Updates ·
Health notices · Monday 24 August
3 notices from the agencies today, in plain words, each with the original linked.
FDA approved sitagliptin phosphate for type 2 diabetes
FDA · Approval
If you have type 2 diabetes, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved sitagliptin phosphate (sitagliptin) as an add-on to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control. This is meant for adults with type 2 diabetes.
Sitagliptin should not be used for type 1 diabetes. It also has not been studied in people with a history of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and it is not known if your risk could be higher.
If you have type 1 diabetes or a history of pancreatitis, check whether sitagliptin is appropriate for you before using it; your label limitations may affect your treatment options.
FDA warns about Rohto Cooling Eye Drops sterility risk
FDA · Recall
If you use Rohto Cooling Eye Drops ALL-IN-ONE, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says there was a lack of assurance that the product is sterile. “Sterile” means free from germs that can cause infection.
This notice is a Class II concern, reported on 2026-07-29, with distribution nationwide within the United States.
If the drops are not sterile, there is a risk of eye infection. Your use could be different from yesterday if you have this product on hand.
Finasteride and dutasteride warnings updated for mood and sexual side effects
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) · Safety
If you take finasteride or dutasteride, the MHRA has updated safety warnings after reviewing the evidence for suicidal thoughts and behaviours, and for sexual dysfunction.
These side effects include low mood, depression, suicidal thoughts, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation problems. Psychiatric symptoms may persist after stopping treatment.
If you develop suicidal thoughts or depression, stop finasteride 1 mg (if prescribed) and contact your healthcare professional as soon as possible; for other strengths or dutasteride, contact your healthcare professional urgently. Seek emergency help on 999 if you are at risk of serious harm.
What to do
- Stop finasteride 1mg immediately if you develop depression or suicidal thoughts and contact your doctor as soon as possible
- If you are prescribed finasteride 5mg or dutasteride and you develop depression or suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor as soon as possible
- If prescribed finasteride or dutasteride and you experience decreased sex drive, difficulty having an erection or ejaculation problems you should contact your doctor for medical advice
- If you have seriously harmed yourself or feel you are at risk of serious harm, contact emergency services on 999 immediately