Drug Formulary Review Archives – January 1, 2003
January 1, 2003
View Issues
-
Pharmacists will participate more in patient care in years to come
With a new year unfolding, Drug Utilization Review (DUR) takes this opportunity to look ahead at pharmacy practice, regulation, and the continued battle for pharmacists to receive provider status. -
Prescription drug costs expected to rise 20%
The cost of prescription drug coverage is expected to continue to increase at a rate of nearly 20% in 2003, according to a report released in late November. -
Loratadine (Claritin) gets OTC status
As expected, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given loratadine (Claritin) over-the-counter (OTC) status. Loratadine, the only nonsedating antihistamine available OTC, is approved for seasonal allergic rhinitis. -
Vaccine shows promise in preventing cervical cancer
An investigational vaccine has reduced the incidence of both human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16) infection and HPV-16-related cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (pre-cancer of the cervix), according to research published in the Nov. 21, 2002, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. -
News Briefs
APhA awarded contract to establish Support Center; Wyeth stops producing two vaccines; Pharmacist participation in rounds cuts errors; Warnings strengthened on three medications; Certain medication errors more likely to be harmful. -
New FDA Approvals
New FDA Approvals -
Drug Criteria & Outcomes: Fondaparinux Sodium (Arixtra) Drug Evaluation
Fondaparinux sodium (Arixtra) is the first of a new class of synthetic antithrombotic agents, known as the selective Factor-Xa inhibitors. -
Drug Criteria & Outcomes: Do changes in the seasons make some people SAD?
Many people experience the winter-time blues. Some people may feel down, have less energy, put on a few pounds, or have difficulty getting out of bed in the mornings during the dark, short days of winter.