Content about Health

Online purchases of medications are on the rise and the less hassle involved is cited by a majority as one of the main reasons. This is of course secondary to the fact that most online pharmacies, especially from Canada are able to offer medicines at just a fraction of the cost of what the same drug is sold at a US brick and mortar pharmacy. However, a question which plagues most first time customers is whether the quality is up to standards, as prices are so low.

Recently US Food and Drug Administration approved Omontys, a drug that is indicated for treating anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Omontys contains the active ingredient peginesatide developed by Affymax Inc. Omontys will be marketed in USA by Affimax Inc. and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd. FDA has approved the drug on a recommendation in last December, by an advisory panel which voted 15 to 1 in support of the drug. Omontys is the first new FDA-approved and marketed ESA drug for anemic patients under dialysis since 2001.

NDP motion calling the government to develop a strategy to "anticipate, identify and manage" shortages of essential drugs was passed, in the Parliament on Wednesday. Support from the Tory majority helped the motion to be passed unanimously, with a small amendment. The motion followed last Monday’s emergency debate on drug shortage issue. 

Many patients relying on essential medications can look forward to cheaper drugs in 2012, a major year for generics in pharmaceuticals. Many of the mega meds are seeing the end of patents and generic versions of best-selling drugs have been approved by health bodies as FDA and Health Canada. This means patients; insurance companies and health care programs can look forward to great savings in 2012.