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RHINELANDER, Wis. — A meeting with federal officials last week indicated that pharmacists' importance in dispensing animal drugs is growing.

Last Tuesday, pharmacists and veterinarians met with officials from the Federal Trade Commission in Washington, D.C., for a four-session meeting that affirmed pharmacists' increasing role, according to online pet supply company Drs. Foster and Smith.

CHICAGO — To help improve flu immunization rates in underserved communities, Walgreens and Access Community Health Network on Tuesday announced a collaboration that will provide 5,000 free flu shot vouchers to Access to help those either without health insurance coverage or those unable to afford the vaccination to get their flu shot. 

PRINCETON, N.J. — Ranbaxy Labs has launched an authorized generic drug for treating dry mouth associated with an autoimmune disorder, the company said Tuesday.

The India-based generic drug maker announced the launch of cevimeline hydrochloride in the 30-mg strength under an agreement with parent company Daiichi Sankyo. The drug is used in patients with Sjogren's syndrome, which affects the moisture-producing glands.

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. — Merck is moving its global headquarters from Whitehouse Station, N.J., to its existing property in Summit, N.J., which currently houses research, manufacturing, animal health and consumer care operations.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Community Pharmacists Association on Thursday commended a bipartisan group of 13 U.S.

SWIFTWATER, Pa. — Sanofi Pasteur will bring its Fluzone Intradermal Vaccine Coop de Quill VacciNation Tour to a San Francisco Walgreens on Oct. 6 as part of its cross-country efforts to raise awareness about the seriousness of influenza and the various vaccine options that are available for adults 18 to 64 years of age this flu season.

SILVER SPRING, Md. — In partnership with international regulatory and law enforcement agencies, the Food and Drug Administration on Thursday announced it had taken action against more than 4,100 Internet pharmacies that illegally sell unapproved drugs to consumers. Actions taken include civil and criminal charges, seizure of illegal products and removal of offending websites.

OSAKA, Japan — Drug maker Takeda announced that its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary has entered a definitive agreement to acquire LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals, a private clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel vaccines for gastrointestinal and respiratory indications.

As part of the deal, Takeda will provide LigoCyte with an upfront payment of $60 million, with future contingent consideration, based on the progress of development projects. LigoCyte's lead product, a vaccine to prevent norovirus gastroenteritis, is in phase-1/2 of clinical development.