HEALTH

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. — Medical supply manufacturer BD has released a syringe with a shorter needle designed to reduce discomfort in patients with diabetes who must inject insulin, the company said Tuesday.

BD announced the introduction of the ultra-fine 6mm needle, saying more than 80% of patients expressed a preference for it in trials, and a recent article published by the American Association of Diabetes Educators recognized the safety and efficacy of shorter needles.

The needle is designed to deliver insulin subcutaneously in adults and children.

COLD SPRING HARBOR, N.Y. — Cirrus Healthcare Products earlier this month announced the launch of its Hello Kitty-licensed earplugs for swimming and sound protection. The earplugs are individually printed with the cartoon characters encouraging young children to wear ear protection while swimming.

MISSION VIEJO, Calif. — FITT Highway Products on Tuesday announced the initial launch of its F.I.T.T. Energy products — three 2-oz. energy shots — through convenience stores in California and Nevada.

PRINCETON, N.J. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a treatment for Type 1 diabetes in children ages 2 to 5 years.

Drug maker Novo Nordisk announced Tuesday the additional approval of Levemir (insulin detemir [rDNA origin]). The insulin already was approved for Type 1 diabetes in older children and adults and Type 2 diabetes in adults, and the drug maker said the new FDA approval made Levemir the only basal insulin analog for use in the 2 to 5 year age group.

PHOENIX — Shamrock Farms on Monday announced the launch of Rockin' Refuel Muscle Builder — a protein beverage made with real milk designed to be low in carbs and high in protein — through GNC locations.

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. — Boehringer Ingelheim last week announced the launch of Dulcolax Laxative Tablets for Women — tablets that are "comfort-coated" to protect a woman's stomach so the active ingredient, bisacodyl, is released only in the large intestine — to correspond with National Women's Health Week.

NEW YORK — Being overweight and obesity during adolescence are associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease risk factors, especially prediabetes and diabetes, according to researchers.

HYDERABAD, India — Dr. Reddy's Labs has launched a generic version of a popular over-the-counter drug for treating heartburn, the company said Monday.

Dr. Reddy's announced the launch of lansoprazole delayed-release capsules in the 15-mg strength in pack sizes of 14, 28 and 42. The drug is a generic version of Novartis Consumer Health's Prevacid 24 HR capsule brand, which had sales of $115 million during the 12-month period ended in March, according to SymphonyIRI InfoScan Reviews.