INSIGHTS AND PERSPECTIVES

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. — Patients with Parkinson’s disease treated with an investigational drug made by Abbott saw a decrease in the amount of time their symptoms resurfaced, while the time in which their symptoms stayed under control increased, according to results of a late-stage clinical trial that Abbott announced Thursday.

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. — In a year and a half, patients taking statins to lower their cholesterol can save more than $900 when they take their medications as prescribed, according to a new study in the June 1 issue of the American Journal of Cardiology.

The study, conducted by pharmacy benefit manager Medco Health Solutions’ research subsidiary, the Medco Research Institute, found that patients who adhered to their therapies saved as much as $944 over 18 months because they experienced fewer cardiovascular problems leading to hospitalization.

PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Glass container manufacturer Owens-Illinois has launched a campaign that showcases the use of glass packaging by food and beverage brands.

CHICAGO — A new report by Mintel may shed new light on the reasons why African-Americans diet.

According to the research, while 70% of African-American adults surveyed said they limit the amount and/or kind of food they eat to boost their general wellness, 52% are eating healthier to prevent or control high blood pressure and 46% said they follow a diet to maintain their current weight.

WASHINGTON — U.S. News Media Group on Tuesday ranked the best dieting plans by health goal — identifying the best plans for weight loss, heart health and diabetes.

Building on the company’s experience evaluating hospitals, U.S. News developed five diet rankings to address a broad range of consumers' dieting goals and needs. Diets were ranked based on ratings from an independent panel of 22 experts.

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. — The total prestige lip segment rose 7% to $185.2 million in U.S. department stores, with the shining star being lip color, according to beauty market research conducted by NPD.

YONKERS, N.Y. — As evidenced by the 10% upswing in Better Business Bureau complaints over 2009, Consumer Reports will be sharing its survey around a consumer outcry of poor customer service in its July 2011 issue.

SAN DIEGO — An investigational drug improved diabetes and lipid control in patients with partial lipodystrophy, according to a new study.

Amylin Pharmaceuticals announced Saturday results of a study of metreleptin, an analog of the human hormone leptin. Results of the study were presented at the 93rd annual meeting and expo of the Endocrine Society in Boston.