UKMi Q&A via SPS – New Resources
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UKMi publish a series of Q&A documents on the NHS SPS website, with summaries of high quality, evidence-based, and quality controlled answers to common or unusual Medicines Information enquiries.
The latest batch of seven new or updated Q&As was published in December:
| Which medicines require extra care when switching between liquid and tablet/capsule formulations? | Information on medicines which require dose adjustment when switching between different oral formulations, with advice on monitoring & a dose adjustment summary table. |
| NOACs and Antidepressants – What are the risks of using these together and how should these risks be managed? | Considers the risk of interactions between NOACs and antidepressants. |
| Which opioids can be used in renal impairment? | Renal impairment affects clearance of opioids and active metabolites. Elimination may be prolonged. Caution is required. Doses should be reduced & some opioids should be avoided. Resource includes a dose recommendation table. |
| What is the first choice antidepressant for patients with renal impairment? | Evaluates limited published evidence on the use of antidepressants in patients with renal impairment. |
| Statins – What is the evidence for their use in patients with renal impairment? | Evaluates the evidence for use of statins in renal impairment and discusses current guidance. |
| What information is available on drugs in diving? | Summary of information on drugs and medical conditions that may affect a person’s ability to dive. |
| What is the risk of interaction between opioids and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)? | Combining MAOIs with some opioid analgesics may be associated with a risk of serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity. Q&A reviews sources & provides advice on the cautious approach that might be taken with selected opioids. |