GLP-1 Therapies Double Risk for Severe Pancreatitis in Patients With Diabetes

Patients filling prescriptions for sitagliptin and exenatide should be informed about the symptoms of pancreatitis and cautioned to seek immediate medical care if they appear. That’s according to a new study that says glucagon-like peptide-1-based therapies double the risk of hospitalization for pancreatitis, compared to other drugs prescribed for blood sugar control in patients with diabetes.

Heart Failure Treatment Extremely Cost-Effective When Guidelines Followed

Guideline-based treatment of heart failure patients is so highly cost-effective that thousands more could be spent each year, in terms of life-years gained, according to a new study. Here is why that is even more the case with widespread availability of generic equivalents.

Codeine Products Shouldn’t Be Used in Children After Common Procedures

The FDA is changing labeling on codeine-containing products, saying they shouldn’t be used to manage pain in children following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. Find out how pharmacists should help educate caregivers on the dangers.

CPOE Systems Significantly Lower Drug Error
Rates in Hospitals

Electronic ordering systems make a big difference in drug error rates, according to a new study, which urges more hospitals to adopt and use the systems. How much did using such a system decrease mistakes?