Two companies have received approval for their fentanyl transdermal system, in 25, 50, 75, and 100 mcg/hour strengths: Watson Pharmaceuticals, Corona, Calif., (951) 493-5300, and Actavis, Cranford,
N.J., (908) 653-8123. The generic equivalent to Alza Corp.'s Duragesic, the fentanyl transdermal system, is indicated for
the management of persistent, moderate to severe chronic pain requiring around-the-clock opioid administration for an extended
period. Teva Pharmaceuticals, North Wales, Pa., (888) TEVA USA, will be marketing famciclovir tablets in strengths of 125, 250, and 500 mg. Famciclovir, the generic version of Novartis' Famvir, is indicated for the treatment
of acute herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections. NEW DEVICES For B. Braun Medical, Bethlehem, Pa., (610) 691-5400, the FDA has approved the Duplex IV Drug Delivery System for use with the antibiotic cefotetan. To help ensure accurate dosage delivery, the dual-chamber IV container stores the drug
and the diluent in separate compartments until the seal is broken prior to administration. Its bar-code system can be used
to help reduce medication errors. OTC New to Synova Healthcare, Media, Pa., (610) 565-7080, is the Today Sponge—with new packaging. The hormone-free product combines a continual-release spermicide with a contraceptive barrier that offers
24-hour protection. Measuring 1.75 in. in diameter and 0.5 in. in thickness, it is sized to fit comfortably over the cervix.
Idea Village Products, Fairfield, N.J., (973) 808-7355, is introducing NutraMist oral sprays for those preferring an alternative to pills. SmartSpray technology sends out tiny droplets of ultraconcentrated formulas—vitamins,
minerals, botanicals—that are quickly absorbed into the body. Energy Shots supply vitamin B12, ginseng, and green tea. Crave Control, containing Hoodia, chromium, and green tea extract, helps control food cravings. Sleep Now, with melatonin and valerian, helps a person fall and stay asleep. Immune Boost, blending vitamin C, zinc, and echinacea, enhances immunity.
HOME HEALTH CARE From Innovia Medical LLC and distributed by Quest Products, Chicago, is the EarCheck Middle Ear Monitor. The device uses acoustic reflectometry—sound-wave technology—to comfortably determine the presence of middle ear fluid, symptomatic
of an ear infection. For further information, call (847) 816-1823.
San Diego-based Confirm BioSciences, (888) 526-6347, is offering a home-based hair-follicle drug-test kit that can confirm
drug use as well as usage frequency for up to 90 days. HairConfirm screens for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and phencyclidines on small hair samples cut close to the scalp and
measuring 1.5 in. in length. The kit, at $64.99, includes a collection kit, prepaid envelope, lab fee, report, and free counseling
hotline. Results are available on-line two days after the lab receives the sample.
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