Briefs

ResMed: CPAP cuts stroke risk in half SAN DIEGO - ResMed says a new CPAP study by doctors in Germany and Australia shows that sleep apnea causes hypertension (high blood pressure). The study confirms and extends the findings of previous research, which has demonstrated that patients using CPAP at night experience significant falls in daytime blood pressure. In the new study, the effective use of CPAPs reduced mean blood pressure by 10mm of mercury vs. the ineffective use of CPAP. “This implies that unless CPAP levels are adequate the associated improvement in cardiovascular morbidity is not present,” according to ResMed. The study estimates that the reduction in blood pressure would reduce coronary heart disease by 37% and stroke risk by 56%. Outtakes Fena Design, maker of a power standing mobility device for people with mobility impairments called Vertran, recently closed on the first portion of an equity offering expected to total $3.6 million. With product development and testing complete, use of proceeds will be directed primarily toward sales and marketing…Metrika has received clearance from the FDA to make its A1cNow diabetes monitor available to patients over-the-counter. Metrika says A1cNow is the first and only test diabetes patients can now use at home to obtain immediate glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c or A1C) results - the gold-standard indicator of diabetes control and risk of serious long-term complications…Citing unsatisfactory marketing terms with potential marketing partners, Aerogen has put a damper on its Aerodose insulin inhaler. The company will lay off 26 people, or 30% of its workforce, to compensate for the discontinued business. Aerogen will refocus its efforts on the delivery of respiratory medicines in the acute care and homecare setting.