Shortages of cancer drugs in the United States are forcing doctors to ration life-saving treatments

A critical shortage of cancer therapies is forcing thousands of patients to lose life-saving treatments, several major health organizations have warned. There are 14 cancer drugs listed in shortage by US regulators, including the generic chemotherapy drugs cisplatin and carboplatin, which are first-line treatments for many common types of cancer. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer at the American Society of Clinical Oncology, said hospitals were already rationing some drugs and doctors were being forced to make difficult decisions about delaying chemotherapy treatment or using replacement medicines, which may not be…

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Gastroenterologists recommend 2 new treatments for chronic constipation

Key points Gastrointestinal health experts have added two new options to their list of recommended treatments for chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults: magnesium oxide and senna. Magnesium oxide and senna are both available over the counter (OTC). Eating plenty of high-fiber foods, drinking lots of water, and getting more exercise can also help with constipation. However, if you’ve tried lifestyle changes but are still constipated, experts recommend contacting your doctor about over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives or prescription drugs. The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA)…

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