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Medical Marketing and Media - E-INSIGHT: MOST VISITED DRUG SITES

admin — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 03:11:02 +0000

MERCK’S STUDY of how consumers process information from television advertisements is underway-and initial testing suggests the firm’s protocol can pick up discrepancies between ads, said Ed Slaughter of Merck’s Commercial Model Group.
Merck drafted Omnicom’s DDB and WPP’s Ogilvy Healthworld to design multiple versions of ads for use in the tests. Viewers were exposed to a “cluster reel” -a barrage of commercials for drugs and unrelated productsand then quizzed on their recollection and understanding.
DDB handles DTC for Singulair and other Merck products under worldwide account director Ellen Fields. Ogilvy handles Merck’s corporate advertising, as well as consumer ads for Zocor, led by senior partner and managing director Mike Guarini. The agency will also execute DTC on two upcoming products.

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“They’re able to bring their experience in creating our ads and others’ ads,” said Slaughter of the two firms, “and having that depth of experience is really helpful.”
The initial round of testing involved three different versions of Singulair ads (with a dummy product name) designed to highlight the issues most commonly cited by the FDA in warning letters. The first ad featured rapid scene changes and accelerated rates of speech in the voice-over during presentation of risk information. A second version took a more responsible approach, without the distracting visuals and risk-benefit imbalance.
A third version, stripped of all risk information, scanned like an ad for an OTC product. “It acts as a control,” said Slaughter, “so that when we expose these ads to sufferers, we can begin to understand how much of what they understood in terms of the risks and benefits is residual.” The ads were screened before 375 asthma sufferers (with 125 viewing each ad) and 150 non-sufferers.
Slaughter said the firm will test ads for products in other highrisk therapeutic categories. “One of the primary factors that can affect recall and understanding is the severity of risk,” said Slaughter. The next wave of testing will take place later this summer.
Merck is consulting DDMAC for technical assistance as it designs the ads, hoping to develop a protocol that can be used to screen DTC television spots for audience understanding and retention of risk information.
-Matthew Arnold
Copyright Haymarket Media, Inc. Aug 2006
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved

LegalView Warns of the Increased Risk of Asbestos Exposure in Aftermath of Environmental Storms and

admin — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 08:41:05 +0000

Denver, CO - LegalView, the number one resource for everything legal on the Internet, informed mesothelioma blog readers of the preexisting dangers that can be associated with removing or disposing of debris that is left in the wake of natural disasters like storms and tornadoes. Victims in Kansas, who recently suffered from a series of severe storms, were left with massive amounts of debris in areas of the state that could be tainted with asbestos. Those who may have already been exposed to asbestos-tainted fibers should seek medical care immediately. Additionally, these individuals should consider locating a mesothelioma attorney in their area in case a mesothelioma lawsuit becomes a necessary step to potentially recoup medical costs or garner compensation for pain and suffering.

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), precautions must be taken when removing and disposing of debris because many homes constructed prior to the 1980s could have been built with materials containing asbestos. Individuals are advised to wear respirators, gloves, coveralls and hardhats, and to immediately shower and wash after contact with debris to wash away any dust or fibers that may later become airborne and inhaled through the lungs. However, if an individual feels they may have been exposed to asbestos fibers through cleaning up wreckage, it may be important for them to seek medical attention as well as to find a mesothelioma law firm. Not only can mesothelioma lawyers provide reassurance about potential asbestos-related litigation, but an experienced lawyer will be able to offer mesothelioma information and resources to better understand the condition.

Mesothelioma is a deadly form of lung cancer that is caused through the inhalation of asbestos fibers and dust that have become airborne. Once inhaled, the fibers cause the creation of cancerous cells on the lining of the lungs. Mesothelioma usually remains dormant for years and even decades - individuals infected are often unaware of their deadly condition. For more information on mesothelioma, readers can visit LegalView’s mesothelioma information portal. Victims of asbestos exposure will find an array of information ranging from treatment options to stories from victims to the latest jury verdicts on mesothelioma litigation. Additionally, readers can find other resources on list of legal issues through LegalView’s issue library.

LegalView continually updates information portals with the latest news to provide readers with a breadth of research that can be found nowhere else on the Web. Most recently, LegalView remains committed to three pharmaceutical issues affecting millions of Americans throughout the country. These issues include information on the prescription drugs Digitek, Chantix and Singulair.

The prescription drug, Digitek digoxin, is prescribed to patients suffering from congestive heart failure and other heart arrhythmia conditions. The drug was recently recalled after a manufacturing error caused batches of the drug to be sent out containing double the appropriate level of ingredients. Because of the potentially toxic doses of digoxin that may have been given to individuals, it is important for those affected to contact an experienced pharmaceutical lawyer to learn about the details of developing a Digitek lawsuit.

While both prescription drugs Chantix and Singulair treat very different conditions, each has been subject to investigation and controversy over similar risks relating to depression, erratic behaviors, moodiness, and suicidal tendencies and actions. Chantix is a smoking cessation drug that has been prescribed to millions of Americans, however, in late 2007, reports of these risks surfaced and individuals taking the drug began to question the potential for a Chantix lawsuit that might provide compensation for individuals who suffered while taking this drug. Similarly, Singulair, which treats asthma and allergy symptoms, had a number of reports from patients who were affected with the Singulair side effects that also may have included suicidal thoughts among patients.

About LegalView:

LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation’s most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com’s superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com/.

Pediatric News - Increlex, Singulair.(New & Approved)

admin — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:06:03 +0000

Increlex

(mecasermin [rDNA origin] injection, Tercica Inc.)

The Food and Drug Administration approved Increlex for long-term treatment of growth failure in children 2 years or older with severe primary insulinlike growth factor-1 (IGF-1) deficiency or with growth hormone gene deletion.

* Recommended dosage: Starting dose is 0.04-0.08 mg/kg twice daily by subcutaneous injection. If well-tolerated for at least a week, it may be increased by 0.04 mg/kg per dose to a maximum of 0.12 mg/kg given twice daily.

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* Special considerations: Consider preprandial glucose monitoring …

Read the rest of this article with a Free Trial at HighBeam Research.

LegalView Launches PAGCL Practice Area for Victims with Cartilage Deterioration Following Arthroscop

admin — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 01:14:41 +0000

Denver, CO - LegalView, the most comprehensive legal portal on the Web, recently announced the launch of its http://pagcl-pain-pump.legalview.com[post arthroscopic glenohumeral chondrolysis __title__ PAGCL] (PAGCL) practice area PAGCL is a severe and painful condition where shoulder cartilage begins to deteriorate and can affect many Americans after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The condition’s cause remains unclear but has been frequently linked to patients who have previously undergone shoulder arthroscopy and administered pain relievers through a pain pump, according to a study released in The American Journal of Sports Medicine. The procedure is considered part of a rapidly expanding field, according to Raffy Mirzayan, MD, and while the complications are considered rare, the medical community remains vexed on the problem. Individuals who have been previously affected by the condition should consider contacting a PAGCL lawyer to learn about the potential for filing a PAGCL claim.

While little is known of the condition, The American Journal of Sports Medicine Study has shown that many individuals suffering from PAGCL have previously been treated with an intra-articular pain pump catheter with bupivacain and epinephrine. Typically, patients who have received these pain-relieving medications via a pain pump find that the cartilage in their shoulders rapidly deteriorates within months of their surgical procedure. Unfortunately, the deterioration can cause permanent damage and, as of yet, the orthopaedic community remains at a loss for preventing the condition, according to Mirzayan’s report on the condition. Because of the serious and severe nature of PAGCL, individuals who have suffered from the condition may want to locate an experienced law firm and determine if a pain pump lawsuit is the appropriate step toward finding compensation for the pain and damage associated with the condition.

LegalView also offers an array of other legal resources for Americans suffering consequences from preventable or avoidable issues. For example, LegalView has continued to maintain up-to-date news on the Chantix and Singulair side effects as well as the Digitek digoxin controversy. Chantix, a smoking cessation drug, was released to the public in May 2006 and has been reportedly prescribed to nearly 3 million Americans. In late 2007, hundreds of reports of unusual Chantix side effects, which included depression, mood swings, erratic behavior, and suicidal thoughts and tendencies, began to surface. Patients who have been adversely affected by the drug’s risks should consider locating an attorney to flush out the details of a potential Chantix lawsuit, which may result in monetary compensation for the severity of the side effects.

Similar to Chantix is Singulair, which is a prescribed treatment for patients of asthma and severe allergies. Singulair from Merck has been available on the market since 1998, but in March 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received reports that patients taking Singulair were experiencing side effects, comparable to that of Chantix, including moodiness and an increased tendency of suicidal thoughts. The drug has not been recalled but individuals experiencing the Singulair side effects should potentially discontinue use of the drug and seek medical help as well as contact an experienced pharmaceutical law firm.

Digitek digoxin, while not similar to Chantix or Singulair, has continued to make headlines for a manufacturing defect that caused batches of the heart irregularity and congestive heart failure treatment be released to the public with double the appropriate does of medication in tablets. Because of the severe risk of toxicity associated with this manufacturing error, individuals who currently take or have taken the drug should consider developing a Digitek lawsuit.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, The - Merck profits signal a rebound

admin — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 09:35:31 +0000

Merck & Co. Inc. is coming back.
Two years ago, the company was reeling from its failed pain reliever, Vioxx, and from the impending loss of one of its most profitable drugs. Analysts were openly skeptical about the company's prospects.
But yesterday, Merck reported a 62 percent rise in net income for the third quarter, fueled by a doubling of vaccine sales.
Merck, whose vaccine operations are based in West Point, Montgomery County, made more money in part because it cut marketing and administrative costs 18 percent and increased revenue 12 percent.

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Driving sales were Merck's heavily marketed drugs, including its top seller, the asthma and allergy medication Singulair, and more recent additions, including the human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil.
So far, the market has responded, driving up Merck's share price 20 percent over the last year.
Merck's return to glory is far from assured. Like …

Read the full article with a Free Trial at MyWire.

Philadelphia Inquirer, The - Merck says it’s ‘on track’ to hit ambitious growth target

admin — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 20:35:53 +0000

* Evidence summary
It is difficult to interpret studies on exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (the rather uncommon presence of exerciseinduced bronchospasm in a nonasthmatic) and exercise-induced asthma (the more common situation of asthma worsened by exercise). Many studies include both types of patients.

Medical Marketing and Media - Sneezing Season

admin — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:36:33 +0000

It’s Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month and the seasonal allergies category is as congested as ever. But a slew of patent expirations poses a greater concern than the fierce competition. By Ben Comer
Hay fever isn’t the only thing causing brand-name prescription manufacturers’ eyes to water this allergy season. Top-selling products for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR) went off-patent during 2007, giving rise to popular generic alternatives and subsequent losses of market share among staples in the category. The situation has caused allergy brand sales to dip to their lowest point in five years. Last year’s sales were down 22% to $5.2 billion from 2006.

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The sniffling pharmaceutical companies invested in allergy relief will have to make tough decisions about where to put marketing dollars, whether transitioning to over-the-counter sales (Zyrtec), concentrating on replacement brands with fresh patents (Veramyst) or drumming up awareness for potential pipeline possibilities (Claritin/Singulair).
Due to the seasonal nature of allergy affliction, marketing efforts for AR products tend to focus on two peak seasons each year: spring (April, May and June) and fall (September and October).
The two most prominent categories for AR treatment are oral antihistamines (including combination antihistamines) and inhaled nasal corticosteroids (INCs). Antihistamines are widely available OTC and are relatively easy to use, although many physicians are recommending corticosteroids to patients. “Based on research we conducted last fall, there is a notable uptick in physicians prescribing INCs,” says Sue Ramspacher, SVP, category business leader of respiratory, GfK Market Measures “Inhaled nasal corticosteroids are becoming the first line of therapy and are being used to a much greater extent in terms of a physician’s perspective. Veramyst is being prescribed, for example, because it addresses a broader range of symptoms.”
New AR drugs like Veramyst, and Xyzal, in the antihistamine category, have the ability to move quickly into positive sales figures.
“The AR market is driven by sampling and detailing,” says Ramspacher. “Literally weeks after the launch of Xyzal, there was a high level of awareness among allergists.”
Ramspacher also mentions that the eagerly anticipated Claritin/Singulair pipeline compound is “at the top of the list in terms of physician awareness.” The new compound was formed through a Schering-Plough/Merck partnership and is currently seeking approval from the FDA. “[AR] is a crowded category with lots of competitive players. Even though the market is crowded, there are still needs to be met, and areas where product attributes could differentiate themselves,” she says.
Ramspacher cites long-term safety and the absence of rebound congestion as two examples of attributes which could provide differentiation. This should be encouraging for companies itching to enter the market. However, recent safety issues regarding Singulair may give pause to physicians. In March, the FDA announced an investigation into a “possible association between the use of Singulair and behavior/mood changes, suicidality (suicidal thinking and behavior) and suicide.”
Approved in April 2007, GlaxoSmithKline’s Veramyst (fluticasone furoate) nasal spray is an emerging INC, which the company hopes will help to offset Flonase’s market share losses to generics. Flonase was once a leader of the category. “GlaxoSmithKline will not be advertising Flonase at all this season, on the consumer side or the professional side,” says Robin Gaitens, product communications manager for GSK. A Veramyst TV spot from September 2007 drew questions and commentary from viewers, who reacted to a seemingly odd line of copy seen in the ad:
“The way Veramyst works is not entirely understood.” Gaitens confirmed a 2008 DTC campaign in support of Veramyst, but declined to elaborate on campaign details.
In September 2006, UCB and Sanofi-Aventis entered into an agreement to launch and co-market the antihistamine Xyzal (levocetirizine dihydrochloride) in the US. Xyzal received FDA approval in May 2007 for tablets, followed by an oral solution in February 2008.
A DTC campaign featuring national TV spots, online and print ads launched in March, according to Scott Ellis, product director, UCB.
“As part of the 2008 public relations program, the Xyzal Challenge Your Course campaign was launched [in February], and is slated to run throughout the entire year. We have implemented a comprehensive, integrated consumer and professional awareness campaign for Xyzal as well, called X-Factor.” An X-Factor print ad contains copy reading: “Your indoor and outdoor allergies can itch, sneeze and run. But they can’t hide.” The Challenge Your Course (www.challengeyourcourse.com) program is a “collaborative partnership with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and Jill McGill, an LPGA golfer who suffers from indoor and outdoor allergies,” explains Ellis. “The Xyzal website will incorporate the PR spokesperson Jill McGill as an ‘interactive guide,’ detailing her experience as a nasal allergy sufferer.” Agencies working on various aspects of the campaign include Ogilvy, HeartbeatDigital and PR agency Biosector 2.

LegalView Releases News on Asbestos Contaminated Housing Project That Where Crews Hid Asbestos Leak

admin — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:26:54 +0000

Denver, CO LegalView.com updated its mesothelioma blog with reports of an asbestos contamination that was concealed with piles of dirt by construction crews who were clearing the area for an affordable housing project. The contamination not only increased the risk of exposure to asbestos and thus development of mesothelioma for individuals in the area, but increased the cost of the affordable housing project by five times the originally estimated amount. Individuals living in the area may have been exposed to asbestos fibers and are urged to contact a medical professional as soon as possible. Additionally, Americans who may have been exposed to asbestos should also contact an experienced mesothelioma law firm.

Asbestos is derived vermiculite, a mineral that was heavily mined in the 20th Century. Asbestos was prized for its ability to insulate buildings with a decreased risk of catching fire. It was used for all types of constructions including schools, offices, homes and apartment buildings. However, after discovering that asbestos exposure caused a deadly lung disease among exposed individuals, mining stopped and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was charged with the task of cleaning up any asbestos. Mesothelioma cancer, which is an untreatable form of lung cancer, is often the outcome for individuals who were previously exposed to asbestos. Those who feel they are at risk for this illness should locate an attorney to explore the possibility of a mesothelioma lawsuit.

The area known as North Miamis Pioneer Gardens was expected to house 136 units for low-income individuals. However, when a contractor began digging, it was discovered that workers who had previously cleared the site had inadvertently caused an asbestos leak when underground pipes containing the contaminant were broken. The workers allegedly covered the leak with piles of dirt and it was left until just recently when digging began. It can take years to develop the cancer and even then a mesothelioma diagnosis is often overlooked, causing the cancer to spread among its victim. To learn about the potential for monetary compensation, individuals are advised to contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer for an attorney consultation on their individual case.

Other issues that are covered on LegalViews website, which have largely negatively impacted thousands of Americans recently, include several prescription drugs Chantix, Singulair, as well as Vytorin and Zetia. Chantix is a smoking cessation drug that is prescribed to millions of Americans struggling to quit their tobacco addiction. In late 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began receiving reports from patients taking Chantix that the drug was linked with instances of depression, erratic behavior and suicidal tendencies and thoughts. Overall, nearly 400 individuals reported this behavior and the drug was also allegedly linked to 37 suicides among patients. The FDA quickly began investigating the drug and are currently studying the Chantix side effects to determine the drugs dangers.

Similar to the dangerous side effects that have been associated with Chantix, are those that have been linked to Singulair, also a prescription drug, which is given to patients who suffer from severe asthma and allergy symptoms. However, in March 2008, reports began to surface about Singulairs potentially dangerous side effects, which may include mood and behavior changes including suicidal behavior among adults and children. The FDA is currently investigating the Singulair risks that may exist with taking this drug.

Vytorin and Zetia are similar in that both are prescription drugs used to lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease among patients. Often Vytorin and Zetia are used in combination of each other and both are manufactured from Merck/Shering-Plough. Recently, the company made headlines because of an extensive study that was completed in 2006 on the two drugs, which detailed the benefits, or lack thereof, of the medications. However, the Zetia and Vytorin manufacturer allegedly delayed the release of the study to the public because findings that Vytorin and Zetia were not as effective as cheaper alternatives. This information has prompted many patients to consider a

Living With Asthma and Overcoming Dangerous Treatments

admin — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:02:06 +0000

There are currently almost 20 million Americans suffering from asthma, and approximately 45 percent of these individuals are children, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI).

Asthma is often associated with allergies, but not all individuals suffering from asthma also suffer from allergies. Asthma commonly begins during childhood and can be continue through to adulthood. However, all individuals are at risk for developing asthma at any age, and, it has been discovered that in boys rather than girls are more likely to suffer from asthma while the reverse is true in adulthood.
According to a USA Today article, approximately 5,300 people die from asthma complications each year and it is the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in America, costing nearly $9.8 billion annually.

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma can be considered a serious risk to ones health if left untreated, however, millions of adults as well as children can live comfortable with asthma as long as appropriate treatment is sought and discussed with a health professional.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of asthma is the first step in overcoming the disease that can cause death in extreme cases. Symptoms of asthma include:

* coughing, especially during the evenings causing sleep difficulties
when breathing, asthma victims often have wheezing breaths that
may sound as if they are whistling or squeaking

* chest tightness

* shortness of breath as well as struggling to breath

* faster than normal breathing

* very noisy breathing

Additionally, symptoms often vary from individual to individual; some asthma suffers will have severe symptoms while others will only notice a slight to mild discomfort. It is important for a patient of asthma to note several things that a doctor will likely inquire about to better diagnose their asthma. Recording what time of year/season a coughing fit occurs, what causes symptoms to worsen, family history of asthma/allergies, chest colds and which medications alleviate asthma symptoms.

Treating Asthma

There are an array of treatments for asthma that can be divided into two categories including quick relief and long relief medications. Quick relief medications are commonly prescribed to all asthma sufferers as a rescue medication to halt an asthma attack or asthma symptoms before a condition becomes uncontrollable. Usually short asthma treatments consist of inhalers that cause the airways to open up and relax the muscles, which are causing the asthma attack, according to the National Library of Medicine (NLM).

Long relief medications commonly consist of a form of steroids such as corticosteroids and come in the form of a tablet or liquid. Physicians often prescribe long term asthma treatments for those with mild, moderate and severe asthma, according to the NHLBI. Other various types of long-term asthma treatments include:

* long acting and inhaled beta-agonists, which are used with
* corticosteroid medications

* leukotriene modifiers that treats mild persistent asthma and can treat moderate to severe asthma when combined with
corticosteriods

* cromolyn and nedocromil

* theophylline

Seeking Help for Asthma Treatment Complications

As more asthma treatments become associated with risky side effects, it can be difficult to determine the best asthma treatment, especially among children. One of the most recent asthma drugs linked to severe side effects is that of Singulair (montelukast). Singulair, from the manufacturers Merck, was released for public use in 1998. It has most recently been under investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after reports surfaced in March 2008 that the drug was causing unusual side effects among patients, including children. The side effects included:

* suicidal thoughts

* moodiness

* irregular or suicidal behaviors

* depression

* suicide

In addition to these side effects, Singulair, which falls under the leukotriene modifiers/receptors as a long term asthma treatment, has also been associated with the following side effects, according to the Patient Product Information pamphlet from Merck:

* stomach or intestinal upset/pain

* fever

* heartburn

* upper respiratory infection

* heartburn

* flu

* dizziness

* rash

* headache

Patients suffering from asthma who have taken Singulair may be at risk for any of these side effects, however, those who have taken the drug and who are showing signs of suicidal thoughts and actions should seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, consulting with an experienced pharmaceutical attorney may offer assistance in developing a Singulair lawsuit.

Medical Marketing and Media - Merck's ePromotion tops with primary care docs

admin — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:17:44 +0000

DOCTORS RATE Merck’s ePromotion efforts as tops in the industry, according to pharma marketing data firm Verispan.
Of the approximately 1,000 physicians who participated in “Verispan’s 2007 ePromotion Annual Study,” Merck was mentioned as a top company by 361, while the closest competitor, GlaxoSmithKline, was mentioned by 219 physicians. Fortyeight percent of primary care doctors and 52% of pediatricians ranked Merck among the three companies with the best ePromotion programs.
Verispan’s online study surveyed approximately 1,000 physicians across 14 specialties.
For purposes of the study, the term “ePromotion” was defined as including video details, online events and virtual details.