Macrolide Antibiotics Can Increase Hospitalization Risks in Some Statin Users

Macrolide antibiotics prescribed for patients taking certain statins should raise questions, according to a new study. Canadian researchers found that the drug combination could increase the risk of hospitalization. Why is the coprescription dangerous and what do the study authors suggest to avoid adverse effects?

CDC: Flu Vaccination Prevented 13 Million Illnesses, 110,000 Hospitalizations

Pharmacists who have been offering flu shots over the last few years have reason to pat themselves on the back. CDC researchers calculate that about 13 million illnesses and more than 110,000 hospitalizations likely were averted by flu shots from 2006 to 2011. Here are the details.

Triple Therapy Lowers New Diabetics’ A1c, Weight, Hypoglycemia Risk

Will a new study lead to changes in drug therapy for patients newly diagnosed with diabetes? Researchers from the University of Texas found that a triple-therapy approach led to lower HbA1c, weight, and risk of hypoglycemia. Find out about the novel research presented at a major diabetes conference.

Supplements Help Bone Health of Postmenopausal Women on Hormones

When customers ask, pharmacists now have to tell them that many treatment guidelines do not recommend calcium or vitamin D supplementation for improved bone health in postmenopausal women on hormones. A new analysis out of the influential Women’s Health Initiative suggests that could change. Here is what researchers found out.