Lifestyle changes post myocardial infarction: update to NICE guidance; Temazepam price increases; Fluenz®- check expiry datesSimvastatin 80mg use — local Cardiology advice; Higher rosuvastatin use does not improve QoF data; Branded statin use ; New strength atorvastatin tablets; Change to USA statin guidelines; Inhaled corticosteroids in COPD and risk of serious pneumonia; Tramadol: updated information on drug interactions; Nebivolol and slow titration in heart failure; Smoking cessation therapy
Materials and E-Resources support the new antimicrobial guidelines; Stopping rules with newer anti-diabetics drugs; SSRIs and risks in surgery; Reminder: nitrofurantoin — caution in renal impairment Pregabalin abuse in Northern Ireland; Metoclopramide — new restricted dose and duration of use; Cost-effective prescribing of olanzapine; Allergies to dressings
Souvenaid® — what is the evidence?Codeine — new warnings: children and breastfeeding ; Top 10 missed generics in Northern Ireland; SSRI price differential: sertraline; Fentanyl: risk of serotonin syndrome with serotonergic drugs; New resource for mental health: Choice and Medication website; Strontium ranelate — new cardiovascular risks; Diclofenac — new warnings in patients with heart conditions; Non-benzodiazepine hypnotics — any better than placebo?
Risk of hyperkalaemia – trimethoprim in combination with spironolactone; Change in Dovobet® Portfolio; Omega-3 fatty acids (Omacor®) in patients with type 2 diabetes with cardiovascular disease; Eyes on Evidence; An alternative to Orlistat®; PPIs: risks of long-term use; Dressings – guidance for obtaining Non-Formulary dressings in exceptional circumstances; Repeat dispensing – reminder about pink forms; Midazolam buccal solutions – brand prescribing