Pharmaceutics

This page contains key pharmaceutical news on drug recalls, FDA clearance, safety communications and research. In cardiology, key pharmaceutic agents include antiplatelet therapies, anticoagulants, hypertension drugs, and drugs for heart failure and arrhythmias.

Dexcom issues new recall for CGM apps due to safety risk—users urged to update immediately
The FDA has categorized this as a Class I recall. If patients update their phone or watch apps as needed, they can continue to use these devices like normal.
Why all heart patients should be vaccinated against the flu, COVID-19, RSV
The American College of Cardiology has shared new recommendations highlighting the protective benefits of a variety of vaccines. The new guidance also examines how to speak with patients who are hesitant to be vaccinated.
First study of its kind to focus on new therapy for hypoplastic left heart syndrome
The new trial represents a potential breakthrough in the treatment of one of the most devastating congenital heart defects.
Real-world data link semaglutide, tirzepatide to improved heart failure outcomes
GLP-1 drugs have been taking the United States by storm in recent years. According to a new study of more than 90,000 patients, some of these medications can also make a big impact on reducing adverse heart failure outcomes.
Beta blockers ‘have no effect’ on heart attack patients
One researcher described the study's findings as "one of the most significant advances in heart attack treatment in decades.”

Long-term cannabis use may not increase heart attack risk, new study finds—but many questions remain

Access to cannabis is skyrocketing across the United States, but much more research is still needed on its long-term side effects.

Low-cost generic programs offer CVD medications at affordable prices—but availability changes from one to the next

Programs managed by H-E-B, Kroger, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company and Walmart appear to offer the most options for CVD patients. When it comes to AFib and heart failure, however, researchers believe the choices could be improved.

Weight loss drug semaglutide linked to better heart health, but high costs may limit its impact

It could cost more than $1 million just to avoid a single heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular death, researchers wrote.

Seeds for weight loss recalled: FDA says they are a ‘highly toxic’ plant containing cardiac glycosides

The FDA found that the seeds are actually yellow oleander, a poisonous plant known to contain cardiac glycosides.

Statin use after a bleeding stroke linked to key risk reductions

The study’s authors examined data from more than 15,000 patients who had their first intracerebral hemorrhage from January 2003 to December 2021

healthcare value value-based care money dollar

First 10 drugs chosen by White House for Medicare price negotiations include blood thinners, heart failure meds

Medicare enrollees paid a total of $3.4 billion in out-of-pocket costs for these drugs in 2022 alone, according to new data shared by the White House.

Texas researchers receive $1.14M to develop first CVD drug of its kind

If successful, the group's first-in-class medication would be able to target inflammation in CVD patients before it even occurs.

Missed opportunities: Many high-risk patients still not taking aspirin to prevent CVD

Aspirin is known to be an effective, affordable way to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Pharmaceutics

Dexcom issues new recall for CGM apps due to safety risk—users urged to update immediately

Why all heart patients should be vaccinated against the flu, COVID-19, RSV

First study of its kind to focus on new therapy for hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Real-world data link semaglutide, tirzepatide to improved heart failure outcomes

Beta blockers ‘have no effect’ on heart attack patients