FDA to change safety labeling for opioid analgesics
The Food and Drug Administration is modifying safety labeling and postmarket study requirements for all extended-release and long-acting (ER/LA) opioid analgesics for the treatment of pain.
CDR
Forest Labs names Saunders as CEO
A new chief executive officer is set to take the helm next month at Forest Laboratories Inc. The pharmaceutical company said Tuesday that Brenton Saunders, the former CEO of Bausch + Lomb and a Forest director since August 2011, will become Forest’s president and CEO starting Oct. 1.
Drug recalls have Ontario pharmacists concerned
Pharmacists in Ontario are urging Health Canada to pay closer attention to the product integrity of some medications following a series of recalls of oral contraceptives.
Study: Pharmacies’ flexible hours spur vaccinations
One of community pharmacy’s strongest attributes — convenience — is playing a pivotal role in boosting U.S. immunization rates but could do even more, according to a Walgreen Co. study published in the September/October issue of Annals of Family Medicine.
HHS secretary extends kudos to pharmacies
Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, applauded retail pharmacies and other health care stakeholders for stepping forward to help Americans prepare for new health benefits being offered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Albertsons adds to pharmacy base with acquisition
Albertsons LLC is slated to raise its pharmacy count with its deal to acquire Lubbock, Texas-based United Supermarkets LLC. Under the agreement, announced Monday, Albertsons plans to acquire 50 supermarkets in north and west Texas under the United Supermarkets, Market Street and Amigos banners.
Lay’s STAX to kick off its first NFL promo
The Lay’s STAX potato crisps brand is teaming up with the National Football League for its first-ever football-themed promotion.
Perrigo cleared to market generic Children’s Zyrtec liquid
Perrigo Co. has received final approval from the Food and Drug Administration for cetirizine hydrochloride oral solution (1 mg/ml), bubble gum-flavored. The company said Tuesday that its allergy product is the store-brand equivalent of McNeil-PPC Inc.
Shareholders OK Actavis deal to acquire Warner Chilcott
Actavis Inc. and Warner Chilcott plc stockholders have given the green light for the pharmaceutical companies’ merger agreement. At meetings on Tuesday, shareholders approved Actavis’ deal to buy Ireland-based Warner Chilcott in an $8.
Chiquita Tropicals juice line makes debut
Mojo Organics Inc. has introduced Chiquita Tropicals, a line of exotic juices. Icons on the ergonomically designed Chiquita Tropicals bottles indicate the nutritional and health benefits.
Target issues challenge for health care ideas
With consumers increasingly focused on wellness, Target Corp. is sounding the call for ideas to make health care easier. The discount store giant on Monday unveiled the Simplicity Challenge, a nationwide search for innovative ideas to simplify health care.
Giant pharmacies to offer health insurance guidance
Ahold USA food and drug chain Giant has partnered with Maryland Health Connection to raise customer awareness and provide information about new health insurance coverage options coming their way next month.
Walgreens to acquire Kerr Drug
In another sign of chain drug industry consolidation, Walgreen Co. plans to purchase Kerr Drug, which has 76 drug stores in North Carolina. Financial terms of the transaction weren’t disclosed.
SoloHealth, HHS raise awareness about Health Insurance Marketplace
SoloHealth has entered a partnership with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to promote awareness and information around the new Health Insurance Marketplace and HealthCare.gov website.
Shoppers Drug Mart launches arthritis screening program
Canadian Minister of Health Rona Ambrose joined with Shoppers Drug Mart president and chief executive officer Domenic Pilla to launch the drug chain’s new arthritis screening program.
CVS expands exclusive fragrance, body care line
CVS/pharmacy has added new offerings to its exclusive Essence of Beauty fragrance and body care brand. The Essence of Beauty Fine Fragrance Collection now has four new scents.