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Issue 08-08-2011

Express Scripts, Medco to merge

In one fell swoop, the pharmacy benefits market is changing in a big way. The $29.1 billion merger between Express Scripts Inc. and Medco Health Solutions Inc., the No. 2 and No.

Combination of PBMs draws fire from Rx groups

The proposed merger of pharmacy benefit managers Express Scripts and Medco Health Solutions is expected to face close scrutiny from antitrust regulators because the combined company would have leverage over about a third of U.S. prescriptions filled.

Walgreens goes on the offensive

Walgreen Co. has launched a letter-writing campaign to benefits consultants that outlines the reasons it likely won’t be part of Express Scripts Inc.’s pharmacy provider network after December 31.

NACDS prepares members for the unthinkable

Given the high stakes, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores made sure that pharmacy’s voice was heard in the wrangling over the nation’s debt ceiling and its members were prepared in the event that no deal was reached.

B-T-S bargain hunters get help from Rite Aid

Rite Aid Corp. is stocking its stores nationwide with values on many essential back-to-school supplies in anticipation of a shopping season that the National Retail Federation says will bring more bargain hunters to drug stores.

Ritzman, Buehler’s eye partnership

Ritzman Pharmacies Inc. and Buehler Food Markets Inc. are negotiating a deal under which Ritzman would own and operate the supermarket chain’s pharmacies. Ritzman, based here, operates nine drug stores in the state.

PBM merger reshapes playing field for Rx

a deal that, if it passes muster with government regulators, will combine two of the three largest pharmacy benefit management companies to create a dominant player in the sector — raises a host of challenges for community pharmacy operators and others involved