly 10% of those initially prescribed opioids end up using them long-term, and about 85,000 develop opioid use disorder each year. Non-opioid alternatives offer a safer option for pain management, reducing the risk of dependency.

    According to the manufacturer, Journavx is a well-tolerated, effective pain reliever with no signs of addictive potential, designed for all types of moderate to severe acute pain.

    The efficacy of the drug was tested in two clinical trials involving surgical pain, one after tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) and the other after bunion surgery. Participants were randomly given either Journavx or a placebo. If pain control was not enough, they could also take ibuprofen for extra relief. Both trials showed that Journavx worked significantly better than a placebo in reducing pain.

    The safety of Journavx was evaluated based on data from two main trials with 874 participants who had moderate to severe acute pain after a tummy tuck or bunion surgery, along with additional data from a smaller study with 256 participants in various acute pain conditions.

    The most common side effects reported were itching, muscle spasms, elevated creatine phosphokinase levels, and rash. Journavx should not be taken with strong CYP3A inhibitors, and patients should avoid grapefruit or grapefruit-containing foods and drinks while using it. The drug will be priced at $15.50 per 50mg pill.

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  • This Simple Oral Hygiene Habit May Help Protect You From Stroke

    This Simple Oral Hygiene Habit May Help Protect You From Stroke

    Taking care of your oral hygiene protects your teeth and gums, but the benefits go beyond that—it may also help prevent stroke. However, brushing alone might not be enough. Researchers have found that flossing at least once a week can significantly reduce stroke risk.

    Previous studies have linked oral health to reduced stroke risk, but in the latest study, the researchers evaluated the specific impact of flossing.

    “A recent global health report revealed that oral diseases — such as untreated tooth decay and gum disease — affected 3.5 billion people in 2022, making them the most widespread health conditions. We aimed to determine which oral hygiene behavior — dental flossing, brushing or regular dentist visits — has the greatest impact on stroke prevention,” said study lead author Dr. Souvik Sen in a news release.

    The findings suggest that regular flossing may lower the risk of ischemic stroke by 22%(stroke from blood clots), cardioembolic stroke (caused by blood clots traveling from the heart) by 44%, and atrial fibrillation by 12%. These protective effects were independent of tooth brushing and other oral hygiene behaviors.

    The results will be presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2025, in Los Angeles. The findings were based on the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, the first large-scale investigation in the U.S. that examined the link between flossing and stroke risk. For the study, researchers surveyed more than 6,000 people about their dental flossing habits and tracked their health over 25 years.

    Among those who flossed, 4,092 had never experienced a stroke, and 4,050 had no history of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder. Over time, 434 individuals suffered strokes, with different causes ranging from artery blockages to heart-related clots. Additionally, 1,291 participants developed AFib.

    The analysis revealed that the more frequently people flossed, the greater their reduction in stroke risk. Flossing was also linked to a lower likelihood of cavities and periodontal disease.

    “Oral health behaviors are linked to inflammation and artery hardening. Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits. Many people have expressed that dental care is costly. Flossing is a healthy habit that is easy to adopt, affordable, and accessible everywhere,” Sen explained.

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  • Struggling To Stick To Your Resolutions? It Takes At Least Two Months To Build A Habit

    Struggling To Stick To Your Resolutions? It Takes At Least Two Months To Build A Habit

    As January comes to an end, many of us may be struggling to stick to our New Year’s resolutions. But don’t give up just yet. Researchers say it takes not just 21 days but at least two months to turn a new habit into part of your routine.

    A new study from the University of South Australia (UniSA) challenges the common belief that habits form in just 21 days. The researchers examined how long it takes to establish health-related habits, such as exercise, drinking water, taking vitamins, and flossing. The results of the meta-analysis that evaluated 20 studies conducted between 2008 and 2023, involving over 2,600 participants revealed that it typically takes around two months — and in some cases, nearly a year.

    The study noted that while certain health habits took a median time of 59-66 days, some may take as long as 335 days. “Sometimes we found that the simple behaviors, (like) if someone wanted to start flossing each day, might take someone a week to get into their routine, but more complex behaviors such as changing someone’s diet and physical activity can take a lot longer,” Ben Singh, co-author of the study told CNN.

    Singh also noted that people looking to build healthy habits, such as eating better or exercising more, may have greater success if they practice them in the morning when motivation tends to be higher.

    The researchers believe that the current findings would help “people set realistic expectations” about habit formation, encouraging them to stay committed even if progress feels slow.

    The idea that habits form in 21 days traces back to plastic surgeon Maxwell Maltz, who observed that his patients, whether recovering from nose jobs or amputations, typically needed about 21 days to adjust to their new appearance. This led to the theory that people in general would take the same period to adopt a new behavior.

    “There is the possibility that it will put people off and maybe discourage them and demotivate them. (But) some people (who) may think that it’s going to take them 21 days, but then after 21 days they’re still struggling, then at least this research and this evidence provides people with some realistic benchmarks that they can follow,” Singh noted.

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  • Kansas Tuberculosis Outbreak That Killed Two, Sickened Dozens, Among Largest In U.S. History

    Kansas Tuberculosis Outbreak That Killed Two, Sickened Dozens, Among Largest In U.S. History

    A tuberculosis outbreak that has gripped Kansas for nearly a year, claiming two lives and infecting dozens, is among one of the largest in U.S. history.

    As of Jan. 24, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported 67 confirmed cases of active tuberculosis, along with 79 latent infections. However, health officials confirm there is no threat to the general public.

    “To date, most TB cases have been in Wyandotte County, with very low risk to the general public, including the surrounding counties,” the health officials from Kansas state said in a statement.

    Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs and spreads through the air when a symptomatic infected person talks, coughs, or sings. TB can take two forms: active and latent. In its active stage, it triggers a persistent cough, lasting for three weeks or longer, coughing up blood or phlegm, along with chest pain, fatigue, chills, night sweats, fever, and weight loss. In its latent stage, the bacteria remain dormant, causing no symptoms, and there is no risk of transmission. However, if not treated, the latent stage can progress into active TB.

    Both inactive tuberculosis (latent TB infection) and active TB disease are treatable, but they require different approaches. Treatment involves a combination of antibiotics taken over several months, with regimens lasting three, four, six, or even nine months, depending on the severity of the infection and the specific treatment plan.

    In 2023, TB claimed an estimated 1.25 million lives and has regained its title as the world’s deadliest infection caused by a single pathogen. As per the CDC data, there were a total of 8,700 cases of tuberculosis in the U.S. last year.

    Kansas health officials have described the recent tuberculosis outbreak reported since January 2024 as the largest documented in U.S. history since the CDC began tracking cases in the 1950s. However, the CDC has disputed that claim, pointing to at least two larger outbreaks in recent years. One of the most severe occurred between 2015 and 2017 in Georgia homeless shelters, where the disease spread rapidly, leading to more than 170 active TB cases and over 400 latent infections. Another major outbreak in 2021 was linked to contaminated tissue used in bone transplants, infecting 113 patients across the country.

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  • How SugarMD Is Empowering Women To Take Control

    How SugarMD Is Empowering Women To Take Control

    For many women living with diabetes, managing the condition feels like a full-time job. Beyond counting carbs and monitoring blood sugar, there’s the emotional toll, the lifestyle adjustments, and often the weight of family caregiving. Yet, amidst the overwhelming demands, one company is changing how diabetes is understood and managed. SugarMD offers a lifeline of hope for women seeking a holistic approach. This transformative care is now reaching women worldwide, including those in Australia, where access to innovative diabetes solutions is increasingly vital.

    SugarMD, spearheaded by endocrinologist Dr. Ahmet Ergin, is making waves globally, including in Australia, with its comprehensive take on diabetes care. By blending cutting-edge science with a focus on overall wellness, SugarMD is shifting the conversation from mere management to empowerment and thriving. Australian patients can now access the same advanced products and expertise that have made SugarMD a trusted name in diabetes care worldwide, empowering women to live healthier and more balanced lives.

    Rethinking Diabetes Management

    Dr. Ergin’s philosophy is clear: managing diabetes isn’t just about controlling numbers—it’s about helping individuals to lead fulfilling lives. With that in mind, SugarMD has developed solutions that go beyond medication, focusing on education, support, and supplements tailored to the unique needs of diabetes patients.

    Among the company’s standout offerings is its Advanced Glucose Support supplement, which has gained a devoted following. Now, with an enhanced formula set to launch in January 2024, SugarMD is doubling down on its mission to deliver products that not only work but also improve patients’ quality of life.

    Setting a New Standard

    In an industry where trust is everything, SugarMD has taken the bold step of pursuing NSF Certification for its products—a rigorous process that guarantees safety, quality, and transparency. For women managing diabetes, this commitment means peace of mind and confidence in what they’re putting into their bodies.

    “We want our patients to know they’re supported in every way,” says Dr. Ergin. “NSF Certification is just one example of how we prioritize their health and safety.”

    More Than Medicine

    What truly sets SugarMD apart is its holistic vision. The company recognizes that diabetes is as much about mental and emotional health as it is about physical symptoms. Through practical resources, personalized care, and an emphasis on lifestyle adjustments, SugarMD helps women address the broader challenges of living with diabetes.

    Women, who often take on the role of managing their families’ health, can find in SugarMD a partner that understands their unique struggles. By providing educational tools and accessible solutions, the company ensures women are equipped to handle their own health with confidence and ease.

    A Voice for Change

    SugarMD’s influence extends beyond its products. The company actively partners with organizations to address global healthcare inequities, underscoring its dedication to making quality diabetes care accessible to all.

    This advocacy is particularly relevant for women, who disproportionately face barriers to healthcare access. By standing at the forefront of this movement, SugarMD is not just improving lives—it’s amplifying the call for systemic change.

    Why It Matters

    The buzz around SugarMD isn’t just hype. Leading outlets like Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and Fox 5 San Diego have highlighted the brand’s cutting-edge approach, painting a picture of a company that is genuinely invested in its patients’ well-being.

    For women navigating the complexities of diabetes, SugarMD offers more than solutions; it provides hope. With its innovative products, unwavering commitment to quality, and holistic outlook, the company is proving that living with diabetes doesn’t have to mean sacrificing joy, ambition, or health.

    A New Era of Care

    Dr. Ergin’s work with SugarMD represents a significant shift in how diabetes care is approached. By addressing the condition with compassion and innovation, he is showing that it’s possible to redefine the narrative for millions of women around the world.

    If you’re seeking a better way to manage your diabetes or simply want to explore a more empowering perspective, SugarMD invites you to join its revolution in care. The future of health is here, and it’s one that puts women and their well-being first.

    (Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or treatment options. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information provided here. Products mentioned, including those by SugarMD, are dietary supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.)

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  • Curex Is Making Food Allergy Care Easier Than Ever, Backed by Science

    Curex Is Making Food Allergy Care Easier Than Ever, Backed by Science

    For many people, food allergies are a year-round problem. The fear of accidentally exposing themselves to foods they are allergic to, stomach pains, and even more severe reactions can make every meal feel like a gamble. Even small amounts of allergens in everyday meals can cause a lot of distress, turning something as simple as enjoying food into a stressful and cautious experience. Avoiding the food their entire life may be impossible, which causes significant distress for people with food allergies. Going to restaurants is like playing a game of Russian roulette, as very few kitchens are pure from cross-contamination.

    The first treatment that has emerged to combat food allergies has been oral immunotherapy, or OIT. It is administered in the office by an allergist, who, after conducting testing, creates a cocktail of allergens and asks the patient to drink it. Most doctors mix their own cocktails from ingredients they buy in a store, which is not a precise process and frequently causes significant side effects and even anaphylaxis. While OIT is effective for those who persevere and complete the treatment, few do because of painful side effects.

    Fortunately, a new treatment for food allergies, sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), has become a popular and practical solution for many. Through drops applied under the tongue, the treatment exposes the immune system to small, regulated amounts of common food allergens like peanuts, dairy, or shellfish. Unlike OIT, SLIT is created by specialized pharmacies like Allergychoices. They mix clinical-grade allergenic extracts to create a highly precise dosage of immunotherapy mix. The medication is taken under the tongue—where a smaller dose is effective—instead of being drunk like OIT. The immune system becomes desensitized over time, which reduces the extremity of allergic reactions. Allergy drops like these treat the root cause of food allergies, offering a long-term solution compared to short-term fixes like avoiding trigger foods and constantly carrying an EpiPen for emergencies.

    SLIT allergy drops have been used widely for environmental allergies. Studies have shown that allergy drops work just as well as traditional allergy shots for treating conditions like pet allergies, dust allergies, and hay fever. With SLIT, patients can handle their treatment from their own homes without having to deal with needles or numerous clinic appointments, making it easier to stay consistent and add it to their busy schedules.

    Recent studies have also shown that sublingual allergy drops are effective for food allergies. They rarely produce side effects—owing to much lower controlled dosage—which in turn results in a high completion rate. Patients who complete treatment can tolerate accidental exposure to a few peanuts or similar quantities of other foods in question, leading some to introduce the food into their diet or getting a peace of mind.

    Fewer severe reactions and the ability to enjoy meals without fear are two key benefits of using SLIT drops for food allergies. Many patients report getting confidence in dining out, better energy levels, and improved peace of mind when managing their allergies. Allergy drops don’t just reduce symptoms—they address the root cause, giving patients the freedom to live their lives without constantly having to worry about accidental exposure. For many, it represents a transformation in how they approach food allergies—from a constant source of stress to a manageable part of their daily lives.

    Making Allergy Care More Accessible

    Curex has been leading in the effort to increase the number of people who can benefit from SLIT drops. Curex’s patient-focused approach and scientific innovation have made at-home allergy therapy easier than ever. A telemedicine consultation is the first step in the process, in which certified allergists evaluate the individual needs of each patient. Curex customizes each treatment plan to target specific allergy triggers—whether food-based, seasonal, or pet-related—and changes in the seasons using AI-driven data analysis, guaranteeing optimal effectiveness.

    Curex sends tailored allergy drops directly to 50,000 patients’ homes when the treatment plan is finalized by its clinical team. Regular usage of allergy drops under the tongue is meant to raise tolerance to allergens like specific foods, dust, pollen, or pet dander. “We want to make allergy care less complicated and give patients a solution that works for them,” says Curex’s founder, Gene Kakaulin. Curex gives patients the ability to manage their allergies without the inconvenience and time commitment associated with traditional treatments thanks to this simpler process.

    Curex patients often describe their experience as life-changing. Besides the ease of at-home care, many people report noticeable changes in as little as a few months, such as increased energy, fewer symptoms, and the ability to completely and continuously enjoy life’s moments, including dining and eating out without fear. Curex provides a customized, scientifically supported method of managing allergies for those who are prepared to go beyond band-aid solutions.

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  • ADHD Reduces Life Expectancy? Here’s How It Affects Men And Women Differently

    ADHD Reduces Life Expectancy? Here’s How It Affects Men And Women Differently

    As ADHD diagnoses continue to rise in the U.S., researchers have uncovered a troubling link between the behavioral disorder and reduced life expectancy, with the impact varying between men and women.

    Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders affecting children. The condition can impact various aspects of life, including academic performance, professional achievements, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning.

    In a large-scale study published in The British Journal of Psychiatry, researchers analyzed data from over 300,000 participants with ADHD, comparing it with a similar group without the condition to understand its effects on longevity. The findings revealed that men with ADHD had a life expectancy reduction of 4.5 to 9 years, while women faced a reduction of 6.5 to 11 years.

    “It is deeply concerning that some adults with diagnosed ADHD are living shorter lives than they should. People with ADHD have many strengths and can thrive with the right support and treatment. However, they often lack support and are more likely to experience stressful life events and social exclusion, negatively impacting their health and self-esteem,” said senior author, Professor Josh Stott in a news release.

    The researchers also noted that only a fraction of the total population of adults with ADHD could be studied as less than one in nine adults with ADHD had been diagnosed.

    “We know from studies of traits in the community and from studies of childhood diagnosis that the rate of ADHD in our sample is just a fraction of what it should be,” Professor Stott added.

    Since the condition often goes undiagnosed, particularly in adults, this new research may overestimate the reduction in life expectancy for those with the condition. The study findings may not be generalizable to other geographies or settings, the researchers caution. Also, since the study has not evaluated data on the specific causes of death, it is not possible to directly attribute the years of lost life to different factors.

    However, researchers noted that early deaths in ADHD patients could be “caused by modifiable risk factors and unmet support and treatment needs in terms of both ADHD and co-occurring mental and physical health conditions.”

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  • What Is Cushing Syndrome? Amy Schumer Says Online Comments About Her ‘Puffier’ Face Led To Diagnosis

    What Is Cushing Syndrome? Amy Schumer Says Online Comments About Her ‘Puffier’ Face Led To Diagnosis

    Amy Schumer has opened up about how comments on social media helped her with the diagnosis of Cushing syndrome. In a candid podcast interview, the 43-year-old actress revealed that after receiving online feedback about her “puffier” appearance, she realized that she had a hormonal disorder caused by high levels of cortisol in the body.

    The Emmy winning actress and comedian who gained widespread recognition with her stand-up comedy said she received comments about her “moon face” while she appeared in February last year for promoting her Hulu series “Life & Beth”.

    “It was like a year ago and the internet really came for me after doing a bunch of press and I was like, ‘OK, everybody like, relax,’” Schumer told host Alex Cooper.

    “But then, like, doctors were chiming in in the comments and they were like, ‘No, no, we think like, something’s really up. Like, your face looks so crazy that we think something’s up,’ she said.

    Schumer said she was diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome at the end of the same month.

    Know signs of Cushing syndrome:

    Recognizing the signs of Cushing syndrome is crucial for early detection and treatment. Symptoms can include unexplained weight gain, especially around the abdomen and face, a round “moon face,” and a hump of fat on the upper back. Other signs include thinning skin, easy bruising, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Mood changes such as depression or anxiety, along with memory issues or difficulty concentrating, may also signal the condition.

    Causes of high cortisol:

    High cortisol levels can result from several causes including the use of glucocorticoid medications prescribed for autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation. In some cases, it could be caused by pituitary tumors, which produce excessive Adrenocorticotropic hormone, (ACTH), a hormone that stimulates cortisol production. Also Adrenal tumors, often benign, can also produce too much cortisol, though in rare cases, they can be cancerous.

    Complications:

    If left untreated, the condition can be potentially fatal, as the condition causes hypercortisolism, a dangerous imbalance of cortisol in the body. This can lead to a range of severe health issues, including chronic infections, blood clots, heart attacks, and even depression. Also, those with untreated Cushing syndrome may experience significant weight gain, memory problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a higher risk of broken bones. The condition can also lead to metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, or impaired fasting glucose.

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  • Man’s Hands Seemingly Turn Yellow After Only Eating Butter, Cheese and Meat in Viral ‘Carnivore Diet’

    Man’s Hands Seemingly Turn Yellow After Only Eating Butter, Cheese and Meat in Viral ‘Carnivore Diet’

    A Florida man had to be treated for yellow nodules in his skin which were emanating ooze following eight months of being on a “carnivore diet” where he exclusively ate meat and dairy.

    The man in his mid-40s checked himself into a Tampa hospital after yellowish nodules on the palms of his hands, elbows and the soles of his feet began oozing liquid. He continued to explain to doctors that he had been following a “carnivore diet” for the past eight months, consuming entire sticks of butter, 6-9 pounds of cheese and hamburger patties daily.

    “A diagnosis of xanthelasma was made. This case highlights the impact of dietary patterns on lipid levels and the importance of managing hypercholesterolemia to prevent complications,” says the case report published in JAMA Network.

    The carnivore diet encourages followers to consume only animal products, including meat, dairy and eggs. The man insisted that the diet had improved his health, allowing him to lose weight and improving his energy levels. However, the man’s cholesterol levels were incredibly high, at 1,000 mg/dL. Normal cholesterol levels are at under 200mg/dL.

    The authors of the study noted that the case “highlights the impact of dietary patterns on lipid levels and the importance of managing hypercholesterolemia to prevent complications.”

    Originally published by Latin Times.

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  • Trump Admin Cancels Key Vaccine Policy Meetings as Health and Science Agencies Prepare for RFK Jr. Takeover

    Trump Admin Cancels Key Vaccine Policy Meetings as Health and Science Agencies Prepare for RFK Jr. Takeover

    President Donald Trump’s administration has canceled a number of key vaccine policy meetings as health and science agencies prepare for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to take over as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.

    A number of the National Institutes of Health’s study sections, during which fellowship and grant applications are reviewed, were canceled, potentially delaying grant distribution, Stat News reported.

    Additionally, the Presidential Advisory Council for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria meeting, scheduled for Jan. 28-29, and a National Vaccine Advisory Committee meeting, scheduled for Feb. 20-21, were also canceled.

    “Peer review via study sections is required by law in order for the NIH to disburse most of the $40 billion annual extramural budget,” Norman E. Sharpless, a former director of the NIH’s National Cancer Institute, told Stat News.

    “If study sections and advisory council meetings are postponed for more than even a brief period, this will likely lead to interruptions in grant funding, which is bad for U.S. biomedical research.”



    An NIH spokesperson explained the cancellations are part of “a short pause to allow the new team to set up a process for review and prioritization.” Scholars, however, fear the delays and their ambiguous conclusion could have detrimental domino effects on their research.

    “If study sections don’t meet on time, then that could delay grants being distributed, which affects the ability of labs to pay their students and postdocs and staff,” Rebecca Pompano, a chemist and biomedical engineer at the University of Virginia, told Stat News. “In some cases, if there was a gap in funding, it could result in someone either not being hired at all or having to be laid off.”

    Pompano’s fears are compounded by RFK Jr.’s plans to overhaul the NIH. In the past, he has attacked the NIH for not studying the role of vaccines in autism and promised to fire “entire department” at the Food and Drug Administration, AP News reported.

    Originally published by Latin Times

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