Gottlieb confirmed by Senate as FDA commissioner
The US Senate confirmed Scott Gottlieb, a conservative health policy expert and venture capitalist, as commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration. Although Gottlieb has the qualifications to serve in this capacity, critics worry about his ties to the pharmaceutical industry. Gottlieb, a physician and former deputy FDA commissioner during the George W. Bush administration, has agreed to divest his holdings in about 2 dozen healthcare stocks. Via Reuters. Posted May 29, 2017.
Vitamin D ineffective for asthma, allergies
A new Canadian Study suggests that vitamin D supplements are an ineffective treatment for asthma, allergies or the skin condition eczema in children or adults. According to previous research, low vitamin D levels were linked with “atopic” conditions. Researchers decided to determine if this was true by analyzing data from more than 100,000 people. Results found no statistically significant differences in rates of asthma, allergies or eczema between people with low or normal levels of vitamin D. Via MedlinePlus. Posted May 9, 2017.
FDA updates warning on autism therapies
According to the FDA, products or treatments claiming to “cure” autism do not work. Furthermore, some of these products and treatments may carry significant health risks. Some of the so-called therapies that carry significant health risks include chelation therapies, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, detoxifying clay baths, and various other products, including raw camel milk and essential oils. The FDA advises patients to talk to their doctors before buying or using products that claim to treat a wide range of diseases. Via FDA. Posted April 12, 2017.
