Letter from the Editor: Further Setbacks for Weight Loss Drugs

We all know that insulin dosing mistakes are the number one medical error, but what happens when our patients don’t take enough insulin? They often develop DKA or HHS. How often do these occur, why do they occur, what is the difference and how do you diagnose and treat them? Our current Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate from the University of Florida, Lana Kravarusic, has gone beyond the usual explanation and gives you the complete information on Hyperglycemic Emergencies.

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The obesity problem keeps getting worse and we are fighting a losing battle. Last week, an FDA advisory panel voted to recommend that the FDA either severely restrict access to the weight-loss drug sibutramine (Meridia, Abbott Laboratories) or pull the plug on it altogether due to its increased CV risk profile. Then they released a report citing safety issues with lorcaserin, an obesity drug from Arena Pharmaceuticals, which might prevent approval. This makes things even worse when you realize that the panel recommended against approving Qnexa, Vivus’s weight loss drug. The only option left may be deciding which of the over 1,200 weight loss programs available works best for each patient.

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Many of you have helped patients avoid diabetes disasters and we can all learn from them. If you have a “disaster avoided” then send it to us and if we use it you will receive a Visa Gift Card worth $50.00. Click here to let us know the details. (You can use your name or remain anonymous if you prefer.)

Announcements:

TCOYD Two Upcoming Mini Series Events in San Diego, California, September 13 and 22
The TCOYD team will be in San Diego for two upcoming Miniseries Events: there will be a special Latino Mini Series event on September 13 at the San Ysidro Health Center and a Mini Series event at the Preuss School on September 22. For more 2010 upcoming conference details, please go to TCOYD.org.

dLife.com: September 19, 7PM ET on CNBC
Topics: dLife blows apart diabetes myths and misunderstandings. Also, a look at how the online social network Facebook may actually help you improve your health. Special Guest: Janis Roszler. Sundays on CNBC at 7 PM ET, 6 PM CT, and 4 PM PT. Catch up on dLife.com.

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Dave Joffe, Editor-in-chief