Pharmacy News and Stories

An analysis of Medicare Part D formulary files from 2010 to 2020 showed that utilization management has soared for specialty brand and generic oral oncology drugs, with prior authorization used most prevalently. Kelly Anderson, PhD, MPP, said that what the study found “was consistent with my expectations and what we hear anecdotally from clinicians and patients.”

Danielle Fixen, PharmD, notes that the role of a pharmacist varies depending on the state, but that pharmacists can perform drug-interaction checks and educate patients on potential side effects they may experience. “Some states have pharmacists within the medical marijuana dispensary while others do not,” she said. “Given the multiple drug interactions with cannabis, it is important to evaluate [its] safety...in patients.”

A new study shows that maybe cannabis doesn't increase heart attack risks, but this study is inconsistent with previous research. Dr. Robert Page, PharmD, noted that “the way cannabis is consumed may make a difference in how it affects the heart and blood vessels. Many people don’t realize that cannabis smoke contains components similar to tobacco smoke.”

Dr. Daniel LaBarbera’s laboratory is engaged in multidisciplinary cancer drug discovery and development - and has been featured in a 2023 peer reviewed cancer research highlight by the DOD's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP).