HEALTH

The diabetes patient has long been identified as a coveted higher-trip, higher-
market-basket opportunity 
for pharmacy operators. And now Rite Aid has created a loyalty card 
program specifically for that diabetes patient.


NEW YORK — A consumer’s internal alarm bell usually is tripped when a company tries to sell him or her on a “less-is-more” proposition, because it usually really means “less-is-less.” That is until Help Remedies came along with its “less-is-less-but-that’s-better” proposition.


It’s a minimalist movement of single-ingredient OTCs — less drugs, less dyes, less coatings and less confusion because all products are named “Help I have ...” followed by the one symptom treated.


WOONSOCKET, R.I. — As part of its broad support for patients with diabetes, and in recognition of American Diabetes Month, CVS Caremark announced on Thursday that it will be hosting live Facebook chats to answer patients' questions about diabetes and chronic condition management.

CINCINNATI — Procter & Gamble on Thursday announced the creation of a new partnership and joint venture with Teva Pharmaceutical Industries to be named PGT Healthcare.

“This unique and transformational partnership creates one of the broadest and deepest [over-the-counter] product portfolios and geographic footprints in the industry,” Teva president and CEO Shlomo Yanai said. “Each company’s leading brands will experience tremendous growth by combining our strengths. We will be better together.”

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer has launched a chainwide effort to position its pharmacy staff as diabetes specialists.

The announcement was made by Effie Steele, the chain's clinical services manager.

PRINCETON, N.J. — Novo Nordisk has donated $50,000 to an organization that raises awareness about diabetes and connects people living with it, the Danish drug maker said.

The company said the donation, to the Diabetes Hands Foundation, was meant to recognize the Drive the Switch program, which it said had motivated more than 10,000 people to pledge to talk to loved ones and their doctors about insulin options.

STATESVILLE, N.C. — Bebida Beverage on Wednesday announced that its 2-oz. Koma Unwind shots will now be carried at all Pump n Pantry locations in Nebraska.

CINCINNATI — Procter & Gamble on Monday announced that NFL quarterback Drew Brees will be the first-ever "VapoDad" representing Vicks VapoRub.

Appearing alongside his son Baylen, Brees will be seen in television and print advertisements for VapoRub this upcoming cold and flu season.

Historically, VapoRub has only featured women as the primary caregiver in its advertisements. With fathers becoming increasingly involved in the upbringing of their children, Vicks felt it was important to feature its first "VapoDad."