Health News

DOD Study Supports Benefit-Risk Profile of Pradaxa for AFib
Ridgefield, CT, November 17, 2014 – Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced results from a U.S. Department of Defense cohort analysis of the Military Health System database showing that non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients treated with Pradaxa® (dabigatran etexilate mesylate) in routine clinical care experienced reduced rates of stroke, major bleeding, death and other types of bleeding, along with increased lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, compared to patients treated with warfarin.
This Device Could Predict Strokes
After a stroke, getting the right treatment is important to avoid another one. When the cause of the stroke is unknown, doctors must rely on certain tools to determine the best treatment.
FDA Approves Anti-Clotting Drug Savaysa
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved the anti-clotting drug Savaysa (edoxaban tablets) to reduce the risk of stroke and dangerous blood clots (systemic embolism) in patients with atrial fibrillation that is not caused by a heart valve problem.
Exercise, Diet May Keep Arrhythmia in Check
The world’s most common heart rhythm disorder may increase the odds of stroke, dementia and other health problems. A heart-healthy lifestyle, however, may reduce these risks.
Pain Relievers Posed Bleeding Risk for Some Patients
NSAIDs are often a go-to treatment for minor aches and pains. But patients with atrial fibrillation may want to have another talk with their doctor about whether these medications are the best option.
Treatment for Irregular Heartbeat May Raise Dementia Risk
For people with irregular heartbeats, the anti-clotting medication warfarin can prevent strokes. But, combined with other medications over a long period of time, it may cause other health problems.
Device May Offer Alternative to Rx for Arrhythmia
A new device may offer an alternative to anti-clotting medication for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).
Abnormal Heartbeat Rx May Pose Major Bleeding Risk
When the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved dabigatran in 2010, it highlighted the medication's ability to prevent stroke. Since then, some have raised concerns that the blood-thinning medication may cause severe bleeding.
Irregular Heartbeat May Raise Risk for Silent Stroke
Millions of patients may have strokes each year and not realize it. These “silent” strokes can cause memory loss but have no outward symptoms. And those with atrial fibrillation may be especially at risk.
Diabetes May Affect Young and Old Differently
Diabetes affects millions in the US. But new research suggests that it may affect patients in different ways.