Small Doses: February 26 to March 1

Breaking: CVS, Walgreens to Begin Mifepristone Dispensing This Month

In a win for abortion advocates, CVS and Walgreens will begin dispensing mifepristone in a “handful of states” this month.

Officials from CVS and Walgreens—2 of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the country—said in interviews that the certification allowing mifepristone dispensing had been completed according to FDA guidelines.

Abrysvo Demonstrates Continued Efficacy in Older Adults Through Second RSV Season

Pfizer's RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, has effectively protected adults 60 and older against RSV-related lower respiratory illness through 2 respiratory seasons.

No new reports of adverse events were made during the second RSV season, and the company plans to conduct further research to build out the safety profile of the vaccine.

Smoking Cannabis Linked With Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Cannabis use—particularly smoking—may increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes such as heart attack and stroke.

As the public perception of risk associated with marijuana continues to decline, these findings underscore the need for public awareness and education regarding the potential health impacts of cannabis use.

Dual GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonist Shows Positive Results in Phase 2 Study

A GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist from Viking Therapeutics has demonstrated positive top-line results in a phase 2 study for the potential treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity.

The trial demonstrated that VK2735 met its primary endpoint by achieving statistically significant reductions in body weight compared to placebo.

OTC Colon Cancer Screening Test Now Available in Pharmacies Across US

Reese Pharmaceutical has launched a new at-home Fecal Immunochemical Test that helps identify hidden blood in stool to support the early detection of colon cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders.

Cleared by the FDA in September 2023, ColoTest is available over-the-counter and has a suggested retail price of $19.99.