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Notebook

The Notebook: a potpourri of items of interest gathered from FDA news releases, other news sources, and the Federal Register (designated FR, with date of publication). The Federal Register is available in many public libraries and is accessible electronically through GPO Access.

Sodium in over-the-counter oral drugs would be stated on the product labeling if the product contains 5 milligrams or more of sodium in a single dose, under an FDA final rule that allows for opportunity for comments. If the labeled maximum daily dose contains more than 140 mg of sodium, the label would have to warn that people on sodium-restricted diets should not take the product unless directed by a doctor. FDA is accepting comments on this rule until July 22. Send them to the FDA Dockets Management Branch, Room 1-23, 12420 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 20857. (FR April 22)

A chewable tablet for dogs used to prevent heartworm disease and to treat and control ascarid and hookworm infections has been approved for dogs weighing less than 5 pounds. Also, labeling for the drug, Heartgard-30 (ivermectin with pyrantel pamoate), that previously read "Not to be used in dogs under 6 weeks of age" has been changed to "Recommended for dogs 6 weeks of age and older." (FR April 5)

Poultry feeds now can include formaldehyde (37 percent aqueous solution) as an antimicrobial food additive intended to control Salmonella contamination, according to an FDA final rule. Up to 5.4 pounds (2.5 kilograms) of formaldehyde per ton may be added. (FR April 9)

Confirmed cases of measles in 1995 fell to the lowest number (301) reported for a single year since the disease became reportable in 1912, according to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is a 69 percent decrease from the 963 cases reported in 1994. (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, April 19, 1996)

People aged 70 and older can significantly cut the risk of falls by practicing Tai Chi, a martial arts form that enhances balance and body awareness, according to two studies sponsored by the National Institute on Aging. In one program, older people taking part in a 15-week Tai Chi program lowered their risk of falls by nearly 48 percent. In the other study, several procedures to improve balance and strength, including Tai Chi, were effective. (Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, May 1996)

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FDA Consumer magazine (July-August 1996)