Medicines

DTB says do not use Qlaira

3 Sep 10 | 12.18 | England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Qlaira, the combined oral contraceptive containing estradiol valerate and dienogest, cannot be recommended for use, the latest issue of Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (September 2010) states more >
Pharmacists say they are key to improving health

2 Sep 10 | 14.01 | International

Over 90 per cent of pharmacists believe that they are key to improving patients’ health, according to an international survey more >
Antivirals safe in first trimester

2 Sep 10 | 13.46 | England International Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Antivirals are safe to prescribe to women in the first trimester of pregnancy more >
Emerging concerns with PPI therapy

3 Sep 10 | 11.09 | England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Proton pump inhibitors have transformed the management of upper gastrointestinal acid-related disorders but potential consequences of potent acid suppression are now emerging. With 2010 marking the 21st anniversary of the launch of these medicines in the UK and pantoprazole recently joining omeprazole as an over-the-counter option, Angus Thompson highlights some of the concerns more >
Are the suppliers of “specials” profiteering?

3 Sep 10 | 7.05 | England

Specials manufacturers play a vital role in catering for the needs of certain patients but costs to the NHS are spiralling. They are entitled to a fair price but returns of over 1,000 per cent look dangerously like profiteering more >
PJ letters (4 September 2010) (RPSGB members only)

3 Sep 10 | 7.03 | England EU International Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Letters published in the 4 September 2010 issue of The Pharmaceutical Journal more >
Financial pressures halt MHRA plans to put product information online

2 Sep 10 | 15.50 | England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Government cuts mean that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has decided not to move forward with plans to make product information available online more >
Low-dose omega-3 fatty acids do not reduce heart attack risk

2 Sep 10 | 14.50 | International

Low-dose omega-3 fatty acids do not reduce the risk of heart attacks in older people who have previously suffered an attack and who are receiving optimal doses of other protective drugs more >
Printing mistake in June 2010 schedule of payments

2 Sep 10 | 14.41 | England

Community pharmacists are being asked to check the details of their schedule of payments from NHS Prescription Services for June 2010 because of a printing mistake more >
Mixing of medicines e-learning resources

2 Sep 10 | 14.34 | England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Brook and the Family Planning Association have launched an online tool to help people choose their method of contraception more >