U.S. Pharmacist Weekly News

July 10, 2024

Older Americans Are Prescribed More Medications Than Ever

U.S. adults aged 65 years and older are being prescribed more medications than ever—with 90% taking at least one drug. The reasons? Aging and increasing chronic conditions. Find out why a new study suggests that a better understanding of the volume of drugs being dispensed to older patients can help “guide prescribing patterns and strategies to enhance appropriate use.”

Some Antidepressants Less Likely to Cause Weight Gain

While it is not always well known, commonly prescribed antidepressants can differ on how they affect weight change in patients. A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine identified which medications are least and most likely to result in weight gain for users. Find out which medications these are and the results of this study.

Massachusetts’ Standing Order Bolstered Emergency Contraceptive Dispensing

Allowing pharmacists to dispense prescription-only ulipristal as well as OTC levonorgestrel dramatically increased emergency contraceptive fills in pharmacies in Massachusetts compared with other states. This is according to the authors of a new research letter published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Find out how the Massachusetts standing order differed from other states and its overall effect.

FDA Warning: Allergic Reactions to Sulfites in Compounded Medications

Sulfites can cause allergic reactions, including severe ones, in some people, especially those with asthma. That is why the FDA is alerting pharmacists who compound drugs, as well as other healthcare professionals and patients, about the importance of informing patients when those products are used in medications. Learn more information about the new alert.