Prescription Opioid Use Increases Risk of Invasive Pneumococcal Diseases
A new risk has been added to the list of opioid painkiller downsides. A new study finds that patients prescribed the drugs are more likely to contract invasive pneumococcal diseases such as meningitis, bacteremia, and invasive pneumonia. Here are the details.

Pharmacists Take Note: AEDs Often Prescribed With
Potential Interactors
Pharmacists might need to be especially vigilant and raise a red flag when patients on antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are prescribed medications known to interact with them. A new study finds the practice is surprisingly common. Find out more here.

How Does Natalizumab Affect Pregnancy, Fetuses for Women With MS?
Discontinuing a common multiple sclerosis (MS) drug to get pregnant increases relapse risk, but doing so strategically can minimize the effects, according to recent studies. What did the research determine about the miscarriage risk in expectant mothers with MS using natalizumab?

Higher Fracture Risk for Inhaled Corticosteroids Equally Affects Both Sexes
Previous research had raised concerns about long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids on bone mineral density in COPD patients, especially postmenopausal women. New research offers evidence of an even greater worry—increased risk of fractures in both women and men. Here is what the study team found.