Drug Topics July 2020

“I just hope that pharmacists’ judgment can soon be a contributing factor in pharmacotherapy decisions made by PBMs and insurance companies.”

An inside look at the process from prescription to dispensing.

On May 8, 2020, the FDA granted accelerated approval to selpercatinib (Retevmo; Eli Lilly and Company).

Prepare to counsel patients on microbiome-related products.

Preparation taking place in some pharmacies, but clarification is still needed.

Once largely stigmatized, illicit substances are breaking into the field of pain management.

Despite some anticipated hesitancy, demand for the novel coronavirus vaccine will be significant when it becomes available.

“Pharmacists should ensure that patients have a written asthma action plan.”

Enhanced pharmacy services such as home delivery, curbside services, and expanded personal patient outreach create opportunities to address social determinants of health during the pandemic.

In response to the study, the NYC Department of Health is pursuing large-scale implementation of this approach, targeting diabetes hot spots across the city through public health messaging, mailed print materials, and Care Calls.

“We know that if we don’t address these potential difficulties before they occur, the burden to families can be devastating and the health care costs are tremendous.”

In an interview with Drug Topics®, Richard Scholz, chief strategy officer of ERxDirect, explained the prominence of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic and the lasting implications of new technologies during unprecedented times.