PHARMACY

FDA approves ITF Pharma’s Tiglutik for ALS
IFT Pharma's Tiglutik is the first easy-to-swallow thickened riluzole liquid for ALS, the company said.
NCPA board member urges House Subcommittee to eliminate “gag clauses”
In testimony before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, a pharmacist representing NCPA urged support of legislation to prohibit gag clauses that may result in patients being overcharged for medications.

FDA gives Merck the green light for two new HIV drugs

Merck's Delstrigo and Pifeltro HIV medicines have received approval from the Food and Drug Administration.
CVS Caremark earns NCQA HIP certification in pharmacy benefits

NCQA recognizes CVS Health's pharmacy benefit manager CVS Caremark for providing comprehensive pharmacy benefit information to its members.
Walgreens to stock kaléo’s Auvi-Q epinephrine injector

Walgreens and kaléo are partnering to make the Richmond, Va.-based drug makers Auvi-Q auto-injectors available through Walgreens locations nationwide.
Aurobindo to buy Sandoz dermatology, generic oral solids units

Novartis is selling its Sandoz dermatology and generic oral solids units to focus on complex generics, value-added medicines and biosimilars, the company said.
Norton Healthcare to take over 8 clinics in Louisville-area Walgreens stores

The clinics, which already exist inside three stores in southern Indiana and Louisville, Ky., will transition to Norton Healthcare in early 2019, the companies said, noting that they would then be named Norton Prompt Care at Walgreens.
Rite Aid offers sweet incentive for flu shots in California

The retailer is offering patients who get immunized against the flu a coupon for one free scoop of Thrifty Ice Cream, which they can redeem at any California location with a Thrifty Ice Cream counter.
AAP issues flu vaccine recommendations for 2018-2019

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children should receive the flu shot as soon as it is available.
AMCP calls on FDA to finalize guidance on biosimilar interchangeability

The Academy of Managed Care is urging the Food and Drug Administration to issue its final guidance on biosimilar interchangeability standards and to provide education on substituting interchangeable products.