Saturday, December 17, 2011
Helpful Site - Frequently Asked Questions About LDN Are Answered A+
I'm glad I came across this page of information that answers many questions and concerns pertaining to LDN (low dose naltrexone). It provides A lot of FAQ's and if your concern isn't on the list, you can submit a question to be answered.
From LDN Editor's Blog
It should be interesting to see how the FDA responds to the information they receive about LDN. Time will tell
LDN Editor's Blog:
'via Blog this'
LDN Editor's Blog:
'via Blog this'
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Low Dose Naltrexone - How Can LDN Become More Easily Available In Our Country?
Very good read:
A discussion/debate posted by Nia Griffith (Llanelli, Labour). UK Article
The basic argument of this article touches on how to make a drug that has existed since the 1980's, deemed safe at 50mg, now being used at a low dose, between 1mg-4.5mg (obviously safe at .5 % - 3% of the 50mg dosage), with low to no side-effects,modestly priced and effective for the treatment of many disorders and diseases (some of these include but not limited to MS, Crohn's Disease, Lupus, AIDS, Cancer Ect.,)
The problem is that the FDA in the US and the administration of food & drugs in other countries have only approved naltrexone at the 50mg dosage; making it difficult to prescribe and only certain pharmacies, called compounding pharmacies, must be used to fill the prescription. The compounding pharmacy will be able to take the 50mg tablet to a 1mg, 3.5mg ect.
The other issues that exist with naltrexone, is that many doctors do not know the benefits of the low dose naltrexone (LDN) and how effective it is as a treatment for many conditions, which in my opinion is the worst barrier there is because of the lack of knowledge. Having zero knowledge about such a safe and effective drug that could be a possible treatment for so many difficult to treat diseases is disturbing.
THE ISSUE: HOW can this drug become more readily available so people can use this as treatment. It took me a long time to find a doctor to prescribe this to me. I first ordered naltrexone from India due to the lack of connections. In time and by joining discussion groups and forums, I was fortunate enough to find knowledgeable people that lead me to the appropriate people & doctors. In reality though, most people will not put in that amount of effort, they'll give up and lose hope or not even know what to do to get the necessary resources that will lead them to success with their goal ...... GETTING THAT LITTLE PILL - NALTREXONE!
First, I want to make it clear that this debate is not about fighting for a very new and expensive drug. Campaigns about drugs are often brought to the attention of Parliament because a patient is fighting to be allowed to have a new and expensive treatment on the NHS. Some of these new drugs are not just expensive because they are new; because of the complex processes required to make them, they will, in fact, often continue to be expensive to produce. Such situations raise dilemmas for decision makers as to how access to such drugs can be funded.
This debate is about a very different problem: making an existing drug that is modestly priced available for the treatment of a wider range of conditions. Clinical trials are needed to get full approval for the drug under discussion, but I ask the Minister to consider whether there is any possible way in which it could be made more widely available.
Sometimes patients are faced with unacceptable options for treatment and find themselves researching possible new treatments. That is usually a road that leads to disappointment, but occasionally something useful is stumbled upon, such as low dose naltrexone, or LDN. The problem is that it is what is called an “orphan drug”, which means its patent has expired, so if someone does research on it, a generic manufacturer can subsequently steal the business.
I understand that naltrexone is proved safe in its normal mode of use, and now has a clinical history of 11 years of use in the UK with no problems reported and only minor side effects. LDN is also very low cost, and can be used to treat many conditions that are both chronic and often very expensive to treat with more conventional remedies. Sometimes those more conventional remedies have severe side effects, which then have to be treated with more expensive drugs.
The purpose of this debate is to ask how a drug such as LDN could be made available to patients who ask for it. The most desirable route would be via clinical trials leading to marketing authorisation and then official acceptance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence and the NHS. A much cheaper and more immediately practical route is to recognise that LDN is a safe choice for patients without many of the risks of drugs currently in use. Doctors could therefore be given official advice not to deny it to patients who want it or wish to acquire it from pharmacists who make it as a “special” at a fair price. There could also be a mechanism for protecting doctors and allowing patients choice. At present, doctors are in a difficult position. If they prescribe anything that is not on an official list, they leave themselves open to criticism, as well as to being sued and possibly losing their right to practise.
The third route is to get it listed as an over-the-counter drug, such as aspirin or paracetamol. I understand that it is considered safer than paracetamol which is sold over the counter, so this might be a reasonable option that would make prescription very easy.
A discussion/debate posted by Nia Griffith (Llanelli, Labour). UK Article
The basic argument of this article touches on how to make a drug that has existed since the 1980's, deemed safe at 50mg, now being used at a low dose, between 1mg-4.5mg (obviously safe at .5 % - 3% of the 50mg dosage), with low to no side-effects,modestly priced and effective for the treatment of many disorders and diseases (some of these include but not limited to MS, Crohn's Disease, Lupus, AIDS, Cancer Ect.,)
The problem is that the FDA in the US and the administration of food & drugs in other countries have only approved naltrexone at the 50mg dosage; making it difficult to prescribe and only certain pharmacies, called compounding pharmacies, must be used to fill the prescription. The compounding pharmacy will be able to take the 50mg tablet to a 1mg, 3.5mg ect.
The other issues that exist with naltrexone, is that many doctors do not know the benefits of the low dose naltrexone (LDN) and how effective it is as a treatment for many conditions, which in my opinion is the worst barrier there is because of the lack of knowledge. Having zero knowledge about such a safe and effective drug that could be a possible treatment for so many difficult to treat diseases is disturbing.
THE ISSUE: HOW can this drug become more readily available so people can use this as treatment. It took me a long time to find a doctor to prescribe this to me. I first ordered naltrexone from India due to the lack of connections. In time and by joining discussion groups and forums, I was fortunate enough to find knowledgeable people that lead me to the appropriate people & doctors. In reality though, most people will not put in that amount of effort, they'll give up and lose hope or not even know what to do to get the necessary resources that will lead them to success with their goal ...... GETTING THAT LITTLE PILL - NALTREXONE!
First, I want to make it clear that this debate is not about fighting for a very new and expensive drug. Campaigns about drugs are often brought to the attention of Parliament because a patient is fighting to be allowed to have a new and expensive treatment on the NHS. Some of these new drugs are not just expensive because they are new; because of the complex processes required to make them, they will, in fact, often continue to be expensive to produce. Such situations raise dilemmas for decision makers as to how access to such drugs can be funded.
This debate is about a very different problem: making an existing drug that is modestly priced available for the treatment of a wider range of conditions. Clinical trials are needed to get full approval for the drug under discussion, but I ask the Minister to consider whether there is any possible way in which it could be made more widely available.
Sometimes patients are faced with unacceptable options for treatment and find themselves researching possible new treatments. That is usually a road that leads to disappointment, but occasionally something useful is stumbled upon, such as low dose naltrexone, or LDN. The problem is that it is what is called an “orphan drug”, which means its patent has expired, so if someone does research on it, a generic manufacturer can subsequently steal the business.
I understand that naltrexone is proved safe in its normal mode of use, and now has a clinical history of 11 years of use in the UK with no problems reported and only minor side effects. LDN is also very low cost, and can be used to treat many conditions that are both chronic and often very expensive to treat with more conventional remedies. Sometimes those more conventional remedies have severe side effects, which then have to be treated with more expensive drugs.
The purpose of this debate is to ask how a drug such as LDN could be made available to patients who ask for it. The most desirable route would be via clinical trials leading to marketing authorisation and then official acceptance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence and the NHS. A much cheaper and more immediately practical route is to recognise that LDN is a safe choice for patients without many of the risks of drugs currently in use. Doctors could therefore be given official advice not to deny it to patients who want it or wish to acquire it from pharmacists who make it as a “special” at a fair price. There could also be a mechanism for protecting doctors and allowing patients choice. At present, doctors are in a difficult position. If they prescribe anything that is not on an official list, they leave themselves open to criticism, as well as to being sued and possibly losing their right to practise.
The third route is to get it listed as an over-the-counter drug, such as aspirin or paracetamol. I understand that it is considered safer than paracetamol which is sold over the counter, so this might be a reasonable option that would make prescription very easy.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
IBD Patients Using Immunosuppressants Have Increased Cancer Risk
A doctor who is considering treatment options for their patient who has any digestive disease or any disease that is believed to respond positively by a Biologic Drug/ Immunosuppressant, should take a close look at the genetic factors, person's current health state and family history before treating any person with these types of drugs. Let's take my situation to give you an idea about what I'm talking about.
My mother's side of the family has a genetic risk of cancer that has been seen in at least 2 generations. My grandmother had liver or colon cancer and died from the disease sometime in the 80's when she was around the age of 65. My mother, at the age of 39 was diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer that spread like lightening through her body and she passed away by the age of 40. I was 16 at the time, but I believe from the time she found out she had cancer to the time she died, it was within a 6 month period. Any drug that kills my defenses against cancer and infections and viruses ect., is not the right drug for me. It doesn't take a genius to realize this. My fathers side has a history that I just learned about (thats why I am updating this) of cutaneous t-cell lymphoma.... Wait.... Isn't that the side effect that one taking a biologic is at risk of possibly getting.... That exact cancer... lymphoma? Yes.
Anyone with knowledge about the risks that come with biologic drugs should do what's necessary to determine if this kind of treatment is the best option and SAFEST option for their patient. My doctor did have me try Remicade for a few months and I can't even tell you how I felt right after an infusion........ Dead ass drained. My hair fell out, I had absolutely no energy right after and a few days after the infusion. My point is that the drug was too strong for me, not a safe choice to treat my disease. The sad fact is that I'm sure I'm not the only person that this has happened to or is happening to.
With doing A LOT of research, searching, corresponding with people who also have Crohn's in forums, and being proactive and following my intuition, has led me to find one of the safest, cheapest and damn effective medications... 10X more effective than Remicade AND the beautiful thing about this drug - 0 ZERO side-effects... I haven't felt this good in 4 years and I can have a life again. I'm 100% happy with my choice to go on LDN and not fall into the intimidation of family/friends/doctors who didn't support my decision. When you do your part, which is research and talking with people that tried or use the medication, you now have that knowledge and NO ONE can steal that from you. You can take what these negative people say, and it will not influence your decision at all. You know the facts, you've done hours of reading (have they?) and you are confident that this is a medication that will be effective and safe to try. I'm glad I did go with my gut and give it a try. I haven't felt like this in a long time and I know for a fact that Remicade or Imuran would have gotten me to this place.
Be proactive and don't just take what your doctor says and trust him/her 100% until you do your part. It's your body & it's your life that will be effected by the things that go into your body. Do the research before saying "yes" to any treatment that is recommended. You'll learn a lot.
Click the link to read the article
PressTV - Bowel disease drug ups cancer risk
PressTV - Bowel disease drug ups cancer risk:
'via Blog this'
My mother's side of the family has a genetic risk of cancer that has been seen in at least 2 generations. My grandmother had liver or colon cancer and died from the disease sometime in the 80's when she was around the age of 65. My mother, at the age of 39 was diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer that spread like lightening through her body and she passed away by the age of 40. I was 16 at the time, but I believe from the time she found out she had cancer to the time she died, it was within a 6 month period. Any drug that kills my defenses against cancer and infections and viruses ect., is not the right drug for me. It doesn't take a genius to realize this. My fathers side has a history that I just learned about (thats why I am updating this) of cutaneous t-cell lymphoma.... Wait.... Isn't that the side effect that one taking a biologic is at risk of possibly getting.... That exact cancer... lymphoma? Yes.
Anyone with knowledge about the risks that come with biologic drugs should do what's necessary to determine if this kind of treatment is the best option and SAFEST option for their patient. My doctor did have me try Remicade for a few months and I can't even tell you how I felt right after an infusion........ Dead ass drained. My hair fell out, I had absolutely no energy right after and a few days after the infusion. My point is that the drug was too strong for me, not a safe choice to treat my disease. The sad fact is that I'm sure I'm not the only person that this has happened to or is happening to.
With doing A LOT of research, searching, corresponding with people who also have Crohn's in forums, and being proactive and following my intuition, has led me to find one of the safest, cheapest and damn effective medications... 10X more effective than Remicade AND the beautiful thing about this drug - 0 ZERO side-effects... I haven't felt this good in 4 years and I can have a life again. I'm 100% happy with my choice to go on LDN and not fall into the intimidation of family/friends/doctors who didn't support my decision. When you do your part, which is research and talking with people that tried or use the medication, you now have that knowledge and NO ONE can steal that from you. You can take what these negative people say, and it will not influence your decision at all. You know the facts, you've done hours of reading (have they?) and you are confident that this is a medication that will be effective and safe to try. I'm glad I did go with my gut and give it a try. I haven't felt like this in a long time and I know for a fact that Remicade or Imuran would have gotten me to this place.
Be proactive and don't just take what your doctor says and trust him/her 100% until you do your part. It's your body & it's your life that will be effected by the things that go into your body. Do the research before saying "yes" to any treatment that is recommended. You'll learn a lot.
Click the link to read the article
PressTV - Bowel disease drug ups cancer risk
PressTV - Bowel disease drug ups cancer risk:
'via Blog this'
Monday, November 21, 2011
Expert Acupuncturist - Educates about Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Improve IBD
Kathleen Albertson, L Ac, PhD in Holistic Nutrition, and author speaks at a Digestive Disease Center to discuss the benefits of uniting Western & Eastern medicine. I have received acupuncture only one time and it was very interesting and helped me. It feels as if the toxins are leaving your body.. The only way I can describe it,is that it feels like a flow of air moving upward toward your head from your feet. Pretty amazing & I'd like to have more sessions.
This part of the article is 100% true; the connection between stress and IBD.
She stated, "The brain and nervous system becomes imbalanced by stress and overacts on the stomach and digestive system. This creates a domino effect of problems from pain, and inflammation to immune issues. Integrating TCM as part of patient care reduces the side effects of western medications and in many cases resolves symptoms. TCM calms the nervous system affecting both physical and emotional health. We see better outcomes when patients integrate Western and Eastern protocols. TCM, also widely recognized for reducing stress, benefits many of the emotional components associated with bowel problems---emotions such as depression, shame, and anger. Even patients who have had surgical procedures feel better and many insurance companies now cover acupuncture treatments.
Click Link Below to Read Article.
Renowned Acupuncturist Speaks at Irritable Bowel Disease Patient Education Conference, UC, Irvine:
'via Blog this'
This part of the article is 100% true; the connection between stress and IBD.
She stated, "The brain and nervous system becomes imbalanced by stress and overacts on the stomach and digestive system. This creates a domino effect of problems from pain, and inflammation to immune issues. Integrating TCM as part of patient care reduces the side effects of western medications and in many cases resolves symptoms. TCM calms the nervous system affecting both physical and emotional health. We see better outcomes when patients integrate Western and Eastern protocols. TCM, also widely recognized for reducing stress, benefits many of the emotional components associated with bowel problems---emotions such as depression, shame, and anger. Even patients who have had surgical procedures feel better and many insurance companies now cover acupuncture treatments.
Click Link Below to Read Article.
Renowned Acupuncturist Speaks at Irritable Bowel Disease Patient Education Conference, UC, Irvine:
'via Blog this'
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Pretty cool article I came across. This was found on a NJ newspaper site, NJTODAY, but it talks about ArtWorks. The ArtWorks program, which is a creative and performing art program for children diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness that is designed to encourage expression and through arts.
What an amazing program! In my opinion, medical facilities should develop more therapeutic programs like this. Self expression has been something that has helped me release stress and anxiety immensely. A program like this would be beneficial to people of all ages.
Children Battling Chronic and Terminal Illnesses Are Recognized As Artists Instead Of Patients
MONTCLAIR – On Nov. 13, ArtWorks, The Naomi Cohain Foundation, will present its 9th annual Express Yourself-New Jersey event at the Montclair Art Museum sponsored by The Morty and Gloria Wolosoff Foundation and The Connors Group. Express Yourself is a creative and performing art exhibition that provides children and young adults suffering from chronic and life-threatening illnesses, and their siblings, with the open and loving forum to express themselves through the arts. In a safe environment, filled with families, friends, healthcare specialists and ArtWorks supporters, these children sing, dance, recite poetry, play instruments and stand proudly by their works of art.
Participants spend months preparing for the Express Yourself event which provides them with a much needed creative outlet and gives them something to look forward to and work towards, taking the focus away from the pain and sorrow of the illness. At Express Yourself-NJ 2011, over 116 artists and performers, ages 1-21, from 11 participating New Jersey healthcare agencies will display their creative masterpieces.
This year’s artwork will include 126 amazing paintings, drawings, and sculptures including a drawing by 13-year-old Lacey called “The Premonition” which she drew the night before she suffered an A.V.M on the left side of her brain. The face in her drawing has two distinct sides.
The show will also highlight over 20 performances featuring singing, dancing, readings, and instrumental compositions. This year, ArtWorks is pleased to welcome a new group performance by The Matheny Muses from Matheny Medical and Educational Center. In addition to artwork and performances by the inspiring participants, Express Yourself-NJ 2011 will also include art activities and refreshments for all attendees as well as gift bags and certificates of participation for all children and young adults who take part in the event.
Participating agencies in Express Yourself-NJ 2011 include:
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
Goryeb Children’s Hospital at Morristown Memorial Hospital
Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center
Matheny Medical and Educational Center
Meaningful Movements
PSE&G Children’s Specialized Hospital
Saint Barnabas Medical Center
Saint Peter’s University Hospital
Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
The University Hospital
The Valerie Fund Children’s Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
To learn more about ArtWorks, visit http://www.artworksfoundation.org.
Read more: http://njtoday.net/2011/11/13/children-battling-chronic-and-terminal-illnesses-are-recognized-as-artists-instead-of-patients/#ixzz1djl4wXNG
WWW.NJTODAY.NET
What an amazing program! In my opinion, medical facilities should develop more therapeutic programs like this. Self expression has been something that has helped me release stress and anxiety immensely. A program like this would be beneficial to people of all ages.
Children Battling Chronic and Terminal Illnesses Are Recognized As Artists Instead Of Patients
MONTCLAIR – On Nov. 13, ArtWorks, The Naomi Cohain Foundation, will present its 9th annual Express Yourself-New Jersey event at the Montclair Art Museum sponsored by The Morty and Gloria Wolosoff Foundation and The Connors Group. Express Yourself is a creative and performing art exhibition that provides children and young adults suffering from chronic and life-threatening illnesses, and their siblings, with the open and loving forum to express themselves through the arts. In a safe environment, filled with families, friends, healthcare specialists and ArtWorks supporters, these children sing, dance, recite poetry, play instruments and stand proudly by their works of art.
Participants spend months preparing for the Express Yourself event which provides them with a much needed creative outlet and gives them something to look forward to and work towards, taking the focus away from the pain and sorrow of the illness. At Express Yourself-NJ 2011, over 116 artists and performers, ages 1-21, from 11 participating New Jersey healthcare agencies will display their creative masterpieces.
This year’s artwork will include 126 amazing paintings, drawings, and sculptures including a drawing by 13-year-old Lacey called “The Premonition” which she drew the night before she suffered an A.V.M on the left side of her brain. The face in her drawing has two distinct sides.
The show will also highlight over 20 performances featuring singing, dancing, readings, and instrumental compositions. This year, ArtWorks is pleased to welcome a new group performance by The Matheny Muses from Matheny Medical and Educational Center. In addition to artwork and performances by the inspiring participants, Express Yourself-NJ 2011 will also include art activities and refreshments for all attendees as well as gift bags and certificates of participation for all children and young adults who take part in the event.
Participating agencies in Express Yourself-NJ 2011 include:
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
Goryeb Children’s Hospital at Morristown Memorial Hospital
Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center
Matheny Medical and Educational Center
Meaningful Movements
PSE&G Children’s Specialized Hospital
Saint Barnabas Medical Center
Saint Peter’s University Hospital
Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
The University Hospital
The Valerie Fund Children’s Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
To learn more about ArtWorks, visit http://www.artworksfoundation.org.
Read more: http://njtoday.net/2011/11/13/children-battling-chronic-and-terminal-illnesses-are-recognized-as-artists-instead-of-patients/#ixzz1djl4wXNG
WWW.NJTODAY.NET
Monday, November 14, 2011
Upcoming FREE Educational Event List- Topic: IBD - Role of Diet , Nutrition & Supplements
ANNOUNCEMENT
I thought this would be a helpful posting for people that are interested in nutrition/diet ect, in regards to their digestive disease. This was taken from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA)home page. It lists the upcoming educational event schedule, and the great thing about these events is that they are FREE. Gotta love freebies and not much in life is, especially anything with beneficial value. All the programs/events are supported by grants
So, here's the list of events coming up across the US.
The number one request we receive from patients is for more information on diet and nutrition. We've heard you! We are pleased to announce a new, live CCFA patient education event that will take place in cities around the country. Nutrition & IBD: Choices for Adults and Kids, will answer the questions you have about the role of diet and nutrition in IBD.
Local physicians and dieticians will provide an in-depth overview of nutrition and IBD. Attendees will receive vital information that empowers them to discuss their disease, treatment choices, and nutritional needs with their health care provider. Topics will include:
Diets used by IBD patients
Eating well with IBD: the roles of diet, nutrition, and supplements
Tools and nutritional resources
This event is free, and open to all patients, family members, caregivers, and community members. We hope to see you there!
Upcoming Programs:
November 17: Little Rock, Arkansas
November 19: Charlotte, North Carolina
November 30: Norwich, Connecticut
December 12: Columbus, Ohio
January 12: Los Angeles, California
January 25: Tacoma, Washington
This program is supported by educational grants from:
More than 1.4 million Americans are currently living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). People of all ages, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with IBD. There are many effective treatments available, but it can be difficult to decide on the best approach.
Join other IBD patients and caregivers from your community, representatives from your local CCFA chapter, and a medical expert for Treatment Approaches in IBD: Options to Consider, a presentation and interactive question-and-answer session that will help you sort through treatment strategies. The following topics will be addressed:
Similarities and differences between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Risks and benefits of medication, surgery, and integrative treatments in IBD
Impact of treatment adherence on disease management and quality of life
Talking with your health care team about your treatment plan
This event is free, and open to all patients, family members, caregivers, and community members. We hope to see you there!
Fall 2011 Schedule:
November 16: New York, New York
November 30: Macon, Georgia
December 5: Downers Grove, Illinois
December 6: Towson, Maryland
December 10: Dallas, Texas
This program is supported by an educational grant from:
http://www.ccfa.org/info/localpatiented
I thought this would be a helpful posting for people that are interested in nutrition/diet ect, in regards to their digestive disease. This was taken from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA)home page. It lists the upcoming educational event schedule, and the great thing about these events is that they are FREE. Gotta love freebies and not much in life is, especially anything with beneficial value. All the programs/events are supported by grants
So, here's the list of events coming up across the US.
The number one request we receive from patients is for more information on diet and nutrition. We've heard you! We are pleased to announce a new, live CCFA patient education event that will take place in cities around the country. Nutrition & IBD: Choices for Adults and Kids, will answer the questions you have about the role of diet and nutrition in IBD.
Local physicians and dieticians will provide an in-depth overview of nutrition and IBD. Attendees will receive vital information that empowers them to discuss their disease, treatment choices, and nutritional needs with their health care provider. Topics will include:
Diets used by IBD patients
Eating well with IBD: the roles of diet, nutrition, and supplements
Tools and nutritional resources
This event is free, and open to all patients, family members, caregivers, and community members. We hope to see you there!
Upcoming Programs:
November 17: Little Rock, Arkansas
November 19: Charlotte, North Carolina
November 30: Norwich, Connecticut
December 12: Columbus, Ohio
January 12: Los Angeles, California
January 25: Tacoma, Washington
This program is supported by educational grants from:
More than 1.4 million Americans are currently living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). People of all ages, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with IBD. There are many effective treatments available, but it can be difficult to decide on the best approach.
Join other IBD patients and caregivers from your community, representatives from your local CCFA chapter, and a medical expert for Treatment Approaches in IBD: Options to Consider, a presentation and interactive question-and-answer session that will help you sort through treatment strategies. The following topics will be addressed:
Similarities and differences between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Risks and benefits of medication, surgery, and integrative treatments in IBD
Impact of treatment adherence on disease management and quality of life
Talking with your health care team about your treatment plan
This event is free, and open to all patients, family members, caregivers, and community members. We hope to see you there!
Fall 2011 Schedule:
November 16: New York, New York
November 30: Macon, Georgia
December 5: Downers Grove, Illinois
December 6: Towson, Maryland
December 10: Dallas, Texas
This program is supported by an educational grant from:
http://www.ccfa.org/info/localpatiented
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Could Amount Of UV Light, Pollution & Vitamin D Levels Determine IBD Risk?
Isn't this an interesting article. I knew California was calling my name for a reason. lol
Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease have been linked to geographical differences between the northern and southern U.S., according to a new study.
Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Cases Show North-South Divide
Posted by Claire Shefchik on November 1, 2011 4:55 PM
"This differential risk may be explained by differences in UV light exposure, vitamin D status, or pollution," hospital researcher Dr. Hamed Khalili told Science Daily.
Investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital examined results from two studies of nurses enrolled in the U.S. Nurses Health Study I and II revealed a north-south divide in U.S. incidences of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
In a 4,209,454 person-year follow-up, the team confirmed 284 cases of Crohn's disease and 332 cases of ulcerative colitis. They found that where the women lived at age 30 was associated with incidences of the diseases. Women in the southern part of the U.S. had a 50 percent lower chance of Crohn's and a 35 percent lower chance of UC when compared to women in the northern latitudes. Researchers said further studies are needed to examine underlying genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.
The study was presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's 76th Annual Scientific Meeting, Oct. 28-Nov. 2 in Washington, D.C.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease have been linked to geographical differences between the northern and southern U.S., according to a new study.
Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Cases Show North-South Divide
Posted by Claire Shefchik on November 1, 2011 4:55 PM
"This differential risk may be explained by differences in UV light exposure, vitamin D status, or pollution," hospital researcher Dr. Hamed Khalili told Science Daily.
Investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital examined results from two studies of nurses enrolled in the U.S. Nurses Health Study I and II revealed a north-south divide in U.S. incidences of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
In a 4,209,454 person-year follow-up, the team confirmed 284 cases of Crohn's disease and 332 cases of ulcerative colitis. They found that where the women lived at age 30 was associated with incidences of the diseases. Women in the southern part of the U.S. had a 50 percent lower chance of Crohn's and a 35 percent lower chance of UC when compared to women in the northern latitudes. Researchers said further studies are needed to examine underlying genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.
The study was presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's 76th Annual Scientific Meeting, Oct. 28-Nov. 2 in Washington, D.C.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Julia Schopick -Speaks about Low Dose Naltrexone *VIDEO*
Author of "Honest Medicine", Julia Schopick speaks briefly about LDN/Low Dose Naltrexone for severe diseases that often do not respond well to mainstream treatments. Short video that gives brief information about how LDN works and she speaks of the founder of LDN, Doctor Bihari.
In Julia's book, "Honest Medicine", she introduces four lifesaving treatments that have been effectively treating—and in some cases curing—people for 25-90 years. However, for reasons of profitability (or lack thereof), these treatments have not been universally accepted. The treatments are:
Low Dose Naltrexone for autoimmune diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease) HIV/AIDS and some cancers
The Ketogenic Diet for pediatric epilepsy
Intravenous alpha lipoic acid, for terminal liver disease and some cancers
Silverlon for non-healing wounds.
Julia Schopick's Site - http://www.honestmedicine.com
In Julia's book, "Honest Medicine", she introduces four lifesaving treatments that have been effectively treating—and in some cases curing—people for 25-90 years. However, for reasons of profitability (or lack thereof), these treatments have not been universally accepted. The treatments are:
Low Dose Naltrexone for autoimmune diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease) HIV/AIDS and some cancers
The Ketogenic Diet for pediatric epilepsy
Intravenous alpha lipoic acid, for terminal liver disease and some cancers
Silverlon for non-healing wounds.
Julia Schopick's Site - http://www.honestmedicine.com
Friday, October 28, 2011
Surgeries & Procedures Associated with IBD - Defined
I wanted to post a list of medical terms associated with IBD that we should know about. I did not have full awareness of a lot of the surgeries and what they entail and I figured it would be helpful to make this a blog post. Hope this is helpful to some
anastomosis
pancolectomy
colectomy
colostomy
ileostomy
ileosigmoidostomy
ileoproctostomy
ileosigmoid knotting
ileovesicostomy
ileotransverse
colostomy
ileoileostomy
resection
laparoscopic-assisted resection
stoma
enterostomy
Kock pouch
endorectal pull-through procedure
colostomy bag
adhesion
anastomosis
pancolectomy
colectomy
colostomy
ileostomy
ileosigmoidostomy
ileoproctostomy
ileosigmoid knotting
ileovesicostomy
ileotransverse
colostomy
ileoileostomy
resection
laparoscopic-assisted resection
stoma
enterostomy
Kock pouch
endorectal pull-through procedure
colostomy bag
adhesion
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Could RHB-104 Be The Cure For Crohn's Disease?? Very Hopeful Article
Wouldn't that be great!?? Actually curing the Crohn's!
Be encouraged and read this article, especially if you've been struggling with symptoms and just feeling blah because it's taking a toll on you. After reading this, you'll feel hopeful and optimistic about what's to come in the future and the advances that are in the making RIGHT NOW!
Even although the RHB-104 must undergo 2 years of clinical trials (US, Canada & Europe) before the drug can even be looked at by the FDA (our wonderful friends... that's sarcasm people), 2 years is nothing and will be here before we know it. Let's hope & pray that this medicine is found to be effective during the trial stage. If this RHB-104 is found to be successful, This would shed a whole new light on the disease and impact a huge population of people that suffer & struggle with Crohn's Disease everyday.
LOL is anyone else as giddy as me right now after reading that article?
Professor patents test for possible Crohn’s disease cure
The UCF Research Foundation has licensed a promising diagnostic test for the detection of the mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis, also known as MAP, bacterium in humans to an international biopharmaceutical company that is developing a treatment for Crohn's disease.
The diagnostic technology is able to diagnose MAP infection in humans using DNA testing based on nested PCR molecular technology. MAP is present in roughly 50 percent of people who suffer from Crohn's disease and could be a leading cause of the disease.
Dr. Saleh Naser, a professor in the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences in the College of Medicine, patented the diagnostic technology in 2009 with hopes of using it to help cure Crohn's disease patients who are positive for the MAP bacterium.
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract affecting about 700,000 people in the United States alone, with no cure.
"Our goal with this technology is to help speed the process of diagnosing, treating patients with the correct antibiotics and helping the patient begin remission as soon as possible," Naser said. "We want to see a change in these patients' lives."
Now that RedHill Biopharma Ltd., an emerging international biopharmaceutical company, has licensed Naser's diagnostic technology, Naser is closer to achieving his goal of diagnosing and treating Crohn's disease patients.
RedHill Biopharma Ltd. is currently developing an oral drug called RHB-104, which is intended to treat and possibly cure Crohn's patients with MAP bacterium, but without a way to detect MAP, the use of the drug has been limited. Partnered with the UCF Research Foundation, RedHill Biopharma Ltd. is able to use Naser's diagnostic test to detect MAP DNA in the patient's blood and finally allow physicians to prescribe RHB-104 to Crohn's disease patients.
"Our findings in our lab since 2000 is instrumental evidence showing that MAP is a significant part of this disease, and therefore the technology to detect such pathogens is extremely useful for diagnosis and ultimately treating this disease; and with that, our partnership with RedHill is sure to be valuable," Naser said.
Under the license agreement, in consideration for an exclusive license for all indications and medical applications, RedHill Biopharma Ltd. will pay UCF an upfront payment, as well as future net sales royalties of 7 percent to 20 percent.
Despite monetary advantages, Naser is most looking forward to putting his technology to use. RedHill Biopharma Ltd. is currently in discussion with Naser regarding the use of his technology to screen Crohn's patients for MAP infection to determine whether RHB-104 would serve as an effective treatment option in two parallel placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials, one in the U.S. and Canada, and one in Europe.
The trials will last two years and from there, if successful, Redhill Biopharma Ltd. will bring the data to the Food and Drug Administration for approval of RHB-104, and then Naser's technology and RHB-104 could possibly be readily accessible in local labs within five years.
If available to the public, patients will first get a blood sample taken at their doctor's office, which is then sent to a local lab where the blood's white blood cells are isolated and screened for DNA of the MAP pathogen. The information from the lab will be sent back to a doctor, who can then prescribe the patient with the either RHB-104 or an antibiotic to fit the patient's needs.
This is most hard-hitting for Naser, because he knows if these trials are successful, he could impact patients' lives.
"It is hard to establish the immense amount of phone calls and emails I receive from patients and their families who are desperate to be tested for this bacteria, because what is out there is not good enough and is not helping them beat this disease," Naser said. "For the first time, we might be talking about curing Crohn's disease and not just managing the disease; the patients know the difference."
For junior language arts and English education major Molly Taylor, that difference could change her life.
Taylor has suffered from Crohn's disease for seven years, first being diagnosed in her freshman year of high school. The diagnosis forced her to quit cheerleading as she became very sick with treatment. She dropped down to weighing 85 pounds, and soon she could not even go to school; instead, she had to take online classes for a year.
After going through invasive diagnostic procedures, trying five different treatment methods and now giving herself shots every week, Taylor is thrilled about this new discovery.
"The diagnosis process has been really hard and very invasive, but this sounds like a less invasive test. Blood samples are like nothing for Crohn's patients," Taylor said. "And to have found a cure for this would be the most amazing news for me. It is hard to face a disease daily that you know is never going to go away, especially when you first find out at 15."
For research assistant Sammer Elwasila, who has been working alongside Naser since 2006, this new technology means a new beginning for Crohn's patients like Taylor, and he is excited for the chance to make a difference in people's everyday life before it is too late.
"With this technology, we hope to accomplish a clinical test that a physician can order on the spot, and that can identify and diagnose Crohn's disease patients as quickly as possible, before the damage is done," Elwasila said.
Be encouraged and read this article, especially if you've been struggling with symptoms and just feeling blah because it's taking a toll on you. After reading this, you'll feel hopeful and optimistic about what's to come in the future and the advances that are in the making RIGHT NOW!
Even although the RHB-104 must undergo 2 years of clinical trials (US, Canada & Europe) before the drug can even be looked at by the FDA (our wonderful friends... that's sarcasm people), 2 years is nothing and will be here before we know it. Let's hope & pray that this medicine is found to be effective during the trial stage. If this RHB-104 is found to be successful, This would shed a whole new light on the disease and impact a huge population of people that suffer & struggle with Crohn's Disease everyday.
LOL is anyone else as giddy as me right now after reading that article?
Professor patents test for possible Crohn’s disease cure
The UCF Research Foundation has licensed a promising diagnostic test for the detection of the mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis, also known as MAP, bacterium in humans to an international biopharmaceutical company that is developing a treatment for Crohn's disease.
The diagnostic technology is able to diagnose MAP infection in humans using DNA testing based on nested PCR molecular technology. MAP is present in roughly 50 percent of people who suffer from Crohn's disease and could be a leading cause of the disease.
Dr. Saleh Naser, a professor in the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences in the College of Medicine, patented the diagnostic technology in 2009 with hopes of using it to help cure Crohn's disease patients who are positive for the MAP bacterium.
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract affecting about 700,000 people in the United States alone, with no cure.
"Our goal with this technology is to help speed the process of diagnosing, treating patients with the correct antibiotics and helping the patient begin remission as soon as possible," Naser said. "We want to see a change in these patients' lives."
Now that RedHill Biopharma Ltd., an emerging international biopharmaceutical company, has licensed Naser's diagnostic technology, Naser is closer to achieving his goal of diagnosing and treating Crohn's disease patients.
RedHill Biopharma Ltd. is currently developing an oral drug called RHB-104, which is intended to treat and possibly cure Crohn's patients with MAP bacterium, but without a way to detect MAP, the use of the drug has been limited. Partnered with the UCF Research Foundation, RedHill Biopharma Ltd. is able to use Naser's diagnostic test to detect MAP DNA in the patient's blood and finally allow physicians to prescribe RHB-104 to Crohn's disease patients.
"Our findings in our lab since 2000 is instrumental evidence showing that MAP is a significant part of this disease, and therefore the technology to detect such pathogens is extremely useful for diagnosis and ultimately treating this disease; and with that, our partnership with RedHill is sure to be valuable," Naser said.
Under the license agreement, in consideration for an exclusive license for all indications and medical applications, RedHill Biopharma Ltd. will pay UCF an upfront payment, as well as future net sales royalties of 7 percent to 20 percent.
Despite monetary advantages, Naser is most looking forward to putting his technology to use. RedHill Biopharma Ltd. is currently in discussion with Naser regarding the use of his technology to screen Crohn's patients for MAP infection to determine whether RHB-104 would serve as an effective treatment option in two parallel placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials, one in the U.S. and Canada, and one in Europe.
The trials will last two years and from there, if successful, Redhill Biopharma Ltd. will bring the data to the Food and Drug Administration for approval of RHB-104, and then Naser's technology and RHB-104 could possibly be readily accessible in local labs within five years.
If available to the public, patients will first get a blood sample taken at their doctor's office, which is then sent to a local lab where the blood's white blood cells are isolated and screened for DNA of the MAP pathogen. The information from the lab will be sent back to a doctor, who can then prescribe the patient with the either RHB-104 or an antibiotic to fit the patient's needs.
This is most hard-hitting for Naser, because he knows if these trials are successful, he could impact patients' lives.
"It is hard to establish the immense amount of phone calls and emails I receive from patients and their families who are desperate to be tested for this bacteria, because what is out there is not good enough and is not helping them beat this disease," Naser said. "For the first time, we might be talking about curing Crohn's disease and not just managing the disease; the patients know the difference."
For junior language arts and English education major Molly Taylor, that difference could change her life.
Taylor has suffered from Crohn's disease for seven years, first being diagnosed in her freshman year of high school. The diagnosis forced her to quit cheerleading as she became very sick with treatment. She dropped down to weighing 85 pounds, and soon she could not even go to school; instead, she had to take online classes for a year.
After going through invasive diagnostic procedures, trying five different treatment methods and now giving herself shots every week, Taylor is thrilled about this new discovery.
"The diagnosis process has been really hard and very invasive, but this sounds like a less invasive test. Blood samples are like nothing for Crohn's patients," Taylor said. "And to have found a cure for this would be the most amazing news for me. It is hard to face a disease daily that you know is never going to go away, especially when you first find out at 15."
For research assistant Sammer Elwasila, who has been working alongside Naser since 2006, this new technology means a new beginning for Crohn's patients like Taylor, and he is excited for the chance to make a difference in people's everyday life before it is too late.
"With this technology, we hope to accomplish a clinical test that a physician can order on the spot, and that can identify and diagnose Crohn's disease patients as quickly as possible, before the damage is done," Elwasila said.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Hyperbaric Oxygen - New Trend That Is Said To Treat Chronic Illnesses
Good article. I deal with the exact frustration that this article discusses. I am now seeing a naturopathic physician as well as my GI doctor and I must say, I am FINALLY beginning to get this disease under control. I'm very thankful to have found an integrated physician that is so good and has the knowledge she does about my condition.
The information about the Hyperbaric Oxygen is quite interesting. I'd like to read more literature about this treatment that discusses how effective it is. Interesting Info.
Hyperbaric oxygen infuses life, treats chronic illness
As the health care crisis mounts in the United States, the average American is not only getting older, but likely sicker as well. Many Americans feel they are not receiving adequate treatment from their primary care physicians and are now seeking out alternative or integrative practitioners, like naturopathic physicians. These same folks are not only searching for these "outside the box" thinkers more, but they are paying more out-of-pocket expense to figure out the root cause of their health concerns.
Naturopathic physicians devote more time to helping their patients and they use natural therapies to treat the same ailments for which many physicians don't have an answer. These therapies include: clinical nutrition and nutritional supplementation, natural bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, acupuncture, intravenous vitamin and mineral infusions.
One modality that has generated quite a bit of buzz in the news lately is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, patients lay inside an inflatable chamber that resembles a large sleeping bag.
Inside the chamber, ambient air is pressurized and the oxygen that is contained within that air is forced into a patient's lungs, tissues and down to the cellular level.
It has been shown that absorption of oxygen increases anywhere from around 20 percent while we are just sitting in open air to up to 50 percent in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber.
Oxygen is carried throughout the bloodstream, and in and of itself is healing. Because HBOT is able to increase circulation of blood throughout the body, more blood and oxygen delivered to body tissues and cells translates to more healing. HBOT has been used for years to help heal wounds, infections, and to recover from all different types of surgery.
It has also been shown to affect the gastrointestinal tract, healing imbalances like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disorder.
Because the brain is the organ in the body that uses the most oxygen, many disorders associated with cognitive decline can be reversed or prevented using HBOT. These include: autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, stroke, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Other conditions that can be treated using HBOT include chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, Lyme disease, and virtually any pain syndrome.
With our increasingly busy lives, many of us forget to take the time to just slow down and smell the roses. Even without the conditions mentioned above, this therapy can be great to not only help prevent illnesses from occurring, but is also a great way to relax and have oxygen infused into our brains, tissues and cells. In doing so, this can increase our vitality, energy and mental clarity.
• Ahwatukee Foothills' Dr. Matthew Cavaiola is a licensed naturopathic physician and acupuncturist, who treats a variety of conditions and illnesses associated with the aging process. Reach him at (602) 432-2900 or visit www.phoenixantiagingclinic.com.
The information about the Hyperbaric Oxygen is quite interesting. I'd like to read more literature about this treatment that discusses how effective it is. Interesting Info.
Hyperbaric oxygen infuses life, treats chronic illness
As the health care crisis mounts in the United States, the average American is not only getting older, but likely sicker as well. Many Americans feel they are not receiving adequate treatment from their primary care physicians and are now seeking out alternative or integrative practitioners, like naturopathic physicians. These same folks are not only searching for these "outside the box" thinkers more, but they are paying more out-of-pocket expense to figure out the root cause of their health concerns.
Naturopathic physicians devote more time to helping their patients and they use natural therapies to treat the same ailments for which many physicians don't have an answer. These therapies include: clinical nutrition and nutritional supplementation, natural bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, acupuncture, intravenous vitamin and mineral infusions.
One modality that has generated quite a bit of buzz in the news lately is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, patients lay inside an inflatable chamber that resembles a large sleeping bag.
Inside the chamber, ambient air is pressurized and the oxygen that is contained within that air is forced into a patient's lungs, tissues and down to the cellular level.
It has been shown that absorption of oxygen increases anywhere from around 20 percent while we are just sitting in open air to up to 50 percent in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber.
Oxygen is carried throughout the bloodstream, and in and of itself is healing. Because HBOT is able to increase circulation of blood throughout the body, more blood and oxygen delivered to body tissues and cells translates to more healing. HBOT has been used for years to help heal wounds, infections, and to recover from all different types of surgery.
It has also been shown to affect the gastrointestinal tract, healing imbalances like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disorder.
Because the brain is the organ in the body that uses the most oxygen, many disorders associated with cognitive decline can be reversed or prevented using HBOT. These include: autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, stroke, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Other conditions that can be treated using HBOT include chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, Lyme disease, and virtually any pain syndrome.
With our increasingly busy lives, many of us forget to take the time to just slow down and smell the roses. Even without the conditions mentioned above, this therapy can be great to not only help prevent illnesses from occurring, but is also a great way to relax and have oxygen infused into our brains, tissues and cells. In doing so, this can increase our vitality, energy and mental clarity.
• Ahwatukee Foothills' Dr. Matthew Cavaiola is a licensed naturopathic physician and acupuncturist, who treats a variety of conditions and illnesses associated with the aging process. Reach him at (602) 432-2900 or visit www.phoenixantiagingclinic.com.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Colitis -The Different Types of The Disease
Hey people :)
I wanted to post this about Colitis because there are so many different types, and could be confusing to distinguish the differences of each disease. Here they are. I've also provided the link at the end of each type for more info if you want to read more about the condition.
Pseudomembranous colitis is inflammation of the colon that occurs in some people who have received antibiotics. Pseudomembranous colitis is sometimes called antibiotic-associated colitis or C. difficile colitis.
The inflammation in pseudomembranous colitis is almost always associated with an overgrowth of the bacterium Clostridium difficile (C. difficile), although in rare cases, other organisms can be involved.
Pseudomembranous colitis can cause you to experience painful, alarming symptoms and can even become life-threatening. However, treatment for most cases of pseudomembranous colitis is successful. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pseudomembranous-colitis/DS00797
Ischemic colitis is a disorder that develops when blood flow to a part of your large intestine (colon) is reduced. This can lead to areas of colon inflammation and, in some cases, permanent colon damage.
Ischemic colitis can affect any part of your colon, but most affected people develop pain on the left side of the abdomen. Urgent bowel movements and bloody diarrhea also are common to ischemic colitis.
Most cases of ischemic colitis are mild and resolve on their own in a couple of days. Still, because the condition can become severe, call your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of ischemic colitis.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ischemic-colitis/DS00794
Ulcerative colitis (UL-sur-uh-tiv koe-LIE-tis) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation in part of your digestive tract.
Like Crohn's disease, another common IBD, ulcerative colitis can be debilitating and sometimes can lead to life-threatening complications. Because ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.
Ulcerative colitis usually affects only the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. It occurs only through continuous stretches of your colon, unlike Crohn's disease, which occurs anywhere in the digestive tract and often spreads deeply into the affected tissues.
There's no known cure for ulcerative colitis, but therapies are available that may dramatically reduce the signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis and even bring about a long-term remission.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ulcerative-colitis/DS00598
DIFFERENT TYPES OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS BASED ON LOCATION
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary, depending on the severity of inflammation and where it occurs. For these reasons, doctors often classify ulcerative colitis according to its location.
Here are the signs and symptoms that may accompany ulcerative colitis, depending on its classification:
Ulcerative proctitis. In this form of ulcerative colitis, inflammation is confined to the area closest to the anus (rectum), and for some people, rectal bleeding may be the only sign of the disease. Others may have rectal pain and a feeling of urgency. This form of ulcerative colitis tends to be the mildest.
Proctosigmoiditis. This form involves the rectum and the lower end of the colon, known as the sigmoid colon. Bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, and an inability to move the bowels in spite of the urge to do so (tenesmus) are common problems associated with this form of the disease.
Left-sided colitis. As the name suggests, inflammation extends from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending colon, which are located in the upper left part of the abdomen. Signs and symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and pain on the left side, and unintended weight loss.
Pancolitis. Affecting more than the left colon and often the entire colon, pancolitis causes bouts of bloody diarrhea that may be severe, abdominal cramps and pain, fatigue, and significant weight loss.
Fulminant colitis. This rare, life-threatening form of colitis affects the entire colon and causes severe pain, profuse diarrhea and, sometimes, dehydration and shock. People with fulminant colitis are at risk of serious complications, including colon rupture and toxic megacolon, a condition that causes the colon to rapidly expand.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ulcerative-colitis/DS00598/DSECTION=symptoms
Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.
I wanted to post this about Colitis because there are so many different types, and could be confusing to distinguish the differences of each disease. Here they are. I've also provided the link at the end of each type for more info if you want to read more about the condition.
Pseudomembranous colitis is inflammation of the colon that occurs in some people who have received antibiotics. Pseudomembranous colitis is sometimes called antibiotic-associated colitis or C. difficile colitis.
The inflammation in pseudomembranous colitis is almost always associated with an overgrowth of the bacterium Clostridium difficile (C. difficile), although in rare cases, other organisms can be involved.
Pseudomembranous colitis can cause you to experience painful, alarming symptoms and can even become life-threatening. However, treatment for most cases of pseudomembranous colitis is successful. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pseudomembranous-colitis/DS00797
Ischemic colitis is a disorder that develops when blood flow to a part of your large intestine (colon) is reduced. This can lead to areas of colon inflammation and, in some cases, permanent colon damage.
Ischemic colitis can affect any part of your colon, but most affected people develop pain on the left side of the abdomen. Urgent bowel movements and bloody diarrhea also are common to ischemic colitis.
Most cases of ischemic colitis are mild and resolve on their own in a couple of days. Still, because the condition can become severe, call your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of ischemic colitis.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ischemic-colitis/DS00794
Ulcerative colitis (UL-sur-uh-tiv koe-LIE-tis) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation in part of your digestive tract.
Like Crohn's disease, another common IBD, ulcerative colitis can be debilitating and sometimes can lead to life-threatening complications. Because ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.
Ulcerative colitis usually affects only the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. It occurs only through continuous stretches of your colon, unlike Crohn's disease, which occurs anywhere in the digestive tract and often spreads deeply into the affected tissues.
There's no known cure for ulcerative colitis, but therapies are available that may dramatically reduce the signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis and even bring about a long-term remission.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ulcerative-colitis/DS00598
DIFFERENT TYPES OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS BASED ON LOCATION
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary, depending on the severity of inflammation and where it occurs. For these reasons, doctors often classify ulcerative colitis according to its location.
Here are the signs and symptoms that may accompany ulcerative colitis, depending on its classification:
Ulcerative proctitis. In this form of ulcerative colitis, inflammation is confined to the area closest to the anus (rectum), and for some people, rectal bleeding may be the only sign of the disease. Others may have rectal pain and a feeling of urgency. This form of ulcerative colitis tends to be the mildest.
Proctosigmoiditis. This form involves the rectum and the lower end of the colon, known as the sigmoid colon. Bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, and an inability to move the bowels in spite of the urge to do so (tenesmus) are common problems associated with this form of the disease.
Left-sided colitis. As the name suggests, inflammation extends from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending colon, which are located in the upper left part of the abdomen. Signs and symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and pain on the left side, and unintended weight loss.
Pancolitis. Affecting more than the left colon and often the entire colon, pancolitis causes bouts of bloody diarrhea that may be severe, abdominal cramps and pain, fatigue, and significant weight loss.
Fulminant colitis. This rare, life-threatening form of colitis affects the entire colon and causes severe pain, profuse diarrhea and, sometimes, dehydration and shock. People with fulminant colitis are at risk of serious complications, including colon rupture and toxic megacolon, a condition that causes the colon to rapidly expand.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ulcerative-colitis/DS00598/DSECTION=symptoms
Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Ahhhhhhhh!!! I HAVE Crohn's Disease!!: Still alive & Happy Fall!
Ahhhhhhhh!!! I HAVE Crohn's Disease!!: Still alive & Happy Fall!: I haven't posted anything in a while since I have been super busy. I've been packing, cleaning, moving and now I'm finally done and can get...
Still alive & Happy Fall!
I haven't posted anything in a while since I have been super busy. I've been packing, cleaning, moving and now I'm finally done and can get back to a normal routine again. Man, time flys! It's fall already people, which isn't a bad season however, winter will be here before we know it and let's hope it goes as fast as it comes. Winter always seems to drag and take forever to end. I think that by March or maybe February, I'll be craving a vaca somewhere tropical. I need some white sand and crystal blue water somewhere HOT!
I've started on the LDN again. It's been about a week and a half since I've been taking it and I'm feeling okay - Not bad, but not unusually good either. I'll be posting to give an update about how I'm feeling on the naltrexone. If anyone has Crohn's or a digestive disease and is treating the condition with Low Dose Naltrexone, feel free to share your experience.
I'm off ...............
I've started on the LDN again. It's been about a week and a half since I've been taking it and I'm feeling okay - Not bad, but not unusually good either. I'll be posting to give an update about how I'm feeling on the naltrexone. If anyone has Crohn's or a digestive disease and is treating the condition with Low Dose Naltrexone, feel free to share your experience.
I'm off ...............
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Thursday, September 8, 2011
LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) AWARENESS IS IMPERATIVE
Ain't this the truth.
This is from an article published in an Ireland medical newspaper (actually one of the first medical newspapers in Ireland) but can apply to any country. Our country, the US to the A's, NEED more knowledge and to be open to letting this drug help people without the hassle that goes along with finding a doctor that will prescribe, having the drug compounded. It's nonsense that needs to not exist. What else can we do???? Any ideas floating around out there about this.
Dear Editor,
I would like to draw your readers’ attention to a medical conference in Dublin on 17 September 2011 at the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin.
Hosted by the LDN (low-dose naltrexone) Research Trust (UK) and the Association of General Practitioners (AGP) in Ireland, the meeting hopes to draw attention to two recent developments in medicine — the increasing use of LDN in any condition described as autoimmune or in which the immune system is heavily compromised; and the recent development of a new condition, chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI), discovered by Prof Zamboni, a vascular surgeon/researcher in Northern Italy. This latter may have significance for MS and other conditions.
The facts about LDN are not well known for many reasons, but the research work of Prof Ian Zagon in Penn State University over 40 years has demonstrated its effectiveness. Only a handful of doctors in Ireland are using it but, for us who do, its success rate is significant. Patients who are benefiting are pushing to have it more widely recognised worldwide, e.g. LDN Research Trust.
Prof Zamboni’s work is more recent. His research suggests that 90 per cent of people with MS have a narrowed jugular/cerebral/azygous vein systems. This has been verified in ongoing research in Italy, Poland, Bulgaria, the US and elsewhere; surgeons are beginning to address this.
Mr Donald Reid, Vascular Surgeon, Scotland will review his cases and Mr Gianfranco Camplani, Cardiac Surgeon, Belfast, who is an MS patient and has had jugular vein ballooning procedure done on himself, will also present at the conference.
Patients with other conditions will also be present such as MS, fibromyalgia, Ca lung and autoimmune conditions. It would be important to get more doctors better informed on these subjects, and I cordially invite them to attend.
Dr Patrick Crowley,
Association of General Practitioners,
10 Waterside, Waterford.
See World News, http://bit.ly/qZHDoi
This is from an article published in an Ireland medical newspaper (actually one of the first medical newspapers in Ireland) but can apply to any country. Our country, the US to the A's, NEED more knowledge and to be open to letting this drug help people without the hassle that goes along with finding a doctor that will prescribe, having the drug compounded. It's nonsense that needs to not exist. What else can we do???? Any ideas floating around out there about this.
Dear Editor,
I would like to draw your readers’ attention to a medical conference in Dublin on 17 September 2011 at the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin.
Hosted by the LDN (low-dose naltrexone) Research Trust (UK) and the Association of General Practitioners (AGP) in Ireland, the meeting hopes to draw attention to two recent developments in medicine — the increasing use of LDN in any condition described as autoimmune or in which the immune system is heavily compromised; and the recent development of a new condition, chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI), discovered by Prof Zamboni, a vascular surgeon/researcher in Northern Italy. This latter may have significance for MS and other conditions.
The facts about LDN are not well known for many reasons, but the research work of Prof Ian Zagon in Penn State University over 40 years has demonstrated its effectiveness. Only a handful of doctors in Ireland are using it but, for us who do, its success rate is significant. Patients who are benefiting are pushing to have it more widely recognised worldwide, e.g. LDN Research Trust.
Prof Zamboni’s work is more recent. His research suggests that 90 per cent of people with MS have a narrowed jugular/cerebral/azygous vein systems. This has been verified in ongoing research in Italy, Poland, Bulgaria, the US and elsewhere; surgeons are beginning to address this.
Mr Donald Reid, Vascular Surgeon, Scotland will review his cases and Mr Gianfranco Camplani, Cardiac Surgeon, Belfast, who is an MS patient and has had jugular vein ballooning procedure done on himself, will also present at the conference.
Patients with other conditions will also be present such as MS, fibromyalgia, Ca lung and autoimmune conditions. It would be important to get more doctors better informed on these subjects, and I cordially invite them to attend.
Dr Patrick Crowley,
Association of General Practitioners,
10 Waterside, Waterford.
See World News, http://bit.ly/qZHDoi
Monday, August 15, 2011
Dificid- A New Drug to Treat C. DIFF.- Now FDA Approved for Use
Dificid Approved to Treat iC. diff/i Diarrhea --Doctors Lounge
I'm posting this article because C. diff., a bacteria infection that is usually contracted in hospitals that causes severe diarrhea and in some cases can cause colitis or even death, can be treated by a new drug that was just FDA approved. The drug Dificid is said to be effective with treating the continual diarrhea that C. diff. infected sufferers experience.
I do not know anyone that has been prescribed this medication yet, but I like to know that there are other options for treatment that are available for people with this infection. Hospitals are the most common place where people become infected with C. diff. I have two family members that became ill with this infection during their stay in the hospital. Both my Aunt and Grandmother were plagued with the persistent and temporary debilitating C. diff. Some people cannot leave the house due to symptoms and sometimes the infection lasts for months and if you're an unfortunate one, the bacteria infection can recur at some point in the future.
What I know for a fact that works for helping eliminate and calm symptoms is taking a good probiotic. This was the ONLY helpful thing my Aunt took that helped her get better & back to normal. You must replenish your gut flora that is killed by the bacteria & also killed by the prescribed antibiotic, leaving you with no good bacteria in your gut = not good.
I'm posting this article because C. diff., a bacteria infection that is usually contracted in hospitals that causes severe diarrhea and in some cases can cause colitis or even death, can be treated by a new drug that was just FDA approved. The drug Dificid is said to be effective with treating the continual diarrhea that C. diff. infected sufferers experience.
I do not know anyone that has been prescribed this medication yet, but I like to know that there are other options for treatment that are available for people with this infection. Hospitals are the most common place where people become infected with C. diff. I have two family members that became ill with this infection during their stay in the hospital. Both my Aunt and Grandmother were plagued with the persistent and temporary debilitating C. diff. Some people cannot leave the house due to symptoms and sometimes the infection lasts for months and if you're an unfortunate one, the bacteria infection can recur at some point in the future.
What I know for a fact that works for helping eliminate and calm symptoms is taking a good probiotic. This was the ONLY helpful thing my Aunt took that helped her get better & back to normal. You must replenish your gut flora that is killed by the bacteria & also killed by the prescribed antibiotic, leaving you with no good bacteria in your gut = not good.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Nanoparticle Iron & Minerals - A Good Option for IBS & IBD Sufferers That Require Supplemental Nutrients
I'm really interested in learning more about Nanoparticle Medicine/Nanoparticle Technology for drug and mineral delivery. What I've read about the stuff is that Nanoparticles & products of nanotechnology are of increasing interest to the pharmaceutical community. They can increase drug solubility, enhance bioavailability, allow tissue targeting, offer decreased side-effects, and improve therapeutic efficacy.
Drug delivery technologies are patent protected formulation technologies that modify drug release profile, absorption, distribution and elimination for the benefit of improving product efficacy and safety, as well as patient convenience and compliance.[3] Most common routes of administration include the preferred non-invasive peroral (through the mouth), topical (skin), transmucosal (nasal, buccal/sublingual, vaginal, ocular and rectal) and inhalation routes.[4][5] Many medications such as peptide and protein, antibody, vaccine and gene based drugs, in general may not be delivered using these routes because they might be susceptible to enzymatic degradation or can not be absorbed into the systemic circulation efficiently due to molecular size and charge issues to be therapeutically effective. For this reason many protein and peptide drugs have to be delivered by injection or a nanoneedle array.
Because I have to always get iron infusions; about every 3 months or so, it would be so wonderful to be able to orally take the iron without experiencing stomach and intestinal bleeding/upset. I absolutely cannot tolerate regular oral iron capsules or tablets whatsoever. Due to the ongoing intestinal bleeding, I lose a significant amount of blood; enough to lower my red blood cell count causing me to become anemic. The only safe and tolerable solution to raise my level of iron is through a 5-7 session round of 30-45 min. Iron Sucrose infusions every few months. I tried the 2 session Iron infusion ( kind of like one big dose of iron injected within 20 seconds rather than 20 min, requiring only 2 injections) and had a reaction. My body is a fragile, sensitive thing and reacts to so many chemicals, foods, plants, people... yes humans lol... just kidding about the people and plants, unless they're pollenated and say stupid things.
Discovering the Nanoparticle form of iron seems like something that I may be able to handle because the iron is instantly absorbed into the bloodstream and does not require digestion. This Means that in this form, it will not irritate the GI tract and this is AWESOME news because Iron infusions are $CoStLY$ (Approximate cost for just 1 - 30 min infusion amounts to say $580. $600.- or close to that amount PER infusion. $400 for just the iron alone is just wrong, so if I can find an effective and reasonable priced way of addressing this bitch called anemia, I will jump on the chance to try it out.
Has anyone ever tried something like this in any mineral form? If so, I'd like to get your input.
Once I located a reputable source of Nanoparticle Iron, I will post the manufacturer and the effects of taking this type of iron.
LINK WITH MORE INFO & A SOURCE WHERE YOU CAN PURCHASE NANOPARTICLE IRON + VITAMIN C http://www.holistichealthshoppe.com/astragalus.php?id=24#262
Drug delivery technologies are patent protected formulation technologies that modify drug release profile, absorption, distribution and elimination for the benefit of improving product efficacy and safety, as well as patient convenience and compliance.[3] Most common routes of administration include the preferred non-invasive peroral (through the mouth), topical (skin), transmucosal (nasal, buccal/sublingual, vaginal, ocular and rectal) and inhalation routes.[4][5] Many medications such as peptide and protein, antibody, vaccine and gene based drugs, in general may not be delivered using these routes because they might be susceptible to enzymatic degradation or can not be absorbed into the systemic circulation efficiently due to molecular size and charge issues to be therapeutically effective. For this reason many protein and peptide drugs have to be delivered by injection or a nanoneedle array.
Because I have to always get iron infusions; about every 3 months or so, it would be so wonderful to be able to orally take the iron without experiencing stomach and intestinal bleeding/upset. I absolutely cannot tolerate regular oral iron capsules or tablets whatsoever. Due to the ongoing intestinal bleeding, I lose a significant amount of blood; enough to lower my red blood cell count causing me to become anemic. The only safe and tolerable solution to raise my level of iron is through a 5-7 session round of 30-45 min. Iron Sucrose infusions every few months. I tried the 2 session Iron infusion ( kind of like one big dose of iron injected within 20 seconds rather than 20 min, requiring only 2 injections) and had a reaction. My body is a fragile, sensitive thing and reacts to so many chemicals, foods, plants, people... yes humans lol... just kidding about the people and plants, unless they're pollenated and say stupid things.
Discovering the Nanoparticle form of iron seems like something that I may be able to handle because the iron is instantly absorbed into the bloodstream and does not require digestion. This Means that in this form, it will not irritate the GI tract and this is AWESOME news because Iron infusions are $CoStLY$ (Approximate cost for just 1 - 30 min infusion amounts to say $580. $600.- or close to that amount PER infusion. $400 for just the iron alone is just wrong, so if I can find an effective and reasonable priced way of addressing this bitch called anemia, I will jump on the chance to try it out.
Has anyone ever tried something like this in any mineral form? If so, I'd like to get your input.
Once I located a reputable source of Nanoparticle Iron, I will post the manufacturer and the effects of taking this type of iron.
LINK WITH MORE INFO & A SOURCE WHERE YOU CAN PURCHASE NANOPARTICLE IRON + VITAMIN C http://www.holistichealthshoppe.com/astragalus.php?id=24#262
Friday, August 5, 2011
Texas Lawsuit Against Abbott - Claiming Humira-Induced Leukemia In Young Patient. Do The Benefits Outweigh The Side Effects With This Med?
Article about 11 year old boy who was diagnosed with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia after taking the drug Humira for psoriasis, a skin condition. Lawsuit filed in Texas against Abbott Labs.
What do people think about in regards to the conditions that the drug Humira treats vs the possible life-threatening side-effects Humira causes? What's worse: (disease being treated, such as) arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, crohn's disease, plaque psoriasis OR (Humira side-effects like...) cancer, possible serious allergic reactions, Hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, serious infections, heart failure, blood issues and certain immune reactions? Just wondering what other people's take is on this. For me, I'd rather have Crohn's than Cancer. Even although Crohn's Disease is extremely painful and debilitating, so is cancer. When people choose to say "Yes" to a treatment like Humira or Remicade, do the people have all the knowledge (good & bad) about the medication to make the right decision on which treatment option is the best and healthiest for them?
I feel like most patient's leave it up to their doctor's to make that decision and put too much trust in them. People hear "this medication works and will get rid of your symptoms" from their doctors and automatically jump on the Humira Train/Remicade Bus ect.
Despite what our doctor says, we need to do adequate research so we can know what's necessary about the treatment we agree to. Just my personal opinion.
Perdue Kidd & Vickery Files Lawsuit Against Abbott Laboratories for Inadequate Leukemia and Cancer Warning
Drug Humira Blamed for Boy's Leukemia Diagnosis
DALLAS, July 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Humira defect lawyers filed a lawsuit against Abbott Laboratories in Texas state court claiming Abbott's blockbuster drug, Humira, caused a life-threatening disease, leukemia.
"Eleven year-old Bo Anderson was prescribed Humira for a skin condition, psoriasis. After taking the drug for approximately ten months, Bo's parents noticed unusual bruising covering his body while on a family vacation," says drug defect attorney Andy Vickery.
"Bo immediately underwent various tests and was diagnosed with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia; a dangerous side effect Abbott Laboratories knew could affect Humira users but failed to warn them about."
Vickery says because of the Humira-induced leukemia, Bo now must continue to undergo intense treatment that could potentially cause long-term and serious side effects, and could possibly develop secondary cancers as he matures.
Prior to the launch of Humira in 2003, other similar drugs had been linked to lymphoma and other forms of cancer, and clinical trial data suggested that there was a very significant epidemiological "signal" about the risk. Once Humira was launched, many adverse event reports were submitted regarding cancers, however Abbott did nothing to warn about this. Bo was diagnosed with Leukemia on January 8, 2009, over seven months after the FDA said that physicians and patients should be warned about this side effect, and nearly ten months before a Black Box warning was finally issued regarding Humira-induced leukemia in pediatric and adolescent patients.
Humira (Adalimumab) is a class of biologic drugs known as TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor) blockers. It works by blocking naturally occurring proteins that cause inflammation. However, research has shown that taking drugs like Humira can compromise the immune system and can have a devastating and even deadly effect resulting in serious infections, cancer, allergic reactions, Hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, heart failure, blood issues and certain immune reactions. Humira is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, crohn's disease, and plaque psoriasis. With 2010 sales of $6.5 billion, Humira is Abbott's flagship drug.
Perdue Kidd & Vickery is a national law firm of Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyers. The law practice is based in Houston, TX. Further information is available at http://www.HumiraJustice.com. View an educational video about Humira fungal infections.
SOURCE Perdue Kidd & Vickery
What do people think about in regards to the conditions that the drug Humira treats vs the possible life-threatening side-effects Humira causes? What's worse: (disease being treated, such as) arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, crohn's disease, plaque psoriasis OR (Humira side-effects like...) cancer, possible serious allergic reactions, Hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, serious infections, heart failure, blood issues and certain immune reactions? Just wondering what other people's take is on this. For me, I'd rather have Crohn's than Cancer. Even although Crohn's Disease is extremely painful and debilitating, so is cancer. When people choose to say "Yes" to a treatment like Humira or Remicade, do the people have all the knowledge (good & bad) about the medication to make the right decision on which treatment option is the best and healthiest for them?
I feel like most patient's leave it up to their doctor's to make that decision and put too much trust in them. People hear "this medication works and will get rid of your symptoms" from their doctors and automatically jump on the Humira Train/Remicade Bus ect.
Despite what our doctor says, we need to do adequate research so we can know what's necessary about the treatment we agree to. Just my personal opinion.
Perdue Kidd & Vickery Files Lawsuit Against Abbott Laboratories for Inadequate Leukemia and Cancer Warning
Drug Humira Blamed for Boy's Leukemia Diagnosis
DALLAS, July 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Humira defect lawyers filed a lawsuit against Abbott Laboratories in Texas state court claiming Abbott's blockbuster drug, Humira, caused a life-threatening disease, leukemia.
"Eleven year-old Bo Anderson was prescribed Humira for a skin condition, psoriasis. After taking the drug for approximately ten months, Bo's parents noticed unusual bruising covering his body while on a family vacation," says drug defect attorney Andy Vickery.
"Bo immediately underwent various tests and was diagnosed with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia; a dangerous side effect Abbott Laboratories knew could affect Humira users but failed to warn them about."
Vickery says because of the Humira-induced leukemia, Bo now must continue to undergo intense treatment that could potentially cause long-term and serious side effects, and could possibly develop secondary cancers as he matures.
Prior to the launch of Humira in 2003, other similar drugs had been linked to lymphoma and other forms of cancer, and clinical trial data suggested that there was a very significant epidemiological "signal" about the risk. Once Humira was launched, many adverse event reports were submitted regarding cancers, however Abbott did nothing to warn about this. Bo was diagnosed with Leukemia on January 8, 2009, over seven months after the FDA said that physicians and patients should be warned about this side effect, and nearly ten months before a Black Box warning was finally issued regarding Humira-induced leukemia in pediatric and adolescent patients.
Humira (Adalimumab) is a class of biologic drugs known as TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor) blockers. It works by blocking naturally occurring proteins that cause inflammation. However, research has shown that taking drugs like Humira can compromise the immune system and can have a devastating and even deadly effect resulting in serious infections, cancer, allergic reactions, Hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, heart failure, blood issues and certain immune reactions. Humira is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, crohn's disease, and plaque psoriasis. With 2010 sales of $6.5 billion, Humira is Abbott's flagship drug.
Perdue Kidd & Vickery is a national law firm of Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyers. The law practice is based in Houston, TX. Further information is available at http://www.HumiraJustice.com. View an educational video about Humira fungal infections.
SOURCE Perdue Kidd & Vickery
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