Wider use of statins now recommended

Statin therapy is now recommended for approximately 33 million Americans who don't have cardiovascular disease (CVD), but have an estimated 10-year CV risk of 7.5% or higher. These individuals also have LDL cholesterol between 70 mg/dL and 189 mg/dL, according to new guidelines issued Nov. 12 by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association.
» Full article

First generic GERD drug approved

FDA has approved the first generic versions of Aciphex (rabeprazole sodium) delayed-release tablets, used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease in adults and adolescents (aged 12 years and up). » Full article

New rivaroxaban data

New data looking at the safety and efficacy of rivaroxaban (Xarelto, Janssen) for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following major orthopedic surgery has been published online ahead of print in Thrombosis and Haemostasis. » Full article

Reducing healthcare-associated infections

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are less likely to occur in favorable critical care work environments, according to a study in the November issue of American Journal of Critical Care.
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VIDEO: Off-label use of atypical antipsychotics: Lack of evidence for their use in primary insomnia

Atypical antipsychotics are some of the most commonly prescribed psychotropic medications in the United States. There is increasing off-label use despite lack of evidence to support it in some of these medical or psychiatric conditions. One of these growing uses is for the management of primary insomnia. This article discusses the literature on using atypical antipsychotics for managing primary sleep disturbances. » Full article

Continuing Education

New CPE mini-series: Multiple sclerosis

This month, Drug Topics offers the first of a two-part CPE series, "MTM considerations in multiple sclerosis." Earn up to 2 credits by completing this knowledge-based activity. 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.

• Statins may lower prostate cancer-related mortality risk

• Generics saved Americans $1 trillion over 10 years

• Rivaroxaban reduced hospitalization by 1 day in pulmonary embolism cases

• Flu vaccinations cuts risk of pneumonia hospitalizations by almost 60%, study finds

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