Community/Retail

In a new study, residents of Western cities ranked consistently higher in physical and mental health than other areas of the country.

A recent study conducted by scientists at the British Medical Research Council adds low IQ to the short list of known risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

FDA warnings and packaging regulations on nicotine aids may encourage smokers to keep smoking, according to a petition issued by 2 cessation groups.

In anticipation of its annual summit on Capitol Hill, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores is urging pharmacists of all stripes to participate in pro-pharmacy grassroots efforts.

Covering key finding #5 - Efficacy is the most important consideration for pharmacists providing counsel about OTC cold and flu products; oral zinc-based remedies found most effective in shortening the duration of a cold The final audio podcast is now available at www.pharmacytimes.com/cold-and-flu and www.Zicam.com. The survey showed 66 percent of pharmacists who feel treating early is very important are more likely to rate oral zinc-based remedies as effective at quickly shortening a cold’s duration; however, despite the fact that oral zinc-based remedies are seen as more effective to shorten the duration of a cold, 53 percent of pharmacists are most likely to recommend multi-symptom relief products to help patients who come in at the first sign of symptoms get over their cold faster. Dr. Eckel and the roundtable discussed how there are a lot of misperceptions with multi-symptoms products; however, because patients rarely seek treatment at first signs, pharmacists are going to recommend what they need at the stage of their illness. Discussion also included: The importance of efficacy messages relating to patient consultation. The need for product samples as well as interpretable studies that show the safety/efficacy of a product. The need for information regarding correct delivery of oral zinc-based products. We hope you have found this podcast series educational and informative. If you would like more information about the Pharmacist O.T.C. survey, the role of the pharmacist, helping patients treat their colds earlier and oral zinc based products, please visit www.pharmacytimes.com/cold-and-flu or www.Zicam.com.

Patients should understand how to use OTC and prescription medications that treat acne and follow preventive measures to reduce acne flare-ups or prevent this common dermatologic condition.

New dosing recommendations may be in store for nicotine patches, which are more effective when worn longer, according to a new study.

Strenuous outdoor training in frigid conditions can lead to exercise-induced asthma for many winter Olympians.

Australian researchers report that seniors 70 and older may benefit from being overweight, but not obese.

In the wake of the scandal incited by a spurious 1998 study, The Lancet editor enlists the help of the health care community to back vaccinations.

A trained disaster relief pharmacist is humbled and challenged by his deployment to Haiti; meanwhile, the pharmacy community continues to give.

Following on the heels of studies supporting connections between bisphenol A and adverse health effects, the FDA has expressed increased concern over the chemical commonly found in plastic bottles and food packaging.

Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine warns against the common practice of using household spoons to estimate doses of liquid medicine.

For prostate cancer survivors, exercise as moderate as a daily morning walk may improve chances of survival.

A recent article discusses an interesting legal issue about whether pharmacies should be held responsible for the actions of the drug-abusing patient.

Durham, NC Pharmacy Automator Sends High-Tech Help to Port-au-Prince.

Doctors Without Borders and medical staff aboard the USNS Comfort struggle to provide medical care in Haiti; meanwhile, US chain drugstores respond with a generous show of support.

Patients learn what OTC items to have in their medicine cabinets, and how to dispose of old medications safely.

Trends reported in a recent study suggest that some cancers are on the decline; however, experts stress the need for continued research to combat rising rates in several key areas.