Researchers report that a new drug, bepirovirsen, could revolutionize hepatitis B treatment by making the virus undetectable in patients, pending FDA approval.
CLEVELAND — Most people who contract hepatitis B clear the infection on their own. However, for more than one million Americans, the virus takes up permanent residence in the liver — raising the risk of cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death. Current treatments require lifelong antivirals and immune-boosting drugs, and none of them eliminate the cancer risk.
Now, researchers report a potential game-changer. A drug called bepirovirsen made the virus completely undetectable in about twenty percent of patients — and kept it that way nearly a year after treatment ended. No one who received a placebo saw the same result. The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, come from two studies involving more than 18,000 patients across 29 countries.
The manufacturer has applied to the Food and Drug Administration for approval. A decision is expected by late October.
Eli Lilly makes a major vaccine push
Best known in recent years for its diabetes, weight loss, cancer, and Alzheimer’s treatments, Eli Lilly is now making a significant return to vaccines. The drugmaker announced it will spend up to $4 billion to acquire three biotech companies developing vaccines for shingles, staph infections, and the Epstein-Barr virus. None of the three companies currently have products on the market — but the investment signals a major strategic shift for one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies.
Summer is coming — and so is the anxiety
School’s almost out, and if the thought of keeping kids happy and busy all summer has you stressed, you’re in good company. Cleveland Clinic Children’s says parents don’t need to feel pressure to entertain kids every minute of the day — and that boredom can actually be beneficial, helping children develop creativity and imagination.
You also don’t need a big budget. Splash pads, libraries, and backyard bonfires cost nothing. Many museums and zoos offer free or discounted admission days for families. And some screen time? That’s okay too — just set reasonable limits and encourage kids to get outside when they can.
If your anxiety doesn’t ease up over time or starts interfering with daily life, it may be worth a conversation with a mental health professional.