Health News

Heart Diagnostic Test Recalled
A testing system commonly used to diagnose heart problems and other medical conditions has been recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Nano Clot-Buster Targets Blockage
Clot-busting drug tissue plasminogen activator ( tPA ) is the only approved treatment for dissolving blood clots common during stroke, heart attacks or pulmonary embolisms.
FDA Delays Blood Thinner Eliquis Again
United States Food and Drug Administration officials today delayed approval of Eliquis ( apixaban ) to prevent stroke or systemic embolism in patients with a common heart arrhythmia for the second time.
Experimental Drug Drops Clot Risk
An investigational drug appears to offer significant improvements for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), a recent trial found.
FDA Rejects Rivaroxaban for ACS
Following a close vote, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration panel has declined to recommend r ivaroxaban ( Xarelto ) to treat acute coronary syndrome.
Coronary Clot Aspiration Safe Long Term
After certain types of heart attacks, doctors often use stents to prop open the arteries. Another method that may be used involves removing blood clots through thrombus aspiration (TA), but studies have shown mixed long-term results.
Hearts Love Aspirin and Warfarin
Heart failure patients often take medication to lower their risk of stroke, hemorrhage or dying. A common choice is warfarin (Coumadin), though a large clinical trial has found that cheaper over-the-counter aspirin may be just as effective.
Risk High During Temporary Anticoagulant Halts
Patients with certain types of atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, are at a high risk of stroke and blood clots if they temporarily stop their blood thinning medication before surgery or permanently because of side effects.
Spicing Up Heart Health
Spicing up lunch with the addition of fiery peppers may do the heart favors. Capsaicin , a substance that adds the heat to a variety of peppers, including jalapenos and habaneros , has been found to improve heart and blood vessel health.
Genetic Test Not Necessary Before Taking Plavix
After an artery-opening procedure following a heart attack, some patients take Plavix ( clopidogrel ) to treat or prevent a blood clot. Though the drug isn't as effective in some individuals, genetic testing is not needed, a recent study suggests.