All News

Impetigo is a bacterial skin condition common in children and characterized by blisters that may itch. Now there is a new antibacterial ointment approved to treat this condition. Retapamulin (Altabax 1%, GlaxoSmithKline) is the first of a new class of antibacterials known as pleuromutilins. According to the manufacturer, no other antibacterials use the same specific mode of action.

PBMs should pass savings from e-prescribing to R.Ph.s; family pharmacies; pharmacy and the military; price controls; cleanliness in the pharmacy

The use of intravenous (IV) syringes for non-IV applications such as enteral feedings poses many risks, especially for the pediatric and neonatal population which has a majority of their oral and enteral doses provided through a gastric tube. The Baxa Corporation recently announced the launch of a new educational campaign to make healthcare providers aware of these problems and offer solutions.

While persons with Medicare still are adjusting to 2007 plan changes and modifications to their coverage, Part D sponsors are preparing 2008 bids that are due in June.

The new 2007 update to the 2004 mucositis management guidelines has been published in the March issue of Cancer. New additions include the use of palifermin to prevent mucositis in high-dose chemotherapy with or without total body irradiation plus stem cell transplantation.

Merck has received FDA approval of combination drug Janumet, containing both sitagliptin and metformin. The new product utilizes three different mechanisms to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.

Which over-the-counter and health and beauty care brands accounted for the most dollar sales in drugstores, supermarkets, and mass-mercahndisers last year?

Duane Reade, a drugstore chain in metropolitan New York, and Together Rx Access, a free prescription savings program, have partnered to help eligible New Yorkers without health insurance gain access to prescription medicines.

A survey by Harris Interactive found that patients' lack of confidence in drug safety and their experiences with adverse reactions to prescribed medications leads to nonadherence.