NPTA RSS Feed

IV Certification Course on 19-May-12 9:00 AM

Sat, 19 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 19-May-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 20-May-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Staff

Event Details:

Course Details
The course requirements include:
- 9 Home Study Modules
- 2 Days Hands-On Training
- 8 Process Technique Validations

>>Complete Learning Objectives

How the Course Works
Participants must complete nine separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exam. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules, participants attend and complete NPTA’s two-day Sterile Product Training Institute, located at the NPTA Training Institute in Houston, Texas.

Home Study Modules
- Introduction to Sterile Products
- Facilities, Garb & Equipment
- Aseptic Calculations
- Properties of Sterile Products
- Aseptic Technique
- Sterile Product Preparations
- Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)
- Chemotherapy
- Quality Control and Assurance

Training & Technique Validations
- Aseptic Hand Washing
- Horizontal Laminar Airflow Hood Care
- Vertical Laminar Airflow Hood Care
- Vial Manipulations
- Ampule Manipulations
- Hazardous Vial Manipulations
- Hazardous Ampule Manipulations

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included
Tuition includes: Sterile Products textbook by Pearson Education, official course binder, two day hands-on training institute, lunch/snacks on both training days, use of laboratory equipment and supplies, statement of CE credit and an Official Certificate of Validated Training, upon successful completion.

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Practice
UAN No: 0384-0000-11-004-H-04-T // 0384-0000-11-004-L-04-T
0384-0000-11-004-H-04-P // 0384-0000-11-004-L-04-P

NPTA Training Institute

IV Certification Course on 21-May-12 9:00 AM

Mon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 21-May-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 22-May-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Practice
UAN No: 0384-0000-11-004-H-04-T // 0384-0000-11-004-L-04-T
0384-0000-11-004-H-04-P // 0384-0000-11-004-L-04-P

NPTA Training Institute

Chemo Certification Course on 23-May-12 9:00 AM

Wed, 23 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Chemo Certification Course
Start Date: 23-May-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 23-May-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPA Faculty

Event Details:

Course Details
The course requirements include:
- 10 Home Study Modules
- 1 Days Hands-On Training
- 5 Process Technique Validations

>>Complete Learning Objectives

How the Course Works
Participants must complete ten separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exams. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules, participants attend and complete NPTA’s one-day Hazardous Drugs Training Institute, located at the NPTA Training Institute in Houston, Texas.

Home Study Modules
- What are Hazardous Drugs
- ASHP and Other Guidelines
- Receipt, Storage, Labeling & Transport
- Risk Assessment, Controls & Medical Surveillance
- Biological Safety Cabinets
- Isolators
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Aseptic Technique
- Decontamination, Waste Disposal & Spill Control
- Comprehensive Final Exam

Training & Technique Validations
- Aseptic Hand Washing & Garbing
- Decontamination & Deactivation of a BSC
- Hazardous Liquid Vial Manipulations
- Hazardous Powder Vial Manipulation
- Hazardous Ampule Manipulations

Tuition Fee
$498 Members
$598 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included
Tuition includes: Safe Handling of Hazardous Drugs textbook by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, online course content access, one day of hands-on training/validations, lunch/snacks on training day, use of laboratory equipment and supplies, statement of CE credit and an Official Certificate of Validated Training, upon successful completion.

NPTA Training Institute

Compounding Certification Course on 24-May-12 9:00 AM

Thu, 24 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 24-May-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 25-May-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Course Details
The course requirements include:
- 10 Home Study Modules with Exams
- 2 Days Hands-On Training

How the Course Works
Participants must complete eleven separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exam. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules, participants attend and complete NPTA’s two-day Pharmaceutical Compounding Training Institute, located at the NPTA Training Institute in Houston, Texas.

Home Study Modules
- Introduction to Compounding/Compounding Practices & Considerations
- Facilities, Equipment & Supplies
- Quality Assurance & Record Keeping
- Capsules, Tablets & Powders
- Lozenges, Troches, Sticks & Suppositories
- Solutions, Suspensions & Emulsions
- Ointments, Creams, Pastes & Gels
- Ophthalmic, Otic & Nasal Preparations
- Medication Flavoring
- Veterinary Compounding

Hands-On Training Labs
- Capsules
- Carbomer Gels
- Creams
- Gelatin Troches
- Lip Balms
- Medicated Lollipops
- PEG Troches
- PLO Gels
- Solutions
- Suspensions
- Suppositories
- Tablet Triturates
- Coloring/Flavoring
- Quality Assurance Methods
- Record Keeping

Tuition Fee
$648 NPTA Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included

Tuition includes: Compounding textbook by Pearson Education, official course binder, two day hands-on training institute, lunch/snacks on both training days, use of laboratory equipment and supplies, statement of CE credit and an Official Certificate of Validated Training, upon successful completion.

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 11-Jun-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 12-Jun-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

2012 Scheduled Training Dates
Jan 23-24 SOLD OUT

Feb 6-7 SOLD OUT
Feb 20-21 SOLD OUT

March 19-20

April 16-17

April 23-24

May 7-8

May 19-20 [Weekend Date]

May 21-22

June 4-5

June 18-19

* DATES SHOWN MAY BE FULL

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Practice
UAN No: 0384-0000-11-004-H-04-T // 0384-0000-11-004-L-04-T
0384-0000-11-004-H-04-P // 0384-0000-11-004-L-04-P

Re-Release Date: 04-18-2011 Expiration Date: 04-18-2014

NPTA Training Institute

IV Certification Course on 18-Jun-12 9:00 AM

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 18-Jun-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 19-Jun-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

2011 Scheduled Training Dates
Nov 5-6 SOLD OUT

Nov 14-15 SOLD OUT
Dec 5-6 SOLD OUT

NPTA Training Institute

Chemo Certification Course on 20-Jun-12 9:00 AM

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Chemo Certification Course
Start Date: 20-Jun-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 20-Jun-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$498 Members
$598 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

NPTA Training Institute

Constructing the Pharmacy Technician Resumé

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:15:00 GMT

Having a polished resumé is a must when looking for a job. Putting together a pharmacy technician resumé is a task that takes some thought and planning if you wish to have one that is well formed and hope to land a pharmacy technician job. Here are some tips to get you started.

1. The objective. Having a clear objective is imperative. Also, be sure to state whether or not you are a certified pharmacy technician. The distinction between a certified or uncertified technician means your knowledge base of the field is larger and also will mean a higher pay scale (in most cases).

2. Internships & externships. Including all internships and externships on your resumé will count for a lot. Hands on employment in a pharmacy along with academic courses will show that you have had some ‘real world’ training in your field.

3. Actual work experience. Listing all of your employment shows stability in work history. If you do not have a lot of actual work history in a pharmacy still include other types of jobs as this will make up for work not performed in a pharmacy setting.

4. Education. Obtaining a pharmacy technician certificate or associates degree can help you get the job you desire. Most pharmacies require applicants to have some sort of academic book knowledge as the pharmacy field is a continuous and ever changing field.

5. Organizational memberships. Create a separate heading to list memberships to any professional organizations like the National Pharmacy Technician Association.

These tips will give you a good start in creating an organized and well-planned resumé any employer will love. Writing a conscience resumé is one of the many steps you will take in obtaining your dream job.

16-May-12 3:15 PM

Mental Health Month: A Time to Remember

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 15 May 2012 19:00:00 GMT

The month of May is one of many remembrances and NPTA encourages pharmacy technicians to take time out of their busy schedules to remember Mental Health Month. According to a national survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 45.9 million adult Americans were diagnosed with a mental illness in 2011. In commemorating mental health month we must remember these illnesses and conditions are not only treatable, but also curable.

In 1949 mental health month was established to inform and increase awareness of the imperative nature of mental health, help establish wellness, and rejoice in recovery from mental illnesses. There are many individuals who are uninsured and continued to be uninsured, leaving many without help to treat their conditions. By 2016, the Affordable Healthcare Act will expand and assist in providing health insurance to the uninsured to treat various illnesses and conditions (including mental health services and treatment). This coverage will provide insurance for about 30 million Americans that do not have insurance. More strides are in store the treatment of mental illness and new acts such as the Affordable Healthcare Act are just the start in better services.

“Mental Health Month gives all of us a valuable opportunity to celebrate the tremendous strides this nation has made in promoting mental health and increasing the public’s knowledge that effective services and support are available” said Kathleen Sebelius, Health and Human Services Secretary.

Sources:

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration web page. www.samhsa.gov. Date of Access: 15 May 2012.

2. Health & Human Services Press. “Statement from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on Mental Health Month.” 11 May 2012. Date of Access: 15 May 2012.

15-May-12 2:00 PM

Safe Use Class of Drugs: Will it Become a Reality?

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 11 May 2012 18:00:00 GMT

The FDA recently published a notice concerning the possibility of a ‘safe use’ class of drugs, which would enable pharmacists to dispense some medications without a prescription. While the American Pharmacists Association (AphA) approves of the new drug class idea, other groups such as the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) oppose the possibility of a safe use class. In a recent article published on MedPage Today, Thomas Menighan, CEO of the AphA, said making a safe use category could greatly improve access to drugs as pharmacists are the most easily accessed healthcare provider for many patients. However, there are cons to adding this new class of drugs such as patients skipping visits to the doctor and giving them access to drugs that should not be prescribed without doctor’s orders. If the safe use class of drugs went into effect it could also change certain rules and regulations pharmacy technicians have studied in their courses and also what they have been taught in the hands-on pharmacy setting. Protocol as to how technicians should handle safe use drugs would need to be addressed across the board as well. For the FDA to make a decision about a safe use drug and allow the pharmacist to dispense the medication it must meet the following criteria:

· The drug must not be addictive.

· It must not have a large toxicity if the drug was overdosed.

· Patients must be able to self–diagnose conditions for proper use.

· Patients should be able to take the drug without a doctor’s screening.

As of my report, the FDA is still seeking comments on the proposal. Currently, it remains to be seen whether or not the new safe use class will be approved by the government agency. NPTA will keep pharmacy technicians informed of the FDA’s decision. As pharmacy technicians what do you think about the possibility of a ‘safe use’ class of drugs?

Sources:

1. Walker, Emily P. “AAFP Says No to ‘Safe Use’ Class of Drugs.” MedPage Today. 1 May 2012. http://www.medpagetoday.com/Washington-Watch/FDAGeneral/32452

2. American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) [JSO1] [JSO2] Staff Reports. “FDA Proposal to Allow Pharmacists to Prescribe Some Drugs Sparks Swift Rebuke from AAFP.” 2 May 2012. http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home/publications/news/news-now/government-medicine/20120502pharmprescribing.html

3. FDA Federal Register Notice. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-28/pdf/2012-4597.pdf

11-May-12 1:00 PM

Truvada Likely to be Approved for the Prevention of HIV

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Thu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 GMT

The war on HIV cures and prevention has been an issue for many decades. Truvada is a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration to manage symptoms of HIV and is currently being considered for the prevention of HIV. Many questions are being raised about the medication as to whether it will reduce condom use, encourage risky sexual activity, and decrease safe sex practices. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1.1 million Americans have contracted HIV. Although Truvada seems like a wonder drug, the yearly cost of the prescription will run $11,000 a year. If the FDA approves the new prevention usage, questions about insurance coverage may come about due to the high price tag. Currently, Gilead Sciences, Inc, the makers of Truvada offer a co-pay assistance program for patients to help cut down on the medications costs. Patients can save up to $200 on their monthly prescription for a year. In a recent article published on Bloomberg.com, Ken Mayer, medical research director at the Fenway Institute commented on Truvada. “I think it would be a mistake for the FDA not to approve this indication,” Mayer said. “If we can figure out how to use this most effectively we can really put a dent in the number of new infections” said Mayer. As of my report, the FDA has a favorable opinion right now of approving Truvada to prevent HIV infection in individuals who are considered to be at high risk for infection. For more detailed information concerning Truvada, pharmacy technicians should visit the Truvada web site by going to www.truvada.com.

Sources:

1. Moisse, Katie. “Truvada for HIV Prevention: Pros, Cons of Popping a Pill.” Good Morning America/Yahoo News. Date of Access: 9 May 2012. http://gma.yahoo.com/truvada-hiv-prevention-pros-cons-popping-pill-194222018--abc-news-wellness.html

2. Pettypiece, Shannon, & Ryan Flinn. “Gilead’s Truvada Pill Is Safe for HIV Prevention.” Bloomberg.com. 8 May 2012. Date of Access: 9 May 2012. http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-05-08/gilead-hiv-pill-shown-safe-in-studies-fda-staff-report-says.html

3. Truvada Web Site. www.truvada.com

4. “CDC’s HIV Prevention Progress in the United States.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. www.cdc.gov/hiv/resources/factsheets

5. Dotinga, Randy. “FDA Panel Seems to Back Pill to Help Prevent HIV.” US News and World Report. 9 May 2012. http://health.usnews.com/health-news/news/articles/2012/05/09/fda-panel-seems-to-back-pill-to-help-prevent-hiv

10-May-12 8:00 AM

E-Prescribing and the Pharmacy Technician

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 08 May 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Pharmacy Technicians know the importance of absolute accuracy in prescriptions and the need for error free prescribing every time they are given an order to fill or assist the pharmacist in fulfilling the order. In the pharmacy profession there is no room for errors. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services e-prescribing can be defined as a doctor’s ability to electronically submit an accurate prescription directly to a pharmacy from the point of care. In a recent article published in the New York Times by Randall Stross, research found 37 errors for every 100 paper prescriptions compared to 7 per 100 for individuals that used e-prescribing programs and software. The article also goes on to report only about 36 percent of all Rx’s were sent electronically in the U.S. in 2011.

With the invention of e-prescribing Pharmacy Technicians may find they may need to attend training on electronic prescribing and protocol in the pharmacy may change as more pharmacies adapt to more efficient and electronically savy ways of doing business. Electronic prescribing also cuts down on the cost of medication errors caused due to bad hand writing and misinterpretation of Rx’s by those working in the pharmacy. Medication errors can result in death, serious illness, and legal consequences.

Sources:

1. CMS Web Page. “E-Prescribing.” Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Date of Access: 7 May 2012. http://www.cms.gov/Medicare/E-Health/Eprescribing/index.html?redirect=/EPrescribing/

2. Stross, Randall. “Chicken Scratches vs. Electronic Prescriptions.” 20 Apr 2012. Date of Access: 7 May 2012. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/29/business/e-prescriptions-reduce-errors-but-their-adoption-is-slow.html

8-May-12 8:00 AM

Tips for Finding a Pharmacy Technician Job

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 04 May 2012 18:00:00 GMT

Looking for work can be a stressful task and even more of a challenge if you are a new graduate or have been out of the employment loop for a long time. Featured here are some tips for finding jobs in the pharmacy technician field.

1. Education. Ask yourself if you have obtained enough education and knowledge to work as a pharmacy technician. Without the proper academic book knowledge and sound professional courses a job seeker will not be prepared for the demands of working in a pharmacy.

2. On the job training. Another question to ask yourself is if you have obtained the proper training to do the job. Landing an internship or externship is a good way to get hands on experience in a pharmacy.

3. Connect. Surround yourself with professional organizations like the National Pharmacy Technician Association. Being well connected can help job seekers find out about job opportunities and professional connections as well as a chance to make lasting friendships in the field.

4. References. Learn as much as possible while you are in a pharmacy technician educational program and get to know your professors and teachers. They can give you a much needed reference when you are first looking for a job in the pharmacy field. Most instructors are more than happy to speak highly about their star pupils.

5. Job search engines and web sites. Often times the best pharmacy technician jobs are found by going to the sites of a potential employer you wish to get a job. For example, most community and hospital pharmacies have job boards where potential candidates can look for available pharmacy technician work. Another option is to visit web sites such as www.monster.com, www.pharmacyweek.com, www.rxcareercenter.com, and www.careerbuilder.com for posted employment opportunities. Listed are a few of the most comprehensive sites.

These are just a few tips you may find useful when trying to land your first Pharmacy Technician gig. There are simply too many career tips to mention here, but this list will give the pharmacy technician job seeker a head start.

4-May-12 1:00 PM

May is Arthritis Awareness Month

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Thu, 03 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The month of May brings with it many health observances. One of those is Arthritis Awareness Month. There are over 100 types of arthritis and the condition can be disabling. The basic definition of arthritis is inflammation of the joints. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report approximately 50 million adults report doctor diagnosed arthritis. Many individuals believe that arthritis affects only older people. This is not true. The condition also affects 1 of every 250 children. Arthritis includes many uncomfortable symptoms including pain, fatigue, stiffness, inflammation, anxiety, and also depression. It is also a main cause of disability in adults and children.

Coping with arthritis and its symptoms means learning as much as possible about the condition and treatment options enabling patients to live a healthy and productive life. Treatment options for arthritis range from surgery, OTC drugs, prescription medications, alternative therapies, acupuncture, hypnosis, herbal, and dietary supplements. Symptoms of depression and anxiety can be treated with medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Pain management can also assist patients in living better and productive lives. Patients that suffer from arthritis do not have to live in pain – many treatment options exist and those treatment options can be discussed with a patient’s doctor, pharmacist, and pharmacy technician. Arthritis Awareness Month and more information about the condition can be found by going to the Arthritis Foundation home page at www.arthritis.org.

Sources:

1. National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. “Arthritis – At A Glance.” 12 Apr 2012. Date of Access: 2 May 2012. http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/aag/pdf/2012/Arthritis-AAG-2012_508.pdf

2. Arthritis Today. “Arthritis Symptoms.” Date of Access: 2 May 2012.

www.arthritistoday.org/symptoms

3. Arthritis Today. “Arthritis Treatments.” Date of Access: 2 May 2012. www.arthritistoday.org/treatments

4. Arthritis Foundation. “Osteoarthritis.” Date of Access: 2 May 2012. www.arthritis.org/osteoarthritis

3-May-12 7:00 AM

NPTA's Magazine Receives Award from ASHPE

NPTA - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 01 May 2012 19:00:00 GMT

Today's Technician magazine, which is published by the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA), has been recognized by the American Society of Healthcare Publication Editors (ASHPE) for editorial excellence and achievement in the field of healthcare publishing. Today's Technician magazine received the Bronze Award in Best Opening Page/Spread: Computer-Generated for our Annual Report feature "Making Connections," published in Volume 12 Issue 1.

"This is a great honor, especially considering that Today's Technician magazine was the only healthcare publication related to pharmacy practice to receive a 2012 ASHPE award. The credit for this award truly belongs to Laurel Goodroe, our Director of Media Design & Communications."

Mike Johnston, CPhT
Chairman & CEO, NPTA
Publisher, Today's Technician magazine

About NPTA

NPTA, the National Pharmacy Technician Association, is the world's largest professional organization established specifically for pharmacy technicians. The association is dedicated to advancing the value of pharmacy technicians and the vital roles they play in pharmaceutical care. In a society of countless associations, we believe it takes much more than a mission statement to meet the professional needs and provide the needed leadership for the pharmacy technician profession - it takes action and results.

Serving more than 30,000 individuals, the organization is composed of pharmacy technicians practicing in a variety of practice settings, such as: retail, independent, hospital, mail-order, home care, long term care, nuclear, military, correctional facility, formal education, training, management, sales and many more.

About ASHPE

The American Society of Healthcare Publication Editors is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge and skills of healthcare publication editors, and thereby expanding their value to, and contribution of, the publications they serve.

1-May-12 2:00 PM

Food and Drug Administration Approves New Fast Acting Drug To Treat ED

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT

On April 27^th, 2012, the Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug to treat the problem of erectile dysfunction (ED). According to a recent release from the FDA, approximately 30 million males are troubled by the condition. The fast acting drug called Stendra (avanafil) works as an as needed pill which men would take about 30 minutes before sexual activity. “This approval expands the available treatment options to men experiencing erectile dysfunction, and enables patients, in consultation with their doctor, to choose the most appropriate treatment for their needs,” said Victoria Kusiak, M.D., deputy director of the office of Drug Evaluation III in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

The lowest dose of Stendra should be prescribed to males meet their individual needs. ED is defined as trouble obtaining an erection or keeping an erection. The condition is treatable, manageable, and curable. Stendra is a medication called a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor which are generally successful in increasing blood flow to the penis. Males should be careful not to take Stendra with nitrates as the combination can cause a dangerous decrease of blood pressure.

“Stendra is the first of a new generation of PDE5 inhibitors, and the approval marks an exciting new milestone for the millions of men suffering from erectile dysfunction who are in need of a new treatment option,” said Dr. Wayne Hellstrom, Professor of Urology and Chief of Andrology (male infertility and sexual dysfunction) at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, LA.

Stendra has been approved in 50, 100, and 200 mg doses and is marketed by Vivus, Inc.

Sources:

1. Berkrot, Bill. “FDA Approves Vivus’s Fast-Acting Viagra Rival.” Reuters.com. 27 Apr 2012. Date of Access: 28 Apr 2012. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/04/27/us-vivus-fda-idUSBRE83Q12L20120427

2. Morris, Timothy E. Vivus, Inc Press Release. “Vivus Announces FDA Approval of Stendra (avanafil) Tablets For The Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction.” 27 Apr 2012. Date of Access: 29 Apr 2012. http://ir.vivus.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=668292

3. Yao, Stephanie. “FDA approves Stendra for erectile dysfunction.” 27 Apr 2012. Date of Access: 29 Apr 2012. www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm302140

1-May-12 7:00 AM

Novartis Recalls Excedrin Products (Revised)

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:00:00 GMT

According to Novartis, Inc, Excedrin still remains off of pharmacy shelves. A recent report aired on ABC 13 (KTRK - TV Houston) indicating that the headache drug was being recalled once again, when it actually is a continuous recall of the product meaning any product which MIGHT be on pharmacy shelves should be pulled. The pharmaceutical giant said the drug could POSSIBLY be back on pharmacy selves the middle of this year according to a Novartis customer service representative.

A number of generic versions are available to consumers, but many patients feel the name brand Excedrin is the only product that works to meet their needs. Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians can advise customers to return the product to Novartis for a full refund. For a full list of recalled Novartis products and more information on the recall pharmacy customers can go to www.novartisotc.com or call 1-888-477-2403 for more information.

Sources:

1. Myers, Christi. ABC 13 – Houston reports. “Company Voluntary Recalls Excedrin.” 27 Apr 2012. http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/health&id=8639559

2. “Excedrin Recall.” Novartis Over the Counter Consumer Product Updates Website. http://www.novartisotc.com/index.html

30-Apr-12 8:00 AM

Register for our Nationwide Online Conference

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 18:04:12 GMT

A live, online conference that will empower you to become
more effective in your role as a pharmacy technician.

How Has NPTA Made A Difference For You?

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:57:00 GMT

Tell us your story of how NPTA is helping you

for your chance to win an iPad!

Become A Pharmacy Technician at Home with NPTA

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:19:41 GMT

The pharmacy technician career path is quickly evolving and is in great demand across the U.S.

Advance Your Career

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:17:28 GMT

NPTA offers advanced certification programs for chemo, sterile products (IVs) and compounding.

***Home Page - Current NEWS

Wed, 16 May 2012 20:24:15 GMT

From the NPTA Blog:

more news...

FAQs

Tue, 15 May 2012 20:21:04 GMT

For Members/Site Users If your information has already been entered into the system by an administrator or if you forgot your password, click here to request an e-mail with your login information. Forgot your password? Click here to request an e-mail with your login information. Q: Does NPTA sell or rent member information, such as mailing addresses or e-mail addresses? A: No, NPTA does not sell or rent any member contact information to outside companies. NPTA does offer a program to companies to mail literature to our members, however the literature must be approved by the Home Office to be of significant value to our members and NPTA handles all of the mailing - including our return address being printed on the piece. Q: Once I join, when will I receive my membership card, new member kit, first issue of Today's Technician and e-newsletters? A: You will receive your new member kit, which will include your...

Online CE

Fri, 04 May 2012 19:17:19 GMT

Note: If you are an NPTA Member - you already have a Username and Password established for the website. Your initial Username is your NPTA Member ID Number and your initial Password is your 5 digit postal code. After logging in, you may change either your Username and/or Password. How Does Online CE Work? - click here Course Title Hrs. ACPE # Price LAW The Transmission of HIV in the Healthcare Setting 2 0384-0000-12-003-H02-T FREE -Mem $15.00 -Non A year in Review:New Drug Application Approvals in 2011 2 0384-0000-12-001-H04-T FREE -Mem $15.00 -Non Medication...

Order Back Issues

Tue, 01 May 2012 18:58:46 GMT

To Order Back Issues - click here Volume 13 Issue 1 Volume 12 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Volume 11 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 Volume 10 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 Volume 9 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 Volume 8 Issue 1 Issue 2 Out of Stock Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 ...

Advertise - Media Kit

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 18:42:47 GMT

From increasing market share to building professional relationships and impacting one of the most influential referral categories, the National Pharmacy Technician Association is the ideal marketing platform for reaching pharmacy professionals.

Please CLICK HERE for view our updated Media Kit for 2011.

For More Information, or For A Custom Proposal Click Here or call 832-426-2681

Press

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:09:28 GMT

Welcome to the NPTA Press Room. Here you can browse recent press releases and news surrounding NPTA and pharmacy technician news and issues.

Reporters with questions should, or to set up an interview, please contact:

Laurel Goodroe

Director of Media Design and Communications

(832) 426-2681

art@asyntria.com

Press Releases

Current News

NPTA Blog

Press Kits

***Home Page - NPTA Events

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:59:43 GMT

IV Certification* Aug. 6-7 Aug. 20-21 Sept. 8-9 Weekend Date Compounding Certification* May 24-25 June 21-22 July 12-13 July 26-27 ...more dates Chemo Certification* July 11 Aug. 8 Aug. 22 ...more dates * DATES SHOWN MAY BE FULL

IV Certification

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:34:38 GMT

NPTA's Sterile Product Certification Course has been designed to train pharmacy technicians on the topic of sterile product preparation and aseptic technique, including USP <797>. Most health-system pharmacy settings require IV certification and/or prior experience for employment consideration. This course is designed to meet all applicable State Board of Pharmacy training requirements for IV Certified Pharmacy Technicians! Click Here to Request More Information Click Here for 2012 Dates Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students Course Details The course requirements include: - 9 Home Study Modules - 2 Days Hands-On Training - 8 Process Technique Validations >>Complete Learning Objectives How the Course Works Participants must complete nine separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a...

Chemo Certification

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:14:46 GMT

NPTA's Chemo Certification Course has been designed to train pharmacy professionals on the proper handling of hazardous drugs. Most health-system pharmacy settings require Chemo/Hazardous Drug Certification and/or prior experience for employment consideration. This course is designed to meet all applicable State Board of Pharmacy training requirements for Chemo Certification. Click Here to Request More Information Prerequisite Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students - Pharmacists Course Details The course requirements include: - 10 Home Study Modules - 1 Days Hands-On Training - 5 Process Technique Validations Participants must meet one or more of the following requirements: Successful completion or current enrollment in NPTA's IV...

Magazine

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 17:39:18 GMT

Today's Technician™ is the flagship publication of NPTA.
Launched in 1999, Today's Technician™ was the first full-color magazine
specifically for pharmacy technicians.

For more information:

RxPO 2007

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Attendee feedback and comments only allows NPTA and RxPO to better serve your needs at future events.

Release Date: 16-Oct-07 1:00 PM
Expiration Date: 14-Jan-08 1:00 PM

Share your thoughts with us on RxPO 2007.

Peer Training/Education

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives: What is the one thing you feel your coworkers need training in to make the pharmacy service better?

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Peer Training/Education

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Law Interest

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives: Plese complete the following survey by answering the questions then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM

Topics Request

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering the questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Consumer Survey

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Sun, 06 May 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Objectives: The goal of this survey is to obtain feedback from consumers on NPTA's recommendations for improving patient safety through standardized regulations for pharmacy technicians.

Release Date: 6-May-07 10:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Dec-07 10:00 AM
Please complete the entire survey.

Pharmacy Professional Survey

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 02 May 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Objectives: The goal of this survey is to obtain feedback from pharmacy professionals on NPTA's recommendations for improving patient safety through standardized regulations for pharmacy technicians.

Release Date: 2-May-07 11:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Dec-07 11:00 AM
Please complete the entire survey.

CPhT to CPhT 8.1/8.2

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 19:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Select responses of this survey will be published in CPhT to CPhT - Practical Advice for Pharmacy Technicians in Volume 8 Issues 1 and 2 of Today's Technician Magazine.

Release Date: 3-Apr-07 2:00 PM
Expiration Date: 2-Jul-07 2:00 PM

1. Number and answer each question in the space provided.

2. Please include your name, city and state to be considered for publication.

CPhT to CPhT Vol 8 Issue 1

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Release Date: 23-Mar-07 1:00 PM
Expiration Date: 21-Jun-07 1:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering all four questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

CPhT 2 CPhT V7.4

Reducing Medication Errors

2011-10-02T13:00:00Z

Instructor: Vanessa Mrazek, MBA, CPhT