HEALTH

One subcategory that has really jolted the sales-per-square-inch across analgesic sets is sleep aids. Sales of sleeping remedies, including both liquids and tablets, were up 51.2% to $408 million for the 52 weeks ended Aug. 11 across U.S. multi-outlets, according to IRI data. Almost one-third of that, or $127 million, came courtesy of Procter and Gamble’s ZzzQuil, which launched a little more than a year ago.

CINCINNATI — The launch of Procter and Gamble’s ZzzQuil helped to lift sales in the sleep category — both in terms of dollar sales and physical placement. Before ZzzQuil, sleep was typically merchandised near the floor adjacent to internal analgesics. But with ZzzQuil, the entire category was lifted to top-shelf billing. ZzzQuil liquid was up 961.5% to $75 million and ZzzQuil tablets were up 722.1% to $52 million.

NEW YORK — A coalition of organizations that includes major retail pharmacy and drug manufacturing groups is warning consumers against purchasing drugs from foreign, online outlets.

When multiple multinational companies start investing their acquisition monies into one particular category, it’s a good bet that category is poised for some pretty significant growth.

(For the full category review, including sales data, click here.)

RHINEBECK, N.Y. — Topical BioMedics recently announced distribution through CVS/pharmacy for its Topricin Foot Therapy Cream, a homeopathic topical treatment for pain associated with fibromyalgia and neuropathy that is safe for diabetics.

NEW YORK — Represented by the Greenwood Group, Smith Brothers is making its way back onto shelves with a new way of thinking about sore throat lozenges, according to a report published Friday by Bloomberg. 

NEWTON SQUARE, Pa. — Embracing its French roots, Boiron launched a national “Where Will You Take Oscillo?” photo contest on Oct. 1. The contest encourages quick action against early and crucial flu-like symptoms year-round by being prepared with Oscillo. 

MIAMI LAKES, Fla. — Fuse Science on Monday announced that as of late last month it has officially launched its ad campaign behind Powered By Fuse energy products.