Lynn Woods

The estimated 20 million Americans taking cholesterol medication called statins may be receiving an unexpected benefit – a more positive outcome should they suffer an ischemic stroke.

A recent Rockefeller University study uncovered high treatment resistant rates for depression patients taking SSRIs and NSAIDs together. Doctors are now being advised to ask their patients about their use of over the counter painkillers if they are prescribing them SSRI antidepressants, especially if their depression is not improving.

The trend to lower-priced generic versions of brand name drugs is continuing, with 78 percent of the 4 billion prescriptions written in the US in 2010 for generic medications. But the top money makers for the pharmaceutical companies remain brand name drugs on which the patent has not yet expired.

Insulin pens and insulin pumps have changed the way many diabetics manage their condition. Now insulin patches and inhaled insulin are poised to hit the market, offering diabetics even more insulin delivery options.

An American drug development company specializing in next-generation weight loss and diabetes medications is focusing on both markets with its new combination medication, Qnexa.

The International Diabetes Association has come out in favor of weight loss surgery as a treatment option for overweight diabetics, and the FDA has expanded its approval of the Lap-Band Gastric Banding System for use in a wider range of obese patients.

A fat replacer with the taste and texture of fat that passes through your body undigested and unabsorbed seems too good to be true, especially one with no calories or cholesterol. Is Olestra the real deal?

Johnston & Johnston has recalled almost 400,000 potentially faulty Animus insulin pump cartridges, saying users may be at risk of diabetic ketoacidosis from inaccurate insulin dosing.

Bezoars were once prized as magical charms with protective properties. Modern day bezoars are being battled with weapons like meat tenderizer and Coca Cola, especially in diabetic gastroparesis.

Diabetics who experience frequent heartburn, stomach pain or bloating may be experiencing the symptoms of delayed gastric emptying.