April 2010 Allergy & Asthma

Eurand Pharmaceuticals' Zenpep (pancrelipase) Delayed-Release Capsules have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis or other conditions.

Recommendations are presented here to prevent dispensing errors with concentrated opioid solutions, which can have devastating consequences.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are indicated for the treatment of a variety of malignancies due to their ability to interfere with cell communication and growth. Interactions that affect TKI metabolism are discussed.

Patients with asthma have many options for treatment, including the biologic omalizumab (Xolair). Pharmacists who utilize a properly executed medication therapy management program will promote increased adherence to treatment.

Patients with asthma, a common but complex problem, experience a wide variety of symptoms. Short- and long-acting medications are available for treatment.

Michael Geisler, a student at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville School of Pharmacy, works hard to make patients feel cared for outside the physician's office.

Self-treatment of asthma is not always appropriate, but pharmacists can help patients with asthma determine if OTC treatment is right for them.

Allergic rhinitis is common, and its prevalence is on the rise. Pharmacists can counsel patients about their symptoms and recommend OTC products to control them.

Should pharmacists be required to fill prescriptions for medications that are legally on the market, but to which they have moral or religious objections?

Northshore Recovery High School near Boston, Massachusetts, offers students struggling with addiction an environment free from the culture of drugs and alcohol.

Health care reform has both good and bad news for patients. Americans will receive health care coverage and seniors no longer have to worry about falling into the Medicare "doughnut hole," but affordable biogenerics will not be available for decades.

Stress can have serious health implications, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and exacerbating medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and hypertension. Stress is unavoidable, but learning to manage it effectively is critical.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Pharmacists should familiarize themselves with the symptoms, stages, and treatments for COPD.

Pharmacy has a united voice during the health care reform debate, and now that HR 3590 has passed, pharmacy groups must continue to be heard.

In the United States, elderly patients with asthma are the most likely group to die of this breath-robbing disease. Advice is presented to help elderly asthma patients manage their disease and live longer lives.