All Reporting
Bellwether Trials: What You Need to Know
James Parker · April 8, 2021
MedTruth's guide to bellwether trials, including their importance and notable examples.
Legal DevelopmentsTwo Brands of Mesh Linked to Greater Risk of Breast Surgery Complications
Carah Wertheimer · April 7, 2021
According to the FDA, two brands of surgical mesh used in breast reconstruction surgery may be linked to a higher risk of complications.
Women's HealthNew Free and Expanded Access to Your Medical Records Starts This Month
Carah Wertheimer · April 2, 2021
The law requires all health care organizations to create online portals where patients can access
NewsNursing Home Ratings Meaningless, New York Times Investigation Finds
Carah Wertheimer · April 1, 2021
A recent New York Times investigation of the nation’s popular five-star nursing home rating system found that the system is “broken,” offering at best a “distorted” picture of nursing home quality.
Research + FindingsMulti-Million Dollar Transvaginal Mesh Settlement with 47 States
MedTruth Editors · March 31, 2021
Boston Scientific has agreed to settle transvaginal mesh claims from 47 states and the District of Columbia for $188.7 million. Last week’s settlement concludes a series of lawsuits accusing Boston Scientific of violating consumer protection laws by misrepresenting the safety and effectiveness of their transvaginal mesh products.
Legal DevelopmentsBaby Food Companies Sued for Toxic Heavy Metal Contamination
James Parker · March 23, 2021
A group of parents has requested that the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidate their cases in federal district court.
Legal DevelopmentsNew Guide Teaches Consumers How to Verify FDA Approved Medical Products
MedTruth Editors · March 18, 2021
Following an increase in fake “FDA Registration Certificates,” the FDA published an online consumer guide to medical device approval.
FDA RegulationParagard Video Ad Fails to Mention Risks, FDA Warns Manufacturer
Carah Wertheimer · March 12, 2021
The FDA has warned Paragard IUD manufacturer CooperSurgical for running ads that fail to disclose Paragard’s safety risks.
Women's HealthFDA Acts to Protect Consumers from Fake "FDA Certified" Health Care Products
James Parker · March 9, 2021
The FDA sent letters to 25 printing firms to stop producing fake “FDA registration certificates.”
FDA RegulationMedical Research Peer Review Process: What You Need to Know
MedTruth Editors · March 5, 2021
The medical peer review process is a crucial aspect of research. Biases and limitations of the process may lead to misleading or inaccurate studies.
Research + FindingsGet our reporting in your inbox
Elmiron Vision Problems May Start Years After Stopping the Drug
Risa Kerslake · March 3, 2021
This is the first report of “delayed onset” pigmentary maculopathy in which symptoms first appeared years after the patient stopped taking the drug.
Research + FindingsBreast Implant Dangers: Arizona Bill Would Improve Patient Information
MedTruth Editors · February 25, 2021
A bill intended to increase patient awareness of the dangers of breast implants was preliminarily approved in January.
Women's HealthClass Action Lawsuits: What You Need to Know
James Parker · February 24, 2021
MedTruth's guide to class action lawsuits, from the basics to how the process works.
Legal DevelopmentsMultidistrict Litigation: What You Need to Know
MedTruth Editors · February 5, 2021
A guide to multidistrict litigation, from the basics to the reasoning behind consolidating lawsuits.
Legal DevelopmentsUp to $4 Billion Earmarked for PFAS Lawsuits
Kristen Fischer · February 3, 2021
Three companies have made a $4 billion deal to settle potential lawsuits related to toxic PFAS.
Legal DevelopmentsJohnson and Johnson Talcum Powder Lawsuits: Recent Developments
Guest Contributor · January 29, 2021
An update on lawsuits claiming J&J's talcum powder causes ovarian cancer.
Legal DevelopmentsParagard IUD Lawsuits Transferred to Female Judge in Georgia
Carah Wertheimer · January 26, 2021
Paragard copper IUD lawsuits filed by women from 23 states were grouped together and transferred to federal court in Atlanta late last year.
Legal DevelopmentsCOVID-19 Nursing Home Lawsuit Protections: Early 2021 State Updates
James Parker · January 22, 2021
A roundup of updates on COVID-19 nursing home lawsuits.
Legal DevelopmentsOfficials Seize 42 Shipments of Fake Vapes from China
Kristen Fischer · January 20, 2021
Government officials seized 42 shipments of counterfeit e-cigarettes, including Puff Bar knockoffs.
FDA RegulationBreast Implant Illness: Groundbreaking Summit Informs and Educates
Lauren Styx · January 15, 2021
The Breast Implant Health Summit, first-of-its-kind educational forum for health care practitioners, provides a roundup of information and resources on breast implant illness.
Health FeaturesGet our reporting in your inbox
Elmiron Lawsuits Transferred to New Jersey
Carah Wertheimer · January 13, 2021
Elmiron bladder medication lawsuits alleging vision damage are being transferred to a single New Jersey federal court.
Legal DevelopmentsFibroid Removal Safety Recommendations Updated by FDA
Carah Wertheimer · January 7, 2021
The FDA has finalized safety recommendations for the use of power morcellators in surgeries to remove fibroids.
FDA RegulationCommon Medications May Increase Risk of Alzheimer's Dementia
Risa Kerslake · December 22, 2020
A new study suggests common drugs such as Advil, Benadryl, Tylenol and Sominex may increase risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
Research + FindingsAsbestos Found in Cosmetics: How to Stay Safe
Julia Travers · December 14, 2020
Research by the Environmental Working Group found asbestos in three out of 21 talc-based powdered cosmetics tested recently.
NewsParagard IUD Lawsuits Best Handled by Female Judge, Attorney Says
Carah Wertheimer · December 8, 2020
A personal injury lawyer representing Paragard IUD clients suggested a female judge be assigned a pending Paragard class action lawsuit.
Women's HealthElmiron Class Action Lawsuit Blocked by Pennsylvania Judge
Carah Wertheimer · December 4, 2020
A request from Elmiron manufacturer to stop a proposed national class action lawsuit from proceeding has been granted.
Legal DevelopmentsSenators Demand Answers From FDA on Imported Drug Safety
MedTruth Editors · November 24, 2020
Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tina Smith have voiced concerns around reductions in FDA oversight of foreign drug manufacturing facilities.
FDA Regulation$2.1 Billion Talcum Powder Cancer Verdict Stands, J&J Appealing to Supreme Court
James Parker · November 12, 2020
Johnson & Johnson intends to appeal a record $2.1 billion talc verdict after striking out in the Missouri Supreme Court.
Legal DevelopmentsThe Hidden Toll of Breast Implant Illness on Transgender Women
Lauren Styx · November 10, 2020
MedTruth spoke with transgender health experts and members of the trans community, specifically trans women of color, to paint a more inclusive picture of the adverse effects of breast implants.
Patient StoriesNSAIDs Can Increase Risk of Pregnancy Complications, FDA Warns
Nicole Knight · October 28, 2020
A new warning for pregnant people will appear on prescription and over-the-counter NSAIDs.
FDA RegulationGet our reporting in your inbox
FDA Warns Against Dental Amalgams for Groups Sensitive to Mercury
James Parker · October 26, 2020
Certain individuals are instructed to avoid getting “silver” fillings due to mercury exposure concerns.
FDA RegulationDiabetes Distress: How to Cope During the Pandemic
S. Nicole Lane · October 23, 2020
Managing diabetes distress begins with understanding your symptoms, then taking charge of your health.
Health FeaturesMore Recalls Issued for Diabetes Drug Metformin
Nicole Knight · October 15, 2020
The FDA has announced two additional voluntary recalls of extended-release metformin.
FDA RegulationCould a Proposed Regulation Worsen Transgender Mental Health?
Anika Nayak · October 12, 2020
The rollback of Affordable Care Act protections could make it even harder to see a gender-affirming doctor.
Patient StoriesCalifornia First State to Ban Toxic Chemicals in Cosmetics
Carah Wertheimer · October 7, 2020
California has become the first state in the nation to ban 24 toxic chemicals from cosmetics.
NewsFDA Recommends Black Box Warning on Breast Implants
James Parker · October 2, 2020
The FDA has issued a final warning label and new guidance to inform patients of the potential risks associated with breast implants.
Women's HealthHealth Literacy: What It Is and Why It Matters
Sarah DiGiulio · October 1, 2020
Our ability to access and understand health information, also known as “health literacy,” is an important risk factor for overall health.
Health FeaturesHow to Quit the Birth Control Pill
Annie Simon · September 29, 2020
This guide explains how hormonal birth control affects your body and the side effects that may happen when you stop taking it, as well as lifestyle changes to help support your body’s adjustment to its natural cycle.
Women's HealthRespirator Masks from China Put COVID-19 Health Care Workers at Risk
Carah Wertheimer · September 25, 2020
Relying on imported masks may put health care workers and patients at risk and should only be used as a “last resort” when treating COVID-19 patients.
NewsElmiron Bladder Medication and Vision Loss: What Patients Need to Know
Risa Kerslake · September 23, 2020
Symptoms that have been reported include blurry vision, difficulty seeing in the dark, and, in advanced stages, blind spots.
Health FeaturesGet our reporting in your inbox
MedTruth's Guide to COVID-19 Terms
Sarah DiGiulio · September 22, 2020
Our guide to COVID-19 terms and concepts to help you to better navigate the current pandemic.
Health FeaturesNew Blood Test Detects Cancer Up to 4 Years Before Diagnosis
Carah Wertheimer · September 18, 2020
A cutting-edge blood test can detect five common cancers up to four years before most people even know they have the disease.
NewsGolf Pro Sues Monsanto, Claims Roundup Caused Cancer
James Parker · September 16, 2020
A Washington state golf pro who says Roundup caused his cancer has filed a lawsuit against Monsanto.
Legal DevelopmentsNo Increased Risk of Most Cancers From Hair Dye, Study Says
Carah Wertheimer · September 14, 2020
A major study found no increased risk of most types of cancer in women who use permanent hair dye at home.
Research + FindingsJohnson & Johnson Talc Appeal Reaches Missouri Supreme Court
James Parker · September 11, 2020
J&J is asking the Missouri Supreme Court to overturn a multibillion-dollar ruling that affirmed that asbestos and carcinogens in its talc products caused cancer in 22 women.
Legal DevelopmentsHow to Be a Chronic Illness Ally
S. Nicole Lane · September 10, 2020
MedTruth talked to five folks living with various chronic illnesses and asked them what makes a good chronic illness ally.
Health FeaturesFDA Issues Guidance on Drug Impurities
MedTruth Editors · September 8, 2020
The FDA announced new guidance on Sept. 1 for drugmakers, citing “serious concerns” about common medications.
FDA RegulationParagard Lawsuit Claims Copper IUD Broke in Uterus
MedTruth Editors · September 3, 2020
A woman is suing the maker of the Paragard intrauterine device after part of the copper IUD broke off in her uterus during removal.
Women's HealthDental Implant Complications: Dick Van Dyke's Painful Story
Akilah Wise · September 2, 2020
Dick Van Dyke experienced excruciating headaches, chronic fatigue and insomnia despite tests coming back normal. He turned to Twitter for answers.
Health FeaturesDrug Companies Investigated for Possible Failure to Disclose Zantac Cancer Risks
MedTruth Editors · September 1, 2020
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating whether drugmakers violated the False Claims Act by possibly failing to disclose the presence of NDMA in their Zantac and generic ranitidine heartburn products.
NewsGet our reporting in your inbox
Questions Remain About COVID-19 Vaccine Review
T.J. La · August 31, 2020
Operation Warp Speed aims to deliver 300 million doses of a safe, effective vaccine for COVID-19 by January 2021, but there's growing concern about lack of FDA review.
FDA RegulationHigh BPA Linked to 49% Increased Risk of Death
MedTruth Editors · August 28, 2020
New research suggests BPA may be linked to a higher death rate from conditions including cardiovascular disease.
Research + FindingsFDA No Longer Regulating Many COVID-19 Tests
T.J. La · August 27, 2020
Although affected labs are no longer required to seek FDA clearance, approval or emergency use authorizations for their tests, they may voluntarily continue to do so.
FDA RegulationLow Libido? Your Prescription Medication Might Be The Reason
S. Nicole Lane · August 26, 2020
Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, diuretics and antihistamines can affect sexual activity.
Patient StoriesElmiron Lawsuits Claim Drug Companies Knowingly Withheld Risks
James Parker · August 25, 2020
Two women allege that drug manufacturers knowingly withheld information about harm caused by long-term use of Elmiron.
Legal DevelopmentsBan on Controversial Herbicide Dicamba Stands, Court Decides
Lynne Higby · August 20, 2020
A federal appellate court affirmed a nationwide ban on the controversial weed killer dicamba.
Legal DevelopmentsEssure Settlement Costs Bayer $1.6 Billion
MedTruth Editors · August 20, 2020
Bayer will pay $1.6 billion to settle the majority of U.S. claims brought by women who said they were sickened or harmed by Essure permanent birth control.
Legal DevelopmentsCOVID-19 Vaccine Trials Need Diverse Volunteers
T.J. La · August 18, 2020
The FDA is prioritizing recruitment of volunteers from especially hard-hit populations such as the elderly, those with pre-existing health conditions, and minorities.
Research + FindingsToxic Metal Elements Potentially Linked to Essure Side Effects
T.J. La · August 12, 2020
A French study found metal particles in the bodies of women with Essure implants, which may be due to corrosion of the device.
Women's HealthEssure Linked to Heavy Periods and Chronic Pelvic Pain
T.J. La · August 11, 2020
Women implanted with the Essure sterilization device reported experiencing heavier periods and more pelvic or abdominal pain than patients who’d had their tubes tied, according to new data from the device-maker Bayer.
Women's HealthGet our reporting in your inbox
Court Panel Affirms Decision That Roundup Causes Cancer, but Slashes Record Jury Verdict
T.J. La · August 7, 2020
A jury verdict that found that Monsanto’s Roundup caused a groundskeeper’s cancer still stands under a California appellate decision issued last month, but the panel slashed the award.
Legal DevelopmentsIs It Time to Recognize Breast Implant Illness as a Medical Condition?
Lauren Styx · August 6, 2020
A petition sponsored by the Breast Implant Safety Alliance is calling for the CDC and FDA to develop a medical code for breast implant illness.
Health FeaturesWhat Does Aquatic Accessibility Look Like?
S. Nicole Lane · August 6, 2020
Since 2010, the Americans with Disabilities Act has required all public pools, wading pools and spas to become accessible to all people, no matter their ability.
Health FeaturesCurly Hair ‘Holy Grail’ DevaCurl and MLM Brand Monat Under Fire for Alleged Hair and Scalp Damage
Emily Rose Thorne · August 4, 2020
Users of hair product brands DevaCurl and Monat are speaking out about potential scalp sores, hair loss and hair damage.
Health FeaturesStudy Finds Link Between Certain ‘Forever Chemicals’ and Early Menopause
Lauren Styx · July 29, 2020
A new study from the University of Michigan suggests exposure to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances might contribute to women reaching menopause two years earlier than average.
Research + Findings5 Top Podcast Recommendations for Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Krystal Kavita Jagoo · July 24, 2020
We recognize July as National Minority Mental Health Month and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being for communities of color. These five podcasts provide diverse perspectives on mental health, race, identity and more.
Health FeaturesExpanding FDA List of Potentially Toxic Hand Sanitizers Hits 77
MedTruth Editors · July 24, 2020
The list of hand sanitizers potentially contaminated with toxic methanol has continued to grow since the FDA first raised concerns in June.
FDA RegulationThree-Digit Number for the U.S. Suicide Prevention Hotline Coming in 2022
Emily Rose Thorne · July 23, 2020
The Federal Communications Commission authorized the three-digit phone number for reaching the United States National Suicide Prevention Hotline in a unanimous vote at an open meeting July 16.
NewsDemocratic Attorneys General Fight Trump Admin Trans Healthcare Rollbacks
Emily Rose Thorne · July 23, 2020
Democratic attorneys general sued the Trump administration over the Department of Health and Human Services’ final rule allegedly stripping transgender, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming patients of their rights to nondiscrimination in the medical field.
NewsFederal Judge Sends 11 J&J Talc Cases Back to Missouri State Court
Lynne Higby · July 21, 2020
Eleven cases in Johnson & Johnson’s ongoing talcum powder litigation have been bumped back to Missouri state court.
Legal DevelopmentsGet our reporting in your inbox
First Drug to Slow Alzheimer's Submitted for FDA Review
Carah Wertheimer · July 21, 2020
If approved, aducanumab would be the world’s first treatment to slow the clinical progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
NewsWhat to Know About Telemedicine Before You Try It
Sarah DiGiulio · July 16, 2020
Telemedicine refers to the remote delivery of clinical health care services. It’s a type of “telehealth,” which also includes things like public health efforts and health education that include technology.
Health FeaturesDo Heavy Metals Contribute to Breast Implant Illness?
Lauren Styx · July 16, 2020
Heavy metal toxicity within the body can disrupt metabolic function and damage the kidneys, brain, liver and central nervous system. Both saline and silicone FDA-approved breast implants contain heavy metals as either ingredients or part of the manufacturing process.
Women's HealthAdditional Metformin Lots Voluntarily Recalled Due to Contamination Concerns
James Parker · July 16, 2020
The FDA issued a pair of new recall alerts for select extended-release batches of metformin, a popular drug used to control type 2 diabetes.
FDA RegulationJudge Rebuffs Bayer’s Settlement Bid Over Proposed Scheme to Sidestep Jury
Lynne Higby · July 15, 2020
The case’s presiding judge questioned the lawfulness of a provision in the proposed $10 billion settlement, causing attorneys representing Roundup plaintiffs to back away from the proposed deal.
Legal Developments'Long Haulers' Seek COVID-19 Answers and Support in Online Communities
Emily Rose Thorne · July 13, 2020
Long-haulers, those whose COVID-19 symptoms just won’t seem to go away, are turning to communities like Reddit for answers.
Patient StoriesCivil Rights, A Global Pandemic and Justice: Practicing Law in the Era of COVID-19
Emily Rose Thorne · July 10, 2020
Amid a push to transform the criminal justice system and mandates to work from home to avoid worsening a public health crisis, how have America’s lawyers adapted their practice?
Legal Developments“STINK!” Exposes the Odious Chemical Practices of Corporations in America
James Parker · July 10, 2020
The documentary STINK! follows the personal story of how Jon J Whelan became involved in activism against toxic chemicals.
Health FeaturesMasks: Physical and Mental Health Implications
Risa Kerslake · July 9, 2020
With so many unknowns about COVID-19, information on mask use is ever-evolving. Mask use may have mental and emotional effects on some – here's how to cope while staying safe.
Patient StoriesMexico Bans Shipments and Use of Pesticide Glyphosate
Emily Shiffer · July 8, 2020
Mexico will ban all future imports of the pesticide glyphosate, citing scientific evidence that it is potentially toxic to human health and the environment.
NewsGet our reporting in your inbox
Supreme Court Decision Protecting LGBTQIA+ Employees Could Challenge Healthcare Rollbacks
Emily Rose Thorne · July 7, 2020
The Supreme Court has ruled on Bostock v. Clayton County—a landmark decision protecting LGBTQIA+ patients from workplace discrimination. The decision came the same week that HHS released a final rule rolling back nondiscrimination protections for transgender and nonbinary patients seeking healthcare.
Laws + CongressHighlighting Race and Chronic Illness As Key COVID-19 Disparities
Akilah Wise · July 6, 2020
COVID-19 deaths are 12 times higher among people with chronic underlying conditions. Though most U.S. adults have a chronic illness, Black, Latino, Native American, low-income and uninsured people are disproportionately affected.
Patient StoriesPPI and Dementia Potentially Linked In New Study
James Parker · July 6, 2020
A recent study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, the journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, investigated the methods by which proton pump inhibitors and dementia are connected.
Research + FindingsGilead Announces Price of First COVID-19 Treatment Remdesivir
Lauren Styx · July 2, 2020
Despite the letter’s pricing strategy breakdown, it’s still unclear how much of the price will be covered by insurers, or how much the treatment will cost for uninsured patients.
NewsGBCA Chemical Toxicity Suit Weathers Dismissal Claims
James Parker · July 2, 2020
The plaintiff claims that the GBCAs used in her MRIs in 2015 caused a condition known as gadolinium deposition disease (GDD) and a host of debilitating side effects.
Legal DevelopmentsZofran Bellwether Delay Pushes Proceedings to 2021
James Parker · June 29, 2020
The multidistrict Zofran litigation has been further delayed to 2021 due to coronavirus concerns.
Legal Developments7 Films to Celebrate Pride 2020
MedTruth Editors · June 26, 2020
In the mood for a queer documentary, comedy or romance? Look no further. We've selected a handful of the best gay, lesbian and trans films to watch during Pride 2020 and all year long.
Health FeaturesJ&J to Pay $2.1 Billion in Talc Damage
Lynne Higby · June 26, 2020
A Missouri court of appeals affirmed a jury verdict finding that Johnson and Johnson had actual knowledge of asbestos contained in its popular talcum-based baby powder.
Legal DevelopmentsStudy Finds Early COVID-19 Treatment Trials ‘Yield Only Preliminary Evidence’
Lauren Styx · June 26, 2020
An analysis of COVID-19 clinical trials demonstrates the importance of design when interpreting results.
Research + FindingsEPA Defends Continued Use of Dicamba Despite Court Order
Lynne Higby · June 25, 2020
The EPA is permitting farmers to use dicamba the rest of the growing season despite a federal appeals court banning the popular weedkiller.
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Film & Guide: How to Report Adverse Events to the FDA
MedTruth Editors · June 24, 2020
Adverse event reporting is essential to patient safety. Watch our short film and download the MedTruth Guide to Adverse Event Reporting to help you prepare to share your side effects with the FDA.
Health FeaturesAdverse Event Reporting Resumes After COVID Hiatus
James Parker · June 24, 2020
The slowdown in adverse event reporting can be attributed to an official regulatory pause for a period of two months.
FDA RegulationDebate Over Fluoridation Continues as Experts Testify
Emily Rose Thorne · June 23, 2020
Scientists are testifying for groups seeking to ban fluoride from public water supplies, though the data has some limitations.
Research + FindingsCOVID-19 and Vitamin D: What Does the Research Say?
S. Nicole Lane · June 23, 2020
Recent research found that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to an increased number of COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Health FeaturesHerogard Donates Thousands of Masks to Food Banks As NYC Reopens
S. Nicole Lane · June 22, 2020
Herogard, an FDA-approved face mask company, donates three face masks to essential food workers in marginalized communities to support a safe re-opening and combat food system insecurity.
Health Features43 Homeopathic Drugs Included in Recent FDA Warning Letters
Lauren Styx · June 17, 2020
The FDA has issued warning letters to four manufacturers for selling unapproved homeopathic drug products. The warning letters target homeopathic products such as Arnica.
FDA RegulationFDA Names More Companies Recalling Metformin for NDMA Contamination
Emily Rose Thorne · June 15, 2020
Since the FDA found NDMA above the acceptable intake limit in certain lots of metformin, five pharmaceutical companies have announced a voluntary recall of extended-release (ER) metformin, a popular medication used to control type 2 diabetes.
FDA RegulationAva DuVernay’s '13th' Traces the Public Health Crisis of Mass Incarceration
Emily Rose Thorne · June 13, 2020
The Netflix documentary “13th,” directed by Ava DuVernay, traces the history of mass incarceration and explains how the remnants of American slavery intertwine with crime, punishment and Blackness.
Health FeaturesCalifornia Attorneys Seek to Consolidate Zantac Lawsuits
James Parker · June 12, 2020
Attorneys representing 40 plaintiffs in California have recently filed a petition to consolidate product liability cases against the manufacturers of the heartburn medication Zantac, which may cause cancer.
Legal DevelopmentsTobacco Companies Challenge LA County Vape Ban in California Federal Court
James Parker · June 10, 2020
A group of tobacco companies is pushing to legally overturn the Los Angeles County ban on flavored vape fluid, alleging the action is unconstitutional and unenforceable.
Legal Developments