http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Legal+News/Article/list/47465 For pharmacists, from <em>Drug Topics</em>: News, features, and analysis of laws and regulations affecting pharmacists, pharmacies, the pharmaceutical industry, and related subjects 2012-05-16T23:43:35Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Legal+News/Cardinal-Healths-Florida-facility-banned-from-sell/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/773833?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Cardinal Health this week settled litigation with the DEA, which suspended Cardinal?s ability to sell controlled substance medications from its Lakeland, Fla., distribution center for two years. 2012-05-16T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202012/773833null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Healthcare-Reform/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/772743?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Affordable Care Act has less to do with healthcare reform than either supporters or opponents of the law might like to believe. 2012-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/192012/772743/Cover_195x210px_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Accreditation-standards-buttress-compounding-pharm/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/772760?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Accreditation standards guarantee reputation and high safety standards for compounding pharmacies. 2012-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/192012/772760null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/You-can-call-me-Doctor/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/772759?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 One pharmacist argues that wanting to be called Doctor is more than just ego. 2012-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/192012/772759null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Community-pharmacies-sue-CMS-to-stop-preferred-net/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/772751?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Four pharmacies have sued HHS and CMS to halt what they call a violation of federal Medicare Part D statute. 2012-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/192012/772751null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Revising-the-nonRx-drug-category/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/772749?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Healthcare industry experts discuss the pros and cons. 2012-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/192012/772749null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/FDA-hears-from-stakeholders-about-biosimilar-produ/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/773425?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacists need additional guidance on the handling of biosimilar products in the pharmacy when these products become more widely available following the approval of the biosimilar pathway, said Marcie Bough, senior director of government affairs, APhA, speaking at an FDA hearing last week. 2012-05-14T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202012/773425null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Medical-marijuana-bill-passes-in-Connecticut/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/772424?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Connecticut's legislature passed a bill this weekend that would legalize the use of medical marijuana in the state. While several other states have similar laws, Connecticut is putting more restrictions on the dispensing of the drug. 2012-05-08T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/192012/772424null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Senators-Moran-Brown-headline-NCPAs-Legislative-Co/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/771164?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Several U.S. senators and representatives are speaking at the National Community Pharmacists Association's annual Legislative Conference, which will be held May 7-9 in Washington, D.C. 2012-05-01T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/182012/771164null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/NCPA-NACDS-support-recommend-revisions-for-PDUFA/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/771167?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The National Community Pharmacists Association and the National Association of Chain Drug Stores expressed their support and made recommendations for Congress's reauthorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act. 2012-05-01T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/182012/771167null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Welcome+to+ModernMedicine/Pharmaceutical-waste-management-Compliance-with-en/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/770171?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Compliance with environmental laws and regulations pertaining to pharmaceutical waste disposal is an essential part of pharmacy management. Here are some tips to make the process less daunting. 2012-04-21T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/162012/770171null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Kentucky-law-protects-pharmacies-against-unfair-PB/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/769367?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The recent passage of a Kentucky bill prohibiting pharmacy benefit managers from recouping payments through pharmacy audits when there is no evidence of fraud bodes well for similar federal legislation, according to a recent statement from the National Association of Chain Drug Stores. 2012-04-17T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/162012/769367null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/CMS-pushes-for-independence-of-consulting-pharmaci/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/769642?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 CMS's proposed regulation for long-term care consultant pharmacists is stirring up controversy. 2012-04-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/162012/769642null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/DEA-drug-distributor-focus-raises-policy-questions/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/769635?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Continuing legal battles between the Drug Enforcement Administration and Cardinal Health have raised questions about federal drug policy and the role of distributors. 2012-04-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/162012/769635null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Marshals-seize-unapproved-misbranded-drug-products/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/767392?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Federal marshals seized more than 1,600 containers from a Missouri distributor last week, alleging that the drugs were unapproved by FDA and misbranded. 2012-04-03T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/142012/767392null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Retail-pharmacists-vow-to-keep-fighting-after-Expr/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/767269?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) approved the $29.1 billion merger of Express Scripts and Medco Health Solutions on Monday, but the retail pharmacy industry continues to fight the deal, vowing to push a request for a temporary restraining order (TRO) that it filed on Friday. 2012-04-02T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/142012/767269null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Community-pharmacies-file-suit-to-block-merger-of-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/766603?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), the National Community Pharmacists Association, and 9 retail pharmacy companies filed a lawsuit Thursday to stop the proposed merger of pharmacy benefit manager giants Express Scripts and Medco Health Solutions. 2012-03-29T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/132012/766603null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/OIG-calls-for-diagnosis-information-on-prescriptio/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764142?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Prescriptions could take on a new look if the Office of the Inspector General gets its way. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764142null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Ohios-CAT-law-might-be-beneficial-for-out-of-state/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764143?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Ohio commercial activity tax law (&#34;CAT&#34;) is an annual tax on the privilege of doing business in Ohio. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764143/195x210px_Pg-61_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Drug-shortage-crisis-plagues-pharmacists/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764140?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The outcry from physicians, pharmacists, and patients over disruptions in supplies of vital medications continues to draw attention on Capitol Hill and throughout the healthcare system. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764140/195x210px_Cover_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/How-democracy-should-work/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764151?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Occasionally mergers receive the attention of Congress, especially when consumer welfare and jobs are at stake. A prime example: The proposed merger of Express Scripts and Medco Health Solutions. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764151null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Drug-shortages-impede-care-threaten-lives/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764156?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 ASHP continues to make solving the drug shortages problem a top priority. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764156null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Waxman-12-year-wait-for-biosimilars-too-long/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764154?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Implementation of the &#34;biosimilars&#34; law is going well, but the exclusivity period seems to be a problem. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764154null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Prior-authorization-of-atypicals-cuts-all-antipsyc/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/764148?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Requiring prior authorization may have a broader impact than expected. 2012-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/102012/764148null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Supreme-Court-California-pharms-can-challenge-Medi/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/761550?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 California pharmacists are claiming victory after the U.S. Supreme Court sent 3 cases back to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in Los Angeles. The cases involved injunctions halting Medicaid reimbursement cuts to pharmacies and other providers in California. 2012-02-23T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/082012/761550null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/An-update-on-our-biggest-partner/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/758552?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The NCPA will continue to work with the government in 2012 to make changes for you and your patients. 2012-02-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/062012/758552/195x210px_DougHoey_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/US-government-starts-privacy-audits/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/758549?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 In most cases, a pharmacy is, by definition, a HIPAA-covered entity, so it is subject to a possible audit by the federal government. Here's what you can do to prepare&amp;ndash;just in case. 2012-02-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/062012/758549null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Cardinal-gets-temporary-restraining-order-to-halt-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/757906?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Cardinal Health has requested a temporary restraining order to block a Drug Enforcement Administration suspension halting controlled-substance shipments from its Lakeland, Fla., distribution center. DEA suspended Cardinal&amp;rsquo;s distribution license for the Lakeland facility last Friday. 2012-02-07T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/062012/757906null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/FTC-blocks-Omnicare-acquisition-of-PharMerica/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/757541?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Federal Trade Commission turned thumbs down on Omnicare?s attempted acquisition of competitor PharMerica. The agency filed suit in federal court to block the hostile takeover. 2012-02-02T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/052012/757541null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/FTC-investigation-of-CVS-Caremark-concludes-with-f/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/756467?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 CVS Caremark has agreed to pay $5 million to compensate consumers who purchased coverage for the 2008 plan year from a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan sponsored by Rx America, a subsidiary of Longs Drug Stores Corp., according to a company press release. 2012-01-17T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/032012/756467null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Groups-oppose-CMS-LTC-consultant-pharmacists-propo/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/754530?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacists groups strongly oppose the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services? proposal to require long-term care (LTC) facilities to contract solely with consultant pharmacists who have no affiliation with any in-facility LTC pharmacy, pharmaceutical manufacturer, or drug wholesaler. 2012-01-03T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/012012/754530null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/The+Latest/Senate-hearing-investigates-drug-shortages/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/753805?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 A Senate hearing December 15 reflected the alarm many in Washington are feeling about the drug shortages around the country, but also mirrored the confusion that continues to surround all the causes and any possible solutions. 2011-12-21T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/522011/753805null HTML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Top+News/New-York-law-stops-mail-order-pharmacy-mandate/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/753396?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Independent pharmacies in New York can breathe a sigh of relief with the passage of the Anti-Mandatory Mail Order Bill, which allows consumers the choice of where to fill their prescriptions. 2011-12-20T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/522011/753396null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Community+Practice/Neds-December-pick-Pharmacy-case-of-the-year/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/752482?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Earlier this year, the Supreme Court handed down a 6-3 decision, striking down a Vermont law that restricted the marketing of drugs to prescribers if that marketing was based on the data-mined histories of the prescribers' Rx-writing. 2011-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/512011/752482null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Community+Practice/Renewing-the-pharmacy-patient-contract/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/752481?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The end of the year is a good time to think about how we can better serve our patients in the year to come. 2011-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/512011/752481null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/New-bills-highlight-the-challenges-of-track-and-tr/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/752474?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Proposed legislation that would make &#34;track-and-trace&#34; prescription drug distribution systems mandatory has fueled new discussions among interested parties on both sides of the issue. 2011-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/512011/752474null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Community+Practice/Get-ready-for-short-cycle-dispensing-in-LTC-and-sk/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/752472?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Short-cycle dispensing for patients in long-term care and skilled-nursing facilities is mandated to begin in January 2013. The time to prepare is now. 2011-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/512011/752472null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/How-to-protect-your-pharmacy-against-drug-related-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/752475?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 While pharmacy crime is nothing new, the rate of pharmacy crime is on the rise. Here are some suggestions for combating it successfully. 2011-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/512011/752475null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Opposition-to-ESIMedco-merger-is-expressed-at-Sena/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/752424?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacy chains and organizations continue to actively oppose the merger of Express Scripts and Medco Health Solutions. 2011-12-13T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/512011/752424null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Provider-groups-file-lawsuit-against-DHCS-HHS-over/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/750560?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacy and medical groups are suing the California Department of Health Care Services and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services over the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services&amp;rsquo; recent approval of a 10% reimbursement rate cut in California&amp;rsquo;s Medicaid program. 2011-11-29T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/492011/750560null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/FDA-appeals-US-District-Court-ruling-on-pharmacy-c/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/749891?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 FDA has appealed the September 2011 ruling made by the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida in U.S. v. Franck&amp;rsquo;s Lab, Inc. The ruling had favored pharmacy compounding for veterinary patients. 2011-11-22T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/482011/749891null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/The-importance-of-documentation/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/748872?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Lawyers will tell you that &#34;custom and habit&#34; is a weak defense when a jury is confronted with a dead child and a grieving grandmother. Document everything. 2011-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/472011/748872null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/FDA-loses-vet-compounding-case/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/748874?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Vet compounding beats out FDA in court. This time. 2011-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/472011/748874null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Meaningful-use-Pharmacists-need-to-take-the-lead/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/748950?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Meaningful use is more than a phrase for hospital pharmacists. It is a path to leadership. 2011-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/472011/748950null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/FDA-enters-consent-decree-of-permanent-injunction-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/748875?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 FDA goes after Hill Dermaceuticals Inc. and various associates for introducing adulterated drugs into interstate commerce. 2011-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/472011/748875null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Million-Hearts-campaign-gears-up-to-save-lives/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/748887?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Numerous government and private-sector organizations are teaming up to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes over the next 5 years. 2011-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/472011/748887null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/The-pharmacist-and-MTM-services/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/744298?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 ^MTM services are additional to provision of a drug product and include a broad range of pharmacists' activities within the scope of pharmacy practice. ^An example of MTM includes creating a medication treatment plan. ^Another example is monitoring and evaluating a patient's response to therapy. 2011-10-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/422011/744298null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/FDA-enters-consent-decree-of-permanent-injunction-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/743579?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 FDA recently announced that the District Court for the Middle District of Florida entered a consent decree that prohibits Hill Dermaceuticals Inc., Hill Labs Inc., and certain individuals from introducing adulterated drugs into interstate commerce. 2011-10-11T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/422011/743579null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/FDA-takes-part-in-global-efforts-to-combat-unsafe-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/741997?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 FDA and other regulatory and international partners have completed the International Internet Week of Action, a cooperative effort to curb online sales and distribution of counterfeit and illegal medical products. 2011-09-29T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/402011/741997null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Community+Practice/House-hearings-open-Express-Scripts-Medco-merger-b/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/740618?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The debate over the proposed merger between Express Scripts Inc. and Medco has hit the House of Representatives. 2011-09-20T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/392011/740618null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/The-immunizing-pharmacist/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/740340?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacists have, by now, overcome most legal obstacles to the right to immunize patients and have overwhelmingly demonstrated their value by increasing patient immunization rates. 2011-09-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/382011/740340null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Approval-pathway-for-biosimilars-still-evolving/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/735328?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 It's complicated. Those words sum up the current status and apparent future of biosimilars. 2011-08-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/332011/735328/195x210px_vials_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/New-HIPAA-standards-coming-for-electronic-claims-a/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/735329?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 As healthcare moves swiftly toward a more comprehensive electronic platform, pharmacies will be required to upgrade their claim submission standard from NCPDP 5.1 to NCPDP D.0, an updated version of the HIPAA standard for pharmacy claims transactions. 2011-08-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/332011/735329null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Pharmacy-liability-insurance-A-short-primer/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/735332?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacy owners, pharmacists, and technicians should spend some time understanding their insurance policies. It may be time well spent. 2011-08-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/332011/735332/195x210_Pg-58_Ken-Baker_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Congress-urged-to-curb-rogue-online-pharmacies/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/734192?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Advocates are hoping for a new push in Congress to control rogue online pharmacies, according to Bryan A. Liang, professor at the University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine and vice president of the Partnership for Safe Medicine. 2011-08-14T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/322011/734192null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Brazilian-diet-pills-passed-off-as-supplements-smu/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/733522?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 As a result of combined investigations by FDA, the IRS Criminal Division, and the U.S. Department of Justice, Elisane Garcia was sentenced on July 25 for disguising controlled substances as &#34;Brazilian diet pills&#34; and smuggling them into the United States with intent to distribute. She was also convicted of 1 count of money-laundering. 2011-08-01T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/312011/733522null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/Congressional-debt-deal-exempts-Medicare-Medicaid-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/733752?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 While Medicare and Medicaid were exempted from budget cuts in the initial debt agreement reached by the U.S. House and Senate this week, they could be up for cuts later this year. 2011-08-01T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/322011/733752null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/Specialty-pharmacies-urge-FTC-to-block-Express-Scr/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/733742?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Independent Specialty Pharmacy Coalition, a group of community-based specialty pharmacies, called on the Federal Trade Commission to block Express Scripts? proposed acquisition of Medco. 2011-08-01T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/322011/733742null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/Breaking-News-NACDS-warns-of-impact-on-pharmacy-if/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/733458?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 If the U.S. Congress fails to reach a consensus on the deficit issue by August 2, there could be significant impact on Medicare and other federal programs, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores announced today. 2011-07-29T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/312011/733458null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Breaking-news-Pharmacies-fight-for-right-to-contin/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/733232?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Opponents of a controversial Change Request initiated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aired their views to CMS officials earlier this week. 2011-07-28T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/312011/733232null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Pharmacists-can-play-a-key-role-in-federal-action-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/730691?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 One component of a new federal action plan for controlling viral hepatitis calls for expanded delivery of hepatitis A and B vaccines through pharmacies, beginning in 2013. 2011-07-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/282011/730691null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/NABP-sustains-state-pharmacy-boards/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/730698?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Founded in 1904, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy is an impartial professional organization geared toward supporting the efforts of individual state boards of pharmacy to protect the public health and safety. 2011-07-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/282011/730698/NABP-Logo_195x210px_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Two-Congressional-bills-support-right-of-community/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/730702?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The National Community Pharmacists Association expects U.S. legislators to get behind 2 new bills that would allow independent pharmacists to negotiate insurance contracts with pharmacy benefit managers. 2011-07-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/282011/730702null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Pharmacy-data-mining-Physicians-independent-pharma/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/730694?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 As expected, the U.S. Supreme Court recently struck down a landmark case that would have prohibited data-mining companies from selling physicians' prescribing information to pharmaceutical manufacturers for use in marketing. Still some independent pharmacists say they are not in favor of the practice. 2011-07-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/282011/730694null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Can-I-say-Im-sorry/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/726706?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacists are often reluctant to apologize. One fear is that lawyers may use their statements against them. Another fear is that they may be violating their own malpractice insurance policies. But there can be advantages to saying, &#34;I made a mistake; I am sorry.&#34; A patient may be saved and a possibly explosive situation may be cooled. For most of us, it is the natural thing to do. 2011-06-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/242011/726706null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Patient-harm-and-pharmacist-liability/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/726724?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Whereas historic pharmacy practice linked the pharmacist to a product, as pharmacists move toward more complete healthcare services, they are now also providers of cognitive services. As pharmacists delve further into cognitive services and take on greater patient responsibility, the process is likely to add to liability exposure. 2011-06-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/242011/726724null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/FDA-FTC-warn-against-fraudulent-claims-that-OTC-su/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/726717?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Food and Drug Administration and Federal Trade Commission are cracking down on fraudulent dietary supplements claiming to treat sexually transmitted diseases. 2011-06-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/242011/726717null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/Prescription-opioids-and-pharmacist-responsibility/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/726711?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 As pharmacists responsibilities expand, so may some of their liabilities. A number of those liabilities may be related to controlled substances. 2011-06-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/242011/726711null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Pharmacists-rights-get-boost-from-UPS-labor-decisi/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/721907?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 A recent state appellate court decision in California could help pharmacists claim meal and rest breaks they are due under state labor law. The case, which involved United Parcel Service workers, affirmed workers' right to up to 2 hours of extra pay daily. 2011-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202011/721907null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/FDA-holds-corporate-execs-responsible-for-pharma-a/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/721912?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Frustrated by its lack of success at reining in drug-company abuses, FDA is bringing back a legal doctrine spawned by long-dead rodents to bring criminal charges against pharmaceutical executives, including executives who had no personal knowledge of company misdeeds. 2011-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202011/721912null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Evolving-pharm-tech-roles-call-for-expanded-traini/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/721896?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 With the expansion of pharmacist roles come the burdens of managing the existing obligations embedded in professional pharmacy practice. Technicians, when appropriately trained and certified, can help fulfill many delegated functions in the pharmacy. 2011-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202011/721896null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/REMS-update/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/721895?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 FDA recently called for the addition of new Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy requirements for medications. This article examines some resulting challenges and potential solutions. 2011-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202011/721895/195x210May11Cover_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/CMS-eases-short-cycle-fill-rules-for-LTC-consultan/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/721891?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 CMS has eased rules on short-cycle dispensing of Part D medications in long-term-care facilities and is now requiring not 7-day but 14-day fills. The workload, however, may still double or triple. 2011-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202011/721891null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/NACDS-supports-Florida-hospital-in-case-against-De/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/721913?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Are pharmacies subcontractors when they fill prescriptions for TRICARE, the federal health program for military personnel? Not according to the National Association of Chain Drugs Stores. 2011-05-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/202011/721913null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Between-cowardice-and-recklessness-The-virtue-of-c/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/716718?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 We do not usually think of courage as a part of a pharmacist's ethical duties, but it is, and it is one that is sometimes the most difficult to practice. 2011-04-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/162011/716718/195x210_Pg-58_Ken-Baker_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Dispensing-controlled-substances/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/716698?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 DEA's &#34;Office of Diversion Control&#34; prevents, detects, and investigates the diversion of controlled substances from legitimate sources while ensuring an adequate and uninterrupted supply for legitimate medical needs. To accomplish this mission, the DEA sets forth regulations designed to prevent any such diversion. 2011-04-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/162011/716698null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/FDA-eyes-generic-user-fees-as-funding-option/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/714969?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Both the Food and Drug Administration and officials from a number of generic drug companies indicate they are in active talks on creating user fees to be paid by that industry to give the agency more resources to speed generics to the market, carry out inspections and other functions. 2011-04-05T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/152011/714969null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Rx-medications-The-importance-of-container-integri/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/711835?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Very few state laws require a pharmacy to use a drug container that meets minimum quality-control standards. Legal metrics are needed to guard against possible patient harm resulting from an adulterated drug product caused by a &#34;bad&#34; container. 2011-03-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/122011/711835/195x210px-Pills-Container_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+News/2012-Budget-seeks-more-safety-faster-access-to-low/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/709106?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 In the White House Budget, President Barack Obama targets the high cost of prescription drugs and proposes 2 significant changes for improving consumer access to less-expensive generic drugs. 2011-03-01T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/092011/709106null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Legal+News/NACDS-supports-Florida-hospital-labor-case/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/707700?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 NACDS has filed a brief in support of an Orlando hospital fighting a Department of Labor ruling. 2011-02-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/082011/707700null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Telepharmacy-opportunities-New-horizons-in-patient/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/707263?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Telepharmacy is still a novelty, and there is a lag in implementation of new laws after professional and technological innovations are deployed. 2011-02-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/072011/707263null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Medicare-Part-D-audits-Is-your-pharmacy-prepared/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/707264?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Controlling the expensive price tag of Medicare is an ongoing concern of both the Obama administration and Congress. Therefore, any Medicare provider can expect an audit. Is your pharmacy prepared? 2011-02-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/072011/707264/drtp0211_cover_195x210_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Pharmacy-CQI-Monthly-Rx-safety-audits/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/707279?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 There are 2 measures of success every pharmacy should post on its wall. The first indicates percentage of QREs (quality-related events) in prescription fills, and the second measures the percentage of QREs caught before they reach the patient. 2011-02-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/072011/707279/Ken-Baker_195x210px_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Legal+News/NACDS-urges-fairness-on-HITECH-and-diabetes-suppli/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/706126?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 NACDS is urging Congress to make several federal regulations economically viable for retail community pharmacists. 2011-02-08T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/062011/706126null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/USP-wants-new-Rx-label-standards/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/705057?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 New draft standards from the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention could bring dramatic changes to Rx labels as early as 2012. Changes to USP Chapter 17, Prescription Container Labeling, include larger font, placement of the most important information at the top, more understandable language, and more white space. 2011-02-01T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/052011/705057null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+News/Meth-activity-on-the-rise/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/705102?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Despite the electronic-tracking systems for pseudoephedrine that have been implemented in several states, methamphetamine-related activity is on the rise. 2011-02-01T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/052011/705102null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/ASHP-and-other-associations-urge-Congress-to-pass-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/704080?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Executives with the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and other groups are urging Congress to pass federal legislation to ease drug shortages in the United States. 2011-01-25T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/042011/704080null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/San-Francisco-bans-all-pharmacy-tobacco-sales/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/703235?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 After much legal wrangling, pharmacies in San Francisco can no longer carry cigarettes. 2011-01-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/032011/703235null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/340B-program-Opportunities-for-community-pharmacy-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/703239?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Many pharmacies are aware of the 340B Drug Pricing Program, but few understand the mechanics of how such a program works and to what extent a community pharmacy may be able to capitalize on its benefits. 2011-01-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/032011/703239null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/CMS-paying-for-terminated-drugs-OIG-audit-asserts/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/703231?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 An OIG audit concluded that CMS is paying pharmacies for dispensing terminated drugs under Medicare Part D, while CMS insists it is not. 2011-01-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/032011/703231null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/FDA-argues-legal-definition-of-compounding-after-d/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/699612?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 A pharmacy that engages in veterinary compounding has been embroiled in a struggle with FDA since it compounded a vitamin supplement for administration to 21 polo ponies during the U.S. Open Polo Championships in April 2009. When they were injected with the compounded vitamin supplement, all 21 ponies collapsed and died. FDA's subsequent court challenge raises the question of when compounding becomes manufacture. 2010-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/502010/699612null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Counterfeit-drug-war-continues-threatens-supply-ch/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/699610?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Counterfeit medications and substandard medications are on the rise, according to Interchange 2010, a conference sponsored by the Partnership for Safe Medicines. 2010-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/502010/699610null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Letters/Letters-December-2010/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/699606?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacists speak out about the pros and cons of the placebo effect. 2010-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/502010/699606null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/REMS-safety-summit-Risk-management-gets-its-third-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/699608?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 At the Third Annual Risk Management and Drug Safety Summit, attendees and presenters discussed the latest issues related to risk and safety, and examined how REMS and drug safety have fared since 2007. 2010-12-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/502010/699608null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Associations/Medication-adherence-NACDS-urges-acknowledgment-of/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/693414?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 As the nation rolls out the new healthcare reform law, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores is urging more recognition for the role of pharmacists in medication adherence. 2010-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/452010/693414null HTML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/A-question-of-ethics-When-to-lie/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/694928?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 A question was posed to students of a pharmacy ethics class. In every case, the answers given by the students were different from the responses of the practicing pharmacists. 2010-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/462010/694928null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/OIG-uncovers-40-million-in-illegal-CMS-payments-fo/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/694917?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 The Office of the Inspector General found that CMS reimbursed plan sponsors $43.3 million for prescription drugs on the market that FDA classifies as less than effective. 2010-11-15T05:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/462010/694917null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/Lab-developed-tests-FDA-oversight-unclear/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/689873?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Pharmacies soon may be stocking their shelves with laboratory-developed tests that first require FDA approval. 2010-10-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/412010/689873/lab_dev_tests_oct_2010_flash.jpg XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Modern+Medicine+Now/FDA-restricts-access-to-Avandia-cites-increased-ca/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/689877?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 FDA has determined to significantly restrict the use of formulations that contain rosiglitazone (Avandia, Avandamet, and Avandaryl, GlaxoSmithKline) to patients with Type 2 diabetes who cannot control their diabetes with other medications. 2010-10-15T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/412010/689877null XML http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Chains+%26+Business/Abbott-to-withdraw-obesity-drug-in-US/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/690677?contextCategoryId=47465&ref=25 Abbott is complying with FDA's request to withdraw sibutramine (Meridia) from the U.S. market because the obesity drug may pose unnecessary cardiovascular (CV) risks to patients. 2010-10-11T04:00:00Z http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/data/articlestandard/drugtopics/422010/690677null HTML