Most Popular Stories of Summer 2012

The most popular stories of the summer on PharmacyTimes.com have covered a debate over the proper role of pharmacists, the top drugs of 2011, counseling for obesity, and pills equipped with sensors.

Far from sleepy, this summer has been host to a range of pharmacy news. From debates over the proper role of pharmacists in prescribing medications to a glimpse of the (possible) technological future of pharmaceuticals, here are the most popular online only and print stories on www.PharmacyTimes.com so far this summer:

Web Exclusives:

AMA Opposes Giving Pharmacists Prescription Authority

The country’s largest association of medical doctors has come out against expanding the role of pharmacists in prescribing medications.

FDA Approves Pills Equipped With Sensors

The sensors would allow health care providers to track precisely when patients take their pills, with the goal of improving medication adherence.

Study Underscores Risk of Acetaminophen Overdose

Patients demonstrated a high likelihood of taking an overdose of acetaminophen in a variety of scenarios presented by researchers.

Manufacturer Pushes to Return Primatene Mist to Shelves

The only OTC asthma inhaler was pulled from the market at the end of 2011 due to environmental concerns, but its manufacturer is trying to bring it back.

Reformulated OxyContin Leads to Increased Opana Abuse

A new formulation of OxyContin that makes abuse more difficult has caused increased abuse of Opana, which brings added risk of addiction and overdose.

Publications:

Top 200 Drugs of 2011

An analysis of the top 200 drugs by prescriptions dispensed and total sales reveals key trends in today's pharmaceutical market.

Counseling for Obesity: Weighing in on What Works and What Doesn’t

Approaching patients who are overweight or obese requires sensitivity and a supportive approach.

Moonlighting Pharmacists: More Than 9 to 5

A trend that is not often discussed, moonlighting, can enhance pharmacists' skill sets—and boost their incomes.

Legal Opioids: An Octopus of a Problem

From individuals and families to states and national agencies, the problem of prescription drug abuse touches all levels of American society.

Prenatal Vitamins: The Building Blocks of Nutrition

Patients should understand the importance of folic acid, iron, calcium, and omega-3s in pregnancy.