Recalling heart pumps; recycling antiobesity injectors; it’s in the water, or not – Morning Medical Update

Heart pumps recalled

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued the most serious recall on the HeartMate II and HeartMate 3 Left Ventricular Assist Systems due to buildup that can obstruct the device, making it less effective in helping the heart pump blood. That condition can lead to serious injuries or death.

Recycling medical containers

Antiobesity drugs are one of the hottest topics in health care right now. As more people get prescriptions for them, what will happen to all the plastic pen injectors that patients are using? Big Pharma has hopes and plans for recycling.

Fighting over fluoride

Communities across the nation add fluoride to the water treated by municipal systems, but not all do. Questions about its effectiveness against tooth decay and possible other health side effects spark strong feelings for and against using it. Read more in this report by KFF Health News.