HEALTH

A representative and a senator, both Republicans, recently introduced legislation that would repeal restrictions on health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 that prohibit the use of HSA and FSA account dollars for the purchase of over-the-counter drugs without a prescription.

ATLANTA — Coca-Cola has filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a new sugar-free beverage with added fiber, according to a report from the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug made by Johnson & Johnson for treating Type 2 diabetes, the agency said.

The FDA announced the approval of J&J subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals' Invokana (canagliflozin) tablets, designed for use with diet and exercise to improve blood-sugar control in adults with the disease.

PHOENIX — Vitamin Squeeze announced today the release of a full line of powdered water enhancers available in supermarkets nationwide.

Vitamin Squeeze Powder Water Enhancers come in eight flavors and three varieties:

• Multi-Vitamin (Fruit Punch, Acai Grape Pomegranate, Strawberry Watermelon and Lemonade);

• Energy (Black Cherry, Blood Orange and Blueberry Pomegranate Acai); and

CLEVELAND — Reese Pharmaceutical on Thursday announced the development of its Old School brand, which will feature products that have been used for generations. The first offering in the new line will be Reese’s Old School Charcoal Capsules, a dietary supplement for the relief of intestinal gas and flatulence.  

The main ingredient, activated charcoal, is a highly recognized, proven remedy that adsorbs the toxins that cause flatus and gas, reducing after-meal discomfort. 

ATLANTA — Continuing with the success of last year’s national education ad campaign, "Tips from Former Smokers," a second series of ads was launched Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

To help those with seasonal allergies cope this spring, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has put together a list of spring 
allergy facts:

AGUNA HILLS, Calif. — Itonis Pharmaceuticals on Thursday unveiled the company's initial marketing plans for an over-the-counter homeopathic product that helps relieve nausea.