The Rx Recap: March 15-20

Welcome to this week’s roundup of the most insightful and impactful articles from the sister publications of Dermatology Times, all under One MJH Life Sciences. Our network brings together expert perspectives, clinical advancements, and industry updates to keep clinicians informed and ahead of the curve. From cutting-edge treatments to practice management strategies, here’s a look at the top stories shaping the field of medicine.

FDA Grants Fast Track Designation to FG001 for High-Grade Glioma Surgery

Reported by Cancer Network, the FDA has granted fast track designation to FG001, a fluorescent imaging agent targeting uPAR, to guide intraoperative resection of high-grade glioma (HGG), following FDA clearance of its IND in February 2026. Developed by FluoGuide, FG001 is entering a US-based phase 2 registration trial, with first patient enrollment expected in Q2 2026. Fast track status allows more frequent FDA interactions, potential accelerated approval, and rolling submission, though clinical efficacy remains unproven. FG001 is designed to enhance real-time tumor visualization during surgery, building on precedents like 5-ALA, with the goal of improving surgical precision in glioblastoma—a cancer with median survival of ~14 months. The agent is also being explored in head and neck and lung cancers due to broad uPAR expression.

Patient-Pharmacist Communication Gaps Hinder Medication Understanding and Adherence

A study highlighted by Drug Topics found a significant gap between what pharmacists communicate and what patients actually retain during medication counseling. In a Texas-based study of 87 pharmacist-patient pairs, both groups agreed that key topics like dosing were discussed, but aligned on the main takeaway only 43% of the time—raising concerns for medication safety and adherence. Similar findings from international research point to health literacy as a major factor, with most patients struggling to process complex information. Experts recommend shifting from one-way counseling to interactive strategies like teach-back, motivational interviewing, and tailored communication to ensure patients understand and and remember critical instructions, ultimately improving outcomes.

Why Weight Loss Isn’t Just About Willpower

According to The Educated Patient, weight management is not about willpower but biology, as obesity is a chronic disease influenced by genetics, hormones, environment, and lifestyle. Caissa Troutman, MD, explains that “metabolic adaptation” often drives weight regain after loss—through increased hunger hormones and reduced calorie burning—making it a physiological response rather than personal failure. She emphasizes that sustainable, personalized nutrition (such as approaches like the Mediterranean diet) and improving metabolic health are key, especially for midlife women facing hormonal changes and insulin resistance. Overall, long-term success comes from realistic, individualized strategies that support overall metabolic health rather than quick fixes.

Economics of the US Generics Market: Why the System Is Failing and How to Fix It

According to Pharmaceutical Commerce, although generic drugs make up about 90% of US prescriptions, their low pricing has created an unsustainable market that is contributing to persistent drug shortages. Intense price competition has driven some generics below profitable levels, discouraging manufacturers, delaying product launches, and pushing companies toward more lucrative complex drugs. At the same time, supply chains are fragile due to reliance on overseas production, and pharmacy benefit manager practices—highlighted by the Federal Trade Commission—can further increase patient costs. The result is widespread shortages, higher hospital burdens, and care delays. Experts argue that stabilizing the system will require policy changes that reward supply reliability, investment in domestic manufacturing, and reforms to pricing and procurement practices.

Lawmakers Introduce PrEP Access and Coverage Act to Expand HIV Prevention Nationwide

According to Contagion Live, the proposed “PrEP Access and Coverage Act of 2026” aims to expand HIV prevention by removing financial and access barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Introduced by lawmakers including Tina Smith and Adam Schiff, the bill would require insurers to cover all PrEP options—including long-acting therapies—without copays or prior authorization. It also proposes a national grant program to improve access for uninsured and underserved populations, along with stronger federal oversight and anti-discrimination protections. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a more equitable, nationwide approach to HIV prevention.

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