Retail Clinics

MENLO PARK, Calif. — Raising Medicare’s eligibility age from 65 to 67 years in 2014 would generate an estimated $7.6 billion in net savings to the federal government, but also would result in an estimated net increase of $5.6 billion in out-of-pocket costs for 65- and 66-year-olds, as well as $4.5 billion in employer retiree healthcare costs, according to a new Kaiser Family Foundation projection of the potential change suggested by several deficit-reduction plans.

HYDERABAD, India — Indian generic drug maker Dr. Reddy’s Labs has launched a generic treatment for seasonal allergies, the company said Tuesday.

Dr. Reddy’s announced the launch of levocetirizine tablets in the 5-mg strength. The drug is a generic version of UCB’s and Sanofi-Aventis’ Xyzal.

Levocetirizine had sales of about $238 million during the 12-month period ended in September 2010, according to IMS Health.

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The Little Clinic has opened a new location inside Kroger's new Marketplace store in Shelbyville, Tenn., according to a local news report.

The opening marks the 11th clinic in the area.

"Being part of a brand-new Kroger Marketplace allows us to increase accessibility of our services for those who will enjoy the many offerings at this store," Tim Pruitt, divisional VP of The Little Clinic, was quoted as saying.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif. — Shortly after announcing the launch of its weight-loss system for men, Sensa is introducing a fruity lineup of energy-enhanced vitamin drinks.

Sensa Quench, available in orange crush, pink grapefruit and berry splash flavors, is a sugar-free drink mix that when added to 12 oz. of water includes a powerful blend of natural ingredients to energize, help increase the metabolism and hydrate, according to the company.

The Sensa Quench weight-loss system is available in a 30-pack for $39.95.

WASHINGTON — Menthol-flavored cigarettes are the latest target for tobacco opponents, according to published reports.

Reuters reported Friday that a committee of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration said in a report that banning mentholated cigarettes would benefit public health. Under legislation adopted in 2009, most flavored cigarettes already are banned.

WASHINGTON — A new study conducted by the Institute for Alternative Futures and funded by Novo Nordisk highlighted the top 10 U.S. states that are labeled as "diabetes hot spots" and are projected to carry the brunt of the epidemic over the next 15 years.

CHICAGO — Between 1965 and 2007, the number of people with a pack-a-day habit significantly declined, as did the number of people who smoked 10 or more cigarettes a day, according to a study in the March 16 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — SB 437, a bill passed Wednesday by the Arkansas House by a vote of 60-31, introduces a number of new issues to the debate on whether or not pseudoephedrine and similar ingredients should be sold behind the counter or by prescription only.