HEALTH

SEATTLE — After years of successfully helping tobacco users quit with the Quit For Life Program, Alere Wellbeing has launched a new book designed to bring that expertise to the everyday consumer. Anyone wanting to quit tobacco can now purchase a copy of Quit Smoking for Life, written by health writer Suzanne Schlosberg with the help of Quit Coaches from the program.

WASHINGTON — The Consumer Healthcare Products Association on Friday pledged its support behind the introduction of legislation by Rep. Paul Harris, R-Wash., that would prohibit pharmacies or retail distributors from selling over-the-counter cough medicines containing dextromethorphan to those younger than 18 years without a prescription. CHPA says the bill, H.B. 2163, is a step toward preventing teen abuse of the medicines containing DXM. 

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Consumers think, live and shop differently depending on where they are within the “World” of Health and Wellness, according to the Hartman Group report "Health + Wellness: A Culture of Wellness," released in December.

ATLANTA — According to this week's FluView report, overall flu activity continued to be high across the nation, with activity continuing to spread from state to state, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Friday. Thirty-five states are now experiencing widespread activity, and 20 states are reporting high levels of influenza-like illness. 

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. — Merck on Monday reported on its intent to explore strategic options for its animal health and consumer care businesses. The company expects to complete the process and take action, if any, in 2014. 

Exploring strategic options for its animal health and consumer care businesses to determine the most value-creating option for each and could reach different decisions about the two businesses, Merck stated. 

LOS ANGELES — Maloof Ventures announced on Friday the launch of Never Hungover at GNC. Never Hungover is a dietary supplement that is comprised of a natural vitamin blend, antioxidants, amino acids, nutrients and minerals packaged as a 2-oz. serving. 

The hangover shot is designed to take up to an hour before or while consuming alcohol, and experiences optimal results when taking one bottle per four drinks. 

BOSTON — Fewer than half of people who could benefit from the heart-health benefits of a daily low-dose aspirin take it, while many others take it when they shouldn't, the January 2014 Harvard Heart Letter reported Friday.