U.S. Pharmacist Weekly News

May 29, 2024

Importance of Adhering to BC Endocrine Therapy

Adherence to endocrine therapy for breast cancer (BC) survivors tends to be less than optimal. That could be a serious problem because a recent study found that nearly 7% of BC survivors who discontinued before completing 6 months of treatment had cancer recurrence compared with those with nearly perfect adherence. Learn more about the results of this study.

GLP-1RA Prescriptions Increase 594% for Adolescents, Young Adults

With prescriptions for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) growing by leaps and bounds, a study raised concerns about safe use and appropriateness. That is especially the case because young women of reproductive age are most likely to use them. Find out how much prescriptions for the diabetes/weight loss drugs increased and who was most likely to use—and pay for—the medication.

Dupilumab Effective in COPD Patients With Type 2 Inflammation

Another phase III trial confirms the benefit for the fully human monoclonal antibody dupilumab in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The current study finds that dupilumab was associated with fewer exacerbations and better lung function than placebo in COPD patients with type 2 inflammation as indicated by elevated blood eosinophil counts. Read more.

Iron Deficiency Independently Associated With Heart Failure

A new study found a link between the development of heart failure and iron deficiency and questions whether routine iron replacement should be considered in older adults most at risk. But it is not that simple. Find out how another recent study questions the use of oral iron replacement because of an increased risk of chronic kidney disease in older adults.