Edoxaban safer than warfarin for Afib patients

The direct oral factor Xa inhibitor edoxaban was found to be noninferior to well-managed warfarin for preventing strokes or systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation, according to a study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine. » More

ACOs earn mixed grades in self-assessment study

One out of 10 patients in the United States receive care through an accountable care organization (ACO), which some people credit with lowering healthcare costs and improving quality. But while ACOs are performing well in some areas they fall woefully short in many others, according to a self-assessment study recently published in the January issue of the Journal of Managed Care Pharmacy. » More

Antibiotics overused for adult ER patients

An analysis of emergency department visits over a 10-year period found that while inappropriate antibiotic use is decreasing in pediatric settings, it continues to remain a problem in adults, according to a study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. » More

Delirium in some patients can be eased with statins

Continued use of statins may help prevent delirium in critically ill patients who received statins before hospital admission, according to a study published online in the American Thoracic Society’s American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. » More

Continuing Education

New CPE: Clinical Updates in Diabetes Care

This month, Drug Topics offers “Clinical Updates in Diabetes Care,” a knowledge-based activity worth up to 2 credits. The goal of this activity is to assist pharmacists in recognizing and understanding the changes in diabetes care to provide optimal evidence-based care for patients with diabetes. To read and print the article with TEST QUESTIONS, click here. To proceed to the online exams and earn up to 2 CPE credits, click here to log in.

Announcement: Welcome to the new user registration process. This new process requires all pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to provide or update their NABP e-Profile ID in order to electronically keep track of CPE credits from ACPE-accredited providers. If you have not done so, you can obtain your NABP e-Profile ID now at www.MyCPEmonitor.net. This profile will enable you to have one login for all the NABP programs and services you will need throughout your career.

Check these out, too

• FDA dosage warning on acetaminophen

• PBMs limiting branded drugs on formularies

• Belviq, Qsymia in Aetna weight-loss plan

• Do antimicrobial soaps work?

Voices

Anticoagulation Update