PHARMACY

CVS Health addresses rising prescription drug costs at Politico meeting
At a recent Politico Pro Summit event, CVS Health’s Tom Moriarty addressed the rising cost of prescription drugs and outlined market-based strategies to promote competition and make medications more affordable.
FDA approves Amneal’s generic potassium chloride
Potassium chloride oral solution had a market value of approximately $185 million for the 12 months ending May 2018, according to IQVIA data.

FDA urges development of opioid analgesic products that deter abuse

In an effort to address the opioid epidemic, the Food and Drug Administration is urging the development of opioid analgesic products that are harder to manipulate and abuse.
Mayne Pharma acquires generic Efudex

Mayne Pharma has completed the acquisition of generic Efudex (fluorouracil cream 5%) from Spear Pharmaceuticals for $20 million.
Pfizer gains FDA nod for Neupogen biosimilar Nivestym

Pfizer has received Food and Drug Administration approval for Nivestym (filgrastim-aafi), a biosimilar to Neupogen (filgrastim).
GNP’s ThoughtSpot 2018 touts services, advocacy

AmerisourceBergen and Good Neighbor Pharmacy are using the annual ThoughtSpot tradeshow in Orlando, Fla. as a spot to debut program enhancements to help its pharmacists serve patients better.
Dr. Reddy’s launches OTC generic Nexium 24 hour capsules

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has received the Food and Drug Administration’s nod for an over-the-counter generic version of AstraZeneca’s Nexium 24 hour capsules (esomeprazole magnesium delayed-release capsules) in a 20-mg dosage strength.
‘Independent squeeze’ pressures retailers

David Orgel highlights strategies that independent pharmacies and retailers are using to stay ahead of larger competitors, as well as their key asset — an independent spirit.
Agios gets FDA green light for Tibsovo for AML

The Food and Drug Administration has approved Agios Pharmaceuticals’ Tibsovo (ivosidenib) tablets for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who have a specific genetic mutation.
NACDS addresses HHS on DIR fees and drug-pricing policy

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores has submitted comments to Health and Human Services secretary Alex Azar in response to the agency’s request for information on drug pricing public policy issues.