Pharmacy & Therapeutics - March 2008 - (Page 124) CONTENTS Cover: Human insulin monomeric form, computer-generated model. Polypeptide chain A (blue) has 21 amino acids; chain B (red) has 30 amino acids (in humans). See diabetes-related articles on pages 127, 158, and 166. (Photo Researchers, Inc.) March 2008 FEATURES OPINION DEPARTMENTS Editorial 127 David Nash, MD, MBA, discusses a new report on the government’s efforts to provide improved health care to diabetic patients. Medication Errors 128 Matthew Grissinger, RPh, FASCP, suggests that a traditional evidence-based approach cannot be the only way to promote patient safety; common sense is also essential. Prescription: Washington 130 Stephen Barlas details the FDA’s current problems, including an unstable leadership, a lack of manpower, poor morale, too little research, and critical gaps in scientific expertise and technology. New Drugs/Drug News/ New Medical Devices 131 From alendronate to Simcor, P&T presents the latest information on FDA approvals, recalls, and industry updates. Drug Forecast 134 The authors review doripenem (Doribax), a carbapenem antibacterial agent. Failures of Medicare Part D Delivery and Recommendations for Improvement Walter L. Way, RPh, MD, and Fred S. Mayer, RPh, MPH MEETING HIGHLIGHTS 145 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Presentations cover a short course of treatment with capecitabine (Xeloda), docetaxel (Taxotere), and trastuzumab (Herceptin); a study of the aromatase inhibitors letrozole (Femara) and zoledronic acid (Zometa) and their effect on bone loss; the aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen (Nolvadex); and a trial of capecitabine plus ixabepilone (Ixempra) compared with ixabepilone monotherapy. Walter Alexander 148 Pharmaceutical Approval Update Topics include two new agents: ciclesonide (Alvesco Inhalation Aerosol) for the maintenance treatment of asthma and etravirine (Intelence) for adults with HIV infection. A new indication for colesevelam (Welchol) to improve glycemic control in type-2 diabetes is also discussed. Marvin M. Goldenberg, PhD, RPh, MS 150 Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: A Pilot Review Impact of Computer Software Modifications on Compliance The authors conducted a study to determine whether patients who were not using insulin were following guidelines for self-monitoring of blood glucose. After a new software package was implemented at their institution, the reduced number of excess test strips led to cost savings and improved compliance. Anita D. Patel, BA, PharmD; Viktoria Kharlamb, PharmD; Arthur P. Reiter, BS, MS; and Ron Lovly, MS, RPh CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT 158 Pain Associated with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy A Review of Available Treatments The authors describe the pathophysiology and pharmacotherapy of a common complication of diabetes that causes significant morbidity and mortality. Erin L. St. Onge, PharmD, and Shannon A. Miller, PharmD 166 CE Test and Forms 177 124 P&T® • March 2008 • Vol. 33 No. 3
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