Latest pharmacy news
Here are some of the latest pharmacy news updates:
1. FDA Approves First Generic Version of EpiPen
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first generic version of EpiPen, a lifesaving medication used to treat severe allergic reactions. The generic version, called Adrenaclick, is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals.
2. CVS Pharmacy to Offer Free HIV Testing
CVS Pharmacy has announced that it will offer free HIV testing at over 1,400 locations across the US. The testing is available to anyone aged 18 and older, and results will be available in 20 minutes.
3. Walgreens to Acquire Rite Aid Stores
Walgreens Boots Alliance has announced that it will acquire 2,186 Rite Aid stores in the US for $4.4 billion. The deal is expected to close in 2022.
4. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) Face Scrutiny
Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are facing increased scrutiny over their business practices, including allegations of price gouging and conflicts of interest. The US Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions has launched an investigation into the industry.
5. New Study Finds Link Between Pharmacy Errors and Patient Harm
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has found that pharmacy errors are a leading cause of patient harm in the US. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 hospitals and found that pharmacy errors were associated with a higher risk of patient harm and death.
6. FDA Warns of Potential Risk of Cancer with Certain Antihistamines
The FDA has issued a warning about the potential risk of cancer associated with certain antihistamines, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and doxepin (Sinequan). The agency is advising patients to use these medications only as directed and to consult with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns.
7. New Pharmacy Technology Aims to Reduce Medication Errors
A new pharmacy technology platform has been launched to help reduce medication errors. The platform, called Medisafe, uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze patient data and alert pharmacists to potential medication errors.
8. CVS Pharmacy to Offer Free Flu Shots
CVS Pharmacy has announced that it will offer free flu shots to customers at over 9,800 locations across the US. The flu shots are available to anyone aged 18 and older, and no appointment is necessary.
9. Pharmacy Students to Benefit from New Scholarship Program
A new scholarship program has been launched to support pharmacy students who are pursuing their degree. The program, called the Pharmacy Student Scholarship, will award $1,000 scholarships to 10 students each year.
10. FDA Approves New Treatment for Hepatitis C
The FDA has approved a new treatment for hepatitis C, called Epclusa. The medication is a combination of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, and is approved for use in adults with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 infection.
These are just a few of the latest pharmacy news updates. I hope you find them informative and helpful!