From CTV News:
Roche Pharmaceuticals could soon allow 15 generic drug companies to produce Tamiflu in case of an avian flu pandemic.
Tamiflu, the brand name for the drug oseltamivir, is one of only four drugs that works effectively against influenza. It can reduce the severity of the disease, and in some cases prevent infection.
Doctors believe the drug could help control a pandemic of H5N1 avian influenza, although its effectiveness would likely be less than it is against seasonal influenza, according to Reuters. ...more
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Ottawa's Tamiflu purchase under fire
From the National Post:
Vancouver's chief medical health officer says the federal government spent millions of dollars on an expensive antiviral drug because it wanted to reassure Canadians it was doing something to prevent a global flu pandemic.
Dr. John Blatherwick says the government should be stockpiling Tamiflu in powder form, by the barrel, instead of buying the drug in pill form, because the packaged pills have only a five-year shelf life. ...more
Vancouver's chief medical health officer says the federal government spent millions of dollars on an expensive antiviral drug because it wanted to reassure Canadians it was doing something to prevent a global flu pandemic.
Dr. John Blatherwick says the government should be stockpiling Tamiflu in powder form, by the barrel, instead of buying the drug in pill form, because the packaged pills have only a five-year shelf life. ...more
Toronto MD accused of withholding Vioxx data
From the Toronto Star:
A Toronto doctor is defending her work on a controversial study that helped put popular arthritis painkiller Vioxx on the market, after The New England Journal of Medicine yesterday publicly accused her and her co-authors of withholding critical heart attack data.
In an electronically published editorial, editors of the prestigious journal alleged that authors of the landmark $100 million study — which involved 8,000 people in 22 countries, including 300 Canadians, to measure the safety of Vioxx before it was allowed for sale — failed to included data on three heart attacks among subjects taking the drug. The three heart attacks occurred months before the study was published in the journal in November 2000, but were not disclosed during the revision process, the editors said. ...more
A Toronto doctor is defending her work on a controversial study that helped put popular arthritis painkiller Vioxx on the market, after The New England Journal of Medicine yesterday publicly accused her and her co-authors of withholding critical heart attack data.
In an electronically published editorial, editors of the prestigious journal alleged that authors of the landmark $100 million study — which involved 8,000 people in 22 countries, including 300 Canadians, to measure the safety of Vioxx before it was allowed for sale — failed to included data on three heart attacks among subjects taking the drug. The three heart attacks occurred months before the study was published in the journal in November 2000, but were not disclosed during the revision process, the editors said. ...more
FDA heightens warning for Paxil
From the Edmonton Sun:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is strengthening its warning that the antidepressant Paxil may be associated with birth defects, citing a new study that found babies born to women taking the drug had double the rate of heart defects of other infants.
The FDA announced yesterday it has asked manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline to reclassify the drug, which goes by the generic name paroxetine, as a "Category D" drug for pregnant women. The classification means that studies in pregnant women have shown a risk to the fetus. ...more
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is strengthening its warning that the antidepressant Paxil may be associated with birth defects, citing a new study that found babies born to women taking the drug had double the rate of heart defects of other infants.
The FDA announced yesterday it has asked manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline to reclassify the drug, which goes by the generic name paroxetine, as a "Category D" drug for pregnant women. The classification means that studies in pregnant women have shown a risk to the fetus. ...more
Friday, December 09, 2005
Paroxetine HCl - Paxil and generic paroxetine
From FDA Medwatch:
The FDA has determined that exposure to paroxetine in the first trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk for congenital malformations, particularly cardiac malformations. At the FDA’s request, the manufacturer has changed paroxetine’s pregnancy category from C to D and added new data and recommendations to the WARNINGS section of paroxetine’s prescribing information. FDA is awaiting the final results of the recent studies and accruing additional data related to the use of paroxetine in pregnancy in order to better characterize the risk for congenital malformations associated with paroxetine. ...more
The FDA has determined that exposure to paroxetine in the first trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk for congenital malformations, particularly cardiac malformations. At the FDA’s request, the manufacturer has changed paroxetine’s pregnancy category from C to D and added new data and recommendations to the WARNINGS section of paroxetine’s prescribing information. FDA is awaiting the final results of the recent studies and accruing additional data related to the use of paroxetine in pregnancy in order to better characterize the risk for congenital malformations associated with paroxetine. ...more
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Diabetes association seeks price cap on drugs
From CBC News:
A national cap is needed on the cost of drugs and supplies that diabetics must pay for out of pocket, the Canadian Diabetes Association said Wednesday.
People with diabetes should not have to spend more than three per cent of their income to cover medication, supplies and devices, said the association's 2005 Diabetes Report.
Cost is a barrier to properly managing the disease, it said. More than two million Canadians have diabetes. ...more
A national cap is needed on the cost of drugs and supplies that diabetics must pay for out of pocket, the Canadian Diabetes Association said Wednesday.
People with diabetes should not have to spend more than three per cent of their income to cover medication, supplies and devices, said the association's 2005 Diabetes Report.
Cost is a barrier to properly managing the disease, it said. More than two million Canadians have diabetes. ...more
Pharmacists told not to ask sexual history
From CTV Toronto:
Ontario pharmacists are being told to stop asking women about their sexual history before dispensing the so-called morning-after pill.
This comes in response to a request from the province's privacy commissioner.
Commissioner Ann Cavoukian says the Ontario College of Pharmacists has agreed to tell its members to not use a contentious voluntary screening form that asks sensitive questions. ...more
Ontario pharmacists are being told to stop asking women about their sexual history before dispensing the so-called morning-after pill.
This comes in response to a request from the province's privacy commissioner.
Commissioner Ann Cavoukian says the Ontario College of Pharmacists has agreed to tell its members to not use a contentious voluntary screening form that asks sensitive questions. ...more
Diabetes association calls for catastrophic drug plan
From the Toronto Star:
Canada must implement a national catastrophic drug plan to help diabetics, whose out-of-pocket expenses for medicines and supplies vary widely across the country and jeopardize their ability to control the potentially life-threatening disease, says a report by the Canadian Diabetes Association.
"People with diabetes in Canada have difficulty accessing and affording the diabetes medications, devices and supplies they need to manage their disease and reduce their risk of very costly health complications," Dr. Karen Philp, the group's national director of public policy and government relations, said today in releasing the report. ...more
Canada must implement a national catastrophic drug plan to help diabetics, whose out-of-pocket expenses for medicines and supplies vary widely across the country and jeopardize their ability to control the potentially life-threatening disease, says a report by the Canadian Diabetes Association.
"People with diabetes in Canada have difficulty accessing and affording the diabetes medications, devices and supplies they need to manage their disease and reduce their risk of very costly health complications," Dr. Karen Philp, the group's national director of public policy and government relations, said today in releasing the report. ...more
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Multiple forms of drugs causing errors
From the Monterey County (Calif.) Herald:
Dr. James Kmetzo knows that Diltiazem is usually the drug of choice for high blood pressure.
But then his choices explode. Cardizem, Dilacor and Tiazac are all brand names for Diltiazem. But should he prescribe Cardizem CD, Cardizem SR, Cardizem LA, Dilacor XR or Tiazac? All four come in varying doses, some taken once a day, some twice, some crushable, others not. ...more
Dr. James Kmetzo knows that Diltiazem is usually the drug of choice for high blood pressure.
But then his choices explode. Cardizem, Dilacor and Tiazac are all brand names for Diltiazem. But should he prescribe Cardizem CD, Cardizem SR, Cardizem LA, Dilacor XR or Tiazac? All four come in varying doses, some taken once a day, some twice, some crushable, others not. ...more
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Health Canada warns consumers to return bottles of Euro-ASA 80 mg chewable tablets to place of purchase
From Health Canada:
Health Canada is warning consumers that two lots of Euro-ASA 80 mg orange flavoured, chewable tablets (Euro-ASA Chewable Tablet) lack child-resistant packaging, even though the label indicates the bottles are child resistant.
The orange-flavoured, chewable tablets may encourage children to ingest large quantities. Each bottle contains enough drug to seriously harm a child. ...more
Health Canada is warning consumers that two lots of Euro-ASA 80 mg orange flavoured, chewable tablets (Euro-ASA Chewable Tablet) lack child-resistant packaging, even though the label indicates the bottles are child resistant.
The orange-flavoured, chewable tablets may encourage children to ingest large quantities. Each bottle contains enough drug to seriously harm a child. ...more
Sunday, December 04, 2005
The lure of Canadian drugs may disappear
From the Minneapolis Star Tribune:
Canadian pharmacists are likely to lose a big chunk of their $1 billion-a-year mail-order business when Americans on Medicare start getting taxpayer help paying for drugs starting next month.
"Our best guess is that we'll lose 15 to 25 percent of our American customers," said Robert Fraser, a Winnipeg pharmacist and a board member of the Canadian International Pharmacy Association.
That pleases druggists such as Harold Anderson of Hallock, Minn., who has been losing some business to Canada. Medicare won't help pay for the imported prescriptions. ...more
Canadian pharmacists are likely to lose a big chunk of their $1 billion-a-year mail-order business when Americans on Medicare start getting taxpayer help paying for drugs starting next month.
"Our best guess is that we'll lose 15 to 25 percent of our American customers," said Robert Fraser, a Winnipeg pharmacist and a board member of the Canadian International Pharmacy Association.
That pleases druggists such as Harold Anderson of Hallock, Minn., who has been losing some business to Canada. Medicare won't help pay for the imported prescriptions. ...more
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Manitoba, Sask. clamp down on sale of meth ingredient
From CBC News:
Many common cold medications will no longer be available on pharmacy shelves in Saskatchewan and Manitoba as part of an effort to fight production of crystal meth.
Pseudoephedrine, the main ingredient in some cold medications, can be used to produce a version of methamphetamine, the highly addictive street drug crystal meth.
The medications, including common remedies such as Sudafed Decongestant and Benylin D for Infants, will be kept behind the counter and only doled out by a pharmacist in single purchases as of Jan. 15, said Theresa Oswald, Manitoba's healthy living minister. ...more
Many common cold medications will no longer be available on pharmacy shelves in Saskatchewan and Manitoba as part of an effort to fight production of crystal meth.
Pseudoephedrine, the main ingredient in some cold medications, can be used to produce a version of methamphetamine, the highly addictive street drug crystal meth.
The medications, including common remedies such as Sudafed Decongestant and Benylin D for Infants, will be kept behind the counter and only doled out by a pharmacist in single purchases as of Jan. 15, said Theresa Oswald, Manitoba's healthy living minister. ...more
Morning-after pill privacy concerns raised
From the Toronto Star:
Canadian pharmacists are being advised to collect a woman's name, address, phone number and sensitive details about her sexual activity before dispensing the so-called morning-after pill.
The guidelines, put out by the Canadian Pharmacists Association, have drawn concern from women's health groups, which say the rules are discriminatory and raise privacy issues.
Anne Rochon Ford, co-ordinator of Women and Health Protection, a coalition of groups concerned about drug safety and funded by Health Canada, said she's not aware of any other behind-the-counter drug where pharmacists are asked to gather data before dispensing it, which "makes (the drug) look suspect and very loaded." ...more
Canadian pharmacists are being advised to collect a woman's name, address, phone number and sensitive details about her sexual activity before dispensing the so-called morning-after pill.
The guidelines, put out by the Canadian Pharmacists Association, have drawn concern from women's health groups, which say the rules are discriminatory and raise privacy issues.
Anne Rochon Ford, co-ordinator of Women and Health Protection, a coalition of groups concerned about drug safety and funded by Health Canada, said she's not aware of any other behind-the-counter drug where pharmacists are asked to gather data before dispensing it, which "makes (the drug) look suspect and very loaded." ...more
Monday, November 28, 2005
Merck closing Montreal plant, 235 jobs lost
From CBC News:
Merck Frosst Canada Ltd. will close its manufacturing plant in suburban Montreal and cut 235 jobs as part of a global restructuring that will see its parent slash 7,000 positions.
The company, which is the Canadian subsidiary of Merck & Co., said the jobs will be lost by the end of 2005, with the plant to shut down early in 2006. ...more
Merck Frosst Canada Ltd. will close its manufacturing plant in suburban Montreal and cut 235 jobs as part of a global restructuring that will see its parent slash 7,000 positions.
The company, which is the Canadian subsidiary of Merck & Co., said the jobs will be lost by the end of 2005, with the plant to shut down early in 2006. ...more
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Dosanjh to table bill banning bulk drug exports
From CTV.ca:
Federal Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh is set to table legislation Friday to ban the bulk export of prescription drugs to the United States and set up an early warning system to detect drug shortages caused by the cross-border trade.
But after spending more than a year weighing his options, Dosanjh's bill will likely die before the ink has had time to dry if the government falls in a non-confidence motion expected to pass Monday. ...more
Federal Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh is set to table legislation Friday to ban the bulk export of prescription drugs to the United States and set up an early warning system to detect drug shortages caused by the cross-border trade.
But after spending more than a year weighing his options, Dosanjh's bill will likely die before the ink has had time to dry if the government falls in a non-confidence motion expected to pass Monday. ...more
Pharmacists disciplined over Talwin & Ritalin sales
From CBC Saskatchewan:
Two pharmacists from Weyburn have been reprimanded for incompetence and professional misconduct after dispensing 17,000 Talwin and Ritalin pills that were used in an illegal drug-trafficking scheme.
According to the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacists' November newsletter, the trafficking was masterminded by a third person. The college disciplined the pharmacists, Robert Travis and Robert M. Jones, saying they should have been more careful to guard against "this type of abuse and misuse." ...more
Two pharmacists from Weyburn have been reprimanded for incompetence and professional misconduct after dispensing 17,000 Talwin and Ritalin pills that were used in an illegal drug-trafficking scheme.
According to the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacists' November newsletter, the trafficking was masterminded by a third person. The college disciplined the pharmacists, Robert Travis and Robert M. Jones, saying they should have been more careful to guard against "this type of abuse and misuse." ...more
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Billing seniors for drugs 'wasteful'
From the Vancouver Sun:
B.C.'s policy of making seniors pay a portion of their prescription drug costs actually ends up costing the health system more because patients skimp on medications and spend more time in doctors' offices and hospitals, according to a study today in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
A team of university and hospital-based B.C. researchers studied nearly 3,000 rheumatoid arthritis patients over age 65. ...more
B.C.'s policy of making seniors pay a portion of their prescription drug costs actually ends up costing the health system more because patients skimp on medications and spend more time in doctors' offices and hospitals, according to a study today in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
A team of university and hospital-based B.C. researchers studied nearly 3,000 rheumatoid arthritis patients over age 65. ...more
Doctor's license suspended for writing Internet prescriptions
From the Boston Globe:
The state medical licensing board has suspended the license of a retired physician from Blue Hill for violating the board's policy on prescribing drugs over the Internet.
The Board of Licensure in Medicine suspended the license of Dr. Virginia Biddle, 76, out of concerns for patient safety, said Randall Manning, the board's executive director. Biddle has been writing hundreds of prescriptions a week for patients she has never met, he said. ...more
The state medical licensing board has suspended the license of a retired physician from Blue Hill for violating the board's policy on prescribing drugs over the Internet.
The Board of Licensure in Medicine suspended the license of Dr. Virginia Biddle, 76, out of concerns for patient safety, said Randall Manning, the board's executive director. Biddle has been writing hundreds of prescriptions a week for patients she has never met, he said. ...more
Task force to battle 'hillbilly heroin' problem
From NorthernLife.ca:
The increased use and growing addiction problems related to the prescription medicine OxyContin is effecting so many people, a task force has been established in the city to tackle it before "things get completely out of control."
OxyContin is a synthetic opiate prescribed for pain relief. In recent years, people looking for a cheap high have crushed the pills and used them as a replacement for heroin, thus its street name "hillbilly heroin." ...more
The increased use and growing addiction problems related to the prescription medicine OxyContin is effecting so many people, a task force has been established in the city to tackle it before "things get completely out of control."
OxyContin is a synthetic opiate prescribed for pain relief. In recent years, people looking for a cheap high have crushed the pills and used them as a replacement for heroin, thus its street name "hillbilly heroin." ...more
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Canadians and health care
From Macleans.ca:
A new survey by Pollara reveals surprising results ...more
A new survey by Pollara reveals surprising results ...more
Health Canada warns consumers not to use certain lots of GenTeal Gel due to potential health risk
From Health Canada:
Health Canada is warning consumers not to use certain lots of GenTeal Gel, 3.5mL and 10 mL, a lubricant eye gel, due to the risk of serious eye infection. There is a risk that the product may not be sterile.
A voluntary recall of the affected lots listed below has been initiated by the distributor, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada.
...more
Health Canada is warning consumers not to use certain lots of GenTeal Gel, 3.5mL and 10 mL, a lubricant eye gel, due to the risk of serious eye infection. There is a risk that the product may not be sterile.
A voluntary recall of the affected lots listed below has been initiated by the distributor, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada.
...more
Friday, November 18, 2005
Rx to boost her sex life
From the New York Daily News:
Viagra rejuvenated a generation of limp lotharios, but a new love drug called PT-141 could be as good for the goose as it is for the gander.
Just a snort or two from a nasal inhaler is enough to stoke up the sexual fires of both women and men, and often within minutes, Canadian scientists say.
And sexperts say the drug, which is undergoing final trials before beginning a federal Food and Drug Administration review, will be the boon to women with desire disorders that Viagra was for many impotent men. ...more
Viagra rejuvenated a generation of limp lotharios, but a new love drug called PT-141 could be as good for the goose as it is for the gander.
Just a snort or two from a nasal inhaler is enough to stoke up the sexual fires of both women and men, and often within minutes, Canadian scientists say.
And sexperts say the drug, which is undergoing final trials before beginning a federal Food and Drug Administration review, will be the boon to women with desire disorders that Viagra was for many impotent men. ...more
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Drug blocks hunger message in brain
From the Globe and Mail:
A drug that suppresses appetite -- working on the same part of the brain that produces the "stone munchies" in those who smoke pot -- not only causes weight loss but also significantly improves cholesterol levels, a Canadian-led international study has found.
In the study of more than 1,000 overweight and obese patients with high blood-fat levels, the experimental drug rimonabant caused pounds to melt off waistlines, reduced the amount of triglycerides in blood and boosted HDL, the so-called good cholesterol. ...more
A drug that suppresses appetite -- working on the same part of the brain that produces the "stone munchies" in those who smoke pot -- not only causes weight loss but also significantly improves cholesterol levels, a Canadian-led international study has found.
In the study of more than 1,000 overweight and obese patients with high blood-fat levels, the experimental drug rimonabant caused pounds to melt off waistlines, reduced the amount of triglycerides in blood and boosted HDL, the so-called good cholesterol. ...more
Medicine combinations risky for the heart, doctors say
From the Globe and Mail:
Patients taking prescription medications for heart disease should tell their doctors about any alternative medicines they might be popping because certain combinations could be dangerous, cardiologists say.
"You have to be careful and you have to talk to your doctor and your pharmacist about all complementary or alternative therapies, including vitamins," said Dr. Beth Abramson, a heart specialist at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. "Anything we ingest can potentially interact with heart pills. ...more
Patients taking prescription medications for heart disease should tell their doctors about any alternative medicines they might be popping because certain combinations could be dangerous, cardiologists say.
"You have to be careful and you have to talk to your doctor and your pharmacist about all complementary or alternative therapies, including vitamins," said Dr. Beth Abramson, a heart specialist at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. "Anything we ingest can potentially interact with heart pills. ...more
Health Canada looking at Tamiflu data after reports of deaths in Japan
From the Canadian Press:
Health Canada said it is going over the safety data for the flu drug oseltamivir or Tamiflu after reports have come to light of a number of deaths in children in Japan who took the drug.
A spokesman said such a study is always undertaken when there are reports of potential adverse reactions to a drug. "It's being looked at," Jirina Vlk said from Ottawa. "It would be stretching it to say we're ordering a review." ...more
Health Canada said it is going over the safety data for the flu drug oseltamivir or Tamiflu after reports have come to light of a number of deaths in children in Japan who took the drug.
A spokesman said such a study is always undertaken when there are reports of potential adverse reactions to a drug. "It's being looked at," Jirina Vlk said from Ottawa. "It would be stretching it to say we're ordering a review." ...more
Diet drug found to cut cholesterol and belly fat
From CTV.ca:
A drug that curbs food cravings has been found to help users lose weight and raise good cholesterol. But researchers are cautioning that it is not a miracle drug.
A new Canadian study shows the drug rimonabant, known by the trade name Acomplia, will likely become a new contender in the war against obesity by helping patients lose dangerous abdominal fat and reduce the risk factors than can lead to heart disease and diabetes.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of more than 1,000 overweight or obese patients, rimonabant, at its highest dose, produced a weight loss of an average 15 pounds (6.7 kg) over a year. ...more
A drug that curbs food cravings has been found to help users lose weight and raise good cholesterol. But researchers are cautioning that it is not a miracle drug.
A new Canadian study shows the drug rimonabant, known by the trade name Acomplia, will likely become a new contender in the war against obesity by helping patients lose dangerous abdominal fat and reduce the risk factors than can lead to heart disease and diabetes.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of more than 1,000 overweight or obese patients, rimonabant, at its highest dose, produced a weight loss of an average 15 pounds (6.7 kg) over a year. ...more
Birth-control drug a hard pill for U.S. agency to swallow
From the Globe and Mail:
This past spring, Health Canada announced without fanfare that Plan B, the morning-after pill that is used as an emergency contraceptive after unprotected sex, would in future be available to Canadian women without a prescription.
"Women who need this product must have access to it very quickly or it will not be effective," Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh said after Health Canada completed a review of clinical evidence and safety data for the drug. ...more
This past spring, Health Canada announced without fanfare that Plan B, the morning-after pill that is used as an emergency contraceptive after unprotected sex, would in future be available to Canadian women without a prescription.
"Women who need this product must have access to it very quickly or it will not be effective," Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh said after Health Canada completed a review of clinical evidence and safety data for the drug. ...more
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Big Pharma's big headache: Beating back the generics
From the Globe and Mail:
If you want to get an idea of the biggest challenge facing Big Pharma, just take a look at Pfizer Inc., the world's biggest drug maker, and Lipitor, the world's best-selling drug, which contributed $11-billion (U.S.) of the company's $52-billion in sales last year.
Any day now, Judge Joseph Farnan of the U.S. District Court of Delaware will rule on a case brought by India's generic giant Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. to invalidate the patents on Lipitor, which is prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. If Pfizer prevails, as it did in a British court recently, its patents would stand until 2011. But the prevailing view on Wall Street is that anything is possible because of differences in British and U.S. patent law. ...more
If you want to get an idea of the biggest challenge facing Big Pharma, just take a look at Pfizer Inc., the world's biggest drug maker, and Lipitor, the world's best-selling drug, which contributed $11-billion (U.S.) of the company's $52-billion in sales last year.
Any day now, Judge Joseph Farnan of the U.S. District Court of Delaware will rule on a case brought by India's generic giant Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. to invalidate the patents on Lipitor, which is prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. If Pfizer prevails, as it did in a British court recently, its patents would stand until 2011. But the prevailing view on Wall Street is that anything is possible because of differences in British and U.S. patent law. ...more
Birth control patch health warning issued
From CBC News:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about a birth control patch used by millions of women, saying its high hormone levels could increase their health risks.
Ortho-McNeil Inc. acknowledged Thursday that its Ortho Evra patch exposes women to 60 per cent more estrogen than other forms of birth control because of the way bodies absorb the hormone. ...more
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about a birth control patch used by millions of women, saying its high hormone levels could increase their health risks.
Ortho-McNeil Inc. acknowledged Thursday that its Ortho Evra patch exposes women to 60 per cent more estrogen than other forms of birth control because of the way bodies absorb the hormone. ...more
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Health Canada warns consumers not to use GenTeal Artificial Tears due to potential health risk
From Health Canada:
Health Canada is warning consumers not to use Lot 51436 of the product Genteal Artificial Tears 25 ml due to possible contamination with bacteria. A recall of the affected lot has been initiated by the distributor, Novartis.
Use of eye drops contaminated with bacteria may cause serious eye infection. People who are immune suppressed, such as those with HIV/AIDS, or who are undergoing chemotherapy or taking drugs which cause immune suppression may be at a higher risk for infection. ...more
Health Canada is warning consumers not to use Lot 51436 of the product Genteal Artificial Tears 25 ml due to possible contamination with bacteria. A recall of the affected lot has been initiated by the distributor, Novartis.
Use of eye drops contaminated with bacteria may cause serious eye infection. People who are immune suppressed, such as those with HIV/AIDS, or who are undergoing chemotherapy or taking drugs which cause immune suppression may be at a higher risk for infection. ...more
Roche plans 10-fold increase in Tamiflu
From USA Today:
Roche Holding said Monday that will be able to produce 300 million treatments of Tamiflu in 2007, marking the first time the Swiss drugmaker has disclosed specific annual production plans for its increasingly-popular antiviral drug.
Tamiflu, which reduces flu symptoms, is being stockpiled by countries as a potential treatment if a worldwide flu pandemic occurs. Governments and health officials have pressed Roche to license manufacturing rights to other companies so that supplies can be increased faster. ...more
Roche Holding said Monday that will be able to produce 300 million treatments of Tamiflu in 2007, marking the first time the Swiss drugmaker has disclosed specific annual production plans for its increasingly-popular antiviral drug.
Tamiflu, which reduces flu symptoms, is being stockpiled by countries as a potential treatment if a worldwide flu pandemic occurs. Governments and health officials have pressed Roche to license manufacturing rights to other companies so that supplies can be increased faster. ...more
Eye drops recalled for possible contamination
From CBC News:
A batch of Genteal Artificial Tears is being recalled by its distributor because of possible contamination with bacteria, Health Canada said Monday.
"Use of eye drops contaminated with bacteria may cause serious eye infection," the department's advisory said. "People who are immune suppressed, such as those with HIV/AIDS, or who are undergoing chemotherapy or taking drugs which cause immune suppression may be at a higher risk for infection." ...more
A batch of Genteal Artificial Tears is being recalled by its distributor because of possible contamination with bacteria, Health Canada said Monday.
"Use of eye drops contaminated with bacteria may cause serious eye infection," the department's advisory said. "People who are immune suppressed, such as those with HIV/AIDS, or who are undergoing chemotherapy or taking drugs which cause immune suppression may be at a higher risk for infection." ...more
FDA moving in on drug pipeline
From the Springfield (MO) News Leader:
Across the country, from Springfield to Florida and elsewhere, people are opening their mail to find letters from government regulators instead of the medicine they were expecting.
Charles Barker, 75, for example, goes to Melbourne, Fla., every few weeks to pick up his mail-order prescription medications. He gets them from Canada to save more than $300 a month. ...more
Across the country, from Springfield to Florida and elsewhere, people are opening their mail to find letters from government regulators instead of the medicine they were expecting.
Charles Barker, 75, for example, goes to Melbourne, Fla., every few weeks to pick up his mail-order prescription medications. He gets them from Canada to save more than $300 a month. ...more
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
State decides not to appeal over prescription drug case
From the Boston Globe:
Vermont has dropped its legal effort to force the Bush administration to allow the state to import cheaper prescription drugs from Canada.
"We could have continued the fight," said Attorney General William Sorrell. "We just didn't think that it was going to be successful."
Vermont filed the suit a little more than a year ago. It claimed the federal Food and Drug Administration's refusal of the state's petition to import drugs from Canada was "arbitrary and capricious and otherwise unreasonable." ...more
Vermont has dropped its legal effort to force the Bush administration to allow the state to import cheaper prescription drugs from Canada.
"We could have continued the fight," said Attorney General William Sorrell. "We just didn't think that it was going to be successful."
Vermont filed the suit a little more than a year ago. It claimed the federal Food and Drug Administration's refusal of the state's petition to import drugs from Canada was "arbitrary and capricious and otherwise unreasonable." ...more
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Canadian lawyers involved in Vioxx lawsuits not phased by result of U.S. trial
From the Canadian Press:
Canadian lawyers involved in countrywide lawsuits against drug company Merck said their cases won't be affected by a U.S. jury ruling Thursday that found the pharmaceutical giant and its one-time wonder-drug Vioxx not liable for a man's heart attack.
It will change the path of a recently launched class action suit in Nova Scotia "not one iota," said lead counsel Matt Napier. "We don't perceive it as having any effect on our suit in the jurisdiction of Nova Scotia," he said. ...more
Canadian lawyers involved in countrywide lawsuits against drug company Merck said their cases won't be affected by a U.S. jury ruling Thursday that found the pharmaceutical giant and its one-time wonder-drug Vioxx not liable for a man's heart attack.
It will change the path of a recently launched class action suit in Nova Scotia "not one iota," said lead counsel Matt Napier. "We don't perceive it as having any effect on our suit in the jurisdiction of Nova Scotia," he said. ...more
Measure ties US negotiator's hands on drug imports
From the Washington Post:
The U.S. Trade Representative could no longer craft trade deals making it harder to import American-made pharmaceuticals from nations such as Canada under a measure approved by congressional negotiators on Friday.
The compromise legislation is aimed at keeping the rancorous issue of drug reimportation out of trade pacts the United States reaches with other countries. ...more
The U.S. Trade Representative could no longer craft trade deals making it harder to import American-made pharmaceuticals from nations such as Canada under a measure approved by congressional negotiators on Friday.
The compromise legislation is aimed at keeping the rancorous issue of drug reimportation out of trade pacts the United States reaches with other countries. ...more
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Pharmacists applaud plan to control access to meth ingredient
From CBC Manitoba:
Manitoba pharmacists are welcoming the government's clampdown on the sale of cold medications that can be used to make crystal methamphetamine.
The province announced Tuesday that, as part of a strategy to prevent the proliferation of crystal meth, cold medications with pseudoephedrine as the main ingredient will only be sold in limited amounts from behind the counter at pharmacies. Currently, some cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine are found on store shelves, not only in drug stores but also at grocery and convenience stores. ...more
Manitoba pharmacists are welcoming the government's clampdown on the sale of cold medications that can be used to make crystal methamphetamine.
The province announced Tuesday that, as part of a strategy to prevent the proliferation of crystal meth, cold medications with pseudoephedrine as the main ingredient will only be sold in limited amounts from behind the counter at pharmacies. Currently, some cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine are found on store shelves, not only in drug stores but also at grocery and convenience stores. ...more
Council Approves Canadian Drug Bill
From the Washington Times:
The Montgomery County Council approved a bill yesterday requiring officials to give county employees the option to purchase lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada -- or anyplace else they can find a good deal.
The bill was approved despite continued warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that the county was on the verge of violating federal law and risked being sued.
The proposal, which affects 12,500 county employees and retirees, requires County Executive Douglas M. Duncan (D) to participate in a program established by the council last year. ...more
The Montgomery County Council approved a bill yesterday requiring officials to give county employees the option to purchase lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada -- or anyplace else they can find a good deal.
The bill was approved despite continued warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that the county was on the verge of violating federal law and risked being sued.
The proposal, which affects 12,500 county employees and retirees, requires County Executive Douglas M. Duncan (D) to participate in a program established by the council last year. ...more
Say bye-bye to Canadian drug buys
From the Pawtucket (RI) Times:
Rhode Island’s brief experiment with licensing Canadian pharmacies to dispense cheaper prescription drugs here is apparently over before it started.
"It’s more or less a dead issue," Don Williams, the state Department of Health’s associate director for health services regulation said on Tuesday.
The General Assembly passed a measure in 2004 allowing DOH to license drug stores from Canada to sell pharmaceuticals in Rhode Island and Gov. Donald Carcieri allowed it to become law without his signature. But regulations promulgated by DOH to assure the quality and safety of the medicines made it too burdensome and expensive to be worthwhile to any pharmacies north of the border. ...more
Rhode Island’s brief experiment with licensing Canadian pharmacies to dispense cheaper prescription drugs here is apparently over before it started.
"It’s more or less a dead issue," Don Williams, the state Department of Health’s associate director for health services regulation said on Tuesday.
The General Assembly passed a measure in 2004 allowing DOH to license drug stores from Canada to sell pharmaceuticals in Rhode Island and Gov. Donald Carcieri allowed it to become law without his signature. But regulations promulgated by DOH to assure the quality and safety of the medicines made it too burdensome and expensive to be worthwhile to any pharmacies north of the border. ...more
Council votes to offer imported medicine
From the Maryland Business Gazette:
The County Council voted 6-2 Tuesday to offer county employees imported prescription drugs.
The final vote, the culmination of more than 18 months of debate, came as no surprise as five of the council members casting the ‘‘yes” votes had signed on as co-sponsors to the original legislation proposed by council President Thomas E. Perez (D-Dist. 5) of Takoma Park. ...more
The County Council voted 6-2 Tuesday to offer county employees imported prescription drugs.
The final vote, the culmination of more than 18 months of debate, came as no surprise as five of the council members casting the ‘‘yes” votes had signed on as co-sponsors to the original legislation proposed by council President Thomas E. Perez (D-Dist. 5) of Takoma Park. ...more
Monday, October 31, 2005
Roche suspends Tamiflu delivery to Canadian pharmacists
From the Brandon Sun:
Swiss drug giant Hoffman-La Roche moved to temporarily suspend pharmacy sales of its drug Tamiflu in Canada on Tuesday to conserve stocks as flu season nears.
It also issued a companywide directive that supplies of the drug destined for the public market worldwide should be prioritized for use as treatment for seasonal flu. ...more
Swiss drug giant Hoffman-La Roche moved to temporarily suspend pharmacy sales of its drug Tamiflu in Canada on Tuesday to conserve stocks as flu season nears.
It also issued a companywide directive that supplies of the drug destined for the public market worldwide should be prioritized for use as treatment for seasonal flu. ...more
Emergency contraceptives now more available
From the Nunasiaq News:
Women in Nunavut have new levels of access to emergency contraceptives, commonly known as the “morning after” pill.
If taken within 72 hours after sex, emergency contraceptives can cut the risk of pregnancy by as much as 89 per cent.
Health Canada announced that women across the country would be able to get emergency contraceptives without a doctor’s prescription in the spring of 2004. The drugs rolled out slowly across Canada as pharmacists received special training so they could dispense the pill safely. ...more
Women in Nunavut have new levels of access to emergency contraceptives, commonly known as the “morning after” pill.
If taken within 72 hours after sex, emergency contraceptives can cut the risk of pregnancy by as much as 89 per cent.
Health Canada announced that women across the country would be able to get emergency contraceptives without a doctor’s prescription in the spring of 2004. The drugs rolled out slowly across Canada as pharmacists received special training so they could dispense the pill safely. ...more
West faces barriers in restricting meth ingredients
From the Edmonton Sun:
Getting the western provinces and territories to agree on a plan to restrict sales of cold medicine used to make crystal meth hasn’t been as easy as planned, says Saskatchewan’s new minister for addiction services.
In June, western Canadian politicians at a conference called by Premier Lorne Calvert agreed to come up with a plan by Oct. 1 to put restrictions on the sale of medicines containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Both are used in making the highly addictive crystal methamphetamine.
...more
Getting the western provinces and territories to agree on a plan to restrict sales of cold medicine used to make crystal meth hasn’t been as easy as planned, says Saskatchewan’s new minister for addiction services.
In June, western Canadian politicians at a conference called by Premier Lorne Calvert agreed to come up with a plan by Oct. 1 to put restrictions on the sale of medicines containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Both are used in making the highly addictive crystal methamphetamine.
...more
Canadian drug market lags
From MSNBC:
The daily publicity over importing prescription drugs from Canada has quieted this year, but cheap drugs from Canada are still bought and sold in Sacramento.
A small storefront on Arden Way that's linked to a pharmacy in Winnipeg has processed 5,500 prescriptions since it opened 18 months ago. At least two other outlets still help local folks buy inexpensive medicine from Canada. ...more
The daily publicity over importing prescription drugs from Canada has quieted this year, but cheap drugs from Canada are still bought and sold in Sacramento.
A small storefront on Arden Way that's linked to a pharmacy in Winnipeg has processed 5,500 prescriptions since it opened 18 months ago. At least two other outlets still help local folks buy inexpensive medicine from Canada. ...more
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Prescription pipeline from Canada steadily drying up
From Florida Today:
Charles Barker, 75, comes to Melbourne every few weeks to pick up his mail-order prescription medications.
Parker gets them from Canada to save more than $300 a month. He lived in Palm Bay for more than 50 years but is moving to the Panhandle.
When he checked his post office box recently, though, he didn't get his three-month supply of glaucoma medicine. Instead, he found a letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration saying his medicine had been confiscated. ...more
Charles Barker, 75, comes to Melbourne every few weeks to pick up his mail-order prescription medications.
Parker gets them from Canada to save more than $300 a month. He lived in Palm Bay for more than 50 years but is moving to the Panhandle.
When he checked his post office box recently, though, he didn't get his three-month supply of glaucoma medicine. Instead, he found a letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration saying his medicine had been confiscated. ...more
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Canada to increase antiviral stockpile with more Tamiflu, other drugs
From the Canadian Press:
Canada will be increasing its stockpile of antiviral drugs to protect against a possible flu pandemic, with additional purchases of Tamiflu and new purchases of the drug Relenza, the country's chief medical officer of health said Tuesday.
Dr. David Butler-Jones told The Canadian Press some provinces have intentions to buy an additional five million pills - or 500,000 treatment courses - of the drug oseltamivir, sold as Tamiflu, over the next two fiscal years. ...more
Canada will be increasing its stockpile of antiviral drugs to protect against a possible flu pandemic, with additional purchases of Tamiflu and new purchases of the drug Relenza, the country's chief medical officer of health said Tuesday.
Dr. David Butler-Jones told The Canadian Press some provinces have intentions to buy an additional five million pills - or 500,000 treatment courses - of the drug oseltamivir, sold as Tamiflu, over the next two fiscal years. ...more
No plan yet on crystal meth ingredients
From CBC Saskatchewan:
In June, Western Canadian politicians in Regina for a crystal-meth conference said they'd work out a plan to control ingredients used to make the street drug.
The deadline for coming up with specifics for restricting the sale of cold medications containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine was Oct. 1.
However, weeks after that date there's still no agreement. ...more
In June, Western Canadian politicians in Regina for a crystal-meth conference said they'd work out a plan to control ingredients used to make the street drug.
The deadline for coming up with specifics for restricting the sale of cold medications containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine was Oct. 1.
However, weeks after that date there's still no agreement. ...more
Tamiflu sales temporarily on hold in Canada
From CTV News:
A higher-than-normal increase in demand has forced the Canadian drug maker of Tamiflu to temporarily pull it off the market, amid growing concerns over an imminent flu pandemic.
Oseltamivir, sold as Tamiflu, is an antiviral medication that is widely considered to be the best defence against the spread of a bird flu pandemic.
...more
A higher-than-normal increase in demand has forced the Canadian drug maker of Tamiflu to temporarily pull it off the market, amid growing concerns over an imminent flu pandemic.
Oseltamivir, sold as Tamiflu, is an antiviral medication that is widely considered to be the best defence against the spread of a bird flu pandemic.
...more
Monday, October 24, 2005
Diet drug may go over the counter
From Newsday (NY):
Drugstore shelves are brimming with shakes, herbs and other products to facilitate weight loss — but the vast majority of them have not been shown to work. It's possible that a proven medication that helps modestly with weight loss may join their ranks next year.
The pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline has asked the Food and Drug Administration for permission to sell a low-dose version of its diet drug Xenical over the counter. If approved, Xenical would be the first weight loss medication to make the switch from prescription to nonprescription status. ...more
Drugstore shelves are brimming with shakes, herbs and other products to facilitate weight loss — but the vast majority of them have not been shown to work. It's possible that a proven medication that helps modestly with weight loss may join their ranks next year.
The pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline has asked the Food and Drug Administration for permission to sell a low-dose version of its diet drug Xenical over the counter. If approved, Xenical would be the first weight loss medication to make the switch from prescription to nonprescription status. ...more
Important Safety Information on Flomax (tamsulosin) and Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS)
From Health Canada:
This communication is to inform you of a surgical condition termed Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS)1 that has been observed during phacoemulsification cataract surgery in some patients currently or recently treated with alpha -1 blocker therapy. This variant of small pupil syndrome is characterised by the combination of a flaccid iris that billows in response to intraoperative irrigation currents, progressive intraoperative miosis despite preoperative dilation with standard mydriatic drugs, and potential prolapse of the iris toward the phacoemulsification incisions. ...more
This communication is to inform you of a surgical condition termed Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS)1 that has been observed during phacoemulsification cataract surgery in some patients currently or recently treated with alpha -1 blocker therapy. This variant of small pupil syndrome is characterised by the combination of a flaccid iris that billows in response to intraoperative irrigation currents, progressive intraoperative miosis despite preoperative dilation with standard mydriatic drugs, and potential prolapse of the iris toward the phacoemulsification incisions. ...more
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Key Nevada lawmakers push Canadian drug plan
From the Las Vegas Sun:
Two lawmakers who had key roles in developing a new state law to let Nevadans buy lower-priced prescription drugs from Canada have urged the attorney general's office to produce an opinion that doesn't undercut the law.
In a letter to Attorney General Brian Sandoval, Assembly Majority Leader Barbara Buckley, D-Las Vegas, and Sen. Joe Heck, R-Henderson, said the opinion should reflect state lawmakers' intent to help Nevadans get "safe prescription drugs at fair prices." ...more
Two lawmakers who had key roles in developing a new state law to let Nevadans buy lower-priced prescription drugs from Canada have urged the attorney general's office to produce an opinion that doesn't undercut the law.
In a letter to Attorney General Brian Sandoval, Assembly Majority Leader Barbara Buckley, D-Las Vegas, and Sen. Joe Heck, R-Henderson, said the opinion should reflect state lawmakers' intent to help Nevadans get "safe prescription drugs at fair prices." ...more
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Pharmacists lead the charge
From 24 Hours Vancouver:
The provincial New Democrats and Liberals don't agree on much. In fact, you don't even want to be in the same room with them if the issue of privatization or labour relations comes up.
But both sides of the house seem to agree tobacco sales should be banned in pharmacies ...more
The provincial New Democrats and Liberals don't agree on much. In fact, you don't even want to be in the same room with them if the issue of privatization or labour relations comes up.
But both sides of the house seem to agree tobacco sales should be banned in pharmacies ...more
Plenty of anti-viral drugs in storage
From the Ottawa Sun:
The federal Public Health Agency has stockpiled 23 million doses of an anti-viral drug as part of its overall preparedness plan against the next pandemic breakout.
"One of the activities of preparing for the next pandemic is creating a national anti-viral stockpile ... and the stockpile is of the brand name Tamiflu," said agency spokesman Aggie Adamczyk yesterday. ...more
The federal Public Health Agency has stockpiled 23 million doses of an anti-viral drug as part of its overall preparedness plan against the next pandemic breakout.
"One of the activities of preparing for the next pandemic is creating a national anti-viral stockpile ... and the stockpile is of the brand name Tamiflu," said agency spokesman Aggie Adamczyk yesterday. ...more
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Bill would open door to Canadian imports
From the Gazette (MD):
Government officials, banking on millions in possible savings, took steps this week to allow county employees to buy cheaper medications from Canada.
On Tuesday, the County Council introduced legislation that would direct the county’s Department of Human Resources to offer a prescription drug benefit that would be supplied by ‘‘domestic or foreign pharmacy benefit managers.” ...more
Government officials, banking on millions in possible savings, took steps this week to allow county employees to buy cheaper medications from Canada.
On Tuesday, the County Council introduced legislation that would direct the county’s Department of Human Resources to offer a prescription drug benefit that would be supplied by ‘‘domestic or foreign pharmacy benefit managers.” ...more
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Some asthma drugs used improperly may increase risk of death: Health Canada
From the Canadian Press:
A class of asthma drugs known as long-acting beta-2 agonists may increase the risk of death if used improperly, Health Canada warned Tuesday.
The drugs are prescribed to prevent asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath and cough.
Based on data from a large patient trial, Health Canada said the danger of asthma-related death may be greater in patients taking long-acting beta-2 agonists without using inhaled corticosteroids at the same time. ...more
A class of asthma drugs known as long-acting beta-2 agonists may increase the risk of death if used improperly, Health Canada warned Tuesday.
The drugs are prescribed to prevent asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath and cough.
Based on data from a large patient trial, Health Canada said the danger of asthma-related death may be greater in patients taking long-acting beta-2 agonists without using inhaled corticosteroids at the same time. ...more
The Globe and Mail: Katz writing new prescription for success
From the Globe and Mail:
Drug-store retailer Katz Group Canada Ltd. is fixing for a fight with industry top dog Shoppers Drug Mart Corp. by borrowing a page from the Shoppers book on merchandising.
Katz is trying to simplify its grab bag of chains, which operate under Pharma Plus, Rexall and other banners, and wants to make the Rexall brand the unifying force for its network of about 1,900 pharmacies. ...more
Drug-store retailer Katz Group Canada Ltd. is fixing for a fight with industry top dog Shoppers Drug Mart Corp. by borrowing a page from the Shoppers book on merchandising.
Katz is trying to simplify its grab bag of chains, which operate under Pharma Plus, Rexall and other banners, and wants to make the Rexall brand the unifying force for its network of about 1,900 pharmacies. ...more
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Safety information about a class of asthma drugs known as long-acting beta-2 agonists
From Health Canada:
Health Canada is advising Canadians of the possible increased risks of asthma-related deaths associated with the use of a class of asthma drugs known as long-acting beta-2 agonists. Further, Health Canada is reminding Canadians of the recommended uses of long-acting beta-2 agonists.
The asthma medications are salmeterol, which is sold under the brand name Serevent; formoterol, sold as Foradil and Oxeze; as well as two combination products containing salmeterol or formoterol in addition to an inhaled corticosteroid. The combination product with salmeterol is sold as Advair, while the formoterol product is sold as Symbicort. ...more
Health Canada is advising Canadians of the possible increased risks of asthma-related deaths associated with the use of a class of asthma drugs known as long-acting beta-2 agonists. Further, Health Canada is reminding Canadians of the recommended uses of long-acting beta-2 agonists.
The asthma medications are salmeterol, which is sold under the brand name Serevent; formoterol, sold as Foradil and Oxeze; as well as two combination products containing salmeterol or formoterol in addition to an inhaled corticosteroid. The combination product with salmeterol is sold as Advair, while the formoterol product is sold as Symbicort. ...more
Few are using I-SaveRx for prescriptions
From the Bloomington (Ill.) Pantagraph:
A controversial plan to connect Illinoisans with low-priced prescription drugs from outside of the United States has not drawn huge numbers of participants.
But, on the eve of the first anniversary of the I-SaveRx program, Gov. Rod Blagojevich deemed the program a success. ...more
A controversial plan to connect Illinoisans with low-priced prescription drugs from outside of the United States has not drawn huge numbers of participants.
But, on the eve of the first anniversary of the I-SaveRx program, Gov. Rod Blagojevich deemed the program a success. ...more
Sunday, October 02, 2005
India co. to sell generic drugs in Canada
From the Seattle Post Intelligencer:
India's largest drug company announced Thursday it was entering the Canadian generic drug market with the launch of a subsidiary called Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. said the firm already had regulatory approval to sell eight products and four others were awaiting approval. ...more
India's largest drug company announced Thursday it was entering the Canadian generic drug market with the launch of a subsidiary called Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. said the firm already had regulatory approval to sell eight products and four others were awaiting approval. ...more
Sask. tops in prescriptions
From the Regina Leader Post:
Saskatchewan families are the biggest spenders when it comes to out-of-pocket prescription drug purchases, according to a Statistics Canada study.
The study looked at household spending on prescription drugs between 1992 and 2002. Saskatchewan families spent an average of $415 on medications in 2002, the highest in Canada. < href="http://www.canada.com/regina/leaderpost/news/city_province/story.html?id=85341557-6372-4a14-b86b-07e4badcbc1b">...more
Saskatchewan families are the biggest spenders when it comes to out-of-pocket prescription drug purchases, according to a Statistics Canada study.
The study looked at household spending on prescription drugs between 1992 and 2002. Saskatchewan families spent an average of $415 on medications in 2002, the highest in Canada. < href="http://www.canada.com/regina/leaderpost/news/city_province/story.html?id=85341557-6372-4a14-b86b-07e4badcbc1b">...more
New pandemic flu drug formulas gathering dust on shelves for lack of funds
From the Canadian Press:
Formulas for new, inexpensive influenza drugs that could expand the world's tiny arsenal of weapons against pandemic flu are gathering dust because the pharmaceutical industry isn't interested in developing them, scientists say.
They believe governments should fund the testing and development of the drugs, side-stepping big pharma and bringing them to market as cheap generic medications. ...more
Formulas for new, inexpensive influenza drugs that could expand the world's tiny arsenal of weapons against pandemic flu are gathering dust because the pharmaceutical industry isn't interested in developing them, scientists say.
They believe governments should fund the testing and development of the drugs, side-stepping big pharma and bringing them to market as cheap generic medications. ...more
Canadian Rx costs will retain appeal
From the St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press:
In every crowd that gathers to discuss Medicare's upcoming prescription drug benefit, there is one person who asks, "What about Canada?"
Seniors in Minnesota, especially, have used bus trips and Internet pharmacies to buy prescription drugs from north of the border — often saving 20 percent to 60 percent.
Insurers will begin selling the Medicare Part D plans on Saturday — offering much-awaited savings on U.S. drugs. But analysts Thursday said Canadian drugs may still be cheaper and predicted that many seniors will stick with the imports. ...more
In every crowd that gathers to discuss Medicare's upcoming prescription drug benefit, there is one person who asks, "What about Canada?"
Seniors in Minnesota, especially, have used bus trips and Internet pharmacies to buy prescription drugs from north of the border — often saving 20 percent to 60 percent.
Insurers will begin selling the Medicare Part D plans on Saturday — offering much-awaited savings on U.S. drugs. But analysts Thursday said Canadian drugs may still be cheaper and predicted that many seniors will stick with the imports. ...more
Counterfeit Viagra bust supplies ammo for online pharmacy critics
From the National Post:
The case of an online pharmacy accused of selling bootleg Viagra to Americans is a prime example of why Canada should shut down the country's Internet drug-dispensing business, critics of the industry said Wednesday.
Online pharmacists, on the other hand, said the bust announced this week proves the system works. ...more
The case of an online pharmacy accused of selling bootleg Viagra to Americans is a prime example of why Canada should shut down the country's Internet drug-dispensing business, critics of the industry said Wednesday.
Online pharmacists, on the other hand, said the bust announced this week proves the system works. ...more
Plan for imported prescription drugs put on hold
From the Las Vegas SUN:
Nevada's plan to allow residents to buy lower-priced prescription drugs from Canada has hit a snag that could stop the program from taking effect.
The program approved by the Legislature this year has been put on hold while officials await an attorney general's opinion, which will determine if it goes forward.
At issue is a section of the new drug law that says a Canadian pharmacy shall not sell to a Nevada resident a drug that has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. ...more
Nevada's plan to allow residents to buy lower-priced prescription drugs from Canada has hit a snag that could stop the program from taking effect.
The program approved by the Legislature this year has been put on hold while officials await an attorney general's opinion, which will determine if it goes forward.
At issue is a section of the new drug law that says a Canadian pharmacy shall not sell to a Nevada resident a drug that has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. ...more
Forget SARS, West Nile, Ebola and avian flu. The real epidemic is fear.
From Macleans:
Gregory Fields is a pharmaceutical maverick. He calls his company, Canadian Drug Delivery, based in Nanaimo, B.C., an "online pharmacy intermediary," which means, if you're looking for the best price on medication -- anything from Amoxicillan to Zoloft -- Fields will comb the globe to find it and have it shipped to your home. In some cases, you won't even need a prescription. Suddenly, business has exploded, and it's all thanks to one pill -- an antiviral called Tamiflu that's selling like candy. ...more
Gregory Fields is a pharmaceutical maverick. He calls his company, Canadian Drug Delivery, based in Nanaimo, B.C., an "online pharmacy intermediary," which means, if you're looking for the best price on medication -- anything from Amoxicillan to Zoloft -- Fields will comb the globe to find it and have it shipped to your home. In some cases, you won't even need a prescription. Suddenly, business has exploded, and it's all thanks to one pill -- an antiviral called Tamiflu that's selling like candy. ...more
New prescription tracking system unveiled
From the Saskatoon Star Phoenix:
The Saskatchewan government is rolling out a program that gives doctors and pharmacists access to the complete prescription-drug histories of their patients.
The $7- million tracking system comes out of an inquest into overdose death of Darcy Dean Ironchild about five years ago. ...more
The Saskatchewan government is rolling out a program that gives doctors and pharmacists access to the complete prescription-drug histories of their patients.
The $7- million tracking system comes out of an inquest into overdose death of Darcy Dean Ironchild about five years ago. ...more
Watch move to more over-the-counter drugs, pharmacists urge
From CBCUnlocked.com:
Switching emergency contraception or cholesterol-lowering drugs to over-the-counter status carries potential risks and benefits, pharmacists say.
Health Canada is changing its rules for the emergency contraception drug levonorgestrel, also known as Plan B, to allow women to access the drug from a pharmacist without a prescription. ...more
Switching emergency contraception or cholesterol-lowering drugs to over-the-counter status carries potential risks and benefits, pharmacists say.
Health Canada is changing its rules for the emergency contraception drug levonorgestrel, also known as Plan B, to allow women to access the drug from a pharmacist without a prescription. ...more
Pharmacists becoming proactive with new Meth Watch Program
From the Kenora (Ont.) Daily Miner and News:
Pharmacists are on the look out for makers of methamphetamine.
On his first stop on an Ontario information tour, Marc Kealey, chief executive officer of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, said Tuesday that pharmacists throughout Ontario are being trained to watch for people buying excessive amounts of ingredients used to make crystal meth.
“Most of the ingredients to make meth can be purchased at a pharmacy,” he said. “This is a family issue, that’s why it’s become so important to us.” ...more
Pharmacists are on the look out for makers of methamphetamine.
On his first stop on an Ontario information tour, Marc Kealey, chief executive officer of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, said Tuesday that pharmacists throughout Ontario are being trained to watch for people buying excessive amounts of ingredients used to make crystal meth.
“Most of the ingredients to make meth can be purchased at a pharmacy,” he said. “This is a family issue, that’s why it’s become so important to us.” ...more
Pharmacist charged after fake Viagra found
From the Globe and Mail:
An Ontario pharmacist is facing charges for allegedly selling bootleg Viagra.
The man and his two pharmacies are charged with 11 offences under the Criminal Code, the Food and Drugs Act, and the Customs Act.
The RCMP say the charges follow a six-month investigation, launched after border agents found two suspect shipments earlier this year. ...more
An Ontario pharmacist is facing charges for allegedly selling bootleg Viagra.
The man and his two pharmacies are charged with 11 offences under the Criminal Code, the Food and Drugs Act, and the Customs Act.
The RCMP say the charges follow a six-month investigation, launched after border agents found two suspect shipments earlier this year. ...more
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Feds say druggist sold counterfeit Viagra
From CBCUnlocked.com:
The RCMP have charged a Toronto-area pharamacist and two of his companies with selling counterfeit Viagra.
It was not immediately clear whether the drug was chemically identical to Pfizer's famous blue pill (active ingredient: sildenafil citrate) or whether it worked.
In a statement announcing the charges, Health Canada described the drug as counterfeit and said the pharmacist was accused of violating the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations. In a separate statement, the Ontario College of Pharmacists described the offence as "the alleged importing, packaging and distribution of a drug containing [an] unapproved version of Viagra." ...more
The RCMP have charged a Toronto-area pharamacist and two of his companies with selling counterfeit Viagra.
It was not immediately clear whether the drug was chemically identical to Pfizer's famous blue pill (active ingredient: sildenafil citrate) or whether it worked.
In a statement announcing the charges, Health Canada described the drug as counterfeit and said the pharmacist was accused of violating the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations. In a separate statement, the Ontario College of Pharmacists described the offence as "the alleged importing, packaging and distribution of a drug containing [an] unapproved version of Viagra." ...more
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Latest on Canadian Prescription Drug Bill
From KLAS-TV (Nev.):
Thousands of people in the United States buy prescription drugs from Canada. It's illegal, but it happens everyday. During the last session Nevada lawmakers passed a bill paving the way for residents to buy prescription drugs from Canada legally. The governor signed it.
Eyewitness News 8 reporter Edward Lawrence traveled to Vancouver, British Columbia with the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy. ...more
Thousands of people in the United States buy prescription drugs from Canada. It's illegal, but it happens everyday. During the last session Nevada lawmakers passed a bill paving the way for residents to buy prescription drugs from Canada legally. The governor signed it.
Eyewitness News 8 reporter Edward Lawrence traveled to Vancouver, British Columbia with the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy. ...more
Vt. drug lawsuit tossed out
From the Barre Montpelier (Vermont) Times Argus:
A federal judge has dismissed Vermont's first-in-the-nation lawsuit against the Bush administration seeking permission to set up a prescription drug importation program.
U.S. District Judge William Sessions, in an opinion filed late Monday, acknowledged that the federal government didn't violate the law when it refused to allow Vermont to establish such a program. ...more
A federal judge has dismissed Vermont's first-in-the-nation lawsuit against the Bush administration seeking permission to set up a prescription drug importation program.
U.S. District Judge William Sessions, in an opinion filed late Monday, acknowledged that the federal government didn't violate the law when it refused to allow Vermont to establish such a program. ...more
Ranbaxy set to launch Canadian operations
From Sify (India):
Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd is expanding its geographical presence to Canada by setting up a wholly owned subsidiary in that market.
Along with this, the company also hopes to launch its new anti-malaria drug in the next 3-4 years. ...more
Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd is expanding its geographical presence to Canada by setting up a wholly owned subsidiary in that market.
Along with this, the company also hopes to launch its new anti-malaria drug in the next 3-4 years. ...more
Panel rejects U.S.-style registry for acne drug
From the Globe and Mail:
There is no need for Canada to follow the U.S. lead and create a registry of patients taking an anti-acne drug that causes severe birth defects, an expert advisory panel has told Health Canada.
In its question-and-answer report posted on Health Canada's website this week, the 10-member panel said it "unanimously rejected" the notion of a U.S.-style registry, which requires enrolment by thousands of American patients taking isotretinoin, the doctors who prescribe the drug and the pharmacists who dispense it. ...more
There is no need for Canada to follow the U.S. lead and create a registry of patients taking an anti-acne drug that causes severe birth defects, an expert advisory panel has told Health Canada.
In its question-and-answer report posted on Health Canada's website this week, the 10-member panel said it "unanimously rejected" the notion of a U.S.-style registry, which requires enrolment by thousands of American patients taking isotretinoin, the doctors who prescribe the drug and the pharmacists who dispense it. ...more
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Canadian online pharmacies a better deal for meds
From Reuters:
Americans could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year on brand-name prescription drugs if they use a Canadian Internet pharmacy instead of their local drug store, researchers reported Monday.
On average, their study found, Americans could save 24 percent on their prescriptions if they shopped at an online Canadian pharmacy rather than a U.S. drug chain. Depending on the type of drug and how many prescriptions a person has, the savings could add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars a year.
The findings, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, add to the contentious issue of U.S. consumers' "importation" of medications from Canada, where the government sets price controls on prescriptions. ...more
Americans could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year on brand-name prescription drugs if they use a Canadian Internet pharmacy instead of their local drug store, researchers reported Monday.
On average, their study found, Americans could save 24 percent on their prescriptions if they shopped at an online Canadian pharmacy rather than a U.S. drug chain. Depending on the type of drug and how many prescriptions a person has, the savings could add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars a year.
The findings, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, add to the contentious issue of U.S. consumers' "importation" of medications from Canada, where the government sets price controls on prescriptions. ...more
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Canadian Pharmacies to Sell Medical Marijuana
From Join Together:
Starting in early 2006, Canadians who want to use marijuana for medical purposes will be able to purchase the drug at select pharmacies, the Canadian Press reported Sept. 14. ...more
Starting in early 2006, Canadians who want to use marijuana for medical purposes will be able to purchase the drug at select pharmacies, the Canadian Press reported Sept. 14. ...more
New anti-psychotic drugs worrying, study shows
From theGlobe and Mail:
Sales of anti-psychotic medications have soared in recent years, spurred by the arrival of a new generation of drugs that promised relief from symptoms of dementia with fewer side effects.
But a new Canadian study shows that the new, more expensive drugs -- known as atypical anti-psychotics -- have the same problems as their predecessors, notably causing Parkinson's-like symptoms. ...more
Sales of anti-psychotic medications have soared in recent years, spurred by the arrival of a new generation of drugs that promised relief from symptoms of dementia with fewer side effects.
But a new Canadian study shows that the new, more expensive drugs -- known as atypical anti-psychotics -- have the same problems as their predecessors, notably causing Parkinson's-like symptoms. ...more
Consumer Reports: Buying Canadian drugs: Same as in the U.S.?
From the Asbury Park (NJ) Press:
Although the practice is widespread -- and actually abetted by several U.S. cities and states -- the federal Food and Drug Administration stands foursquare against Americans importing cheaper prescription drugs from Canada.
And not because it's illegal. (Individuals who order prescriptions from Canadian Web sites may be violating the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, although the FDA says it has no plans to prosecute them.) Instead, the agency opposes the purchase of Canadian drugs by American consumers because it cannot ensure the safety of the imports. ...more
Although the practice is widespread -- and actually abetted by several U.S. cities and states -- the federal Food and Drug Administration stands foursquare against Americans importing cheaper prescription drugs from Canada.
And not because it's illegal. (Individuals who order prescriptions from Canadian Web sites may be violating the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, although the FDA says it has no plans to prosecute them.) Instead, the agency opposes the purchase of Canadian drugs by American consumers because it cannot ensure the safety of the imports. ...more
Important safety information on Duragesic (fentanyl transdermal system)
From Health Canada:
Janssen-Ortho Inc., in collaboration with Health Canada, wishes to highlight important safety information about the safe use of DURAGESIC. The Canadian Product Monograph for DURAGESIC has been revised to emphasize this safety information, and contains a section with Consumer Information to ensure that patients and their caregivers are aware of the guidelines for the safe use of DURAGESIC. For the public...
Janssen-Ortho Inc., in consultation with Health Canada, wishes to highlight certain important safety information for the safe and appropriate prescribing and use of DURAGESIC* (fentanyl transdermal system). For health professionals...
Janssen-Ortho Inc., in collaboration with Health Canada, wishes to highlight important safety information about the safe use of DURAGESIC. The Canadian Product Monograph for DURAGESIC has been revised to emphasize this safety information, and contains a section with Consumer Information to ensure that patients and their caregivers are aware of the guidelines for the safe use of DURAGESIC. For the public...
Janssen-Ortho Inc., in consultation with Health Canada, wishes to highlight certain important safety information for the safe and appropriate prescribing and use of DURAGESIC* (fentanyl transdermal system). For health professionals...
Jean Coutu says pharmacists who take salespeoples' gifts should declare them
From the Canadian Press:
There is nothing wrong with pharmacists taking gifts from drug companies as long as the gifts are declared on their income taxes, Jean Coutu, founder and chairman of the giant drugstore chain that bears his name, said Thursday.
"That's the way it's done," Coutu said after the annual meeting of Jean Coutu Group Inc. "These (generic drug) companies have money for promotions; they can be done the right and the wrong way," said Coutu, a pharmacist who still owns and works in his own drugstore in downtown Montreal. ...more
There is nothing wrong with pharmacists taking gifts from drug companies as long as the gifts are declared on their income taxes, Jean Coutu, founder and chairman of the giant drugstore chain that bears his name, said Thursday.
"That's the way it's done," Coutu said after the annual meeting of Jean Coutu Group Inc. "These (generic drug) companies have money for promotions; they can be done the right and the wrong way," said Coutu, a pharmacist who still owns and works in his own drugstore in downtown Montreal. ...more
Sex toys coming soon to drugstore near you
From the Globe and Mail:
Better believe it. Shoppers Drug Mart, the country's largest drugstore chain, Wal-Mart Canada and a slew of other stores have entered into agreements to stock their shelves, coast to coast, with a new line of sex toys, discreetly called "sexual well-being products."
The move is especially surprising for Wal-Mart, which doesn't sell video games rated "adult-only" and recently removed a magazine from one of its stores after a customer complained that it was too sexual. ...more
Better believe it. Shoppers Drug Mart, the country's largest drugstore chain, Wal-Mart Canada and a slew of other stores have entered into agreements to stock their shelves, coast to coast, with a new line of sex toys, discreetly called "sexual well-being products."
The move is especially surprising for Wal-Mart, which doesn't sell video games rated "adult-only" and recently removed a magazine from one of its stores after a customer complained that it was too sexual. ...more
Friday, September 16, 2005
Canadian confidence in health care dips
From the Globe and Mail:
A year after the first ministers confidently emerged from a conference with a 10-year plan to fix the health-care system, many Canadians are starting to lose their optimism that governments will meet that goal, a survey has found.
A poll released Thursday by the Canadian Medical Association and Ipsos-Reid found that on the one-year anniversary of the plan, 54 per cent of Canadians are less hopeful about the future of health care services in their community than they were in 2004. ...more
A year after the first ministers confidently emerged from a conference with a 10-year plan to fix the health-care system, many Canadians are starting to lose their optimism that governments will meet that goal, a survey has found.
A poll released Thursday by the Canadian Medical Association and Ipsos-Reid found that on the one-year anniversary of the plan, 54 per cent of Canadians are less hopeful about the future of health care services in their community than they were in 2004. ...more
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Most-needy heart failure patients least likely to get drugs
From the Globe and Mail:
Heart failure patients at the greatest risk of death are the least likely to be prescribed drugs that could prolong their lives, according to new Canadian research.
Scientists are at a loss to explain this paradox, particularly since there is ample evidence that the sickest patients benefit most from the host of drugs that are the mainstay of treatment.
"The million-dollar question is: 'Why is this happening?' " Douglas Lee, a research fellow at the Toronto-based Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, said in an interview. ...more
Heart failure patients at the greatest risk of death are the least likely to be prescribed drugs that could prolong their lives, according to new Canadian research.
Scientists are at a loss to explain this paradox, particularly since there is ample evidence that the sickest patients benefit most from the host of drugs that are the mainstay of treatment.
"The million-dollar question is: 'Why is this happening?' " Douglas Lee, a research fellow at the Toronto-based Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, said in an interview. ...more
Pandemic flu fear propels vaccine sector
From the Globe and Mail:
From sleepy dowager a few years ago to high flier today, the vaccine industry is going full-out to expand manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand for flu shots and a possible pandemic.
In recent weeks, Novartis AG has bid $4.5-billion (U.S.) for the 58 per cent of drug and flu vaccine maker Chiron Corp. of Emeryville, Calif., that it doesn't already own, and GlaxoSmithKline PLC has agreed to acquire ID Biomedical Corp. of Vancouver for $1.4-billion. ...more
From sleepy dowager a few years ago to high flier today, the vaccine industry is going full-out to expand manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand for flu shots and a possible pandemic.
In recent weeks, Novartis AG has bid $4.5-billion (U.S.) for the 58 per cent of drug and flu vaccine maker Chiron Corp. of Emeryville, Calif., that it doesn't already own, and GlaxoSmithKline PLC has agreed to acquire ID Biomedical Corp. of Vancouver for $1.4-billion. ...more
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Canadian ships unload relief supplies
From the National Post:
...As tents, blankets, cases of bottled water, boxes of sunscreen and insect repellent were unloaded, 15 Canadian Forces medics boarded one of the frigates. Their purpose, McFadden said, will be to make sure that local residents are "clean, healthy and cared for."
However, because of U.S. drug laws, they will not be allowed to dispense any medicine to civilians... ...more
(Editor's note: Can anyone explain the reasoning that the Canadian military cannot fill prescriptions for Americans during this time of crisis? It mentions U.S. drug laws. Is this related to their state pharmacy laws, or is it because the ship's pharmacy is stocked with "unapproved Canadian product?" If anyone has insight, contact us at info@canadapharmacynews.com)
...As tents, blankets, cases of bottled water, boxes of sunscreen and insect repellent were unloaded, 15 Canadian Forces medics boarded one of the frigates. Their purpose, McFadden said, will be to make sure that local residents are "clean, healthy and cared for."
However, because of U.S. drug laws, they will not be allowed to dispense any medicine to civilians... ...more
(Editor's note: Can anyone explain the reasoning that the Canadian military cannot fill prescriptions for Americans during this time of crisis? It mentions U.S. drug laws. Is this related to their state pharmacy laws, or is it because the ship's pharmacy is stocked with "unapproved Canadian product?" If anyone has insight, contact us at info@canadapharmacynews.com)
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Health Canada pulling schizophrenia drug
From CTV News:
Health Canada is stopping manufacturers from selling thioridazine, an anti-psychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, by the end of this month.
Thioridazine will continue to be dispensed by pharmacies during a transition period after Sept. 30 to allow patients time to consult their doctors and switch to an alternative medication, Health Canada said Thursday in a release. ...more
Health Canada is stopping manufacturers from selling thioridazine, an anti-psychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, by the end of this month.
Thioridazine will continue to be dispensed by pharmacies during a transition period after Sept. 30 to allow patients time to consult their doctors and switch to an alternative medication, Health Canada said Thursday in a release. ...more
Important Safety Information on Oxeze (formoterol fumarate dihydrate) Turbuhaler
From Health Canada:
AstraZeneca Canada Inc. in consultation with Health Canada would like to update you on the outcomes of the US FDA Pulmonary-Allergy Drugs Advisory Committee (PADAC) meeting held on July 13, 2005 to review the safety of the long-acting beta agonists salmeterol and formoterol. ...more
AstraZeneca Canada Inc. in consultation with Health Canada would like to update you on the outcomes of the US FDA Pulmonary-Allergy Drugs Advisory Committee (PADAC) meeting held on July 13, 2005 to review the safety of the long-acting beta agonists salmeterol and formoterol. ...more
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Pharmacist faces charges
From the Mississauga (Ont.) News:
A Mississauga pharmacist is facing criminal charges over allegations he sold counterfeit heart medication to patients.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced the charges Friday, saying a pharmacist dispensed counterfeit Norvasc, a medication for high blood pressure and angina.
Police launched an investigation in June after a woman thought her pill didn't look right and contacted the drug company, Pfizer Canada. ...more
A Mississauga pharmacist is facing criminal charges over allegations he sold counterfeit heart medication to patients.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced the charges Friday, saying a pharmacist dispensed counterfeit Norvasc, a medication for high blood pressure and angina.
Police launched an investigation in June after a woman thought her pill didn't look right and contacted the drug company, Pfizer Canada. ...more
Pfizer Wins Panel Backing for First Inhaled Insulin
From Bloomberg:
Pfizer Inc., the world's biggest drugmaker, won a U.S. committee's support for the first inhaled insulin as an alternative to needles for 4 million American diabetics.
A panel of doctors and statisticians voted 7-2 today to advise the Food and Drug Administration to clear Exubera, developed by Nektar Therapeutics, Pfizer and Sanofi-Aventis SA, for use in people with both juvenile and adult-onset diabetes. The agency usually follows the advice of its committees. ...more
(Editor's Note: I have not found anything regarding news of a Canadian drug application for Exubera.)
Pfizer Inc., the world's biggest drugmaker, won a U.S. committee's support for the first inhaled insulin as an alternative to needles for 4 million American diabetics.
A panel of doctors and statisticians voted 7-2 today to advise the Food and Drug Administration to clear Exubera, developed by Nektar Therapeutics, Pfizer and Sanofi-Aventis SA, for use in people with both juvenile and adult-onset diabetes. The agency usually follows the advice of its committees. ...more
(Editor's Note: I have not found anything regarding news of a Canadian drug application for Exubera.)
The Globe and Mail: Hypertension new childhood scourge
From the Globe and Mail:
Adryan Zorec's parents were going through a breakup and he was stressed, so he took solace in food -- chips and pop, mainly -- and started packing on the pounds.
By 12, he weighed in at 170 pounds, though he wasn't yet 5 feet tall.
During a routine visit, Adryan's doctor took his blood pressure. It was 140/90 millimetres of mercury -- in the same ballpark as a middle-aged couch potato with a beer belly. ...more
Adryan Zorec's parents were going through a breakup and he was stressed, so he took solace in food -- chips and pop, mainly -- and started packing on the pounds.
By 12, he weighed in at 170 pounds, though he wasn't yet 5 feet tall.
During a routine visit, Adryan's doctor took his blood pressure. It was 140/90 millimetres of mercury -- in the same ballpark as a middle-aged couch potato with a beer belly. ...more
Drug that carries radiation to cells offers hope for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
From the Canadian Press:
An injectable liquid that delivers tiny radioactive "smart bombs" directly to cancer cells is showing great promise in treating patients with some types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Canadian doctors say.
The drug, described as a "liquid radiotherapy," caused tumour reduction in 80 per cent of patients whose non-Hodgkin's lymphoma either did not respond to traditional chemotherapy or had recurred, a U.S. clinical trial has shown. Thirty per cent of those patients achieved full remission. ...more
An injectable liquid that delivers tiny radioactive "smart bombs" directly to cancer cells is showing great promise in treating patients with some types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Canadian doctors say.
The drug, described as a "liquid radiotherapy," caused tumour reduction in 80 per cent of patients whose non-Hodgkin's lymphoma either did not respond to traditional chemotherapy or had recurred, a U.S. clinical trial has shown. Thirty per cent of those patients achieved full remission. ...more
Expensive cancer drugs get approval
From the Globe and Mail:
Two colorectal cancer drugs received Health Canada approval yesterday, opening the door for provincial governments to fund the costly medications.
Avastin, a first-line treatment for incurable colorectal cancer, and Erbitux, which shrinks tumours in some patients, were approved for use against the second-biggest cause of cancer death in Canada, Health Canada spokeswoman Jirina Vlk confirmed yesterday. ...more
Two colorectal cancer drugs received Health Canada approval yesterday, opening the door for provincial governments to fund the costly medications.
Avastin, a first-line treatment for incurable colorectal cancer, and Erbitux, which shrinks tumours in some patients, were approved for use against the second-biggest cause of cancer death in Canada, Health Canada spokeswoman Jirina Vlk confirmed yesterday. ...more
Thursday, September 08, 2005
'New' drugs too often offer little new
From the Globe and Mail:
In 2004, prescription-drug spending in Canada rose to a staggering $18-billion a year (not including the $1.3-billion in prescription drugs dispensed in hospitals). In 1985, prescription drug spending was only $2.6-billion annually.
In the past decade alone, drug spending has doubled, to the point where Canadians now spend more money on prescription drugs than on physician services. ...more
In 2004, prescription-drug spending in Canada rose to a staggering $18-billion a year (not including the $1.3-billion in prescription drugs dispensed in hospitals). In 1985, prescription drug spending was only $2.6-billion annually.
In the past decade alone, drug spending has doubled, to the point where Canadians now spend more money on prescription drugs than on physician services. ...more
Health Canada pulling schizophrenia drug
From CTV News:
Health Canada is stopping manufacturers from selling thioridazine, an anti-psychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, by the end of this month.
Thioridazine will continue to be dispensed by pharmacies during a transition period after Sept. 30 to allow patients time to consult their doctors and switch to an alternative medication, Health Canada said Thursday in a release. ...more
Health Canada is stopping manufacturers from selling thioridazine, an anti-psychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, by the end of this month.
Thioridazine will continue to be dispensed by pharmacies during a transition period after Sept. 30 to allow patients time to consult their doctors and switch to an alternative medication, Health Canada said Thursday in a release. ...more
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Former pharmacy worker upset with ruling
From the London Free Press:
A London whistleblower who complained about the practices at a city pharmacy has lost his case before the Ontario Health Professions Appeal and Review Board.
"The decision to me doesn't make a lot of sense," said Darcy O'Neil, a former employee of Canadian Apothecary. ...more
A London whistleblower who complained about the practices at a city pharmacy has lost his case before the Ontario Health Professions Appeal and Review Board.
"The decision to me doesn't make a lot of sense," said Darcy O'Neil, a former employee of Canadian Apothecary. ...more
Prescription drugs: The facts about Canada
From Consumer Reports:
Even though the practice is illegal, Americans in droves have been importing prescription drugs from Canada. Last year, an estimated 2 million U.S. citizens spent $800 million on medicines purchased from Canadian pharmacies by fax, phone, or Web site. That's 33 percent more than in 2003. A long list of states and cities, including Kansas, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Boston, and Portland, Maine, have set up programs to help residents and employees import Canadian drugs priced on average 25 to 50 percent below those on the U.S. market. ...more
Even though the practice is illegal, Americans in droves have been importing prescription drugs from Canada. Last year, an estimated 2 million U.S. citizens spent $800 million on medicines purchased from Canadian pharmacies by fax, phone, or Web site. That's 33 percent more than in 2003. A long list of states and cities, including Kansas, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Boston, and Portland, Maine, have set up programs to help residents and employees import Canadian drugs priced on average 25 to 50 percent below those on the U.S. market. ...more
Seven Canadian pharmacies endorsed for Nevada licenses
From the Las Vegas SUN:
Seven Canadian pharmacies were tentatively endorsed Wednesday for licensing that will enable them to sell prescription drugs to Nevadans - a process approved by the 2005 Legislature to make such drugs more affordable.
The state Board of Pharmacy, meeting in Reno, denied three other Canadian pharmacies, two because they hadn't completely filled out their applications and one because it wasn't properly licensed in its home province. ...more
Seven Canadian pharmacies were tentatively endorsed Wednesday for licensing that will enable them to sell prescription drugs to Nevadans - a process approved by the 2005 Legislature to make such drugs more affordable.
The state Board of Pharmacy, meeting in Reno, denied three other Canadian pharmacies, two because they hadn't completely filled out their applications and one because it wasn't properly licensed in its home province. ...more
Friday, September 02, 2005
New Money from Old Drugs
From Red Herring:
Old drugs with minor variations, and therefore new patents, are behind the massive growth in spending on prescription medicines in developed countries, but do not offer substantial improvements over cheaper generic drugs, according to scientists at the University of British Columbia in Canada.
Known as “me-too” drugs, these medicines on average cost twice the price of the original brand-name drugs they are based on, and four times that of generic versions of the original drug. ...more
Old drugs with minor variations, and therefore new patents, are behind the massive growth in spending on prescription medicines in developed countries, but do not offer substantial improvements over cheaper generic drugs, according to scientists at the University of British Columbia in Canada.
Known as “me-too” drugs, these medicines on average cost twice the price of the original brand-name drugs they are based on, and four times that of generic versions of the original drug. ...more
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)