The North West Medicines Information Centre have published a very useful synopsis of recent NICE guidelines on antimicrobial prescribing for upper respiratory tract infections. NICE Bites 107 summarises NICE NG 84: Acute Sore throat and NICE NG 91: Acute Otitis Media. Both aim to limit antibiotic use and reduce antimicrobial resistance, emphasising the low risk of complications and Continue Reading »
An updated version of the antimicrobial prescribing guideline for primary care in the North East & Cumbria is now available: Version 4 incorporates changes made to the Public Health England document: Management and treatment of common infections – Antibiotic guidance for primary care as well as recent guidance from NICE on management of self-limiting respiratory tract & ear infections.
Despite repeated warnings about an unfavourable balance between risks and benefits, prescribing of quinine salts in NECS stakeholder CCGs has remained remarkably constant in recent years. The MHRA have issued a reminder about the potential for quinine to effect the QT interval, along with updated information about interactions – particularly with anticonvulsant drugs. Advice for healthcare professionals: be Continue Reading »
NHS England & NHS Clinical Commissioners have published a quick reference guide (QRG) to Conditions for which over the counter items should not routinely be prescribed in primary care. The OTC QRG sets out the reasons for recommending that certain treatments of limited clinical effectiveness, or used for conditions that are either self-limiting or suitable for self-care, should not be routinely prescribed in primary care Continue Reading »
The Academic Health Science Network for the North East & North Cumbria have refreshed the Anticoagulant Treatment in Atrial Fibrillation Card Deck distributed to GPs across the region in 2017. The refreshed Card Deck, produced jointly with Northern England Clinical Networks and endorsed by the Atrial Fibrillation Association and the Stroke Association, has been designed to help GPs manage AF more effectively. The Continue Reading »