HEALTH

NEW YORK — In patients with Type 1 diabetes, the islet cells of the pancreas are destroyed, thus eliminating the organ’s ability to produce insulin.

But researchers at Georgetown University have found a way to recreate them using cells from the testicles, according to published reports.

WebMD reported that the researchers took the testicular tissue, extracted the stem cells and used them to create new islet cells. Injecting them into the pancreases of mice with diabetes. The researchers found that the cells began to secrete insulin.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A decision by Congress to reauthorize the Special Diabetes Program has drawn praise from the American Diabetes Association.

The program was part of the Medicare and Medicaid Extenders Act of 2010 and will ensure continuance through 2013 of the Special Diabetes Program for American Indians while providing $150 million per year in funding.

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa. — McNeil Consumer Healthcare on Thursday voluntarily recalled all lots of Rolaids Extra Strength Softchews, Rolaids Extra Strength Plus Gas Softchews and Rolaids Multisymptom Plus Antigas Softchews distributed in the United States. McNeil is taking this action following some consumer reports of foreign materials in the product, including metal and wood particles.

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Pharmacists who intervene with diabetes patients are having a clear and positive impact on clinical outcomes, a new study from Walgreens has found.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores on Friday released a ready-made pamphlet and sign for its retail members to use in communicating upcoming flexible spending account changes as they relate to over-the-counter medicines.

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Combining a diabetes drug marketed by Eli Lilly and Amylin Pharmaceuticals controls blood sugar and promotes weight loss more than insulin alone, according to a new study.

NEW YORK — Registered dietitians are the most likely to practice what they preach in eating a balanced diet, taking vitamins or other dietary supplements, exercising regularly and engaging in other wellness behaviors as compared with seven other healthcare professional populations, according to the “Life…supplemented” "Healthcare Professionals Impact Studies" released earlier this week by the Council for Responsible Nutrition.

EL PASO, Texas — Helen of Troy on Thursday announced that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire the business of Kaz for $260 million in cash, subject to certain closing working capital and other adjustments. The acquisition is expected to close by Dec. 31.