New taxane packs punch against breast cancer
February 19th 2007New data from an innovative head-to-head phase II study of Abraxane (paclitaxel protein-bound particles for injectable suspension [albumin bound], Abraxis BioScience) versus standard Taxotere (docetaxel, Sanofi-Aventis) showed that weekly Abraxane boosted the tumor response rate by more than 60% over Taxotere given every three weeks in first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer.
New once-daily colitis drug may improve compliance
February 19th 2007According to recent results from a Crohn's and Colitis Foundation study, 65% of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are poorly compliant with their medication. Now, a new therapy for the condition with once-daily dosing may offer patients a better chance for compliance. In January, the Food & Drug Administration approved Lialda, from Shire plc. Lialda is a delayed-release mesalamine product that utilizes MMX technology, a pH-dependent gastro-resistant coating that delays the release of the medication until it reaches the colon, the site of the inflammation in UC.
Dispensing fees woefully inadequate, says study
February 19th 2007When it comes to the cost of dispensing medications and the dispensing fee paid by Medicaid, a new study confirms the bad news that many pharmacists already know. The national average cost of dispensing medications is $10.50 per prescription, not including the cost of the medicine, according to The Cost of Dispensing, a national study released recently by the Coalition for Community Pharmacy Action (CCPA). The coalition is an alliance between the National Association of Chain Drug Stores and the National Community Pharmacists Association.
Only 100+ days left to NPI kickoff: Are you ready?
February 19th 2007More than 1.6 million physicians, pharmacists, and healthcare companies have registered for the new National Provider Identifier (NPI) numbers, but experts warn that time is quickly running out. Although the date of the switchover for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is May 23, officials at CMS and the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) are urging pharmacists to be prepared by March 1 to ensure a smooth transition. And some payers, such as the state of Delaware, are requiring NPIs even before the May 23 deadline.