FDA defends Zohydro approval

FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, MD, defended the agency’s approval of the powerful opioid Zohydro ER (hydrocodone bitartrate) extended-release capsules, explaining that its highest dose is no more potent than the highest strengths of the opioid OxyContin ER (oxycodone) extended-release and extended-release morphine. » More

Knowledge of MATs key to opioid abuse challenges

The biggest challenge in tackling opioid abuse is lack of awareness and understanding of addictive diseases, as well as misinformation and negative perceptions of medication-assisted therapies. » More

Pharmacist accused of diverting 700,000 painkillers

The owner of a historic Des Moines, Iowa pharmacy faces up to 250 years in prison following his recent indictment on 16 federal charges, including conspiracy to distribute drugs, tax evasion, and wire fraud. » More

Wisconsin pharmacists gain provider status

Gov. Scott Walker recently signed a bill into law authorizing physician-pharmacist collaboration in any patient setting throughout Wisconsin. The new law does not list any limitations or restriction on what can be delegated. » More

Continuing Education

MTM essentials for hypertension management – Part 1: Nonpharmacologic therapy and geriatric considerations

This month’s article is the third in a new year-long CPE series, Medication Therapy Management Considerations for Adult Patients with Cardiovascular Disease. From February 2014 through January 2015, pharmacists can earn up to 24 hours of CPE credit with 12 monthly knowledge-based activities from the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy and Drug Topics.

This goal of this month’s activity is to review nonpharmacologic treatment strategies relevant to medication therapy management of hypertension and introduce drug therapy considerations in geriatric patients with hypertension.

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.

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• BCBS program reduces painkiller scripts

• Pharmacists more effective in stroke management than nurses

Voices

Anticoagulation Update