Specialty Pharmacy

FDA approves new drug for chronic lymphocytic leukemia
SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug for leukemia made by Genentech, the agency said Friday.

The FDA announced the approval of Gazyva (obinutuzumab) for treating patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia, in combination with the chemotherapy drug chlorambucil. The drug works by helping certain cells in the immune system attack cancer cells.
FDA issues plan to reduce drug shortages
SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration is using long-term strategies to address drug shortages when they appear and requiring manufacturers to notify the agency if a shortage is at risk of happening, under a new plan announced Thursday.

FDA report delves into personalized medicine

SILVER SPRINGS, Md. — Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug for treating cystic fibrosis for patients who have a specific genetic mutation, but that also treats the underlying cause of the disease rather than the disease itself.
Diplomat appoints Lance Neill as VP corporate services

FLINT, Mich. — An executive at Diplomat has been named VP corporate services, the specialty pharmacy said Wednesday.

Diplomat, which recently changed its name from Diplomat Specialty Pharmacy, announced the appointment of Lance Neill, who will be responsible for analytics, business intelligence, contracting management and project management.
Paws Pet Co. to acquire Mesa Pharmacy

PALO ALTO, Calif. — The Paws Pet Co. is buying an Irvine, Calif.-based compounding pharmacy as it seeks to transition from a pet company into a pharmaceutical company, Paws said.
BIO calls for different names for biosimilars, branded biotech drugs

NEW YORK — In what is emerging as the latest battle over follow-on biologics, a new argument has emerged about what to call them, and supporters of biotechnology companies are the latest to take a shot.
FDA introduces e-learning program about untruthful, misleading drug ads

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration has launched an online learning course aimed at healthcare professionals to educate them about potentially untruthful or misleading drug ads and promotional materials.
Walgreens collects donations for Susan G. Komen

DALLAS — Walgreens is collecting donations for breast cancer treatment through a partnership with Susan G. Komen to mark National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place this month.
Depomed launches Lazanda nasal spray for breakthrough pain in cancer patients

NEWARK, Calif. — Depomed has launched a new drug for breakthrough pain in cancer patients, the company said Monday.

The drug maker announced the launch of Lazanda (fentanyl) nasal spray, meant for treating adults who are taking opioid painkillers, but have become tolerant to them. The company also have launched a Signature Support Program designed to streamline patient access to the drug, including reimbursement and co-pay assistance. Other benefits of the program include prescription reminders and eligibility for one month's supply for free.
FDA to recommend rescheduling of opioid painkiller hydrocodone from CIII to CII

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration plans to recommend stronger regulations for a commonly used opioid painkiller.

FDA approves new drug for chronic lymphocytic leukemia

FDA issues plan to reduce drug shortages

FDA report delves into personalized medicine

Diplomat appoints Lance Neill as VP corporate services

Paws Pet Co. to acquire Mesa Pharmacy

BIO calls for different names for biosimilars, branded biotech drugs

FDA introduces e-learning program about untruthful, misleading drug ads

Walgreens collects donations for Susan G. Komen

Depomed launches Lazanda nasal spray for breakthrough pain in cancer patients

FDA to recommend rescheduling of opioid painkiller hydrocodone from CIII to CII