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Plaintiffs’ lawyers have long solicited clients through television advertisements that warn of a drug’s potentially harmful side effects. Now, a powerful congressman, backed by the leading doctors’ group and some drug companies, is pushing back, saying the ads are to blame for patients suffering harm or even dying after dropping treatment. Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R., Va.), chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, wants the ads to include a warning that patients should talk with their doctors before adjusting medication. (Randazzo and Rockoff, 4/14)

The FDA approved the drug, sold as Ocrevus, two weeks ago. The approval comes after a series of clinical trials across the nation, including at the University of South Florida’s Multiple Sclerosis Center in Tampa. Health News Florida’s Stephanie Colombini talked with Dr. Janice Maldonado, Assistant Professor of Neurology at the center to learn more about Ocrevus and its development. (Colombini, 4/13)