The Rx Recap: May 18-24

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.

Trump Executive Order Aims to Reduce Prescription Drug Prices for US Patients

This week, BioPharm International brought readers news of President Donald Trump signing a sweeping executive order aimed at slashing US prescription drug prices by aligning them with those paid by other developed nations. The order directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a system allowing Americans to purchase drugs at “most favored nation” prices—effectively bypassing intermediaries and challenging longstanding pharmaceutical pricing models. The directive also empowers government agencies to counteract foreign pricing strategies and gives drugmakers 30 days to comply or face potential regulatory action. The move sparked intense reactions across the pharmaceutical industry, with critics warning of destabilization and supporters urging a shift in pharma’s public image.

Probiotic strain from Kaneka Probiotics and AB Biotics receives “no questions” letter from FDA

Nutritional Outlook told readers that Kaneka Probiotics and AB Biotics recently received a “no-questions” letter from the FDA, officially recognizing their probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum DR7 as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in conventional foods. Backed by robust clinical research demonstrating benefits for stress reduction, cognitive function, gut health, and immune support, the strain’s FDA-backed GRAS status comes at a pivotal time. With proposed regulatory changes threatening the self-affirmation GRAS process, this recognition offers reassurance to formulators and consumers, while opening doors in the growing market for cognitive and stress-support supplements and functional foods.

Former President Joe Biden’s cancer diagnosis: What we know so far, and treatment options

In an exclusive interview with Medical Economics, Daniel Isaac, DO, MS—assistant professor of hematology/oncology at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and practicing oncologist at Karmanos Cancer Institute—shared expert insights into former President Joe Biden’s recent prostate cancer diagnosis. Isaac discusses the implications of a high-grade, metastatic prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment approaches centered around testosterone suppression, and why age and comorbidities must be factored into care decisions. He also emphasizes the essential role of primary care in early cancer detection and offers practical advice to physicians on guiding patients through screening decisions.

US FDA gives Atia Vision go-ahead to begin clinical study of the OmniVu Lens System

Atia Vision, a Shifamed portfolio company, has received FDA Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) approval to initiate a traditional feasibility study of its OmniVu Lens System—a novel dual-optic intraocular lens designed to restore dynamic range of vision after cataract surgery. Optometry Times told readers unlike current presbyopia-correcting lenses, the OmniVu features a fluid-filled, shape-changing base paired with a front optic, aiming to deliver a more natural visual experience across distances while preserving the eye’s anatomical integrity. Early international trials have shown promising results, with 100% of patients achieving 20/20 or better uncorrected distance vision and strong performance in contrast sensitivity and patient satisfaction. This IDE marks a major step forward in redefining post-cataract visual outcomes.

ODAC Votes 8-to-0 Against First-Line Talazoparib/Enzalutamide in mCRPC

The FDA’s Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) voted 8-0 against expanding the use of talazoparib (Talzenna) plus enzalutamide (Xtandi) as frontline treatment for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) in patients without HRR mutations, according to Cancer Network. Although the TALAPRO-2 trial showed improved survival outcomes, ODAC cited concerns over limited benefit in non-HRR patients, toxicities like anemia and neutropenia, and insufficient evidence on patient experience. The combination remains approved for HRR-mutant mCRPC.

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