May/June 2016

The treatment of epilepsy is complex and can cause drug-related problems and hamper quality of life. Clinical services performed by pharmacists may optimize the pharmacotherapy and avoid or mitigate these problems.

A large single-payer administrative claims database was used to assess the economic impact of switching from metoprolol to nebivolol for the treatment of hypertension.

This is the first study to report, in detail, patterns of resource use and costs associated with real-world administration of denosumab and zoledronic acid.

This commentary proposes a research agenda that could inform policymaking based on a broader understanding the economic and social costs and benefits of specialty pharmaceuticals.

While warfarin remains the most commonly prescribed anticoagulant, novel anticoagulant use appears to be increasing especially among cardiologists. With new indications for these agents, uptake in prescribing by primary care providers is likely to increase.

With the introduction of biosimilars in the United States, there are several significant issues that will challenge those involved in formulary committees and benefit plans, as well as prescribers and pharmacists.

New high cost specialty medications are increasingly treating otherwise untreatable conditions, creating a series of challenges for stakeholders across the healthcare landscape.