Retail Clinics

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens and Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group of Chicago on Wednesday announced a new coordinated healthcare program in which Walgreens will share the results of appropriately timed pharmacist clinical interventions with primary care physicians of selected patients.

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. — In a year and a half, patients taking statins to lower their cholesterol can save more than $900 when they take their medications as prescribed, according to a new study in the June 1 issue of the American Journal of Cardiology.

The study, conducted by pharmacy benefit manager Medco Health Solutions’ research subsidiary, the Medco Research Institute, found that patients who adhered to their therapies saved as much as $944 over 18 months because they experienced fewer cardiovascular problems leading to hospitalization.

WASHINGTON — U.S. News Media Group on Tuesday ranked the best dieting plans by health goal — identifying the best plans for weight loss, heart health and diabetes.

Building on the company’s experience evaluating hospitals, U.S. News developed five diet rankings to address a broad range of consumers' dieting goals and needs. Diets were ranked based on ratings from an independent panel of 22 experts.

CHICAGO — A new report by Mintel may shed new light on the reasons why African-Americans diet.

According to the research, while 70% of African-American adults surveyed said they limit the amount and/or kind of food they eat to boost their general wellness, 52% are eating healthier to prevent or control high blood pressure and 46% said they follow a diet to maintain their current weight.

MORRISTOWN, N.J. — The Food and Drug Administration has given final approval to a generic drug for insomnia made by Actavis, the drug maker said Monday.

The FDA approved the company’s zolpidem tartrate extended-release tablets in the 12.5-mg strength. The drug, which is a Schedule IV controlled substance, is a generic version of Sanofi’s Ambien CR. Actavis was the first company to launch a generic version of the drug in the 6.25-mg strength in October 2010.

HORSHAM, Pa. — The Food and Drug Administration has accepted a regulatory approval application for a head lice treatment made by Topaz Pharmaceuticals, Topaz said Tuesday.

Topaz is seeking approval for ivermectin topical cream, for treating head lice in children and adults.

PARSIPPANY, N.J. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a generic contraceptive made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, the company said Tuesday.

Watson announced the approval of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets in the 0.09-mg/0.02-mg strength.

The drug is a generic version of Pfizer’s Lybrel, which had sales of slightly less than $12 million during the 12-month period that ended in April, according to IMS Health.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Take Care Health Systems and Memorial Health on Tuesday announced a new relationship that will increase opportunities for clinical collaboration and improve patient access to high-quality, convenient and affordable healthcare options in the greater Jacksonville region.