Graymark Healthcare, Inc. (Nasdaq: GRMH) today announced a definitive agreement under which Walgreen Co. will acquire substantially all of the assets of ApothecaryRx, the independent pharmacy division of Graymark Healthcare. Graymark expects to realize a total enterprise sale value of approximately $35 million including retained AR, expenses and proceeds from the liquidation of remaining ApothecaryRx assets.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory conditions and would include all 18 ApothecaryRx stores located in five states. The parties anticipate that the transaction will close in the fourth quarter of calendar year 2010.

"The divestiture of our pharmacy division will allow us to put full focus on our sleep apnea business and to continue to grow that segment both organically and through acquisitions," said Stanton Nelson, Chairman and CEO of Graymark Healthcare. "Rapid growth in the sleep segment, strong margins and the lack of a definitive market leader in the sleep apnea space makes this a very desirable area for our focus and investment," Nelson continued.

ApothecaryRx was founded in 2006 and purchased large successful independent retail pharmacies retaining their local identities and community focus. "After examining all the choices, we believe that these stores will now best be positioned to succeed and continue to serve the needs of their communities within the Walgreens family," added Nelson.

In 2009 Graymark Healthcare launched the nation's first comprehensive care model for the diagnosis, treatment and continued support of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. It has grown into one of the largest national aggregators of sleep therapy businesses.

Morgan Joseph LLC's Healthcare Investment Banking Group served as exclusive financial advisor to Graymark Healthcare on the transaction.

Graymark Healthcare, Inc. provides comprehensive care for people with sleep apnea. Graymark offers diagnostic services through its owned centers as well as through management agreements with hospitals, clinics and other care sites including patients' homes. Graymark offers treatment for sleep apnea through regional sites and longer term supportive care, including supplies, through its mail order and internet based programs. Graymark plans to continue its growth both internally and through strategic acquisitions related to the diagnosis and care of sleep apnea patients. Currently, Graymark Healthcare has a subsidiary that owns and operates independent retail pharmacies. Graymark plans to divest this subsidiary.

September 8, 2010 / category: Apnea / link / comments (0)
Right now, throughout the United States, approximately 70 million people are tossing and turning. And according to the National Institutes of Health, almost one-third of Americans have no idea that they are suffering from one of 85 classified sleep disorders.

Lack of sleep, consequentially, presents huge problems, mentally, emotionally and physically, which is why Americans not getting the recommended 8 hours each night are fueling the $20 billion sleep aid market.

But sleeping pills can be a recipe for danger and the consequences can be dire. The death of actor Heath Ledger earlier this year has prompted a lot of discussion and concern over the use of sleeping pills and the repercussions of mixing them with other medications. In fact, over half of all insomniacs report concerns about becoming dependant on over-the-counter or prescription sleeping pills.

These concerns are igniting a new generation of sleep solutions that are all-natural but backed with science to provide a better night's sleep without the nightmare of adverse side effects from sleep drugs.

Dreamerz Foods was one of the first to launch last year, with two dairy-based, all-natural sleep dessert beverages that use natural tryptophan from milk and ingredients such as, Lactium and melatonin to help the brain unwind before bed and regulate sleep. Because of the product's popularity the company is launching two additional sleep solutions this year in the form of pillow chocolate and an herbal fruit flavored drink mix.

Both use the patented low amount of melatonin and PharmaGABA, a protein amino acid that reduces stress and promotes relaxation. The herbal fruit drink mix comes in three varieties: Pomegranate Pillows, Peaches and Dreams and Rock-a-Bye Berry and contain only 30 calories per serving. The Chocolate Pillows are made with premium Guittard chocolate and come in two varieties: milk or dark.

There have been 10 clinical studies conducted on low-dose melatonin, eight clinical studies on Lactium (a milk protein hydrolosate) and five studies on PharmaGABA proving their effectiveness in safely regulating sleep cycles and encouraging relaxation.

Dreamerz sleep products have been proven to help 75 percent of people to fall asleep quicker without feeling groggy in the morning. To learn more, or to order the product online, go to: http://www.dreamerz.com.
August 26, 2010 / category: Alternative therapy / link / comments (0)
Naturs Design, Inc., the makers of RemZzzs CPAP mask liners, is announcing the recent assignment of HCPCS codes for Medicare billing. As of July 8th, 2010, RemZzzs CPAP mask liners have been awarded the following codes for insurance reimbursement: A7031 and A7032.

"Now that RemZzzs have been awarded HCPCS codes for Medicare billing, a broader range of sleep apnea patients will be able to obtain the mask liners," said CEO Robert Rutan. "Patients who use RemZzzs mask liners with their CPAP masks have become much more compliant, contributing to an anticipated rise in compliance rates across the sleep industry." Rutan also notes that, "Well rested patients are healthier and happier. Overhead is reduced by lowering the number of repeat trips to the CPAP provider due to mask-related issues. As a company, we are excited to expand our RemZzzs outreach, and are seeing a rapidly increasing level of interest now that we are reimbursable."

RemZzzs CPAP mask liners are positioned well for growth in the sleep industry due to the rising demand for CPAP-related accessories. Such accessories assist with patient adherence to therapy, adding a needed boost to the sleep industry in uncertain economic times.

Naturs Design, Inc. would also like to announce that they will be attending the MedTrade show in Atlanta, GA on November 16th-18th, 2010. If you are in the area, please stop by and meet the team!

Naturs Design, Inc. has a corporate mission to improve the health and ultimately the lives of those suffering with sleep apnea. RemZzzs CPAP mask liners arose from the need for a family member to achieve success with CPAP therapy. In the process of achieving personal success with CPAP therapy, the founders of Naturs Design, Inc. understand that extending this potential for successful CPAP therapy to others works toward the fulfillment of their mission.

August 19, 2010 / category: Apnea / link / comments (0)
Frontier Beverage Co. (OTC Bulletin Board: FBEC) today announced the launch of Bulldozer, the second low-calorie, low-sugar relaxation aid introduced by the company within the past few months.  Following in the path of its 12 oz. predecessor, Unwind, this three-ounce shot allows you to bring on the ultimate state of relaxation.

"We designed Bulldozer to be the most powerful relaxation aid on the market, with the goal of knocking out the effects of energy drinks, caffeine and daily stresses with only three ounces," said Terry Harris, Chief Executive Officer of Frontier Beverage Co.

"But don't take our word; for a limited time, we will provide one free sample per household so that people can try Bulldozer for themselves," added Harris. "Check Unwind's website for details on how to order a sample."

Ideal for pounding before a long flight, downing after a revitalizing evening workout or chugging at any other time when you need a quick, non-alcoholic and legal way to relax, Bulldozer is a proprietary blend of B vitamins and antioxidant-rich acai and berry juices combined with natural relaxation agents melatonin, rose hips and valerian root.  All of these ingredients, commonly found in health or nutrition stores globally, have been used by herbalists for thousands of years for their curative properties in coping with both anxiety and insomnia.

"Bulldozer is a great alternative for those who have sleep problems," added Harris. "Some of the customers who have sampled Bulldozer let us know that they had the best night's sleep of their lives after trying just one serving."

"What I love is that I not only get a great night sleep, but I also wake up feeling energized and refreshed," said Michael Kennedy of Henderson, TN. "It is great to be able to start the day clear and well-rested rather than tired or foggy like I used to with other sleep aids; plus, it tastes great!"

"There are times when people don't want to be flying high on energy-boosting products that speed everyone up, so we wanted to offer people a way to come back down to chill for a while," continued Harris.  "After all, the Laws of Physics state that 'what comes up must come down'; Bulldozer is here to help the process along - with the speed and knock-you-down ability of a bulldozer."

With a light tropical berry flavor and only 20 calories, Bulldozer is rolling out to markets across the country.  For a limited time, Unwind website visitors can order a free sample, paying only the cost of shipping, to try it out for themselves.

Insomnia is a growing problem in America; in fact, according to the American Sleep Foundation, more than 64 percent of Americans report that they have experienced sleep problems - an increase of more than 13 percent since 2001.

August 12, 2010 / category: Relaxation Aids / link / comments (0)
Graymark Healthcare (Nasdaq: GRMH) announced that it has added two new sleep centers in Texas and Nebraska with the signing of agreements to provide on-site services to Goodall-Witcher Medical Center in Central Texas and Henderson Community Hospital in Nebraska. These agreements continue to execute on Graymark's strategy to expand the availability of sleep medicine in rural communities that otherwise might not have access to comprehensive sleep care.  "These are important partnerships as they position and validate our model to offer customized services to meet the needs of medical centers and sustain a business model where all stakeholders win," said Stanton Nelson, Chairman and CEO of Graymark Healthcare.  With these strategic partnerships Graymark Healthcare now manages and provides care in 93 Sleep Centers in 11 states.

"Goodall-Witcher Medical Center in Central Texas is very pleased to be able to offer sleep studies locally.  Previously patients would have to travel to Waco or other distant areas for these services," commented Clarence Fields, Jr., FACHE, President/CEO.  "Not only will Goodall-Witcher Medical Center be able to serve patients locally for these tests, but it will also service patients referred by physicians and providers located in surrounding areas," Fields added.

"It is amazing how many individuals I see on a regular basis with sleep disorders," said Dr. Kenneth Lowrance, APRN, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner/Vice President at Goodall-Witcher.  "Once diagnosed with sleep apnea, treatment has resulted in almost miraculous changes in many patients' lives.  One cannot underestimate the value and importance of high quality sleep in optimizing one's ability to function and in improving their overall quality of life." 

"Graymark Healthcare is honored to create an alignment with Goodall-Witcher Medical Center and Henderson Community Hospitals to provide sleep diagnostic and treatment services," said Stanton Nelson.  "The Graymark Healthcare Comprehensive Care Model for Sleep Disorders including obstructive sleep apnea complement the care offered by hospitals and medical centers and allow them to provide state-of-the-art sleep disorder services in a high quality, affordable manner," Nelson continued.

The management agreement between these Medical Centers and Graymark Healthcare become effective in July; the sleep centers will begin seeing patients in August.

Graymark Healthcare, Inc. is a diversified medical holding company that owns and operates diagnostic sleep centers that treat a wide range of sleep disorders; independent pharmacies that serve the needs of local markets; and a medical equipment company that provides both disposable and durable medical equipment. Graymark plans to continue its growth both internally and through strategic acquisitions within the medical industry.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements which are based on the Company's current expectations, forecasts and assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from the Company's expectations, forecasts and assumptions. These risks and uncertainties include risks and uncertainties not in the control of the Company, including, without limitation, the current economic climate and other risks and uncertainties, including those enumerated and described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which filings are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Unless otherwise required by law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

July 29, 2010 / category: Sleep Centers / link / comments (0)
A small organic mattress and bedding manufacturer in central Virginia has grown over 400% in four years, and leads a surging market niche.

Until recently, few consumers recognized that most mattresses are made with toxic chemicals. The British medical journal, The Lancet, and the Harvard School of Public Health have linked high-volume-production (HVP) chemicals in consumer products with developmental brain disorders such as autism and ADHD*. Some, such as formaldehyde and toluene, common in conventional and memory foam mattresses, are known carcinogens.

The Savvy Rest Organic Mattress is all-natural latex, made from the sap of the rubber tree. The casing is certified organic wool and certified organic cotton. Independent organic certifications add credibility to the brand.

Savvy Rest attributes its growth to increasing demand for healthful, eco-friendly products, creative staff (none with MBAs or sales backgrounds), thorough research, and strong relationships with 60+ independent stores. In 2005, Savvy Rest had one idea and two staff. Today, the company employs 15 people. In 2006, Savvy Rest sold 90% of its products directly to consumers. In 2010, over 90% of sales are through the company's growing network of dealers--the broadest among organic mattress manufacturers.

Savvy Rest is a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council and is certified by Green America. The company posts organic certifications and independent materials testing results on its web site: http://www.savvyrest.com. The site features the industry's most comprehensive consumer education, including over 50 articles on materials, design, and sleep issues.

In addition to distinguishing between natural and synthetic latex, the Savvy Rest web site also educates consumers on the differences among mattresses labeled organic. Prior to 2005, even mattresses called "organic" were made with cotton fiber filling, which grows hard or lumpy in a short time. Cotton fiber also harbors dust mites, a major allergen.

Savvy Rest's founder, Michael Penny, a 30-year yoga practitioner, developed a layered mattress design that is customized for each person, based on their height, weight, sleeping positions, and pain issues. Savvy Rest Organic Mattresses can be configured differently on each side to accommodate couples, and can be customized to any dimensions.

The company offers a 90-day exchange period during which customers can change layers to alter the "feel".

The Savvy Rest bedding line includes organic mattress toppers, sheets, mattress pads, and pillows.

July 16, 2010 / category: Mattresses / link / comments (0)
Neurim Pharmaceuticals (http://www.Neurim.com) confirmed today that the European Commission (EC) has approved a change in treatment duration with Circadin from 3 to 13 weeks (3 months). Circadin is indicated for the treatment of primary insomnia in patients who are aged 55 or over.

The approval was based primarily on data obtained in the latest SOUNDER-SLEEP Phase IV clinical study, indicating that Circadin was safe and more effective than placebo for at least 3 months. Circadin is now the only sleep medication to be approved for up to 3 months.

The latest study was a large randomized clinical trial that analyzed more than 600 patients, over 400 of whom where on Circadin treatment for 6 months. The study demonstrated improvements in sleep latency, quality of sleep and morning alertness, with no withdrawal symptoms and rebound insomnia. The safety and efficacy data provided in the study support the proposed changes in treatment duration. In particular, the analysis of data from the new study showed that the benefit observed after 3 weeks is maintained for at least 3 months. Moreover, at 3 months, about an extra 10% of responders were seen in the Circadin treated group.

Circadin (http://www.Circadin.com) is an innovative sleep medication that has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products (SwissMedic) and the Israeli Ministry of Health (MOH) for the short-term treatment of primary insomnia, characterized by poor quality of sleep in patients who are aged 55 and over. The approval is based on clinical studies demonstrating positive effects on sleep quality, sleep induction, and most importantly next day alertness and functioning.

"We are pleased that the EMA recognized the importance of this therapeutic profile and recommended approval of the change in the posology of Circadin from 3 weeks to 3 months of treatment," said Professor Nava Zisapel, CSO of Neurim Pharmaceuticals, adding, "Importantly, Circadin's efficacy was maintained for at least 3 months and safety was maintained over the entire six months of treatment."

Dr. Tali Nir, VP Clinical and Regulatory Affairs of Neurim Pharmaceuticals explained that in the case of some hypnotics, concerns of safety and potential dependence issues have led to restrictions in the permitted treatment duration to ultra short periods for 2 to 4 weeks. Adding, "With Circadin there are no safety concerns and no concerns regarding withdrawal or rebound effects, as demonstrated in the study, which would limit the recommendation to treat for the full 3 month short term treatment period."

Circadin (http://www.Circadin.com) is the first and only IP-protected prolonged-release melatonin to be approved as an ethical drug by health authorities. Administration of Circadin to patients with primary insomnia improves sleep quality and morning alertness and facilitates sleep onset in patients aged 55 or over. Now it is also the first insomnia treatment approved for up to 13 weeks. Currently Circadin is commercialized in Europe by H.Lundbeck A/S and Nycomed, in Australia by Sigma, in Thailand by DKSH and in Israel by Teva. Circadin is undergoing registration in US, Asia and Latin American markets.

Neurim Pharmaceuticals (http://www.Neurim.com) is headquartered in Israel with offices in Switzerland and the UK. The company was founded in 1991 and is focused on drug discovery and development of treatments for age-related disorders, primarily in the central nervous system (CNS).

July 9, 2010 / category: Insomnia / link / comments (0)
Scottsdale's True REST Float Spa, the first in the United States to offer REST pod technology, is building quite a following - in terms of both customers and fans on its Facebook site.

Due to its popularity and consumer demand, the facility is expanding and now offers therapeutic massage, hot stone therapy and Reflexology in addition to its flotation therapy specialty. In Flotation REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulus Therapy), a person floats effortlessly on top of a pool of saltwater - 10 inches of water and 1,200 pounds of salt - in a specially designed pod with minimal light and sound.

Benefits include pain and stress relief and a natural improvement of sleep quality. In a chronic pain study recently conducted, 70% of participants had absolutely no pain during Float sessions and all participants had some relief. The pain decrease lasts anywhere from a few hours to a few days and in rare cases even longer. Relief like this can enable pain sufferers to rebuild muscle, use limbs that they were unable to use and have a normal life again.

"While our customers flock to us for Flotation REST, we wanted to offer them an even greater range of services," said owner Nick Janicki. "Reflexology and Hot Stone Massage perfectly complement the relatively modern concept of Flotation REST, which was developed in the '70s."

Reflexology is a natural healing art based on the principle that reflexes in the feet, hands and ears correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on these reflex zones, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body.

A one-hour float costs $79. Massage services are $110 for a 60-minute session or $60 for a 30-minute session. True REST is offering $20 off for first-time Flotation REST clients. Individuals can receive a coupon by signing up for the company's newsletter or joining its Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/truerest. Packages are also available, including use of the oxygen bar and more.

The facility is located at 15033 N Thompson Peak Parkway, Suite D101. For more information, visit http://www.truerest.com.

The True REST Float Spa was started by Nick Janicki and his wife, Holly, in 2009. Alex Janicki, Nick's brother, also works at the center and customers are likely to be greeted by one of their smiling faces upon each visit. "Everyone at the Spa is passionate about Flotation REST and we hope the American public can see the exceptional value of such a service," said Nick Janicki.

June 30, 2010 / category: Flotation Therapy / link / comments (0)
Sleep HealthCenters® is currently accepting registrations for the Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) for individuals interested in receiving formalized education and training in sleep technology -- regardless of experience level. The program will take place at the Forefront Center in Waltham, Massachusetts beginning July 12.

A-STEP is a two-step training initiative endorsed by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). The A-STEP Introductory Course is offered locally by Sleep HealthCenters, one of the first accredited A-STEP providers in the nation. The next step is the A-STEP Self-Study Modules, which are completed on the AASM website in conjunction with your employer's on-the-job training program. Sleep HealthCenters first offered the A-STEP program, a combination of lectures and hands-on training, in June 2006. 

"Sleep HealthCenters is excited to offer A-STEP for individuals interested in gaining formal education in sleep technology," said Elise Maher, Sleep HealthCenters' Regional Technical Director and A-STEP Program Director. "It is an invaluable resource for the local education and healthcare communities because of its appeal to both experienced sleep technicians and new entrants to the field of sleep technology. A-STEP is one way that accredited labs can have their staff meet the requirements of the new accreditation standards. For those interested in starting a career in healthcare, sleep technology offers a rewarding career in a growing field that can be attained through work experience in a relatively short period."

Sleep HealthCenters is a network of sleep medicine specialty centers and the largest provider of such services in Massachusetts. Education is a critical component of Sleep HealthCenters' service model, supporting sleep medicine fellowship programs and organizing sleep medicine conferences, in addition to A-STEP classes.

A-STEP was developed to standardize training and to begin an educational progression for those interested in the field of sleep technology. As of July 1, 2009, all AASM-accredited centers must have at least one registered technologist on staff and all others must be enrolled in a training program such as A-STEP. As of 2010, A-STEP will be one of two educational pathways a sleep technologist must pass before sitting for the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) exam.

Individuals interested in enrolling in A-STEP should contact Jeff Johnson, Sleep HealthCenters' A-STEP Coordinator at 508-755-5283 x101. www.sleephealth.com

June 23, 2010 / category: Sleep Technology / link / comments (0)
Gaylord Sleep Medicine will hold a Sleep Health Fair on Thursday, June 24 at 5:30 PM at Zandri's Stillwood Inn on 1074 South Colony Road, Route 5 in Wallingford, Connecticut. The Gaylord Sleep Health Fair will benefit people interested in learning about Sleep Disorders and Treatment options and is co-sponsored by Philips Respironics and Gaylord Sleep Medicine.

Speakers will include Meir Kryger, MD, Director of Research and Education for Gaylord Sleep Medicine, Keith Dixon, MD, Medical Director for Gaylord Sleep Medicine and Kevin Rush, RRT, RPSGT and Sleep Consultant for Philips Respironics.

Respironics, PROVENT® Sleep Apnea Therapy, J & L Medical Services and All-Med Health Care, Inc. will also be available with the newest sleep apnea and respiratory equipment as well as alternatives to CPAP that are exclusive to Gaylord Sleep Medicine. Dr. Stephen Palluotto, DMD will also show the dental alternatives to CPAP.

"This is an opportunity to learn about sleep apnea and other disorders that may be robbing you or a loved one of sleep that is vital to overall good health," Medical Director Keith Dixon said. "Sleep disorders have been linked to diabetes, stroke and high blood pressure."

Refreshments and snacks will be served. Please RSVP by June 22, 2010 via email to cpolaske@gaylord.org or by calling 203-605-2855.

Gaylord Sleep Medicine, the largest single provider of comprehensive sleep medicine services in Connecticut, treats patients with a range of sleep disorders including sleep apnea, hypersomnia and insomnia. Gaylord Sleep Medicine, also known for its acclaimed research program, is managed by Sleep HealthCenters with sites in Bridgeport, Hartford, Glastonbury, Guilford, North Haven and Trumbull.

June 11, 2010 / category: Apnea / link / comments (0)
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