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IV Certification Course

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 22-Feb-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 23-Feb-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

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
- TPN Compounding

Tuition Fee
$598 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. 384-000-08-072-H05-T
Same as ACPE No. 384-000-05-072-H04-T
This program was released November 1, 2005 and Re-released November 2, 2008.

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

Compounding Certification Course

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 25-Feb-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 26-Feb-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 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
$598 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.

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Activity
UAN No. 384-000-09-072-H04-T
384-000-09-072-H04-P
This program was released March 12, 2009.

Same as: 384-000-06-070-H04 (Released April 1, 2006)

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

IV Certification Course

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 8-Mar-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 9-Mar-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$598 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.

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

IV Certification Course

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 22-Mar-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 23-Mar-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$598 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.

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

Compounding Certification Course

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 25-Mar-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 26-Mar-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

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.

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Activity
UAN No. 384-000-09-072-H04-T
384-000-09-072-H04-P
This program was released March 12, 2009.

Same as: 384-000-06-070-H04 (Released April 1, 2006)

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

Compounding Certification Course

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 8-Apr-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 9-Apr-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Please note: This course is non-refundable.

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

What's Included

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

IV Certification Course

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 12-Apr-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 13-Apr-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$598 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.

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

IV Certification Course

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 19-Apr-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 20-Apr-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$598 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.

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

IV Certification Course

Mon, 03 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 3-May-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 4-May-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$598 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.

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

Compounding Certification Course

Thu, 06 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 6-May-10 9:00 AM
End Time: 7-May-10 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Please note: This course is non-refundable.

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

What's Included

NPTA Training Institute

15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640

Houston, Tx US 77060

Bill Gates Commits $10 billion for Vaccines

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:00:00 GMT

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has committed over $10 billion to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) for the research, development and delivery of vaccines for children in developing countries.

Bill and Melinda Gates made their announcement in a press conference at the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 29. Their goal is to provide vaccines for 90 percent of children in developing countries, which amounts to preventing about 8 million children’s deaths in the next nine years.

"Over the last 10 years, the success of both increased vaccine coverage and getting new vaccines out has been phenomenal," Bill Gates said.

The Gates have been a part of the GAVI alliance from the beginning. They had already donated $4.5 billion for this effort when the GAVI alliance began in 2000. Amazed by the progress in vaccine coverage for children, the Gates decided to more than double their last contribution to over $10 billion. Julian Lob-Levyt, the CEO of the GAVI alliance, was proud of the partnership's progress and personally acknowledged the Gates’ roles.

“GAVI would not have been in existence but for Bill and Melinda,” Lob-Levyt said.

Vaccination rates in developing countries have progressed dramatically over the past 10 years. For example, measles deaths have dropped by more than 74 percent, according to the GAVI alliance 2008 annual report. Melinda Gates said at the press conference that the lag time between the release of vaccines in developed countries and its distribution in developing countries has decreased, and immunization rates that had been declining in the past decade are now on the rise.

“We think the stage is set for extraordinary progress,” Melinda Gates said. “We think the stage is set to significantly step up coverage.”

The GAVI alliance has big plans for vaccine progress in the next ten years. They plan to increase vaccine distribution for the rotovirus and pneumococcal disease, they are contributing to research and development of a malaria vaccine, and they hope to see the elimination of polio over the next decade.

3-Feb-10 2:00 PM

New Rules for Mental Health Meds

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:00:00 GMT

The departments of Health and Human Services, Labor and the Treasury jointly released new rules they hope will make mental health and substance abuse medications more accessible to patients.

The new rules require employer health plans to offer the same level of coverage for mental health and substance abuse treatment medications as they would for other medications. Employers with less than 50 workers employed are exempt from the new rules. The rules are the result of the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA), which was passed in 2008.

According to the Reuters article, 150 million Americans are enrolled in company health plans. The joint-department released statement hailed the new law as a crucial step towards equality for consumers enrolled in company health plans.

“Today’s rules will bring needed relief to families faced with meeting the cost of obtaining mental health and substance abuse services,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. “The benefits will give these Americans access to greatly needed medical treatment, which will better allow them to participate fully in society. That’s not just sound policy, it’s the right thing to do.”

The new rules will become law as early as July 1 of this year. Until then, HHS and the departments of Labor and Treasury are encouraging interested parties to comment on the new rules. Interested parties can make comments on www.regulations.gov. The HHS news release has more information.

3-Feb-10 2:00 PM

FDA Warns of Counterfeit Alli

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:00:00 GMT

The FDA has issued a warning that a circulating counterfeit version of GlaxoSmithKline’s over-the-counter diet pills Alli may contain the controlled substance sibutramine.

The warning concerns counterfeits of the diet pill Alli 60 mg capsules (120 count refill kit). In a press release issued last week, the FDA warned that preliminary results from tests done by GlaxoSmithKline, maker of Alli, found that the counterfeit pills contain sibutramine in place of the product’s active ingredient orlistat.

Sibutramine, also known as Meridia, is an appetite suppressant used to treat obesity. If improperly used without the advice of a licensed physician and pharmacist, it may lead to gastrointestinal problems, heart failure, renal failure and even death. Sibutramine can also interact in a harmful way with other medications.

Consumers began reporting the counterfeit product last year. So far, the counterfeit Alli has only been sold online, and neither the FDA nor GlaxoSmithKline has found evidence or heard reports that it is being sold through retail stores or any other means. The counterfeit Alli appears similar to the genuine product but with the following key differences:

The outer cardboard packaging on the counterfeit Alli is missing a Lot code.
The expiration date on the counterfeit includes the month, day and year; a real Alli expiration date only contains the month and year.
The counterfeit is packaged in a plastic bottle with a slightly taller and wider cap with coarser ribbing than the genuine product.
The counterfeit has a plain foil inner safety seal under the plastic cap without any printed words; an authentic Alli seal is printed with the words “SEALED for YOUR PROTECTION.”
Counterfeit capsules are larger than the genuine Alli and contain a white powder. Genuine Alli capsules contain small white pellets.

Picture-by-picture comparisons of the real Alli and the counterfeit Alli are available on the FDA website and GlaxoSmithKline’s official consumer information page for Alli, MyAlli.com.

So far consumers who have taken the counterfeit product are reporting stronger versions of the gastrointestinal-related side effects associated with authentic Alli. Consumers should only purchase Alli from reputable stores or their branded online stores, GlaxoSmithKline said. If you feel that you may have purchased the counterfeit product, please contact the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations (OCI) at 800-551-3989, or go online to the OCI Web site. If, for any reason, you feel you may have taken the counterfeit product, contact your local pharmacist or your personal physician immediately.

Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and other health care professionals are advised to be alert and to report any suspicious products or customer complaints to the FDA's MedWatch Program at 1-800-FDA-1088.

27-Jan-10 12:00 PM

Brown's Win in Massachusetts Senate Race Causes Worry about Health Care Bill

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:00:00 GMT

In an upset for Democrats, Republican candidate Scott Brown won the late Senator Ted Kennedy’s seat today in a close election, robbing Senate Democrats the 60th vote it needs to ensure passage of the health care reform bill.

Brown won the Massachusetts seat over favored Democrat Martha Coakley by 52 percent of the vote. The win comes at a time when Democrats are struggling to merge the House and Senate versions into one bill before the 2010 election season builds momentum.

Though deferring on some key controversial issues like abortion coverage and a public health option, in the area of pharmacy, both versions of the health care reform bill are very similar. Both bills call for better coverage of prescription drugs, expansion of the biotech drug market, the elimination of the Medicare coverage D “doughnut hole,” and financial incentives to improve medication therapy management (MTM) for patients who take multiple prescriptions.

The American Pharmacists Association, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, and the American Medical Association have all made statements on both versions of the healthcare reform bill.

Among other things, the APhA supports both bills’ efforts to eliminate the Medicare Part D coverage gap, but they recommend adding language in the bill that calls for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to consider the financial impact the current provisions would have on pharmacists and pharmacies. The APhA also supports the provisions in the bills for a MTM grant program and for financial incentives that would improve the current Medicare Part D MTM programs. A full statement of the APhA’s stance on the healthcare reform bills is available on its web site.

PhRMA strongly supports provisions to eliminate the Medicare D coverage gap. In fact, it negotiated a deal with the White House to contribute $80 billion to help cover Medicare prescription drug costs until the part D coverage gap is eliminated. PhRMA President and CEO Bill Tauzin is also a strong supporter of provisions in both bills that would increase funding and expand the biotech drug market. Tauzin has a personal interest in the development of biotechs as biosimilar treatments saved him from cancer.

“It’s the future of medicine,” he said in an interview on CNBC last year. “If we don’t have a system that encourages it…we’re going to lose something extraordinarily valuable.”

Though the AMA believes that both bills make tremendous strides towards increasing access to high-quality care while reducing healthcare costs, it has released letters and statements over concerns about Medicare. The AMA has called for the elimination of the Medicare sustainable growth rate and any provisions in the bill that would give power to an independent commission such as the Independent Payment Advisory Board to mandate payment cuts for physicians.

Full statements on the APhA, PhRMA and the AMA’s positions on health care reform are available on their respective web sites.

President Obama has urged Democrats in Congress to refrain from trying to jam through a healthcare reform bill and to wait until Senator elect Brown is sworn in before moving forward. The President called Brown upon news of his victory to congratulate him.

20-Jan-10 3:00 PM

Second Earthquake Strikes Haiti

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 19:00:00 GMT

The relief efforts in Haiti suffered a setback today when a powerful magnitude 5.9 aftershock struck the already-traumatized country and sent terrified survivors fleeing to the streets.

The quake struck this morning about 35 miles from the capital city Port-Au-Prince, interrupting rescue and relief efforts struggling to help the region recover from the devastation of the first magnitude 7.0 quake that struck January 12.

Seven buildings have collapsed in Petit-Grove, a seaside town closest to the epicenter of the quake, according to Mike Morton of the U.N. Disaster Assessment and Coordination agency, the Houston Chronicle reported. So far, there are no reports of people crushed or trapped as a result of the second quake.

The quake comes at a time when relief is starting to pour into Haiti. According to the American Pharmacists Association, over 700 pharmacists volunteered to help with the relief efforts in Haiti. So many pharmacists reached out to assist in Haiti that the APhA had to ask pharmacists to stop volunteering until further notice. Pharmaceutical companies have donated $20 million in medicines, medical supplies and cash.

"The vital role of PhRMA companies and their employees in the global community is clearly defined by such catastrophic situations,” said Billy Tauzin, President and CEO of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) in a PhRMA-issued release. “It's our civic responsibility to provide health care professionals the tools they need to help save lives, and we're proud to take part in this effort, which will lead to the eventual recovery of Haiti.”

Personnel from the Department of Health and Human Services have treated over 1800 patients since their deployment in Haiti last week. US troops landed in Haiti on Tuesday with food and supplies. The American Red Cross reported on its Twitter page that its $10 text for Haiti donation program has raised over $21 million.

Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton have also started a relief fund, and the celebrity telethon "Hope for Haiti Now" is scheduled to air Friday night on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, CNN, BET, The CW, HBO, MTV, VH1 and CMT.

20-Jan-10 1:00 PM

New PT Registration Requirements in Florida

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:00:00 GMT

Florida’s new law requiring all pharmacy technicians to be registered with the Florida State Board of Pharmacy is now in effect.

The new policy, which went into effect on January 1, requires that anyone who wants to work as a pharmacy technician in Florida must be registered with the State Board of Pharmacy. Currently registered pharmacy technicians or new registration applicants must submit proof of completion of one of three requirements.

Completion of a board-approved pharmacy technician training program,
Completion of 1,500 hours of pharmacy technician work experience under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, or
Certification from an agency accredited by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians, or any other agency accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

These new requirements are the result of Section 465.014, a new law that passed back in 2008 with the help of advocacy efforts on the part of the Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the Florida Pharmacy Association. The PTCB hailed it as a progressive step towards increasing patient safety for consumers. According to the PTCB press release issued in 2008, the new law stands to affect over 40,000 pharmacy technicians working in Florida.

Pharmacy technicians registered before 2010 have until December 31 to complete one of the three listed requirements. Otherwise, they will have to re-register in 2011. Along with completion of one of the three new requirements, registration applicants must fill out an application, pay a $105 fee and submit proof of a board-approved pharmacy technician training program.

For more information on the new registration requirements or to answer any questions, please contact the Florida State Board of Pharmacy, or consult their web site.

15-Jan-10 12:00 PM

Tylenol Recall Expanded to More OTC Products

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:00:00 GMT

McNeil Consumer Healthcare Products expanded its recall of Tylenol products to include Motrin, Rolaids, Benadryl and more over-the-counter products today.

In December, McNeil had recalled certain lots of Tylenol Arthritis due to a moldy smell that made some consumers sick. McNeil, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, has again expanded the recall to include more Tylenol products like geltabs, rapid release, and extended relief pills as well as Motrin IB, regular and extra strength Rolaids antacids, and Benadryl allergy tablets.

The odor’s source comes from a chemical called 2,4,6-tribromoanisole that can manifest itself in wood pallets that transport packaging materials. Somehow, the chemical found its way into certain packages of Tylenol Arthritis, causing the smell. As a precaution, McNeil is expanding the recall to other product lots that may have been contaminated by the chemical.

The company still has no idea how the chemical came into contact with the packaging materials. In addition to investigating the issue, McNeil has stopped shipping their products on the wood pallets in question and has issued an order requiring suppliers to discontinue the use of wood pallets.

A full list of products included in the recall is available on McNeil's Product Recall Information site. For instructions on how to return products listed in the recall or dispose of them, call 1-888-222-6036. Consumers who have medical questions or feel they may have been affected by any of the recalled products should consult with their doctor or contact the FDA MedWatch Program.

15-Jan-10 10:00 AM

FDA Launches New Site "FDA Basics"

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:00:00 GMT

The FDA began the first phase of its Transparency Initiative yesterday with the launch of FDA Basics, a new page that helps users better understand the workings of the agency.

NPTA was invited to a teleconference on the launch of FDA Basics. FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Dr. Joshua Sharfstein outlined the format of FDA Basics in a live online presentation and took questions from the invited media. The page is designed to be an information resource site to help the public better understand what the agency does and how it does it. Sharfstein, the head of the Transparency Task Force, said FDA Basics specifically came from comments and suggestions from the FDA Transparency Initiative blog.

“We got over 900 different ideas and comments,” said Sharfstein. “The level of engagement from all sectors that are involved with the FDA has been impressive.”

The site is formatted in separate pages highlighting each office of the FDA and the products for which it is responsible with answers to frequently asked questions about that office, video interviews with agency leaders, and short videos explaining agency activities. If consumers have more information or want to make suggestions on how to improve the site, question and ratings sections are available.

“I think this is a step towards making the FDA a more open and transparent agency,” said Sharfstein.

The new site marks the first of three phases in the FDA’s Transparency Initiative, a plan started back in June by FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg in response to the Obama Administration’s commitment to develop strong support of the Department of Health and Human Services. The FDA went directly to consumer groups, the companies it regulates and special interest groups for suggestions on how to make the agency more transparent and understandable to the public. The agency hosted two meetings in August and November, and it started a blog to hear comments and suggestions directly from the people.

“I think that it’s been a very participatory process,” said Sharfstein. “We appreciate everyone who contributed and we’re really looking forward to having this up as a resource for the public and moving on to the next step.”

The second phase, which the FDA hopes to launch by the end of February, will delve deeper into the workings of the FDA with more information on what the agency does in the interest of protecting consumers. The third phase is aimed at promoting transparency between the FDA and the industries it regulates. The agency hopes to launch its third phase two months after the start of the second phase.

13-Jan-10 9:00 AM

New Seasonal Flu Vaccine for Elderly

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:00:00 GMT

The FDA announced its approval last week of Fluzone High-Dose, the first ever seasonal flu vaccine licensed for use on people 65 years and older in the United States.

Fluzone High-Dose, produced by Sanofi Pasteur, is intended for use on the elderly to combat the seasonal flu. Fluzone High-Dose uses a higher dose to induce a stronger immune response in seniors, said Karen Midthun, M.D., acting director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, in an FDA-issued release. It contains four times as much antigen as standard flu vaccines. The FDA gave it accelerated approval as a product designed to prevent serious or life-threatening disease.

Seniors are at highest risk for complications of seasonal flu, which often result in hospitalization and death if unchecked. Though they are at the highest risk for influenza-related complications, seniors respond the weakest to the traditional seasonal flu vaccine because of their weaker immune systems.

Fluzone High-Dose will be available for consumers by the 2010-11 flu season as an injection shot. Because of the vaccine's higher potency, the FDA reported that mild side effects were more frequent compared with Sanofi's standard-strength Fluzone vaccine. Side-effects included pain, injection-site redness and swelling, headache, muscle ache and fever. As standard for any seasonal flu vaccine, patients who are sensitive to egg products or who have had life-threatening reactions to prior flu shots should not be vaccinated with Fluzone High-Dose, the FDA said.

Fluzone High-Dose is designed to combat only the seasonal flu, not the H1N1 strain. In spite of seniors 65 years and older being at highest risk for complications associated with the seasonal flu, the same group has proven not nearly as vulnerable to the H1N1 strain, so much so that the CDC does not include seniors among the high priority groups to receive the H1N1 vaccine first.

29-Dec-09 4:00 PM

Tylenol Arthritis Recall

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 20:00:00 GMT

McNeil Consumer Healthcare announced that it has expanded its voluntary recall of Tylenol Arthritis Pain Caplet 100-count bottles, with the distinctive red EZ-OPEN CAP, to all available lots.

The move is an expansion of the original recall of five lots back in November. The recall was issued amid consumer complaints of a moldy odor coming from the bottle that induced nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. As of last week, the company has extended the recall to all available lots of Tylenol Arthritis as a precaution.

The source of the smell comes from a chemical known as 2,4,6-tribromoanisole, a chemical used to treat wooden pallets to transport and store packaging materials. As of now, officials are still unsure how the chemical came into contact specifically with the Tylenol Arthritis 100-count bottles. As a precaution, they have halted the release of the 100-count Tylenol Arthritis bottles until January 2010 as they work to move production to a new facility. In a release issued by the FDA, health officials say that the adverse effects of the chemical are temporary and non-serious.

Consumers who have purchased the product should contact McNeil immediately at 1-888-222-6036 for instructions on a refund or replacement. Officials are advising consumers who feel they may have been affected by the recalled lot to consult their primary care physician. Consumers may also report their concerns to the FDA MedWatch website. A full list of the recalled lots is available on the Tylenol web site.

McNeil Consumer Healthcare is a division of McNeil-PPC, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. The company markets over-the-counter and prescription pharmaceuticals including the complete lines of Tylenol and Motrin IB (ibuprofen) products for adults and children.

29-Dec-09 2:00 PM

***Home Page - NPTA Events

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:18:59 GMT

IV Certification
Feb 22-23
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Compounding Certification
Feb 25-26
Mar.25-26
Apr. 8-9

May 6-7
June 10-11

July 22-23

Get Involved

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:03:08 GMT

NPTA’s V.I.P Program NPTA has developed the Volunteer Involvement and Participation Program, or VIP Program to allow a greater number of members to become involved and to greatly reduce the commitment(s) asked of volunteers. We believe that the VIP Program achieves these goals, while not causing the organization to suffer from a lack of advice and input from our members. Member Stakeholder Councils Member Stakeholder Councils are comprised of up to five individual members that are currently employed in a specific practice setting. Council members will contribute, on average, ten hours over the course of an entire year, through the completion of in-depth surveys, conference calls and/or research. One member of each Member Stakeholder Council will be appointed to serve on NPTA’s Advisory Board, representing their practice setting. NPTA Steering Committees Steering Committees are comprised of up to ten individual members that have expressed interest in a particular...

***Home Page - Current NEWS

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:01:22 GMT

more news...

Check Out the NPTA Blog HERE

Help Send a Tech to Haiti

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 00:38:05 GMT

Pharmacy Technicians...we need your help!

Gladys Battle is a hospital pharmacy technician from Pennsylvania. She needs to raise $3,000 so that she can travel to Haiti and assist with helping the victims in Haiti by preparing IVs. We, at NPTA, want to help her raise the money she needs.

In the wake of the tragic disaster in Haiti, medical officials and rescue workers from every profession have come from all over the world, devoting their time, their skills and their love to help the families in Haiti. We, at NPTA, embrace any opportunity to help a pharmacy technician assist.

To help Gladys raise the money she needs, NPTA has created a fundraising page to help her reach her goal of $3,000. If 300 technicians donate just $10, that would be more than enough for Gladys to pay for travel to Haiti and her living expenses. We encourage NPTA members, fans and followers to donate what they can to help Gladys make it to Haiti.

Donate through our fundraising page with credit card or PayPal account. If, for any reason, Gladys is unable to make it to Haiti, NPTA will donate all the money raised to Haiti relief funds.

Help this brave, generous pharmacy technician make it to Haiti.
You can donate as much or as little as you can, but remember even $10 will make a difference!

Online CE

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:11:31 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 A Revolution in Family Planning and Reproductive Health: The Availability, Safety and Efficacy of Hormonal Contraception 2 0384-0000-09-009-H04-T FREE -Mem $10.00 -Non An Overview of Swine Influenza A (H1N1) 1 384-000-09-004-H01-T FREE -Mem $10.00 -Non Cannabis: Legal Issues Pertaining to Medical Marijuana 1 0384-0000-09-008-H03-T FREE -Mem $10.00 -Non YES Stem Cell Research and its Implications on the Pharmacy Industry 2 384-000-09-005-H04-T FREE -Mem $10.00 -Non Overactive Bladder 2 384-000-09-004-H01-T FREE -Mem $10.00 -Non Intercultural Communication 2 ...

Advertise - Media Kit

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 20:51:04 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.

For More Information, or For A Custom Proposal Click Here or call 888-247-8700

LTF Support Page

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:53:49 GMT

For Forms/Documents - please scroll below video. Sterile Products Trainer In-Service Video Forms Trainer Profile [PDF] Campus Dossier [word] Change of Status Form [word] Presentations Sterile Product Trainer In-Service [powerpoint] Module 1 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 2 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 3 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 4 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 5 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 6 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 7 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 8 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Module 9 Instructions Quiz Answer Form Answer Sheet Training Log Training Log Validations Aseptic Handwashing Horizontal Hood Vertical Hood Ampule Vial TPN Ampule - Hazardous Vial - Hazardous Label Prep ...

Compounding Certification

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 16:07:02 GMT

NPTA’s Compounding Certification Course has been designed to train pharmacy technicians on the topic of extemporaneous, non-sterile pharmaceutical compounding. Extemperaneous pharmaceutical compounding is both an art and a science. Advanced career path options are available for pharmacy technicians with a comprehensive knowledge of compounding and experience with the latest equipment, techniques and methods. This program offers both! Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students - Pharmacists 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...

IV Certification

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:48:13 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 Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students This program is not approved for pharmacists. 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...

Program Details

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:54:01 GMT

Eligibility Requirements What's Included Course Demo Technical Requirements Program Schedule Course Syllabus Pharmacy Externship Tuition Fee/Payment Options Enrollment Why Choose NPTA? State Requirements National Certification About the Career | About the Program | About the Courses | ENROLL TODAY | Questions: Call 1-888-247-8700 or E-mail Eligibility Requirements To be eligible to enroll in NPTA's Official Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program™ , individuals: must be 18 years of age, or older; must have a High School Diploma or GED equivalent; cannot have been convicted of or plead guilty to a felony offense; cannot have been convicted of or plead guilty to any drug-related offense. What's Included Your tuition fee includes the following: access to online course content* full support from NPTA course faculty all required textbooks and educational resources The Pharmacy Technician: Foundations and Practices...

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

BTC...A 3rd Class of Drugs?

2008-10-08T13:00:00Z

Instructor: Robin Luke

Introduction The subject of a third class or behind the counter (BTC) drugs has resurfaced for many years. BTC medications fall in a category somewhere between the only classes available at the time of this writing: prescription only and non-prescription or over-the-counter (OTC). BTC drugs are medications that are available without a prescription and require counseling by a pharmacist before purchase. Some medications proposed include birth control pills, cholesterol and migraine medications. Many of these types of medications seem harmless to most. One dilemma seems to be that medications would be more easily accessed by patients who use it correctly, but how competent are they to self medicate? In addition, the potential for misuse also exists. Some of the questions being asked are: What potential exists for this medication to be misused? Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Are pharmacists prepared to take on this added responsibility and how will they get paid for their services? History The Durham-Humphrey Amendment to the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act in 1951 was formalized by Congress to distinguish between prescription-only and OTC drugs. This amendment required harmful or potentially habit forming drugs to be dispensed under the supervision of a health practitioner as a prescription drug and include the statement, Caution: Federal law prohibits dispensing without prescription. Over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, cough syrups, antihistamines and decongestants are sold without the need for a prescription. Many of us have used some or all of these types of medications for such things as common cold symptoms. For a prescription medication to be considered for an OTC switch, the following must be considered:  Safety - Are there only a few minor side effects and low risk of dangerous drug interactions? Safety standards are much higher for OTC than prescription drugs because they have physician supervision and an OTC medication does not.  Efficacy - Does the drug do what it says it does? Most OTC drugs treat symptoms and are indicated for short term only.  Patient/consumer self-recognition Can a patient reasonably self diagnose a cold, constipation or congestion for example. In certain categories, can a pharmacist provide assistance or refer the patient to a doctor? Periodically the question has been posed as to whether it is the right time to develop a BTC or third class of drugs in the United States. Other countries such as Germany, France and Switzerland already have variations of BTC drug sales. One of the earliest proposals of a third class of drugs was by several pharmacy organizations in 1974 after the FDA reviewed OTC antacids. In 1995, the National Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) called for a third class of drugs which would not require a physician's prescription, but would require counseling. Creating a new drug class in the United States would require an act of Congress to amend the Durham-Humphrey Act, as the two class system is established under federal law. The idea of a third class of drugs was strongly criticized in a report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 1995. The GAO is an independent, nonpartisan agency that works for Congress and is known as the investigative arm of Congress and the congressional watchdog. In this report, the GAO found that: other countries that have restricted over-the-counter (OTC) drug sales to pharmacists have not necessarily experienced any increase in accessibility of medications to the public. while a pharmacy or pharmacist class exists in the countries studied for this report, there is no clear pattern of increased or decreased access to drugs such as non-prescription products where a pharmacist or pharmacy class exists. there is no safeguard for abuse. safeguards that are present are easily circumvented and pharmacist counseling is infrequent and incomplete.The resulting 1995 report, Nonprescription Drugs: Value of a Pharmacist-Controlled Class Has Yet to be Demonstrated, concludes that experience in other countries does not support a fundamental change in the U. S. system. The FDA The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently returned to the idea of BTC drugs: after holding a public meeting on November 14, 2007, to elicit comments. The meeting was held to explore the public health benefit of certain drugs being available to the public without a prescription and only after pharmacist intervention. There were organizations on both sides of the debate. Steve Giroux, the National Community Pharmacists Association president, Michael D. Hogue, Pharm.D., assistant professor of pharmacy practice at the McWhorter School of Pharmacy at Samford University and William Zellmer, deputy executive VP of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), have all stated positive aspects of BTC drugs and support them under certain conditions. Zellmer also notes that a BTC class would elevate pharmacists'' clinical role and improve patients'' health. The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) is a long-time supporter of the creation of a third class of drugs. Joseph W. Cranston, Ph.D., the American Medical Association''s director of science, research, and technology and The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) oppose the establishment of a new, BTC category. The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), while not taking either stance, would not like pharmacists to take on a law enforcement role and would defer to the FDA to determine what class of drugs would be included as BTC. As you can see, the answer is not that simple. Benefits To justify the establishment of a third class of drugs, the public must benefit through the increased quality of health care without restrictive economic consequences. There can be many benefits to a system that is sufficiently implemented and utilized. One of the most prominent reasons given in support of a BTC drug class is to grant quicker and easier access to important medications by patients. If certain prescription medications, such as those used for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, were available as BTC drugs, they would become widely accessible, thus improving both patient health care and public health. Some patients dislike doctors so much that they may avoid a visit for years. Although the mere purchase of medicine through a BTC class of drugs system does not substitute for proper health maintenance, perhaps some patients would feel more comfortable obtaining medications in this environment with pharmacist intervention. Costs are a huge concern for both sides of this debate. It is estimated that over 47 million Americans are uninsured and many more underinsured. Having a job does not necessarily equate to having healthcare options or access to expensive medications. For those patients, medications may be more affordable with a BTC class of drugs. Without the costs of appointments, copays and transportation, the price of medicine for some would be reduced to the actual cost of the medicine. On one hand, uninsured or underinsured patients could save the cost of paying out of pocket for doctors' visits, losing time off from work and possibly more readily afford these medications. Patients who are insured could save money by avoiding extra costs such as copays for these visits and possibly afford these medications if they retail less than their copays. A BTC class of drugs might promote better compliance rates. As patients would be required to receive counseling by a pharmacist, they would be informed of any side effects, drug interactions and could ask any questions they might have regarding their medication. Counseling would help maintain a measure of clinical oversight and patients would be referred to a healthcare provider when appropriate. It could be possible that pharmacist counseling regarding a BTC class of drugs would promote a better-educated public. Professionally, pharmacists could enhance their clinical presence as they are thoroughly trained in medication use and risk. Some bring up the fact that other non-physician professionals such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants and psychologists are allowed to supervise prescription drug use under limited circumstances. They feel pharmacists are more than qualified to deliver this service which grants them greater dispensing flexibility. In addition, this allows one more professional option for the patient gain access to medications. Disadvantages While there have been many substantial reasons promoting the benefits of a BTC drug class, nearly as many disadvantages have been noted as well. Although some feel that it would provide quicker, easier access for patients, others feel that it may actually have the opposite effect. OTC medications are sold not only in pharmacies, but also in other retail outlets such as grocery stores. BTC medications could only be purchased at a pharmacy, during their hours of operation. This could significantly reduce the number of places where patients would have access to medications by some estimates, depending on the location. More time may be required of the pharmacist for counseling on BTC medications. Many pharmacies cite the inability to counsel properly due to time constraints. Some people feel the pharmacist might incur added stress in an environment of 15 minute prescriptions and drive-through windows. Some fear that this new class, depending on what is approved, may place pharmacists in a position of policing transactions, such as enforcing age requirements or quantities purchased. There are concerns about patient retention/comprehension of the information given during counseling. For example, will patients return to the pharmacist when they have further questions or seek help from a healthcare provider when instructed to do so? And what about public perception? Over time, patients could inadvertently turn to pharmacists instead of their providers for all their health needs in an effort to save costs. Physician diagnosis may be missing in some cases. Patients may practice self-diagnosing or even self-medicating leading to multiple compliance issues. As mentioned earlier, costs are arguably a huge concern. At the top of financial concerns is how the pharmacy/pharmacist will be paid or reimbursed for their services. The pharmacist is evaluating the patient, which may involve some monitoring aspects for certain medications such as periodic blood tests. Medicare Part D and medication therapy management (MTM) may have initiated the idea of payment for pharmacist/patient interaction services. Several states have state-funded programs where they are paying pharmacists for MTM although this is not widely accepted. Many vehemently oppose additional payments stating that it is within the duties of a pharmacist to perform these services. Other costs concerns include insurance coverage. With some plans, OTC medications were no longer covered once they became this status. Many worry that the same would happen for BTC medications. In addition, there is some apprehension as to the cost for the consumer. Some medications end up costing more in comparison to insurance copays when obtaining OTC status. Another major financial concern would be implementation costs for the pharmacy. Distribution and supply issues could cause their own set of headaches. Documentation changes, electronic or otherwise, may need to be implemented to handle the registering of transactions if necessary. Separate logs may need to be kept to assure that all rules are followed. With reasonable assumption that there would be increased liability, each pharmacist may need to maintain liability insurance. The FDA might assign additional responsibilities as well and impose further mandates to the pharmacy. Although a high percentage of practicing pharmacists have spoken out in support of a BTC drug class, it is important to note is that not all pharmacists are willing to take on the added responsibility and instead see it as a burden that does not belong in the pharmacy. The Medications Over 400 drugs such as hydrocortisone, omeprazole and chlorpheniramine have been switched from prescription only to OTC and the requests keep coming. OTC drugs are those used primarily to treat a condition that does not require physician supervision, are proven reasonably safe, are well tolerated and have very little potential for abuse. Much of the public perception may be that medications such as Plan B (emergency contraceptive pill) and pseudoephedrine (a sympathomimetic amine commonly used as a decongestant) are BTC drugs because they have to go to the pharmacist to obtain them. Plan B is an OTC medication for those at least 18 years of age and does not require physician or pharmacist evaluation. However, it is only stocked through pharmacies and clinics. Due to the increase in the abuse of pseudoephedrine such as the illicit manufacturing of methamphetamine, purchases typically involve presentation of a specified valid identification, limited purchase amounts and an entry in a logbook. No pharmacist intervention is necessary here either. Medication/classes proposed for BTC consideration include:  Nicotine replacement therapies When appropriately monitored. Minimum age requirements for purchasing.  Nasal corticosteroids For allergic rhinitis management. Pharmacist can dose and determine which to use.  Incontinence With over 13 million people in the U.S. suffering and less than 50 percent estimated to be receiving treatment, some would like to see these numbers reduced.  Osteoporosis With an aging population, many predict higher rates of incidence than the current estimates of over 25 million Americans.  Certain statins Merck recently pushed hard to switch Mevacor to OTC status. They stated that Americans susceptible to heart disease and stroke could receive health benefits if they were taking statins. Certain statins come with higher risks however, and some such as Crestor require renal and hepatic monitoring. The FDA ruling in the Merck case mentioned that statins would be a consideration if a BTC class of drugs were established.  Antihypertensive Over 50 million Americans have high blood pressure and over forty- seven percent go untreated. With easier access, compliance could increase and public health could see improvement in this area. However, some require certain levels of monitoring and would not make good candidates for the BTC class.  Vaccines Increased access to preventive therapy for many people.  Asthma Over 17 million people in the U.S. and increasing every year. Approximately 5000 people each year are killed by asthma.  Arthritis 43 million in the U.S. with only about half receiving treatment. The increasingly aging population is left with few OTC choices.  Benign prostate hyperplasia Common for most males over 50 years of age. Drug intervention preferred over surgery. Could also enhance public health.  Migraine Over 23 million sufferers in the U.S.  Viral infections For such ailments as cold sore treatments. Conclusion Each year, the public purchases over the counter medications to the tune of several billions of dollars and those numbers are climbing. Increasingly, Americans are becoming more proactive in their own healthcare decisions. The establishment of a BTC class of drugs could potentially enhance the patient-physician-pharmacist triad. Collaboration among this healthcare team would be promoted, therapies supervised and physician time and healthcare costs saved as the triad works together to improve medication use and safety. Further research and feedback is needed before an absolute decision will be made. There are differences of opinion whether this BTC class of drugs would work.In May 2008, delegates from the state boards of pharmacy adopted a resolution during the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy annual meeting calling for collaboration with stakeholders to develop statutory authority to establish a BTC class of drugs.The Government Accountability Office is conducting a study at the request of the House Energy and Commerce Committee to examine the FDA''s proposal for a BTC class of drugs. The GAO has been asked by one of the Congressional committees that has oversight over FDA to take a look at this issue, since the FDA has been considering it, and to update the report issued in the mid ''90s. The GAO is also contacting other countries that have this type of program to request updated information. It may be some time before a consensus is reached on this subject. Thoughts Some thoughts on establishing a behind-the-counter class of drugs: Intermediate or transitional class Some entities have proposed a transitional class of drugs where after approval, certain medications would be more closely monitored by the FDA and a pharmacist would monitor the patients' therapy. Test sites Trying out a limited BTC type status with a specific medication in a limited number of controlled demographic areas. Direct to consumer (DTC) advertising Would this ramp up DTC advertising on television, on the internet, in magazines and subways? What would that look like and who would it target? Prescription wait times Is it possible to fill a prescription from beginning to end within 15-20 minutes? NOTE: The opinions and statements expressed in this article in no way are specific to any one entity. This article is printed solely to prompt discussion and is a collective set of opinions sampled from an entire healthcare industry. References 1. Kathleen H. Besinque, PharmD, MSEd, Donald F. Downing, RPh, Emergency Contraception: A Guide to Over-the-counter Availability, December 2006 2. Alex Otto, Interest Revives in ''Behind-the-Counter'' Drugs, Pharmacy Today 6(8), 2000 American Pharmaceutical Association 3. Robert I. Field, JD, MPH< PhD, Support Grows for a Third Class of Behind-the-counter Drugs, Health Care and Law, Volume 30, No. 5, May 2005 4. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), www.usdoj.gov/dea 5. Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Over-the-counter_drug 6. Sandra Levy, Has the Time Come for a Third Class of Drugs?, Drug Topics, June 2008 7. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), www.fda.gov 8. United States Government Accountability Office (GAO), Nonprescription Drugs: Value of a Pharmacist-Controlled Class Has Yet to be Demonstrated, report to Congress 1995 http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d06109.pdf 9. Drug Store News, Gov't Says No to Third Class of Drugs, September 1995 10. Francesco International, FDA November Public Meeting Explores Potential New 3rd Class of Drugs, Medical & Pharmaceuticals News, Francesco International, October 2007, www.franint.com and prleap.com About the Author Robin L. Luke is a certified pharmacy technician residing in Vancouver, Washington. Ms. Luke has over two decades of pharmacy experience in a variety of practice settings is and currently employed at the VA Medical Center. Ms. Luke is a strong advocate for pharmacy technician education and has been involved in legislative activities, teaching and co-authorship of several publications.