The Rx Recap: March 2-8

Welcome to this week’s roundup of the most insightful and impactful articles from the sister publications of Dermatology Times, all under One MJH Life Sciences. Our network brings together expert perspectives, clinical advancements, and industry updates to keep clinicians informed and ahead of the curve. From cutting-edge treatments to practice management strategies, here’s a look at the top stories shaping the field of medicine.

Updates in Surgical Management of the Axilla

Last week, Cancer Network brought to our attention that the surgical management of the axilla in breast cancer has evolved from routine axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) to more limited procedures like sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), driven by advances in systemic therapy and radiotherapy. Studies, including the SENOMAC trial, have confirmed the safety of omitting ALND in select patients, even those undergoing mastectomy. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has enabled SLNB use in initially node-positive patients who achieve a nodal complete response. In hormone receptor–positive, HER2-negative (HR+/HER2−) disease, ALND remains common due to low nodal response rates to NAC, though ongoing trials aim to refine surgical de-escalation strategies. Emerging data suggest SLNB may be omitted in certain postmenopausal HR+/HER2− patients without affecting treatment decisions.

Health Canada Considers Possibilities for Non-Prescription CBD Products for Humans and Animals

According to Cannabis Science and Technology, Health Canada is exploring ways to make certain CBD health products available without a prescription for both humans and animals. A new regulatory framework would require amendments to existing laws, including the Food and Drugs Act and the Cannabis Act. While previous studies have found limited evidence to support CBD’s nonprescription use for minor ailments, Health Canada is gathering industry feedback to guide potential policy changes. The Science Advisory Committee found that low doses of CBD may be safe for animals, particularly for osteoarthritis pain, but veterinarian oversight remains crucial. Public feedback on the proposal is open until June 5, 2025.

Experts Warn Public to Prepare for Potential Bird Flu Pandemic

Experts spoke to Drug Topics to warn that the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the US could reach pandemic levels if preparedness efforts fall short. While human-to-human transmission has not been reported, the virus has adapted to mammals, including dairy cattle, increasing the risk of spread. Public health experts emphasize the need for urgent pandemic preparedness, calling for scalable vaccine development, improved public communication to combat misinformation, and stress-tested response plans. Though the CDC currently assesses the public health risk as low, experts stress that proactive measures now could prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and economic disruption if the virus escalates.

Diabetes control declines among U.S. adults after years of stability

A new study in JAMA revealed to Medical Economics that while diabetes prevalence among US adults has remained stable over the past decade, glycemic control has worsened, particularly among younger adults. Analyzing NHANES data from 2013 to 2023, researchers found that the proportion of diabetes patients maintaining an HbA1c below 7.0% dropped from 54.3% to 43.5% in recent years. The decline was most pronounced in adults aged 20-44, with their average HbA1c rising significantly. Experts cite barriers to healthcare access, medication adherence, and increased stress as key factors, warning that poor glycemic control raises the risk of severe diabetes-related complications.

Phase 1 Clinical Trial Launched Examines Safety, Efficacy of Stem Cell Treatment for Parkinson Disease

Psychiatric Times brought us insights into a groundbreaking phase 1 clinical trial at Mass General Brigham is testing a novel Parkinson’s treatment using a patient’s own reprogrammed stem cells to replace damaged dopamine neurons. The approach aims to restore dopamine function and address the underlying neuronal loss. The trial, which has treated three participants so far, is tracking outcomes over 12 months to evaluate safety and effectiveness. Developed at McLean Hospital, the treatment eliminates immune rejection by using autologous induced pluripotent stem cells. If successful, researchers plan to expand to a larger trial, potentially opening new avenues for regenerative therapies in neurodegenerative diseases.

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