Here are the top stories from the last week:

Industry Updates

Cardinal Health expands Equity Rx to increase access to prescription medications
Cardinal Health is expanding its Equity Rx program to increase access to prescription medications for those who cannot afford them, with a new grant bringing the total investment to $5 million.
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Susan Monarez sworn in as CDC director
Susan Monarez has been sworn in as the new director of the CDC, bringing extensive experience in disaster preparedness and health innovation.
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Federal judge blocks implementation of Arkansas Act 624 banning PBMs from owning pharmacies
A federal judge has blocked the implementation of Arkansas Act 624, which would have banned pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies, citing potential violations of the Commerce Clause.
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Weight loss drugs show promise in preventing stroke and reducing brain injury complications
New research reveals that GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide may significantly reduce stroke impacts and improve recovery outcomes.
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Researchers assess cardiovascular outcomes in older adults hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus
RSV hospitalization in older adults links to increased cardiovascular events, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring and vaccination strategies.
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FDA wants opioid manufacturers to update prescribing information regarding long-term use
The FDA is requiring opioid manufacturers to update prescribing information to address the serious risks associated with long-term use, including misuse, addiction, and overdoses.
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NACDS Foundation launches pharmacy-based “Food Is Medicine” pilot
The NACDS Foundation has initiated a pilot program to explore the feasibility and impact of integrating food and medicine in pharmacy settings.
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CMS releases additional details instructing states on determining Medicaid pharmacy dispensing fees
The guidance emphasizes using pharmacy cost-based data rather than market-based data to establish reimbursement rates.
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NCPA applauds bill to reimburse pharmacists for treating COVID, flu, and other ailments
The bill aims to enhance patient access to healthcare, especially in rural areas where pharmacists may be the only healthcare providers.
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Drug, Technology & Treatment Updates

FDA approves GSK’s Shingrix in a prefilled syringe presentation
The FDA approved a new prefilled syringe presentation of GSK’s Shingrix vaccine, simplifying the administration process for healthcare professionals and maintaining the same indications for preventing shingles in adults.
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Avenacy introduces generic Ablysinol
Avenacy has launched a generic version of Ablysinol, used to improve exercise capacity in adults with symptomatic hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy who are not candidates for surgical myectomy.
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Camber launches metformin hydrochloride oral solution
Camber has introduced a new metformin hydrochloride oral solution, available in a 500 mg/5 mL, 16 oz. bottle.
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