Health News
Abnormal Heart Rhythm Drug Increases Risk of Dying
A drug that aids patients with intermittent atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, increased the risk of death among patients with permanent atrial fibrillation. As a result the study was halted early.
Apixaban Fails to Reduce Blood Clots
An experimental drug designed to aid severely ill patients after hospitalization is not more effective than standard treatments for reducing the risk of blood clots, a study has confirmed.
FDA Approves Xarelto for Irregular Heartbeat
U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials have given the green light to anti-clotting drug Xarelto (rivaroxaban) to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with a common heart arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation.
Half of Arrhythmia Patients Unaware of Stroke Risk
For patients with atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, the most serious risk is their heightened susceptibility to stroke. But half of patients are unaware of the risk or choose to ignore it.
FDA Committee Backs Heart Arrhythmia Drug
In a what came as a surprise move to many, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee today voted to recommend heart arrhythmia drug rivaroxiban (Xarelto) for approval.
FDA Panel Warns Against Approval of Heart Arrhythmia Drug
U.S. Food and Drug Administration reviewers have warned against immediate approval of rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and questioned effectiveness of the medication for preventing stroke in high-risk atrial fibrillation patients.
Preventing Strokes in Arrhythmia Patients
Atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, is generally treated with a standard drug warfarin. However, a study suggests a new drug might provide the same treatment, but with a lower risk of stroke and embolism.
FDA Drug Safety Communication: Pradaxa
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting the public to important storage and handling requirements for Pradaxa ( dabigatran etexilate mesylate ) capsules.
Sometimes You Need More Than an Aspirin
According to a new report, an anti-clotting drug appears to be more effective at curbing stroke risk than aspirin in atrial fibrillation patients unable to take stronger drugs.
Don't Miss a Beat
A meta-analysis of 14 studies has led researchers to believe that even moderate alcohol consumption can contribute to atrial fibrillation, or irregular heart beat.