High-Dose Flu Vaccine Works Better During Severe H3N2-Dominant Seasons
Using the high-dose vaccine in older adults appears to pay off in more severe influenza seasons, such as those in which H3N2 viruses are dominant, according to a new CDC study. But did use of the more powerful vaccine offer any advantages in milder seasons?
Low-Cost Medication Reminder Devices Didn’t Improve Adherence Among all the possible reasons why patients fail to follow medication regimens for chronic diseases, the most often cited is just forgetfulness. A new study sought to determine if low-cost reminder devices could help resolve the issue. Here are the disappointing results.
No Adverse Effects to Fetus When Antivirals Used During Pregnancy Pharmacists can provide some reassurance to pregnant women worried about taking antivirals to prevent or treat influenza. A new Swedish study finds no increased risks to the fetus from use of neuraminidase inhibitors during pregnancy. Here is more information.
Patients Still Get Opioids During, After Buprenorphine Addiction Treatment
Pharmacists might be puzzled when they fill prescriptions for opioid painkillers simultaneously or after dispensing buprenorphine, which is used to treat addiction to the medications. Use of narcotics during or after medication-assisted treatment is more common than they might think, however, according to a new study calling for better, ongoing care of patients with addiction disorders..
