Health benefits of the herpes zoster vaccine are well-documented, but lesser known are the economic impacts of a community pharmacy–based herpes zoster vaccination service in the United States.

Jonathan Little, PharmD

Approximately 1 billion cases of the common cold occur annually, making it one of the top five illnesses diagnosed in the United States. Bothersome symptoms lead patients to self-medicate, with an estimated $8 billion spent annually on nonprescription cold and cough products.

Pharmacies in some areas face challenges recruiting pharmacists to staff their practice sites. As an incentive for pharmacists to accept employment, pharmacies may offer a signing bonus.

David B. Brushwood, BSPharm, JD

Etoposide capsules are a cold-chain medication used for small cell lung cancer that must be stored under refrigeration between 2°C and 8°C (36°F–46°F). A specialty pharmacy reported an error that resulted in a carton of etoposide 50 mg capsules being left out at room temperature overnight for about 12 hours.

Institute for Safe Medication Practices, Horsham, PA