Pharmacists Urged to Ask More Questions to Identify Drug-Interaction Risks
Even if they are on multiple medications, older Americans are unlikely to seek advice from pharmacists or other healthcare professionals about potentially dangerous drug interactions. Why is that, and what can be done to get older patients to provide the information necessary to avoid those risks?

Which NOACs Are Associated With Reduced Renal Damage in Atrial Fibrillation Patients?
That non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) appear to have a lower risk profile for kidney damage in atrial fibrillation patients is good news from a recent study. Which blood thinners were found to be most associated with reduced risk of renal damage?

Benzodiazepine Use in Alzheimer’s Patients Increases Mortality Risks
Although treatment guidelines urge nonpharmaceutical remedies when possible, many Alzheimer’s disease patients end up taking benzodiazepines and related medications for symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and insomnia. A new study finds that the practice significantly increases mortality rates in those patients. Here are the details.

Blood Test Helps Determine Best Agent for Smoking Cessation
Finding out if a patch or medication is better for smokers seeking to quit might be as simple as determining how they metabolize nicotine. Personalization using that information can improve success rates, researchers say. Here is more information.