We report the latest approvals from the Food and Drug Administration on drugs and medical devices and include links to sites that explain how these drugs or devices work and what the side effects and hazards are.

Humira Gets Expanded Approval for Psoriatic Arthritis
To slow joint damage

Generic Metronidazole Approved
Antibiotic treats overgrowth of vaginal bacteria

Tyzeka Approved to Treat Chronic Hepatitis B
But it isn't a cure for the dangerous liver infection

Omnaris Approved for Hay Fever
Nasal spray suppresses body's immune response

Taxotere Approved for Head and Neck Cancer
Average survival extended by more than 4 months

New Diabetes Drug Helps Lower Blood Sugar
Januvia part of a new class of medications

Aricept Use Expanded to Severe Alzheimer's Dementia
Approved 10 years ago for mild-to-moderate disease

Avastin Sanctioned as Lung Cancer Treatment
Drug extended survival in people with most common lung cancer

Risperdal Approved for Autism Symptoms in Children
Including self injury and aggression

Zolinza Treats Rare Skin Cancer
When other remedies fail

Yaz Birth Control Pill Approved for New Use
For women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Vectibix Treats Colorectal Cancer That's Spread
Drug can slow or stop growing tumors

Fentora Approved for Cancer Pain
Oral opioid treats rapid-onset 'breakthrough' pain

Lamictal Sanctioned for 'Grand Mal' Seizures
Epilepsy drug gets broader approval

Noxafil Prevents Invasive Fungal Infections
Immune-compromised are most at risk

Generic Cipro I.V. Approved
Antibiotic widely prescribed for urinary and respiratory infections

FDA Approves OTC Plan B for Women 18 and Older
Prescription for 'morning after' pill still required for younger females

Expanded Use of Plavix Approved
To prevent blocked arteries after heart attack

Actonel Sanctioned for Male Osteoporosis
Already approved to increase bone mass in post-menopausal women

First Generic Version of Effexor Approved
A popular antidepressant