With expansion in the generics market and fewer FDA drug approvals, growth in dollar sales for drugs was down in 2007, though the number of prescriptions dispensed increased slightly.

The FDA directs that all SSRIs contain a black box warning. Patients taking these medications may continue therapy, but they should be monitored carefully on a regular basis.

As summer approaches, it is important to be aware of the harm excessive sun exposure can cause. Pharmacists are in a unique position to increase patient awareness of potential risk factors and assist them in the proper selection and application of sunscreen products.