HEALTH

PARSIPPANY, N.J. — People ages 65 years and older reduced their volume of prescriptions, while those ages 19 to 25 years increased their use of prescription drugs as the healthcare-reform law allowed them to remain on their parents' insurance, according to a new report by IMS Health.

The report, "The Use of Medicines in the United States: Review of 2011," found that per capita spending on U.S. medicines grew by 0.5% as healthcare system spending reached $320 billion and new drug launches opened new treatment options for more than 20 million Americans.

INDIANAPOLIS — Marsh Supermarkets on Tuesday recognized National Public Health Week with the introduction of a program to help people with diabetes better understand, manage and live with the disease — more than 9% of Indiana residents have been diagnosed with diabetes, the grocer noted.

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. — Drug maker Merck has introduced a new program that's designed to provide resources and information to help patients with Type 2 diabetes commit to living a diabetes-friendly lifestyle.

NEW YORK — Bainbridge & Knight on Tuesday announced the introduction of Lichi Super Fruit Super Probiotic, formulated with three strains of probiotic bacteria — Bifidobacterium lactis B1-04, BioOptima Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactospore.

These multiple strains work together as part of a fastest-acting formula available, the company stated. Additionally, these patented probiotic strains are better protected from stomach acids, ensuring guaranteed delivery and maximum absorption.

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. — Psi Bands, stylish drug-free wristbands for the relief of nausea, were voted the most buzz-worthy product of the year at the Travel Goods Association trade show held in Las Vegas, the company announced earlier this month. The "Buzz Award" is given once per year to the product that has created the most "buzz" at the Travel Goods Show's New Products Pavilion as voted on by retailers and members of the press.

ATLANTA — Overall, the U.S. population has good levels of vitamin A and folate in the body, but some groups still need to increase their levels of vitamin D and iron, according to the "Second National Report on Biochemical Indicators of Diet and Nutrition," released Monday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Lansinoh is expanding its Momma bottle brand to aid mothers' breast-feeding routines.

SAN DIEGO — Drug maker Amylin Pharmaceuticals has filed for regulatory approval of a drug to treat diabetes and elevated triglycerides in the bloodstream in children and adults with a rare disorder.