Wellington, Sept 7 NZPA - Competition between pharmaceutical companies over the heart drug metoprolol has resulted in a $65 million saving over five years for government drug buying agency Pharmac.

PHARMAC has completed agreements with two companies for the heart drug metoprolol that will realise $65 million of savings over the next five years.

Horizons Regional Council has surveyed public expectations around water quality and results show clear community backing for work to maintain and enhance waterways.

PHARMAC is investing in a new medication to help overcome drug resistance for people with hepatitis B.

From August 1, entecavir (Baraclude) will be funded under Special Authority as a first line treatment option for people with hepatitis B.

July 21, 2009.- Savings on three pharmaceuticals achieved by PHARMAC will free up $27 million for spending on new medicines over the next three years.

DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, on Friday 10 July announced a fresh investment of US$8.8 million (NZ$14M) in New Zealand.

International agency Oxfam fears that companies producing affordable generic medicines could be subject to criminal prosecutions and have their medicines seized on orders from big drug companies under plans being drawn up by a closed group of mainly rich countries.

New Zealand pharmaceutical manufacturer AFT Pharmaceuticals is backing the Prime Minister's bid to ban pseudoephedrine from cold and flu tablets.

Wellington, May 12 NZA - A Tauranga doctor has started bundling five different pills in a pack to medicate people at risk of heart attacks.

4 May 2009 - A Government move to target ``spiked'' sex pills from Asia could send local herbal companies producing `safe' unadulterated natural supplements out of business - or off shore.