Mixed Bag

FDA Approves Macitentan for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
The FDA has approved macitentan (Opsumit), a dual endothelin receptor antagonist, for pulmonary arterial hypertension. In a clinical trial, nearly 750 participants were randomized to take macitentan or placebo for roughly 2 years. Macitentan delayed disease progression, defined as a decline in exercise ability, worsening symptoms, or the need for more medication. Journal Watch

Fatal cholesterol disease overlooked and untreated
Hereditary high blood cholesterol leads to premature heart disease. It is overlooked and untreated virtually worldwide -- including in Europe. This is a major problem as the disease is dangerous for health. However, this disease is easy to diagnose and treat, according to the conclusion of a consensus report from the European Atherosclerosis Society. The report was recently published in the recognised medical journal European Heart Journal. Eurekalert!

Paramedics' visits with seniors result in less EMS calls and saves on emergency room trips
As a pilot, two paramedics provided weekly drop-in sessions to review healthy lifestyles, measure blood pressure and assess diabetes risk and risk of falls. Preliminary data shows a trend of up to 32 per cent reduction in EMS calls from the single building in which the program was offered, since the sessions began. Eurekalert!

Study compares treatment options for nose bleeds
Treatment for epistaxis is highly variable, with similar outcomes seen for embolization and arterial ligation, but increased costs with embolization, according to a study published online Oct. 17 in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. MedicalXpress

Controlling the triggers of age-related inflammation could extend 'healthspan'
Published as the cover article in the October issue of Cell Metabolism, the study found that immune sensor Nlrp3 inflammasome is a common trigger of this inflammation-driven loss of function that manifests itself in insulin-resistance, bone loss, frailty, and cognitive decline in aging. Eurekalert!