Archive for July 24, 2005

FDA Warns of Unapproved Antipsychotic Use By Elderly

The Food and Drug Administration has issued a new warning detailing a higher risk of death among older people who are taking antipsychotic drugs such as Zyprexa and Clozaril to treat dementia.

European Medicines Agency recommends continued suspension of Bextra

On June 27, 2005, the European Union's drug agency recommended not lifting a suspension on Bextra, a painkilling drug produced by Pfizer, Inc.

Drug Stores Sued for Racial Discrimination

Black employees in seven states are accusing Walgreen Co. drug stores of systematically segregating and denying job promotions to ethnic minorities, according to a recent federal lawsuit.

Wrongful Death Suit against Taser Dismissed

A federal court in California dismissed a wrongful death lawsuit against Taser International Inc. over its stun guns, the company said.

U.S. Supreme Court of Appeals Upholds Ban on Noisy Jets in Naples

The United States Supreme Court of Appeals upheld a ban on noisy jets over the skies of Naples.

HealthNet of California Pays $222.2 Million in Damages to Texas Creditors

A Baton Rouge jury awarded $222.2 million in damages to Texas creditors trying to get the bills paid after HealthNet of California was found liable for creating problems by engaging in deceptive practices.

Naturally-Occurring Asbestos Linked to Cancer

Researchers at the University of California at Davis recently released a study that indicates that naturally-occurring asbestos deposits can cause mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that afflicts the lining of the lungs.

Immigration Officers Pose as OSHA Officials to Entrap Immigrant Workers

In a scam operation set up by the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, ICE officers posed as safety instructors to round up documented and undocumented construction workers in North Carolina.

Study: Hormone Therapy's Effects Are Not Lasting

Results of a new study show that women taking hormone therapy pills such as Prempro may experience a renewal of menopausal symptoms, as well as increased risk of heart attacks and breast cancer.

FDA Stops Sale of Painkiller Palladone

Only ten months after its approval, the sale of Palladone has been halted by the Food and Drug Administration amid fears of possible overdose when used in conjunction with alcohol.

Gas Explosion Verdict Appealed

Oklahoma energy company, ONEOK, found libel for damages caused by the 2001 Hutchinson gas explosions, has appealed the verdict that awarded Reno County property owners $5 million for damages plus $2.6 million in legal fees.

Homeowners' insurance pays for DUI death

The family of a man killed by an underage drunk driver has been awarded $80,000, to be covered by the insurance policy of a couple who threw a party where the teen drank before the accident.