Drug Formulary Review Archives – January 1, 2004
January 1, 2004
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Medicare reform bill includes medication management services
The new Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act, signed into law by President Bush in early December, contains a victory for pharmacists. However, some drug reimbursement changes are also cause for concern. -
New treatment guidelines for community-acquired pneumonia available
The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has updated its treatment guidelines for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in immunocompetent adults, just in time for a season that is expected to have higher-than-normal cases of lung disease. -
Medicare prescription drug coverage benefit: General details of plan
Here are details of the recently approved agreement that is designed to give all Medicare beneficiaries access to prescription drug coverage. Most of these details are provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. -
IDSA suggests initial empiric therapy for CAP
In the 2003 recommendations for management of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in immunocompetent adults, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) in Alexandria, VA, has issued suggestions for initial empiric therapy. -
News Briefs
Pediatric rule legislation passes Congress; Aggressive atorvastatin therapy halts progression of atherosclerosis; New indications for valganciclovir HCl tablets; Aventis warns of hepatic injury reports with leflunomide (Arava); Seniors most vulnerable to hospital medication errors -
Drug Criteria & Outcomes: Formulary Evaluation of Omalizumab (Xolair)®
Asthma affects nearly 18 million individuals in the United States. Prevention and reduction of asthma exacerbations are important goals of asthma management. -
Large drug copayment increases lead to decreased utilization
Pharmacists may expect their patients to switch to less expensive drugs when their copayments increase dramatically. A recent study, however, suggests that some patients may stop taking their important medications altogether.