News
Minor ailment services Facebook storm
Pharmacy minor ailment services have hit the national and regional media headlines courtesy of a post on Facebook claiming that parents can get free Calpol via their local scheme. The RPS and BBC Health Online have published some information to correct the misinformation circulating.
Changes in controlled drug legislation for temazepam and electronic prescribing system (EPS)
From 1st June the current prescription writing exemption applicable to temazepam prescriptions will cease and therefore all temazepam prescriptions will be required to meet full prescription writing requirements as for any other Schedule 2 or 3 controlled drugs.
Prescribing newsletter April 2015
New MicroGuide antibiotic smartphone app, drugs and driving, oxycodone liquid prescribing on EMIS alert, repeat dispensing, Pharmacy Management National Forum
MHRA drug safety advice: drugs and driving
A new law to make it easier for police to catch and convict drug drivers took effect today in England and Wales. Motorists who get behind the wheel after taking illegal drugs face a criminal record, loss of their licence for at least a year and a fine of up to £5000. The legislation makes it illegal to drive with certain drugs in the body above specified levels, including 8 illegal drugs and 8 prescription drugs. People using prescription drugs within recommended amounts will not be penalised.
Inhaler Technique eLearning
The inhaler technique for health professionals; getting it right eLearning is now available.
The programme will look in detail at the different types of inhaler device and how the aerosol is made in each type; the breathing technique required by the patient for each type of device; and the potential implications of poor technique.
Oxycodone liquid prescribing – important information for EMIS practices
A number of incidents have occurred in another Area Team where oxycodone 10mg/ml liquid has been incorrectly selected instead of oxycodone 5mg/5ml. Please ensure vigilance when prescribing oxycodone liquid, particularly using EMIS where the 10mg/ml liquid appears at the top of the pick list.
Repeat Dispensing – changes to the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework
From March 2015 there will be a new requirement for pharmacies to give advice to appropriate patients about the benefits of the repeat dispensing service. As a result of this regulation change practices may start to have increasing number of requests from patients interested in using this service and therefore may wish to consider how they will deal with these requests.
Reminder – different potencies of topical corticosteroids
There have been recent supply problems with Betnovate cream and ointment, including the RD preparation; this may mean that it is necessary to prescribe an alternative product / formulation.
Prescribing newsletter December 2014
Keep Calm winter campaign | Pharmacy Emergency Repeat Medication Supply Service (PERMSS) | Advice for prescribers on the risk of misuse of pregabalin and gabapentin | Call for pharmacy teams for support drug drive campaign | Morphine 10mg/1ml supply problems