>> A step toward OTC birth control
>> A patch for food allergy
>> An experimental pancreatic cancer vaccine
The Med & Mic™ 05.11.23
MED NEWS blog post from Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
OTC OCPs May Be Coming Soon
An FDA advisory panel recommended 17-0 for approval of the first over-the-counter oral contraceptive in the U.S. Called Opill, the daily birth control pill contains only progestin, a safer option than the combination pills of estrogen and progestin. To be most effective, it must be taken at the same time every day. Whether consumers will use the product safely in a non-prescription setting is still a question for the FDA. Oral contraceptives are available without a prescription in Europe and Latin America. More than 75% of women of child-bearing age favor over-the-counter access. The FDA’s final decision is expected this summer. (Source: STAT News, E. Silverman, 5.10.23)
Patch for Peanut Allergies
An experimental skin patch could help peanut-allergic toddlers. The Viaskin patch, worn between the shoulder blades, delivers peanut protein through the skin. In a placebo-controlled trial of 362 children ages 1 to 3 who reacted severely to a fraction of a peanut, the ones receiving active medication were able to safely eat a few. Oral immunotherapy with the peanut protein to create a tolerance has been available since 2020. (Source: AP, L. Neergaard, 5.10.23)
Using an mRNA Vaccine against Pancreatic Cancer
Some study participants receiving an experimental personalized mRNA vaccine against pancreatic cancer have shown a favorable response. Of the 16 participants who completed the early study, eight made T-cells against their tumors. Of those who did not respond, removal of the spleen may have played a part. Larger studies will be needed. (Source: CNN, B. Goodman, 5.10.23)
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