Chain Pharmacy

In patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, interferon beta did not alleviate the progression of the disease, according to a new study.

More effective ways of combating pertussis in young infants, such as vaccinating pregnant women, should be considered, according to the authors of a new study.

Data from poison centers can be used to predict methadone overdose trends in the United States, according to a study published July 19 in PLoS One.

A recent Danish study found that exposure to the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 vaccine during pregnancy was not associated with a significantly increased risk of major birth defects or preterm births.

FDA has announced a safety communication regarding the risk of seizures in patients with multiple sclerosis starting dalfampridine (Ampyra, Acorda Therapeutics). The safety communication stemmed from a review of post-marketing adverse event reports.

The Florida Pharmacy Association and others are suing to restore patient access to Medicaid pharmacy providers.

At a hearing held last week about the prescription drug gray market, John Coster, PhD, RPh, senior vice president of government affairs, National Community Pharmacists Association, testified that a balanced approach was necessary to address the prescription drug shortage problem and to protect patient care.

A new study has found that omega-6 fatty acids can help prevent coronary heart disease (CHD) and that dietary saturated fat increases the risk for CHD.

The Two Sister Study, funded in part by Susan Komen for the Cure, was conducted to examine the possible risks associated with fertility drugs and breast cancer. The results were published July 6 in the Journal of The National Cancer Institute.

The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy issued a report last week that called for international collaboration among regulators and other public agencies to help combat the ongoing problem of the online counterfeit drug supply.

A new policy proposal by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid could force independent community pharmacies to stop selling diabetes testing supplies, and beneficiaries would not have access to the care they need from their local pharmacies, according to a statement from the National Community Pharmacists Association.

FDA recently issued a statement reminding healthcare professionals about the need to adjust the dosage of the antibacterial drug cefepime (Maxipime, Elan) in patients with renal impairment.

The results of a recent literature review suggest that only a high intake of vitamin D leads to a significant reduction in the risk of fracture.

FDA recently approved the first over-the-counter test for HIV, providing a confidential in-home testing option for the virus that causes AIDS with results in as little as 20 minutes.

A recent study suggests that modest caffeine consumption may be associated with a significantly lower relative risk of basal cell carcinoma.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently updated its 1991 recommendations for the management of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected healthcare providers and students to prevent HBV transmission to patients.

FDA has approved a new risk evaluation and mitigation strategy for extended-release and long-acting opioids that requires that healthcare professionals are educated on how to safely prescribe the drugs and that patients understand how to safely use the drugs.

What’s different in your drug stores this month? A battery-powered toothbrush for sensitive teeth and gums. A pivoting shower and bath safety grip bar. The smallest size (to date) fish oil softgels. Insoles for multiple shoe styles to help take care of various foot comfort problems. A yeast-based probiotic supplement. A “fishless†omega-3 product for vegetarians. And there are even more new over-the-counter items featured in the print edition of Drug Topics.

The Office of Inspector General has issued a report implicating more than 2,600 pharmacies in Medicare Part D fraud

The business of pharmacy is crushing the profession. The bean counters are running the Prescription Mill right into the ground. And if we don't stop them, who will be left to do our jobs?

Pharmacy associations offered a range of comments after the Supreme Court ruling that upheld key elements of the Affordable Care Act

We've already felt the pain. When will we go for the gain? How many physical breakdowns, ruined home lives, and professional traumas is it gonna take before we finally say enough is enough and ORGANIZE?

In a competitive profession and an age of limits, the formula for success is still pretty simple: Sell yourself - and then deliver!

A round-up of OTC products to treat eye and ear problems

CMS is assessing genetic testing for the older population

Recent changes to Medicaid's reimbursement rules raise many confusing questions. Drug Topics' senior legal columnist sets out to clarify some key points

Maybe the best way to change the environment in pharmacy is to have an old-fashioned '60s-style protest

FDA approves avanafil and tafluprost

Drug Topics and the Office of Pharmacy Development, University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, introduce a new three-phase practice-based activity: "Medication Therapy Management for Patients with Diabetes"

A survey of new Rx, new generic, and new OTC products