U.S. Pharmacist Weekly News

August 28, 2024

Pharmacy Closures Disproportionately Affect Vulnerable Americans

The creation of pharmacy deserts through store closures compounds disparities in parts of the United States. A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network Open suggests that chains are most likely to be absent in or pull out of areas with a shortage of primary care providers and a high number of patients with chronic conditions. Read more.

Prescription Medications Affect Prostate Cancer Survival

New therapies for metastatic prostate cancer are increasing survival time for patients. A new study led by researchers from the Saint Louis University School of Medicine cautions, however, that the type and number of other medications used by those patients need to be considered when the cancer is being treated. Find out why that is so important.

GLP-1 RAs Increase Metabolic Activity, Do Not Suppress Appetite

Despite common belief, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), such as Ozempic, do not only work by reducing appetite and increasing a sense of feeling full. A new, small Irish study provides evidence that the drugs promote an increase in metabolic activity and notes that weight loss was especially notable in participants who had the lowest metabolic activity at the study’s start. Read more.

Using Spironolactone to Treat HFpEF Reduced All-Cause Death

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is diagnosed in millions worldwide and is increasing in prevalence. Find out why the authors of a new study strongly recommend that mineralocorticoid antagonism be considered in patients with the condition based on their finding that spironolactone reduced all-cause death and showed a favorable trend toward reducing hospitalizations.