Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
FDA Approves Lipfendra, A Daily Pill To Lower Cholesterol That Outperforms Statins
The New York Times: The F.D.A. Approves A New Pill To Slash Cholesterol Levels
The Food and Drug Administration approved a daily pill on Thursday that can lower cholesterol levels far below what can be achieved with statins, the cheap cholesterol-reducing pills. The drug, enlicitide, whose brand name is Lipfendra, is made by the pharmaceutical company Merck. Clinical trials have shown that it can bring levels of LDL — the dangerous type of cholesterol — down to 50 or 60 or even lower. Adults not taking cholesterol-lowering drugs usually have levels above 100. It works by inhibiting a protein known as PCSK9. (Kolata, 7/16)
More health and wellness news —
Stat: New Study Untangles How Epstein-Barr Virus Triggers Immune Response In MS
In a new study published in Science Translational Medicine on Wednesday, researchers say they have uncovered how Epstein-Barr virus launches immune responses that lead to the inflammation and nervous system damage seen in people with multiple sclerosis. (Chen, 7/15)
MedPage Today: Study Offers Reassurance To Women Considering Epidural During Labor
Epidural analgesia in labor was not linked to adverse neonatal neurological outcomes, a Scottish cohort study found. An analysis of nearly half a million deliveries found no association between epidural analgesia in labor and neonatal neurological morbidity ..., reported Rachel Kearns, MBChB, MD, of Glasgow Royal Infirmary in Scotland, and colleagues. (Robertson, 7/15)
MedPage Today: Astronauts Obtain First X-Rays In Space
It was feasible to take x-rays in space, potentially improving diagnostic capabilities for crew health, according to a small prospective study. Using a portable radiography system, three crew members on the 3.5-day Fram2 polar orbital flight were able to take diagnostic-quality x-rays, the first human radiographs in space, reported Sheyna Gifford, MD, of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and colleagues. (Bassett, 7/15)
In celebrity news —
AP: Sam Neill Died From Pneumonia, His Agent Says
Actor Sam Neill died from pneumonia and will be honored at a private family memorial at his New Zealand farm later, his agent told The Associated Press on Thursday. Neill’s family had earlier announced the actor known for “Jurassic Park,” “The Piano” and other films died Monday in Sydney. (Graham-McLay, 7/16)
