HomeWho We AreProducts & DosageEmployment OpportunitiesPatient AssistanceNewslineContact Information
     
 
 
ECR Pharmaceuticals Launches Lodrane 24D

March 2007
ECR has launched Lodrane 24D, a once-a- day antihistamine/decongestant formulation for the treatment of allergies, sinusitis, and nasal congestion. Lodrane 24D complements the firm's previously marketed Lodrane 24, a once daily dosed antihistamine formulation. Both Lodrane formulations contain brompheniramine, an alkylamine, which is among the most potent antihistamines. These products are available only by prescription.

Lodrane 24 and Lodrane 24D are both somewhat unique among the once-a-day antihistamine and antihistamine/decongestant products in that the dosage can be adjusted to match the patient's severity of symptoms or the level of allergens present (pollen, etc.). Initially, and during periods of more marked symptoms or higher pollen levels, patients may require two capsules, dosed once daily to achieve the desired relief. When symptoms lessen, the patient can lower the dose to one capsule daily. The latter benefits the patient by keeping a sufficient level of drug on board to continue to provide relief while also protecting against the reoccurrence of symptoms. This dosage format also has the additional benefits of being more cost effective while reducing the potential for possible side effects. Patients should consult their physician or pharmacist to discuss the best dosage format for them.

FDA Approves ECR's New Drug Application

March 2007
ECR Pharmaceuticals has received approval for its new drug application for AMRIX® (cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride extended release capsules). The product is a once-a-day dosage formulation and is indicated as an adjunct for the treatment of skeletal muscle spasm, notably that which is associated with back pain and similar musculoskeletal disorders. The product will be available only by prescription and the firm anticipates marketing the product by late summer 2007.

Profiles

March 2007
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm can gain a better understanding of this individual's responsibilities and contributions.

This quarter ECR Pharmaceuticals recognizes Janice H. Hardin, Manager, Pharmaceutical Administration.

*************************

Janice Hardin joined ECR in 1991, only a few months after the founding of the company, and is one of its longest tenured employees. Janice has been involved in virtually all facets of the company during its growth and development over the several years. During her service, the firm has moved to four different sites, requiring not only substantial physical relocations but an equal amount of administrative tasks associated with registering each facility. Her contributions in accomplishing these transitions were extraordinary.

In her position as Manager, Pharmaceutical Administration, Janice's responsibilities include oversight of internal office staff, personnel functions for home office and field sales employees, shipping and receiving, and inventory acquisition. She is also the interface with various organizations with which ECR partners in the conduct of clinical work, product development, and manufacturing.

Janice Hardin attended the Braxton School and the University of Mary Washington. She resides in Richmond with her husband and two children.

We are pleased to recognize Janice and her many contributions to the development of the company.

 

ECR Hosts Annual Meeting in Washington, DC

March 2006
ECR Pharmaceuticals held its Annual Pharmaceutical Sales Meeting February 9-12, 2006 in Washington, DC. This function serves as the firm's annual planning forum as well as providing recognition for the top sales performances of the preceding year. Members of the Wachovia Financial Planning Group from the Richmond and Washington DC area provided a financial seminar for the gathering which highlighted a number of key considerations for money management, financial planning, and retirement. A tour of the Capitol was hosted by staff from Senator George Allen's (R, VA) office. The meeting concluded with its traditional awards banquet on Saturday evening. Attendees were greeted the next morning with the winter's most notable blizzard.

 

ECR Pharmaceuticals: Member, Branded Pharmaceutical Association

March 2006
ECR has been a long-standing member of the Branded Pharmaceutical Association (BPA). The BPA is an organization of small to mid-sized pharmaceutical product distributors and manufacturers and serves as the "Voice for Specialty Pharma". The organization is comprised of approximately 40 firms which are located throughout the US. The BPA meets twice annually and its seminars range from regulatory and governmental updates, to presentations on improving performance. The organization serves as an active forum for keeping its membership advised of the continuing evolution of various state and federal programs and issues.

 

Profiles
March 2006
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm can gain a better understanding of this individual's responsibilities and contributions.

This quarter ECR Pharmaceuticals recognizes Ms. Grisel Clark, Accounting Assistant/ Accounts Receivable Supervisor.

Grisel Clark is a graduate of Commonwealth College in Hampton, Virginia and manages ECR's accounting activities. Grisel came to our firm in 2003 with an established background in accounting, bringing experience from a variety of industries, including both wholesale and retail trade.

Grisel is a native of Cuba and became a U.S. citizen in 2004. She is fluent in both English and Spanish. Grisel and her family enjoy going to the beach, kayaking, and dining out. She has three children and is currently expecting her first grandchild. Grisel and her family live in Gloucester, Virginia.

We are pleased to recognize Grisel and her contributions to the company.
Grisel Clark
ECR Expands Sales Group
October 2005
During 2005 ECR has continued the expansion and development of its field sales organization through the addition of new territories in previously uncovered geographical areas. This expansion mirrors the marketing of its new products introduced in late 2004 and early 2005 and will support the launch of other new products currently in its pipeline.

"The recently introduced products provided for the expansion of our sales coverage and the additional territories will maximize the impact of both these and future products" noted Jack Boswell, ECR Director, Sales. "We look forward to taking advantage of this market position and toward continuing the growth of the field sales group."

ECR's Cornerstone Society Adds Two Recent Retirees

October 2005
ECR Pharmaceuticals' Cornerstone Society, which honors the contributions of former employees and retirees of the company, has added two names to its list of recipients. Earlier this year, Robert Harvey and Harold Stone of the firm's distribution department elected to retire. Both men had previously worked for AH Robins and after their retirement from that firm had joined ECR. E. Claiborne Robins, Jr., President and CEO of ECR noted "that it was a real advantage to be able to secure individuals whose background allowed them to have an immediate impact on the operation of the company during its early years."

Mr. Stone joined ECR in 1991, the year the company was founded, and Mr. Harvey came on board in 2000 when Stone elected to assume part-time status. Their election to the firm's Cornerstone Society recognizes the notable contributions each made to the firm's initial development.

Profiles
April 2005
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm gain a better understanding of this individual’s responsibilities and contributions.

This quarter ECR Pharmaceuticals recognizes Ms. Phyllis I. Long, Administrator, Customer Relations and Sales Services.

Phyllis Long joined ECR in 2002 with an impressive resume of experience which combined customer service and administrative talents. And with the initials 'PIL' she was an obvious fit within the pharmaceutical industry. Interacting with pharmaceutical wholesalers to assure adequate distribution of ECR's products and the maintenance of appropriate inventory levels for retail pharmacies is a key function of Ms. Long's position. An associated function, the introduction and distribution of new products, is also central to her responsibilities. In addition, Phyllis administers the planning and implementation of the firm's medical meetings and conventions, and assists with the coordination of the company's sales meetings. Other responsibilities include oversight of commercial product shipments, management of Medicaid reporting, and coordination of product destructions. Ms. Long obviously performs a vital role within the firm and we are pleased to acknowledge her many contributions.

Phyllis and her family live in Goochland, Virginia. She and her husband Mark have three children, whose school and extracurricular activities keep each of them on the go. The family enjoys camping and trips to the beach, river and bay.

Phyllis Long
ECR Introduces Improved Liquid Formulations

April 2005
Products designed to improve pediatric patient convenience and compliance.
ECR Pharmaceuticals recently introduced three new prescription liquid formulations to its product line which greatly enhance convenience and compliance, notably with the pediatric patient. Lodrane XR contains a proven antihistamine for the treatment of allergies. A sister product, Lodrane D, combines a decongestant with this antihistamine to treat nasal and sinus congestion which are often associated with allergies. Anaplex DMX Cough Syrup provides maximum strength non-narcotic cough suppression while concurrently providing relief from congestion and allergy symptoms.

All of ECR's new liquid products can be dosed twice daily and require a small, low volume dosage. These attributes provide greater dosing accuracy and often prevents the need for giving medication to children while they are at school or day care. For additional information on these and other ECR products, please refer to the Products & Dosage section in this website.

ECR Launches LODRANE 24

November 2004
Product Utilizes Elite Pharmaceutical's Drug Delivery Technology
ECR Pharmaceuticals is pleased to announce that it has launched LODRANE 24® (brompheniramine maleate, modified release), the firm's new once-a-day allergy product. Lodrane 24 utilizes Elite Pharmaceutical, Inc.'s (AMEX:ELI) exclusive Msphere™ extended release technology to provide for once daily dosing. The once-a-day formulation is intended to enhance patient convenience and compliance for those who require chronic allergy therapy. The product will compete in the $3 billion dollar US allergy market. Lodrane 24 will be promoted to healthcare providers in the US by ECR Pharmaceuticals field sales representatives and will be available by prescription through pharmacies. Elite Pharmaceuticals will manufacture the product and will receive a royalty on product revenues.

E. Claiborne Robins, Jr., President and CEO of ECR Pharmaceuticals noted that Lodrane 24 offers healthcare providers and patients with a new alternative when treating perennial and seasonal allergies. "Our objective was to take an effective antihistamine with a proven track record, enhance its delivery, and thus improve patient therapy. We are pleased to have worked with Elite Laboratories to apply their drug delivery technology to our product, which has resulted in an improved dosage form."

Bernard Berk, President and CEO of Elite, commented, "We are excited about the launch of Lodrane 24 utilizing Elite's Msphere extended release technology. We look forward to continuing to build our working relationship with ECR Pharmaceuticals with respect to this allergy product and other products to be launched in the future."
November 15, 2004 Press Release Excerpt

Roast Benefits Central Virginia Organization
October 2004
ECR Pharmaceuticals' President E. Claiborne Robins, Jr. was the focus of a recent Roast by Safe Harbor, a central Virginia non-profit organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. The event was held at the historic Jefferson Hotel and was attended by a large group of area business leaders, associates of Mr. Robins from the University of Richmond, and many friends and family. The benefit was a huge success and raised over $72,000 for the Safe Harbor organization. Safe Harbor provides shelter for victims of domestic violence as well as offering community outreach programs for businesses, churches and local organizations and groups.
Branded Pharmaceutical Association

October 2004
ECR Pharmaceuticals is pleased to be a member of the Branded Pharmaceutical Association. The BPA represents small to mid-size pharmaceutical companies that market and manufacture brand name drug products. BPA members are dedicated to serving the consumer, the medical community, and the pharmaceutical industry with quality products and services. The association's mission is to promote the common interest of its members through conducting semi-annual meetings, making contacts with regulatory agencies regarding industry issues, and providing critical information to its member companies.

Most consumers are aware of what is often referred to as "Big Pharma" i.e. those major pharmaceutical firms which conduct the majority of the research for new molecular entities and hence play a vital role in developing new drug therapies. Likewise, most consumers are aware of the large generic drug industry which functions to make generic substitutes for drugs after patent expiration. However, many people have little awareness of the smaller branded pharmaceutical industry whose companies provide cost effective prescription and over the counter products to a very large segment of our population. Through innovation and efficient operation, these firms offer enhanced formulations and dosage forms which improve patient convenience and compliance.

ECR Continues Field Expansion

October 2004
ECR Pharmaceuticals continues to expand its field sales organization in an effort to further enhance its coverage of healthcare professionals. ECR plans three product launches by the spring of 2005.

Profiles

October 2004
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm gain a better understanding of this individual’s responsibilities and contributions.

This quarter ECR Pharmaceuticals recognizes Ms. Virginia (Ginny) Perrin, the firm's Data Management Administrator.

Ginny Perrin completed eight years of service with ECR in April of 2004. When Ginny joined the company in 1996, ECR had only four pharmaceutical home office employees. She obviously had a variety of assignments and responsibilities during the firm's early years and its subsequent rapid growth and field sales expansion. During this period, a major element of the company's success was its ability to track its sales and product distribution so that it could both reward its sales staff appropriately and position the firm to accommodate future growth. As ECR expanded, the collection and management of data from both internal and external sources became an even more vital task. Ginny's expertise in effectively managing this function for the company was recognized in 2000 with her promotion to Data Management Administrator. Ms. Perrin's responsibilities include the collection, management, and distribution of sales data as well as regulatory reporting. Ginny also manages the company's web site and administers the creation and development of sales materials. Ginny is a graduate of Virginia Tech, with a degree in Merchandising and Design. She brought significant previous retail experience when joining ECR. Ginny and her husband enjoy escaping to their country home in nearby Goochland County, Virginia as well as taking frequent camping trips. We are pleased to recognize Ms. Perrin's many contributions to ECR.

Ginny Perrin
 

 

 

 

 

 

Profiles

April 2004
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm gain a better understanding of this individual’s responsibilities and contributions.


This quarter ECR Pharmaceuticals recognizes two retiring employees whose efforts have contributed so greatly to the development, growth, and success of the company.

In 1992, ECR purchased MediPlex Pharmaceuticals of Greensboro, North Carolina. With this acquisition came two exceptional individuals with substantial pharmaceutical experience: Mr. Rudy L. Snow and Mr. Julian Rhine. Each of these men would play major roles in developing and expanding the firm's base in the Mid-Atlantic Division.

Rudy Snow was a principal in MediPlex and assumed the reins as the first manager of ECR's Mid-Atlantic Division. Rudy brought extensive sales and management experience to ECR having achieved record setting sales with two previous firms. Mr. Snow merged the ECR/MediPlex sales forces and recruited various new positions for the rapidly developing company. The Mid-Atlantic Division quickly became the firm's sales leader and it continues to maintain this position today. Mr. Snow is a three time Golden Circle winner, which recognizes the company's top sales performances. In 1996 Rudy also earned the company's top sales recognition, the Summit Award.

In recognizing Mr. Snow at its Annual Meeting, Davis Caskey, ECR Vice President, Pharmaceutical Operations, noted that "Rudy Snow always assured his success by never letting anybody work harder than he did, and that this is the legacy which Rudy leaves to each of us".

Julian Rhine was a representative for MediPlex in Columbia, South Carolina when the company was merged into ECR. Julian had joined that firm after an extensive career in pharmaceutical sales with Marion-Merrell Dow and its predecessor companies. Mr. Rhine has earned numerous awards over the years including the prestigious Salesman of the Year with Dow Pharmaceuticals. Julian's success continued with ECR, as he earned Golden Circle recognition on five occasions, the last being in 2003, his final full year with ECR. Mr. Rhine is also the recipient of the firm's E. Claiborne Robins Award, presented in honor of his outstanding service not only to ECR Pharmaceuticals, but to the pharmaceutical industry, health care professionals, and his community.

When asked about his tremendous achievements, Julian indicated that he had never found a short cut to hard work, and that a positive attitude and friendly smile always seemed to help. Jack Boswell, ECR Director, Sales, remarked that "Julian Rhine epitomizes the individual which all professional sales people should strive to be". In a salute to Mr. Rhine, attendees at the firm's annual meeting donned stickers which read "I Want To Be Like Julian".

Both of these gentlemen will retire from ECR Pharmaceuticals on March 31, 2004. Mr. Snow and Mr. Rhine were recently recognized by ECR's President, E. Claiborne Robins, Jr., as the initial honorees of the firm's newly created Cornerstone Society. This recognition honors the substantial contributions each made to the early growth and success of the firm.

All of the employees of ECR Pharmaceuticals want to convey our very best wishes to these truly outstanding individuals.

Rudy Snow   Julian Rhine  
E. Claiborne Robins, Jr. Announces Formation of Cornerstone Society
Rudy L. Snow and Julian Rhine Are First Recipients

February 2004
At the firm's 2004 Annual Meeting, ECR Pharmaceuticals' President and CEO, E. Claiborne Robins, Jr. announced the formation of a new recognition award, The Cornerstone Society. This award honors key former employees and retirees from ECR whose contributions have played a major role in the development and success of the firm. The plaque, which will be on permanent display at the company's headquarters, is inscribed:

"Honoring the contributions of our former and retired employees
whose efforts have served as the foundation of our company".

In his remarks, Mr. Robins noted that a company's strength lies within its people and that in the development of a new firm, there are always those who lay the foundation and assure success for both the present and future. Mr. Robins indicated that it was with especially great pride to announce the first recipients of this recognition: Mr. Rudy L. Snow and Mr. Julian Rhine. Both men retired from the firm on March 31 after many years of outstanding service in ECR's field sales organization.

ECR Pharmaceuticals 2004 Annual Meeting

February 2004
ECR Pharmaceuticals held its 2004 Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. This meeting brought together the entire sales organization to review the firm's results from the prior year as well as plan future promotions. E. Claiborne Robins, Jr., ECR President and CEO, noted in his address to the group that 2003 had certainly been filled with some unexpected new challenges, but that the year yielded another record breaking performance for the privately held company.

The meeting was keynoted by Mr. Jerry Acuff, President of the Delta Leadership Group. Mr. Acuff is a well known consultant to the pharmaceutical sales industry and shortly will publish his first book, The Relationship Edge In Business. His presentation regarding the importance of building solid relationships with customers and the methods to accomplish such, provided valuable insight.

The Annual Meeting concluded with an Awards Banquet which recognized those individuals who achieved the company's top sales performances of 2003.

Profiles
January 2004
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm gain a better understanding of this individual’s responsibilities and contributions.


The timely and efficient distribution of a pharmaceutical company's products is critical toward providing the level of service its customers need. This quarter we recognize the key members of our Distribution Group, Robert Harvey and Harold Stone.

Mr. Harvey came to ECR in March, 2000 following 30 years of service at AH Robins Company. His experience included positions in inventory control, production planning, and distribution center allocation. Robert is responsible for the distribution of ECR's commercial product to its wholesale and retail customers. He is a Richmond native and attended Richmond Public Schools and J. Sargent Reynolds Community College. Robert is an avid Washington Redskins' fan and enjoys traveling to FedEx field to see them play.

Harold Stone had 22 years of service at AH Robins prior to joining the newly developed E.C. Robins organization in 1990. Harold has worked in various capacities within the company and assumed ECR Pharmaceuticals' primary distribution function in 1992. Mr. Stone is currently responsible for distribution of supplies and samples to ECR's field sales organization as well as assisting with the distribution of commercial product. Harold is also an avid Redskins' fan and Nascar enthusiast and can be found at Richmond International Raceway on race days. He is also an excellent gardener and the fruit of his labor is enjoyed by the staff at ECR.

We are pleased to recognize these outstanding employees and extend our gratitude for their excellent service to our firm, its employees, and our customers.
Robert Harvey
 
Harold Stone
 
Profiles
October 2003
Each quarter ECR profiles an employee and his or her position so that others in the firm gain a better understanding of this individual’s responsibilities and contributions.


This quarter we recognize Jackie Jackson of ECR's Customer Service Department.

Jackie joined ECR in 1998 and completed her five year anniversary with the firm in October. Ms. Jackson is responsible for our company's product order entry, sample and literature fulfillment, correspondence and mail. She also shares the responsibility for auditing product and samples distribution, as well as field personnel record keeping. As ECR's receptionist, Jackie is often the first face one will see or the first voice one will hear when contacting ECR. We congratulate Jackie for her many contributions and the enthusiasm she brings to our firm.

Jackie is a native of South Carolina and enjoys returning to her home state to visit family and the beach. She is married and has three children, each of which keeps her busy with various school and community activities.

Jackie Jackson

^top of page