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In the News: Pharmacy Benefit Managers and Your Prescription Costs

PBM’s are supposed to lower prescription costs; they often do the opposite.

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News you should know about:

Pharmacy Benefit Managers and their secretive role in your prescription costs:

A new investigative report by the NYT shows that an mostly secretive group of companies called Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM’s), and their subsidiaries called Group Purchasing Organizations (GPO’s) often end up leading to higher prescription drug prices for consumers, despite their stated role being to actually lower prescription costs. Almost all of these companies are owned by either CVS health, UnitedHealth, or Cigna. They oftentimes push name brand prescriptions which allow them to profit more off their percentages, even while cheaper generics are available. The NIH raised similar concerns over PBM’s in a report last year.

These prescription price concerns relating to PBM’s have been echoed time and again with primary issues being that the consolidation of PBM’s in the industry incentivize them to charge more, while they also purportedly use manufacturer drug rebates to increase their profit, instead of passing on those rebates to the consumer.

A recent bill introduced to reform PBM’s influence on prices in the prescription market failed to gain traction in congress. With the organization Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency going so far as to state that:

 

| “Every day that passes without PBM reform is a day a community in America risks losing access to a pharmacy…” |

 

Ensuring your own access to your prescriptions has never been of greater importance. While we hope congress can eventually reign in prescription prices, we can’t count on it. We do anticipate further price hikes later this year do to the election and the state of the economy. Get your own supply of emergency medications today with a Jase Case.

 

 

Bird Flu concerns loom with a lack of testing and data to act upon.

Experts warn bird-flu could be another pandemic if preventative measures aren’t taken. Testing needs to increase, because it is currently unknown how widespread the disease is – especially among poultry and dairy farm workers. The same thing happened in the early stages of the Covid pandemic – an initial lack of testing left health officials in the dark, resulting in the U.S. being many steps behind in mitigating the risk to the public.

This current strain of the H5N1 bird flu is also behaving differently than the strains of years past, spreading between animals it does not normally infect. This recent leap of the virus from poultry to dairy cows has been called “a never-before-seen vector for transmission“.

While the threat to humans is still classified as low risk, the CDC is working with public health officials and local clinicians to assess risk, implement monitoring and more testing.

But alarm bells are being rung, as former directer of the CDC, Dr. Robert Redfield recently stated in an interview that it is not a matter of if, but when we have a bird flu pandemic.

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Early administration of antiviral medication, such as Oseltamivir, is the most effective course of treatment for strains of influenzas including the avian influenza (bird flu). This means the earlier you treat a viral influenza infection the better. For those wanting to stay ahead of this potential health threat, we recommend adding Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) to your Jase Case today, as it will only be harder to get after an outbreak has occurred.

 

In other prescription related news:

• Wildfires in Ruidoso NM – that are finally beginning to be contained – have led to the evacuation of many residents, and the closing or destruction of businesses in the town. This has affected access to pharmacies, prompting local officials to step in with emergency procedures to ensure that evacuated residents have access to their prescription medications.

• As drug shortages continue to affect patient care worldwide, some antibiotic prescriptions are being withheld to hospitals only. The pediatric version of Azithromycin is the latest medication to be affected by short supply, and face such restriction.

 

As highlighted above, there are so many forces at play affecting whether or not you can get access to the prescriptions that could save your life. Choose Jase to get your own supply of emergency or daily prescriptions and use code READY20 for $20 off your order.

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Ivermectin: Just the Facts

Let’s clear the air about this maligned medication.

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The Ivermectin Imbroglio

Ivermectin has stirred many conversations – some very heated, and very public – in the past few years, but before 2020 many of you might not have even heard of the drug before.

With all the hubbub surrounding this medication in recent years, and much more recently, let’s set the record straight on just what it is that we are all talking about.

Opinions withheld, here are just some facts.

 

| Ivermectin has been FDA approved for human use since 1996 |

 

The Basics:

Ivermectin is a medication with a long-standing history of effectiveness in treating a variety of parasitic infections. First commercialized in 1981 for use in animals, it was later approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human use in 1996. Ivermectin has been a critical tool in combating diseases caused by parasitic worms, such as onchocerciasis (river blindness) and lymphatic filariasis. It is also commonly used to treat intestinal strongyloidiasis and external parasites like scabies and head lice.

The FDA’s approval of ivermectin highlights its safety and efficacy as it could not receive this approval without extensive testing. Over the years, it has been included in numerous health programs worldwide, even sometimes distributed for free in mass drug administration campaigns to control parasitic diseases in endemic areas. Its broad spectrum of activity against various parasites have made it an indispensable drug in the arsenal against parasitic diseases.

Even the National Library of Medicine via the NIH has a paper written touting the effectiveness of Ivermectin in treating various conditions in humans.

Furthermore this medication has been a cornerstone in global health initiatives, especially in tropical regions where parasitic infections are prevalent. For decades, ivermectin has played a crucial role in reducing the burden of these diseases, leading to significant improvements in public health outcomes.

 

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Ivermectin in the News:

Ivermectin was all over the headlines back during the pandemic. Lauded by some as a miracle pill, and derided by others as something entirely bogus. We’re not going to rehash all of that, but it is somewhat telling that recently it has made a different kind of headline:

 

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Availability and Price Volatility:

Often when Ivermectin is making these headlines people will rush to get some, impacting scarcity and driving up prices. And not all suppliers offer the same Ivermectin either! Some of them are compounded formulas with only a 6 month shelf life.

Our high quality, shelf-stable Ivermectin is back in stock, and we currently have it on sale for our lowest price ever! Add it to your Jase Case today, while we have it available at this price.

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Medication Spotlight: Irbesartan

The high stakes of high blood pressure.

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What is Irbesartan?

Irbesartan is a medication belonging to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It’s primarily prescribed for two purposes:

 

  • Lowering high blood pressure (hypertension): Irbesartan works by blocking the action of a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. This relaxation of blood vessels allows blood to flow more easily, consequently lowering blood pressure and reducing the strain on the heart.
  • Protecting kidneys in diabetic patients: In patients with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure can damage the kidneys. Irbesartan helps protect kidney function by lowering blood pressure and reducing the amount of protein leaking from the kidneys.

 

| About 116 million people in the U.S. – almost half of all adults – suffer from high blood pressure according to Yale Medicine|

 

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Irbesartan is generally well-tolerated and can be an effective way to manage high blood pressure, particularly for those who cannot take ACE inhibitors, another common blood pressure medication class. However, it’s important to note that this medication should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision, as they can determine the appropriate dosage and monitor for any potential side effects.

For those prescribed Irbesartan, skipping doses or running out can be life threatening.

As just one of over a hundred chronic medications available in a Jase Daily kit, Irbesartan is something you should never have to worry about running out of. Get up to a year’s supply of ALL of your prescriptions for chronic conditions with a Jase Daily kit.

…speaking of Jase Daily, we just added several new medications to expand our list of chronic conditions treated:

  1. Synthroid – for hypothyroidism
  2. Corlanor – for heart failure
  3. Pantoprazole – for stomach ulcers, chronic heartburn and acid reflux

Check here to see if your chronic meds are available in Jase Daily

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Food Poisoning: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

With the right measures taken, this very common illness can also be very preventable.

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With Father’s Day fast approaching and family meals being planned, food poisoning may be the last thing you want to think about. Following the food safety tips below will ensure everyone remembers your meal for the right reasons.

Food poisoning is a miserable experience that strikes millions each year, and many of us know it all too well. Caused by eating contaminated food or drinks tainted with harmful toxins, bacteria, viruses, or parasites, it’s mindlessly easy to get, but also largely preventable with the right precautions in place.

Read on to learn about what causes food poisoning, how to prevent it, and ways to treat it.

 

What makes us sick?

The culprits behind food poisoning are varied. Common bacterial offenders include salmonella, E. coli, and campylobacter. These can cause nasty cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Antibiotics may be prescribed for severe bacterial infections, but often rest and fluids are the best course of action.

Parasites like Giardia can also wreak havoc, causing similar symptoms along with bloating and gas. Anti-parasitic medication is typically needed to eradicate these unwelcome guests.

 

| According to the CDC: Each year 48 million people get sick from food poisoning, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 cases are fatal |

 

Prevention is Key

Follow these food safety tips and prevent getting sick in the first place!

  • Safe Handling: Practice proper hygiene in the kitchen. Wash hands thoroughly before handling food, and clean surfaces regularly.
  • Cook it Right: Ensure meats reach proper internal temperatures to kill bacteria. Use a food thermometer for accurate readings.
  • Chilling Out: Refrigerate leftovers promptly and avoid reheating food multiple times.
  • Beware BBQ’s and Buffets: Be cautious at buffets, potlucks and BBQ’s, especially during hot weather, as food can spoil more quickly.
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Treatments for Food Poisoning

Treatment for food poisoning depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms:

  • Bacterial Infections: Mild bacterial food poisoning often resolves without specific treatment. For severe cases, antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or azithromycin may be prescribed.
  • Viral Infections: There is no specific treatment for viral food poisoning; supportive care, such as hydration and rest, is essential.
  • Parasitic Infections: Antiparasitic medications, such as metronidazole or nitazoxanide, are used to treat parasitic infections.

In all cases, maintaining hydration is crucial, as food poisoning often causes significant fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea.

 

Increased Risk in the Summer and During Travel

The risk of food poisoning is always present, but the warmer weather, or traveling to new destinations can increase the odds of encountering the dreaded belly rumble.

 ✈️ Food poisoning is more likely when traveling because your body is not used to the local bacteria in the food and water, potentially exposing you to pathogens that are not common back home. This is especially true when traveling to regions with different sanitation standards. Drinking bottled water, avoiding raw foods, and eating at reputable establishments can help reduce this risk.

☀️ Bacteria-based food poisoning is more prevalent in the summertime due to warmer temperatures, which promote bacterial growth. Foods left out at picnics, barbecues, or buffets can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria – highlighted recently by the state of Oregon.

 

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| This past week the FDA issued a warning, saying to take extra precautions while eating shellfish – particularly oysters and clams – after 21 people have been sickened in the northwest in the past month. |

Fortunately, most of the time passing the food, rehydrating, and resting are enough to recover. OTC medications like Loperamide (Immodium), and Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help alleviate the symptoms during your recovery.

In more serious cases antibiotics such as Azithromycin, and Ciprofloxacin (both come in every Jase Case) can be used for food poisoning stemming from bacteria.

When it comes to food poisoning, be vigilant! Clean your cooking surfaces, wash your hands, and know your food sources! Always remember, when in doubt, throw it out. If food seems off, don’t eat it!

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Does Your Sore Throat Need an Antibiotic?

Antibiotics don’t kill viruses; they kill bacteria, mold, or parasites.

They are lifesaving drugs when the need arises. However, overuse has led to antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria that used to be effective with an appropriate antibiotic. Nowadays, we are facing a crisis of antibiotic resistance, leading many healthcare providers to use caution when prescribing antibiotics.

Some bacteria and mold have mutated and developed immunity to common antibiotics, leaving healthcare providers with fewer options. However, with judicious use, there are still several effective antibiotics available. Knowing when to use them and when to treat symptoms is essential.

This is especially true when dealing with a sore throat. While nothing can replace a healthcare provider visit and lab testing, some telltale signs can help determine if you need an antibiotic to treat your sore throat.

There may be a time soon, given all the worldwide unrest you won’t be able to visit your healthcare provider- staff shortage, cyber-attacks on their laboratory and computer systems, medical supply shortage (throat swabs, etc.).

Example of a viral infection leading to a bacterial infection

A viral infection can weaken the immune system and allow pathogenic, opportunistic bacteria to grow. This is called a secondary or coinfection infection. For example, a case of influenza (viral) can lead to mycoplasma pneumonia (bacterial) or even strep throat.

How can you tell the difference if you are without medical care? If medical systems and testing are not available, you must rely on exposure, symptoms, and susceptibility to infection to guide you.

To begin with, let’s look at the difference between a bacterial, fungal, and viral infection.

Bacterial Infection

Bacteria are single-cell organisms that can live in diverse (many different) environments- in soil, air, almost anywhere. (see below) Most are not disease-causing.

Disease-causing bacteria are called pathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria invade and reside in the host (human or animal) and can cause illness.

Common bacterial infections include:

  • Strep throat (causes sore throat)
  • Cellulitis (commonly caused by group B strep)
  • Lyme disease (transmitted via tick bite)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Bacterial meningitis (caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Group B Streptococcus, Neisseria meningitis, Haemophilus influenzae, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli)
  • Staphylococcus aureus – the most common form of healthcare facility-related infections

Less common but a public health threat is Mycobacterium tuberculosis (tuberculosis or TB).

Fungal Infection

Fungus are eukaryotic (with a nucleus) organisms that are either single cells, such as yeast, or molds, which are a collection of cells that form long, thin, hairlike threads called hyphae. Just like bacterial infections, they can live almost anywhere: air, surfaces, etc.(see below)

Symptoms of strep throat

(need antibiotics)

  • Fever
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Sore throat that can start very quickly and may look red
  • Red and swollen tonsils
  • White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils
  • Tiny, red spots on the roof of the mouth, called petechiae
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
  • Strep throat can lead to rheumatic fever

Note: It is crucial to take an entire course of antibiotics, stay home from work or school until you no longer have a fever, AND have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours.

The following symptoms suggest a virus is causing the illness instead of strep throat:

  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Hoarseness (changes in your voice that make it sound breathy, raspy, or strained)
  • Conjunctivitis (also called pink eye)

If a virus is the cause of a sore throat, antibiotics will not help.

(need antibiotics)

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast (a type of fungus) called Candida. Candida usually lives on the skin and inside the body, in places such as the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems. Candida can multiply and cause an infection if the environment inside the mouth, throat, or esophagus changes in a way that encourages fungal growth.

Candidiasis in the mouth and throat:

  • White patches on the inner cheeks, tongue, roof of the mouth, and throat 
  • Redness or soreness
  • Pain while eating or swallowing
  • Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth

You are at risk for developing Candida if you:

  • Wear dentures
  • Have diabetes
  • Have cancer
  • Have HIV/AIDS
  • Take antibiotics or corticosteroids, including inhaled corticosteroids
  • Take medications that cause dry mouth
  • Smoke

Treatment

Candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus is treated with antifungal medicine. The treatment for mild to moderate infections in the mouth or throat is usually an antifungal medicine applied to the inside of the mouth for 7 to 14 days. These medications include clotrimazole, miconazole, or nystatin. The most common treatment for severe infections is fluconazole (an antifungal medication) taken by mouth or vein.

  • Candidiasis- throat, mouth (causes sore throat)
  • Candidiasis-vaginal can lead to urinary tract infection
  • Nail fungus
  • Ringworm
  • Aspergillosis
  • Blastomycosis
  • Candida Aureus (C.aureus)

Viral Infection

Viruses are tiny (much smaller than bacteria) parasitic microorganisms that feed off living cells or tissue in the body. Viruses can quickly spread from one person to another through the same routes as bacteria and fungi. (see below)

Common viral infections include:

  • Influenza (can cause sore throat)
  • Common cold (can cause sore throat)
  • Covid 19 (can cause sore throat)
  • RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) (can cause sore throat)
  • Hepatitis
  • Viral pneumonia (can impair the immune system, leading to bacterial infection)
  • Viral meningitis
  • Chickenpox

How bacteria, mold, and viruses are transmitted (how they infect the body)

  • Droplets or aerosol (cough or sneeze)
  • Body fluids (infected wound -bacterial or sexual contact- both bacterial and viral)
  • Tick bites
  • Bug bites
  • Contact with contaminated surfaces (faucets, sharing utensils or cups, towels or personal items)
  • Eating or drinking contaminated food or water
  • Dust or decaying matter
  • Nosocomial (hospital origin)

A robust immune system can prevent bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Susceptible people are those being treated for cancer, the very young, the elderly, diabetics, and anyone with impaired immune function.

How to tell if your sore throat needs an antibiotic.

Most sore throats are caused by a virus, such as a cold or flu, and do not require an antibiotic—other common causes of a sore throat- strep throat and oral candidiasis (thrush), require antibiotics.

Symptoms and Treatment of Sore Throats

The following is only a guideline in the event there is no medical care available. In addition, consult your healthcare provider for guidance and advice.

According to the CDC, most sore throats, except strep throat and candidiasis, do not need antibiotics.

Sore throat pain relief 

  • Suck on ice chips, popsicles, or lozenges (do not give lozenges to children younger than 4 years).
  • Use a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer.
  • Gargle with salt water.
  • Drink warm beverages and plenty of fluids.
  • Use honey to relieve cough for adults and children at least 1 year or older.
  • Over-the-counter symptom and pain relievers.

Warm/hot water with honey, ginger, and lemon drink can reduce phlegm and soothe the throat lining. In addition, ginger has proven antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

jase case open

The Jase Case with add-ons have you covered, with antibiotics and pain relievers for sore throats and many other types of infections.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

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Keeping you informed and safe.

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Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!