New COVID-19 Therapies Join ACTIV-2 Trial
Promising new therapies have been added to the COVID-19 outpatient treatment study, ACTIV-2. The additional agents include:
- a combination of two monoclonal antibodies (AZD8895 and AZD1061) from AstraZeneca studied as an infusion administered over 15 minutes and an intramuscular injection;
- a nebulized formulation of beta interferon (SNG001) from Synairgen that will be studied as an inhalant; and,
- an orally administered serine protease inhibitor (Camostat) from Sagent Pharmaceuticals that inhibits viral entry by blocking a host cell protease.
All of the new agents will be evaluated in phase 2 trials involving non-hospitalized adults with COVID-19. ACTIV-2 is sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the NIH. Read More
New Device Reduces Snoring, Mild OSA
The FDA approved a new device that delivers electrical muscle stimulation through a mouthpiece that sits around the tongue to help reduce snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is the first device used during the daytime for snoring and OSA. In a recent study conducted in 115 snorers, including 48 with mild OSA, the eXciteOSA device from Signifier Medical Technologies, LLC. reduced the amount of time spent snoring in 87 patients and reduced the average apnea-hypopnea index by 48% in the patients with OSA. According to Malvina Eydelman, MD, director of the Office of Ophthalmic, Anesthesia, Respiratory, ENT and Dental Devices in the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, the FDA authorization “offers a new option for the thousands of individuals who experience snoring or mild sleep apnea.” Read More
Wearable ECG Monitoring Device for Use with Six Minute Walk Test
A new wearable ECG monitoring device from VivaLNK aims to wirelessly capture ECG and heart rate during the six minute walk test. According to the company, the wireless monitoring solution is more comfortable for the patient and provides the ECG’s stability during movement. A new mobile app works with the device. So far, the wearable has been used in clinical studies with as many as 80 patients. Read More
PFF to Stream 11th Annual Broadway Belts for PFF! On Mar. 12
On Friday, Mar. 12, the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) will be hosting its 11th annual Broadway Belts for PFF! This year, the free event will be live-streamed on the PFF’s YouTube and Facebook channels. Award-winning Broadway actress Julie Halson, who lost her husband to pulmonary fibrosis, along with Jim Caruso, will host the event. The event will feature some of Broadway’s biggest stars. “This year, we have the unique opportunity to open one of our most anticipated fundraising events to everyone,” says William T. Schmidt, PFF president, and CEO. “Through Broadway Belts for PFF!, we are shining a bright spotlight on the crucial need to help all impacted by this disease.” Read More
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Debbie Bunch is an AARC contributor who writes feature articles, news stories, and other content for Newsroom, the AARC website, and associated emailed newsletters. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, traveling, photography, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Connect with Debbie by email or on AARConnect or LinkedIn.
