FDA NEWS

FDA: Additional concentration of infant liquid acetaminophen available

In a safety announcement, FDA notified the public that an additional concentration of liquid acetaminophen marketed for "infants" (160 mg/5 mL) is now available at local stores. Until now, only more concentrated versions of liquid acetaminophen have been available for infants. » More

MEDICATION SAFETY

McNeil recalls some Motrin products from retailers

FDA announced in late December that McNeil Consumer Healthcare Division of McNeil is voluntarily recalling certain lots of Motrin IB 24-count coated caplets, Motrin IB 24-count coated tablets, and Motrin IB 24+6-count coated caplets from retailers. » More

Editor's Pick

Focus on 2011: A year of novel pharmacologic agents in review

Throughout 2011, Formulary's "Focus on" articles have examined 10 newly approved or investigational drugs of interest to pharmacy and therapeutics (P&T) committee members. Because many readers have said they frequently refer to this column when making formulary decisions for hospitals, health systems, or managed care organizations, the editors have compiled this review of these agents, along with updates on the regulatory status of each.
» Click here.

CONTINUING EDUCATION

MTM and collaborative practice

Successful collaborative relationships with physicians and other healthcare providers greatly enhance patient care. Knowing how to build those relationships is job 1. Earn up to 2 CPE credits. » Click here to login and take the exams.

CLINICAL NEWS

Study: BP increase at middle age may indicate lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease

Individuals who are able to maintain or decrease their blood pressure (BP) to normal levels during middle age have the lowest lifetime risk for cardiovascular disease. In contrast, individuals who experience an increase in BP have higher lifetime risks, according to a study published in Circulation. » More

Chlorthalidone treatment increased life expectancy of test patients with hypertension

The results of a long-term follow-up of chlorthalidone stepped-care therapy for isolated systolic hypertension demonstrated that the treatment is associated with a longer life expectancy. » More

Study: Two-stage approach effective for treating gout

Researchers found that a 2-stage approach to targeting serum urate levels was effective in treating gout, according to a study published in the December issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism. » More

Combining vitamin D, calcium supplements can reduce fracture risk for older adults

A combination of vitamin D and calcium supplementation can reduce the risk of fractures for older adults, according to a study published in the December 20, 2011, issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine. » More

Survey

With the recent termination of the ALTITUDE trial due to increased risk of serious adverse events (non-fatal stroke, renal complications, hyperkalemia, and hypotension) in high-risk patients receiving aliskiren in combination with an ACE inhibitor or ARB medication, which of the following best describes the actions you deem most appropriate for managing use of aliskiren-containing medications?

1)  Immediately remove all aliskiren-based products from formulary and recommend switching patients to alternative anti-hypertensive medications

2)  Maintain formulary status of aliskiren-based products, but perform RetroDUR to identify and communicate to providers of ALL patients on an aliskiren product

3)  Maintain formulary status of aliskiren-based products, but perform RetroDUR to identify and communicate to providers of only ‘high-risk’ patients on such an aliskiren combo

4)  Implement new prior authorization and/or new contingent therapy edits on aliskiren products to minimize new patient starts on such combinations

5)  Do nothing for the time-being until more definitive direction is provided from FDA

Respond here and see what your colleagues think too.

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Formulary Staff

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