>> Boosters work better with time
>> The virus formerly known as…
>> Risk of overdose with non-opioid sedatives
The Med & Mic™ 11.23.22
MED NEWS blog post from Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
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Real-world Data on Bivalent Boosters
In a report from the CDC, the bivalent boosters, which the FDA authorized in September and target the original COVID strain and Omicron variants, are effective at protecting people from severe illness with COVID. This is based on real-world data from September to November. At 1,000 testing sites, more than 360,000 people who were tested for COVID reported their vaccination status and infection history. The effectiveness increased with length of time from the primary series, from 30% at two months to 56% at eight months. Effectiveness was slightly lower for people 50 and older, at 28% and 48%. (Source: TIME, A. Park, 11.23.22)
New Name for Monkeypox
The World Health Organization is renaming monkeypox MPOX. This is an effort to destigmatize the virus. The virus was dubbed monkeypox in 1958 when it was discovered. Scientists argue that the name is imprecise, plays into racist stereotypes about Africa, and hampers a global response. The U.S. has recorded nearly 30,000 infections during the outbreak. (Source: Politico, A. Cancryn, 11.22.22)
Young Adults with Sleep Issues Risk Benzodiazepine Overdose
Compared to other medications for sleep disorders, the overdose risk for young adults is higher with benzodiazepines, a class of tranquilizers. In a study of more than 23,000 young adults who started taking these drugs, the risk of overdose was 44% higher at six months. The risk was highest for people new to taking benzodiazepines who also had a recent opioid prescription. The researchers urge non-benzodiazepine medicines and nonpharmacologic treatments. (Source: MedPage Today, K. Monaco, 11.22.22)
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.