Carah Wertheimer
Latest MedTruth Work by Carah Wertheimer
1-in-5 Prescriptions Are Off-Label: What You Don't Know Could Hurt You
Carah Wertheimer · March 17, 2020
One-in-five U.S. prescriptions are written “off-label,” meaning in a manner that has not been approved by the FDA, including antidepressants, antipsychotics and seizure medicine.
Health FeaturesMT Weekly: J&J Asbestos Settlement, EPA to Regulate PFAS
Carah Wertheimer · February 25, 2020
This week, MedTruth provides updates on the latest baby powder settlement, the EPA's new regulations on PFAS, plus a study on the impacts of chemical exposure during pregnancy.
NewsAre Breast Cells Damaged By Sunscreen, Cosmetic and Personal Care Chemicals?
Carah Wertheimer · February 19, 2020
Chemicals in common personal care products may damage DNA in breast cells at acute exposures, according to a study.
Research + Findings-
1-in-5 Prescriptions Are Off-Label: What You Don't Know Could Hurt You
Carah Wertheimer · March 17, 2020
One-in-five U.S. prescriptions are written “off-label,” meaning in a manner that has not been approved by the FDA, including antidepressants, antipsychotics and seizure medicine.
Health Features -
MT Weekly: J&J Asbestos Settlement, EPA to Regulate PFAS
Carah Wertheimer · February 25, 2020
This week, MedTruth provides updates on the latest baby powder settlement, the EPA's new regulations on PFAS, plus a study on the impacts of chemical exposure during pregnancy.
News -
Are Breast Cells Damaged By Sunscreen, Cosmetic and Personal Care Chemicals?
Carah Wertheimer · February 19, 2020
Chemicals in common personal care products may damage DNA in breast cells at acute exposures, according to a study.
Research + Findings
MT Weekly: How Poor Sleep Affects Diet, Guilty Execs in Generic Price-Fixing
Carah Wertheimer · February 18, 2020
This week, MedTruth provides updates on the U.S. Department of Justice investigation into generic drug price-fixing, an FDA action to halt illegal medical device shipments from India, plus a women's health study on how poor sleep affects diet.
NewsMT Weekly: Coronavirus Updates, Risks of Diabetes Drug Avandia
Carah Wertheimer · February 12, 2020
This week, MedTruth provides updates on the coronavirus, risks of diabetes drug Avandia and concerns about general anesthesia during C-section.
NewsEarly Puberty in Girls Linked to Personal Care Products
Carah Wertheimer · February 11, 2020
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals commonly found in personal care products have been linked to early puberty in girls in a recent study.
Research + FindingsGet our reporting in your inbox
MT Weekly: Trump's Medicaid Proposal, Judges Rule in J&J Cases
Carah Wertheimer · February 6, 2020
This week, MedTruth provides updates on the coronavirus, a discontinued clinical trial for HIV vaccines, Trump's Medicaid block grant proposal and recent J&J rulings.
NewsMT Weekly: Trump's Medicaid Proposal, Judges Rule in J&J Cases
Carah Wertheimer · February 6, 2020
This week, MedTruth provides updates on the coronavirus, a discontinued clinical trial for HIV vaccines, Trump's Medicaid block grant proposal and recent J&J rulings.
NewsStudy Finds Much Higher BPA Exposures, FDA Dismisses Safety Concerns
Carah Wertheimer · January 29, 2020
A study published in December 2019 raises serious questions about the accuracy of the FDA’s methods for testing BPA levels in humans.
Research + Findings5 Powerful Quotes About Patient Safety by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro
Carah Wertheimer · January 28, 2020
Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro has fought for equal pay for women, the creation of middle-class jobs, and wellbeing for veterans, along with public health and patient safety issues.
Health FeaturesMT Weekly: Deadly Coronavirus Enters U.S., FDA Endorses Cosmetic Asbestos Testing
Carah Wertheimer · January 27, 2020
This week, MedTruth summarizes international efforts to contain the deadly Wuhan Coronavirus, an FDA panel recommendation for asbestos detection in cosmetics, and the sentencing of corrupt executives involved in prescription opioid crimes.
NewsBreakthrough Discovery Sheds Light on Longstanding Skin Rash Mystery
Carah Wertheimer · January 22, 2020
Why do cosmetics, shampoos and skincare products cause skin rashes in some people? A Science Immunology study answers: specific ingredients in personal care products trigger an immune response.
Research + FindingsMT Weekly: Talc-Cancer Link Challenged, Supreme Court To Address Contraception
Carah Wertheimer · January 21, 2020
Last week's recap of medical includes the latest update on the Supreme Court's plans to address religious and moral exemptions to the Affordable Care Act, a recent study denying the link between talc and ovarian cancer, U.S. binge drinking figures and preventative measures taken by the CDC to protect the nation from disease that broke out in China.
NewsMT Weekly: End of Essure, Virus Outbreak, Allergan's Alleged Anti-Litigation Clause
Carah Wertheimer · January 14, 2020
The end of Essure, a mysterious virus, a drop in U.S. cancer death rate and more news to begin 2020.
NewsHysterectomy May Cause Adverse Mental Health Conditions, Study Says
Carah Wertheimer · January 8, 2020
A study conducted by the Mayo Clinic on post-hysterectomy patients indicates that removing a women’s uterus may have more impact on her mental and physical health than previously thought.
Research + Findings2020 Kicks Off With Global End of Controversial Birth Control Essure
Carah Wertheimer · January 7, 2020
Controversial birth control Essure finally removed from the market, bringing celebratory remarks from the harmed patients who call themselves the "E-sisters."
NewsMT Weekly: Hair Dye Linked to Breast Cancer, Senate Recommends FDA Commissioner
Carah Wertheimer · December 9, 2019
While recent reports reveal increased prevalence of measles deaths and prediabetes in adolescents, one recent study indicates a link between hair chemicals and risk of breast cancer. Meanwhile, Dr. Stephen Hahn has been recommended as the next FDA Commissioner after a 18-5 vote by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. Here's last week in medical.
NewsMore Than 20 Physical Illnesses Linked to Depression
Carah Wertheimer · December 3, 2019
A recent study has linked depression to physical illnesses, such as asthma, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, urinary tract disorders and more.
Research + FindingsChildhood Obesity: Is BPA Free Any Better?
Carah Wertheimer · November 26, 2019
A 2019 study measures if BPA free replacement chemicals, such as BPS and BPF, can still play a role in childhood obesity.
Research + FindingsMT Weekly: Foodborne Illness Outbreaks, Sackler Steers Opioids to China
Carah Wertheimer · November 25, 2019
While the U.S. observes urgent calls for bans on vaping products, the Sackler family catapults the opioid crisis abroad, with their affiliate company Mundipharma promoting OxyContin in China. Additionally, last week brought about several foodborne illness outbreaks, new findings on the rising prevalence of anal cancer, and a promising HIV vaccine discovery.
NewsMT Weekly: FDA Talks Metal Implants, Plague Outbreak in China
Carah Wertheimer · November 18, 2019
Last week, the FDA held a meeting addressing the patient and medical perspective on metal-containing implants. In addition, China responded to reports of a couple treated for the plague in Beijing, and the U.S. found a decline in cigarette use. Unfortunately, vaping among adolescents has increased 20% in 2018.
NewsMT Weekly: Protecting Intersex Children, Drug-Delivering Drones
Carah Wertheimer · November 12, 2019
MedTruth Weekly delivers the latest developments in medical research, regulation, legislation and legal actions. The best way to be an advocate for yourself is to know the facts. Staying informed starts here.
NewsFDA May Withdraw Premature Birth Prevention Drug From Market
Carah Wertheimer · November 8, 2019
Premature birth prevention drug Makena may be withdrawn due to an FDA advisory panel vote.
FDA RegulationMT Weekly: Opioid Deaths by Ethnicity, Female Smoking Trends
Carah Wertheimer · November 5, 2019
Last week observed one study reporting a 103% increase in opioid deaths, with black Americans in large metropolitan areas most affected. Additionally, lifestyle interventions have been proven to reduce Alzheimer’s risk, women may be less likely than men to quit smoking, and the number of vape-related illness cases nears two thousand.
NewsFDA Wants Recall of Zantac and Axid Amid Cancer Concern
Carah Wertheimer · November 5, 2019
Zantac, a commonly used heartburn medication, can contain the carcinogenic toxin NDMA, prompting the FDA to issue a voluntary recall.
FDA RegulationFDA Wants Recall of Zantac and Axid Amid Cancer Concern
Carah Wertheimer · November 5, 2019
Zantac, a commonly used heartburn medication, can contain the carcinogenic toxin NDMA, prompting the FDA to issue a voluntary recall.
FDA RegulationAlzheimer’s Drug Aricept May Increase Risk of Rare Muscle Condition
Carah Wertheimer · November 5, 2019
Research suggests Alzheimer’s drug donezepil, known as Aricept, increases hospitalization for a rare muscle condition called rhabdomyolysis when compared to similar drugs.
Research + FindingsMT Weekly: Black Box on Breast Implants, Talc Pulled From Shelves
Carah Wertheimer · October 29, 2019
In last week's news, the FDA released a new black box warning to inform consumers about the risks of breast implants after a flurry of patient advocate reports. Additionally, talcum powder was pulled from many store shelves after asbestos was reportedly found in one of Johnson & Johnson's baby powder bottles. One dietary study tracking subjects for ten years reveals that trans fat is linked to dementia.
News5 Significant Risk Factors for Memory Loss
Carah Wertheimer · October 23, 2019
Recent research on dementia, including Alzheimer's, is revealing specific risk factors for memory loss. These five factors may put you at a higher risk for developing a memory loss-related condition.
Research + FindingsFDA Recommends Black Box Warnings on Breast Implants
Carah Wertheimer · October 24, 2019
The FDA has just released a 21-page document articulating the risks and benefits associated with breast implants to ensure that all consumers have access to "complete information" on the medical devices. This is the agency’s first update to breast implant consumer information practices since 2006. All members of the public and professionals of the medical world are invited to comment within the next 60 days for any revisions to the draft before the document is finalized.
FDA RegulationRiegel v. Medtronic: How the Landmark Case Limits Patient Rights
Carah Wertheimer · October 17, 2019
In 2008, a complex case set a legal precedent that dictates how Class III medical devices are approached. It's the landmark Supreme Court ruling, known as Riegel v. Medtronic, that changed everything. Now, those harmed by Class III medical devices struggle to seek legal recourse.
Legal DevelopmentsAsbestos Contamination? 30,000 Bottles of J&J's Baby Powder Recalled
Carah Wertheimer · October 21, 2019
In recent months, we've worked to collaborate on behalf of consumer product safety. Help us put the #TruthOnTalc by signing our petition demanding Johnson & Johnson add an adequate warning label.
NewsNorthern Californians Still Without Power, As Fire Burns in the South
Carah Wertheimer · October 11, 2019
Pacific Gas and Electric intentionally cut power to residents in Northern California counties. Simultaneously, as wildfires rage, Southern California Edison cut power to prevent wildfires in Southern California.
NewsCalifornia Governor Grants Access to HIV-Prevention Drugs Without a Prescription
Carah Wertheimer · October 10, 2019
San Francisco governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill to grant California residents access to HIV-prevention drugs PrEP and PEP without the requirement of a prescription.
Laws + CongressWorried About Breast Cancer? Science Says Eat More Chicken, Less Red Meat
Carah Wertheimer · October 8, 2019
Research shows that women who consumed poultry rather than red meat had a significantly lower risk of breast cancer.
Research + FindingsFDA Receives Thousands of Public Comments on Glyphosate, Re-Approval Pending
Carah Wertheimer · September 10, 2019
The Food and Drug Administration received 114,855 public comments regarding the safety of Monsanto’s herbicide Roundup, which is currently under review for renewed registration.
FDA RegulationFDA Receives Thousands of Public Comments on Glyphosate, Re-Approval Pending
Carah Wertheimer · September 10, 2019
The Food and Drug Administration received 114,855 public comments regarding the safety of Monsanto’s herbicide Roundup, which is currently under review for renewed registration.
FDA RegulationStudy Finds Nearly Half of Pregnant Women Prescribed Opioids Shortly Before or After Delivery
Carah Wertheimer · August 29, 2019
A study tracked pregnant women prescribed opioids shortly before or after delivery to note prescription re-fill behaviors and continued use following pregnancy. While opioid use can be effective during delivery, researchers say other pain management options should be considered.
Women's HealthIllinois Reports First Vape-Related Death
Carah Wertheimer · August 27, 2019
Doctors across the nation have noticed an influx of patients admitted to hospitals with severe lung diseases and respiratory problems linked to vaping. Illinois, in particular, noted 22 such cases just last week. One of those 22 died last Thursday—marking the first vape-related death in the nation.
NewsNew Screening for Coronary Artery Disease Developed, Without Contrast Agents
Carah Wertheimer · August 12, 2019
A new test to detect coronary artery disease in just 15 minutes with a basic MRI is currently being developed by Boston researchers. It wouldn't require the use of controversial, potentially toxic gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs).
MedTechNew Screening for Coronary Artery Disease Developed, Without Contrast Agents
Carah Wertheimer · August 12, 2019
A new test to detect coronary artery disease in just 15 minutes with a basic MRI is currently being developed by Boston researchers. It wouldn't require the use of controversial, potentially toxic gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs).
MedTechWill J&J Get 12,000 Baby Powder Asbestos Cases Dismissed?
Carah Wertheimer · August 5, 2019
Johnson & Johnson may be relieved of 79% of all lawsuits filed against them for the health hazards of their talcum powder. After invoking a validation process known as the Daubert test, scrutinizing expert testimony and information, 12,000 asbestos cases now await a decision from Judge Freda Wolfson.
NewsWill J&J Get 12,000 Baby Powder Asbestos Cases Dismissed?
Carah Wertheimer · August 5, 2019
Johnson & Johnson may be relieved of 79% of all lawsuits filed against them for the health hazards of their talcum powder. After invoking a validation process known as the Daubert test, scrutinizing expert testimony and information, 12,000 asbestos cases now await a decision from Judge Freda Wolfson.
NewsGlobal Recall of Breast Implants Linked to Rare Form of Cancer
Carah Wertheimer · July 24, 2019
Breast implant maker Allergan issued a recall of breast implants today following a request from the FDA. The agency placed this request upon discovering a link between the Allergan implants and a rare form of immune system cancer, BIA-ALCL (breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma).
NewsGlobal Recall of Breast Implants Linked to Rare Form of Cancer
Carah Wertheimer · July 24, 2019
Breast implant maker Allergan issued a recall of breast implants today following a request from the FDA. The agency placed this request upon discovering a link between the Allergan implants and a rare form of immune system cancer, BIA-ALCL (breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma).
NewsFeature Article
Carah Wertheimer · July 23, 2019
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CATEGORY MISSINGFDA Stops Sales of Transvaginal Mesh
Carah Wertheimer · April 19, 2019
The FDA gave transvaginal mesh companies Boston Scientific and Coloplast 10 days to submit plans to withdraw their products from the market - officially ending transvaginal mesh sales. Unfortunately for many, the damage has been done.
FDA RegulationFDA Attempts to Update Medical Device Regulation
Carah Wertheimer · February 11, 2019
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is updating its medical device regulation process to better align with the rapid pace of technological advancement.
FDA RegulationBillions of Dollars of Damage Caused By California’s Camp and Woolsey Wildfires
Carah Wertheimer · December 12, 2018
California fire damage has caused billions of dollars in losses, leaving families without homes statewide.
NewsData Shows Rising Number of Children Poisoned in Opioid Epidemic
Carah Wertheimer · October 25, 2018
The opioid epidemic in the United States is taking an increasingly devastating toll on children and adolescents, including the youngest Americans – preschool and kindergarten children.
Research + FindingsBenzocaine and Babies: FDA Warns Teething Gels May Be Life-Threatening
Carah Wertheimer · November 30, 2018
A recent FDA warning alerts families that baby teething gels with benzocaine may cause a rare but serious blood disorder.
FDA RegulationToo Big to Succeed? The Bayer Monsanto Merger
Carah Wertheimer · October 5, 2018
The Bayer Monsanto merger is the single largest cash transaction in history. The companies will control one-quarter of the global market, raising anti-trust concerns on both sides of the Atlantic.
NewsSecond Jury Links Roundup to Cancer, $80 Million Verdict
Carah Wertheimer · March 30, 2019
Today the jury ordered Monsanto to pay $80 million in damages for 70-year-old Edwin Hardeman’s non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, who sprayed his 56-acre property with Roundup for 26 years.
Legal DevelopmentsBig Pharma, Big Money: When Pharma Contributes Cash to Congress
Carah Wertheimer · November 26, 2018
Pharma executives contribute thousands of dollars to members of Congress, with powerful and influential members receiving large-scale donations through various workarounds.
Health FeaturesEstrogel Maker Ascend Therapeutics Under FDA Fire Yet Again
Carah Wertheimer · October 29, 2018
The FDA reprimanded Ascend Theraputics for misleading consumers about the lowest effective dose of Estrogel. Higher doses may increase the risk of Estrogel side effects, such as uterine cancer.
FDA RegulationBirth Control Risks: Decreased Ability to Read Emotions
Carah Wertheimer · March 18, 2019
Common birth control risks are generally well-known. However, a recent study suggests that “the pill” might also be impairing the mind's ability to accurately read the emotions of others.
Women's HealthFDA Issues Letter on Increasing Danger of Surgical Staples
Carah Wertheimer · March 21, 2019
There have been more than 9,000 serious injuries and 32,000 malfunctions related to surgical staples. On March 8, the FDA issued a letter to healthcare providers expressing concern for the issue and recommending safety measures for safety.
FDA Regulation3 Legal Cases Fighting Dangerous Products in 2019
Carah Wertheimer · March 7, 2019
Johnson & Johnson's talcum powder, Monsanto's Roundup and the chilling opioid crisis have recently been in the headlines as legal teams attempt to get justice for thousands of injured individuals. Here's our breakdown of the top three legal cases to watch in 2019.
Legal DevelopmentsStories Not Statistics: Faces of Transvaginal Mesh
Carah Wertheimer · May 31, 2019
For Pelvic Pain Awareness Month, MedTruth is sharing patient stories. We're recognizing two transvaginal mesh survivors living with chronic pain. For Billie Copley, 44, and Jennifer Snowden, 34, transvaginal mesh implants have changed their lives forever.
Patient StoriesDesperate Housewives' Marcia Cross Addresses Baby Powder and Cancer
Carah Wertheimer · April 24, 2019
Desperate Housewives star, Marcia Cross, posted on Instagram this past March sharing nostalgic photos with her friend who recently died due to Ovarian Cancer. In her post, Cross honors her friend, speaking out on female use of baby powder and cancer.
Women's HealthBlood Test Detects Alzheimer's 20 Years in Advance
Carah Wertheimer · February 8, 2019
Created by Australian and Japanese researchers, this revolutionary Alzheimer's blood test is able to detect the disease 20 years before symptoms begin.
Research + FindingsRoundup and Cancer: EPA Sidesteps Science Claiming "No Link"
Carah Wertheimer · May 8, 2019
Last week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reaffirmed its 2017 assessment that glyphosate, the herbicide in Monsanto's Roundup weedkiller, does not cause cancer. Recent scientific studies and court cases say otherwise about the controversial herbicide.
Research + FindingsSan Francisco Jury Calls Roundup a "Substantial Factor" in Cancer Case
Carah Wertheimer · March 21, 2019
In the recent Monsanto Roundup trial, six jurors in a San Francisco federal court unanimously decided that Roundup (glyphosate), the world’s most widely-used herbicide, was likely a “substantial factor” in causing Edwin Hardeman's non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Legal DevelopmentsWhat is Polypropylene? The Plastic in Your Mesh
Carah Wertheimer · February 15, 2019
Polypropylene mesh was first used surgically in 1958 for the repair of an abdominal wall and is known as a “first generation” mesh. The "second generation” meshes combine two types of plastic with other materials such as the metal titanium, while “third generation” meshes are derived from animal tissues.
NewsInside the Opioid Crisis: Pet Prescriptions & Vets
Carah Wertheimer · March 25, 2019
Pet owners desperate to get opioids are intentionally harming their animals. Recent studies surrounding the opioid crisis reveal an increase in the abuse and misuse of veterinary opioid prescriptions.
FDA RegulationCan Opioid Legislation Stem the Free Flow of Drugs?
Carah Wertheimer · March 18, 2019
As the opioid crisis continues to intensify, the numbers paint a grim picture. Unfortunately for those impacted by opioid addiction, U.S. opioid legislation to resolve the epidemic is unlikely to improve anytime soon.
Laws + CongressNew Talcum Powder Warning Label Case in California
Carah Wertheimer · February 6, 2019
Johnson & Johnson's legal troubles have taken a new turn, now focused on the talcum powder warning label. Under California's Proposition 65, companies must issue warnings if products expose customers to known cancer-causing agents.
Legal DevelopmentsTasigna Patients: Be Aware of Chemo-Induced Neuropathy
Carah Wertheimer · October 18, 2018
Cancer patients taking the oral medication Tasigna can reduce the risk of developing chemotherapy-induced neuropathy by better understanding the condition.
Health FeaturesCan the Natural Cycles App Turn Your Smartphone Into Safe, Reliable Birth Control?
Carah Wertheimer · April 2, 2019
The Natural Cycles App, the first non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical digital birth control, sure sounds good. Available for Android and iPhones, the app is 93 percent effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies and can be used for pregnancy planning, to the tune of $99.99 per annual subscription. There are no known side effects.
MedTechMutual of Omaha Insures Those Taking HIV-Prevention Drug Truvada, Denies Discrimination
Carah Wertheimer · February 12, 2019
Truvada insurance coverage is no longer denied by Massachusetts company Mutual of Omaha, though discrimination against Truvada users remains an industry-wide practice.
NewsFormer Sloan Kettering “Top Doc” Resigns, Pharma Ties Exposed
Carah Wertheimer · January 22, 2019
Dr. Jose Baselga was forced to resign as chief medical officer of New York’s prestigious Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center after failing to disclose millions of dollars in payments from drug companies,
NewsWhy You Should Care About the Medical Device Safety Act
Carah Wertheimer · April 17, 2019
Advocates and individuals harmed by Essure, mesh, breast implants and hip replacements are lobbying representatives to support the Medical Device Safety Act, a bill that would allow consumers to get justice from manufacturers for medical device injuries.
Health Features