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The UK government is launching trials to assess the impact of weight-loss drugs, particularly Mounjaro, on obesity-related health issues and employment. Health Secretary Wes Streeting suggests these treatments could alleviate NHS pressures and boost the economy by helping unemployed individuals return to work. Experts warn of overwhelming demand on NHS services.
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Recent events have highlighted significant issues in drug-related crime and police misconduct in the UK. A former detective was convicted for stealing cocaine, while new synthetic opioids pose emerging health risks. Additionally, a pharmacy mishap involved mislabeling testosterone, raising concerns about patient safety.
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The Federal Trade Commission has filed a lawsuit against three major pharmacy benefit managers—CVS Caremark, Cigna's Express Scripts, and UnitedHealth's OptumRx—accusing them of anticompetitive practices that inflate insulin prices for patients. The lawsuit aims to address the rising costs of essential medications for millions of Americans.
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The FDA has approved Cobenfy, a novel antipsychotic drug from Bristol Myers Squibb, which targets the cholinergic neurotransmitter system. This approval marks a significant advancement in schizophrenia treatment, potentially improving patient quality of life while addressing limitations of existing medications. Concerns about long-term efficacy and side effects remain.
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As GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy gain popularity for weight loss, their high costs hinder access for many patients. Despite their effectiveness, insurance coverage is declining, forcing patients to seek unregulated alternatives. Experts warn of the risks associated with compounded drugs and call for better access and pricing reforms.
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GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has reached a $2.2 billion settlement to resolve litigation from approximately 80,000 claimants in the U.S. who alleged that its heartburn drug Zantac caused cancer. The settlement covers 93% of pending cases and does not involve an admission of liability by GSK.