NICU Admissions on The Rise
The article highlights a concerning trend: an increase in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admissions across the United States. This rise is attributed to several factors, including higher rates of preterm births, maternal health complications, and socioeconomic disparities affecting access to prenatal care. Healthcare professionals emphasize the need for enhanced prenatal care, early intervention programs, and equitable healthcare access to address and mitigate the factors contributing to the growing number of NICU admissions. Full Access: Becker’s Hospital Review
Oral Contraceptives and The Risk of Asthma Attacks: A Population-Based Cohort Study
A recent population-based cohort study has identified a potential link between the use of progesterone-only oral contraceptives (commonly known as the “mini pill”) and an increased risk of asthma attacks in women under the age of 35. The study found that those using the mini pill had a 39% higher risk of experiencing asthma attacks compared to non-users. In contrast, no significant risk increase was observed among users of combined oral contraceptives containing both estrogen and progesterone. The findings suggest that hormonal contraceptive choice may influence asthma severity in younger women, underscoring the need for further research to inform clinical guidelines. Full Access: ERS
Novel Meloxicam Formulation Reduces Postop Pain in Two Trials
A novel fast-acting formulation of meloxicam, MR-107A-02, has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing postoperative pain in two phase 3 clinical trials. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies compared MR-107A-02 to tramadol and placebo. Results indicated that MR-107A-02 not only provided superior pain relief over a 48-hour period but also led to a reduction in opioid consumption throughout the treatment duration. These findings suggest that MR-107A-02 could serve as an effective non-opioid alternative for managing moderate to severe acute postoperative pain. Full Access: Medical Professionals Reference
Neffy 1 mg Now Available for Anaphylaxis in Children Aged 4 Years and Up
RS Pharmaceuticals has announced that Neffy® 1 mg, an epinephrine nasal spray, is now approved for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis in pediatric patients aged 4 years and older who weigh between 15 and 30 kg (approximately 33 to 66 lbs). This approval expands the availability of Neffy, which was previously approved only for patients weighing 30 kg or more. The 1 mg dose is expected to be available in U.S. pharmacies by the end of May 2025, priced similarly to the 2 mg version. Full Access: Contemporary Pediatrics