Regional Drug and Therapeutics Centre

Prescribing Support Update - Newsletter January 2012

Mon, 6 Feb 2012 10:35:29 +0000

Visit our Prescribing Support Update web page for further information

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Withdrawal of Butterbur-containing products

Fri, 3 Feb 2012 16:25:59 +0000

The MHRA has issued a press release advising people to stop taking products containing butterbur (Petasites hybridus) as they could cause serious liver damage and organ failure. Unlicensed products containing butterbur are being marketed in the UK and the MHRA has asked the UK herbal industry to remove these products from sale. There are no butterbur-containing products licensed under the Traditional Herbal Registration scheme.

Butterbur is most commonly used to treat migraine and hayfever. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which have been shown to cause liver damage and organ failure.

New Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - February 2012

Fri, 3 Feb 2012 12:05:03 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

New Drug Evaluation - Rivaroxaban in AF

Fri, 3 Feb 2012 10:58:17 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 113
Publication date January 2012

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Drug Updates - Drug Therapy for COPD

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:41:36 +0000

Drug Update no. 68
Publication date January 2012

Visit our Drug Updates web page

Announcing the second Pharmacy Management Academy Workshop Programme entitled ‘How to shape your future in the changing NHS and influence decision-making’

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:59:05 +0000

This programme, which will be sponsored, will focus on influencing skills in a change management scenario. It will be suitable for all primary and secondary care pharmacists involved in providing prescribing and medicines management advice

Read more ...

New Evaluation Report - Protease Inhibitors (Boceprevir & Telaprevir) in the treatment of Hepatitis C

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:42:20 +0000

Publication date: December 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - The Diabetes Drug Which May Aid Weight Loss?

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:42:49 +0000

NHS Choices Behind The Headlines have produced an assessment on claims in the media that Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists could be useful for managing obesity. The report looks in detail at the quality and outcomes of a systematic review published in the British Medical Journal, which concluded that GLP-1R agonists did appear to be associated with significant weight loss in patients with or without type 2 diabetes. However, further research is required in this area.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Atomoxetine (Strattera): new contraindications, warnings, and advice for monitoring

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:40:56 +0000

Atomoxetine can cause clinically important increases in blood pressure, heart rate, or both, in a small proportion of patients. The MHRA has updated its safety advice for atomoxetine in this month’s Drug Safety Update. It should not be used in people with severe cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disorders. Thorough pretreatment screening and regular monitoring of cardiovascular status is recommended. Specialist cardiac evaluation and advice should be sought if pretreatment findings suggest cardiac disease or history, or if symptoms suggesting cardiac disease are found during treatment.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Statins: risk of hyperglycaemia and diabetes

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:39:51 +0000

This month’s Drug Safety Update highlights an association between statin use and new onset diabetes (NOD). The risk appears to be mainly in people who are already at increased risk of developing diabetes. However, the overall benefits of statins strongly outweigh any risks, including in those at risk of developing diabetes or those with pre-existing diabetes. The MHRA advises that at-risk patients should be monitored both clinically and biochemically according to national guidelines.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - NICE: Rivaroxaban preliminary guidance

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:32:38 +0000

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) have published draft recommendations for consultation on using rivaroxaban for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in people with atrial fibrillation. NICE are inviting comments from consultees, commentators, and the public on this guideline. The deadline for the consultation is 30th January 2012.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - NICE releases updated epilepsy guidance

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:31:34 +0000

NICE have released new guidelines (CG 137) for the treatment of epilepsy in children and adults in primary and secondary care. The new guidance contains updated information on the use of generic preparations for patients with epilepsy.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - January 2012

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 13:00:52 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) Christmas 2011 is now available

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:14:07 +0000

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - High Strength Black Cohosh Capsules found on the market

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:11:26 +0000

The MHRA has released a warning over a brand of unlicensed black cohosh capsules. FSC Black Cohosh 1000mg contain 50 times the recommended amount of black cohosh for treatment of menopausal symptoms and are thought to be being sold online and in independent health shops. Patients are advised not to take the product and consult their doctor if they have any symptoms following consumption.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - December 2011

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 17:05:44 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

New Drug Evaluation - Exenatide once-weekly

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 11:44:47 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 112
Publication date November 2011

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - November 2011

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:38:11 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Evaluation Report - Botox for chronic migraine (NETAG appraisal)

Wed, 9 Nov 2011 15:49:39 +0000

Publication date September 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) November 2011 is now available

Tue, 8 Nov 2011 14:22:27 +0000

Issue number 7 of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Prescribing Support Update - Newsletter October 2011

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 10:35:26 +0000

Visit our Prescribing Support Update web page for further information

Cost Comparison Charts (October 2011)

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 11:36:23 +0100

Visit our Publications and Prescribing Analysis and Support pages

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Recall: all batches of Preflucel® vaccines

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:37:03 +0100

The MHRA has issued a Class1 Drug Alert recalling all batches of Preflucel® (influenza) vaccines. No further Preflucel® of any batch should be administered at this time.

This is taken as a precautionary measure, following a higher than expected frequency of reports of adverse reactions following administration of certain batches of Preflucel® (VNV5L010C and VNV5L010A).

New Drug Evaluation - Dabigatran

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:52:17 +0100

New Drug Evaluation no. 111
Publication date October 2011

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Evaluation Report - The use of Fampridine for the improvement of walking ability in multiple sclerosis

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 14:36:23 +0100

Publication date September 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - September 2011

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:44:38 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page

Drug Updates - Which angiotensin receptor blocker?

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 10:10:24 +0100

Drug Update no. 67
Publication date September 2011

Visit our Drug Updates web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - MHRA warn public to be extra vigilant when purchasing and using Nurofen Plus

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:46:31 +0100

The MHRA is advising people to be extra vigilant if taking Nurofen Plus® pain relief tablets following reports that the anti-psychotic drug, Seroquel XL® 50mg, has been found within some Nurofen Plus® packets. Only three defective packs have been found in pharmacies across the UK. Seroquel® tablets have not been found within a blister strip labelled as Nurofen®. Further information can be found on the MHRA website (www.mhra.gov.uk).

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Happy Birthday to The MINT!

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:33:07 +0100

Our Newsletter publication, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) recently celebrated its one year anniversary. The August 2011 edition is now available for download, and includes articles like:

Dangers of online slimming pills
Women, antidepressants, and stroke risk
New anticoagulants
Starflower- Herbal Medicines Quick Take
New and interesting updates from UKMi

The Mint is aimed at primary care health professionals in the Northern and Yorkshire region, and aims to help you keep up to date with important news events and documents in the field of medicines information.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - New Text Messaging Service available

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:31:36 +0100

The RDTC Regional Medicines Information Service is pleased to offer a new text messaging service to our users.

We appreciate it can be difficult to contact our enquirers due to their busy schedules, particularly in primary care. In order to avoid undue delay or inconvenience, we can now send you a text to inform you when your answer is ready. You can then call us back at your own convenience to receive your answer.

If you wish to use our new text messaging service, please provide a mobile telephone number to the member of staff who takes your enquiry.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Blogs for Primary Care

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:29:34 +0100

The RDTC Medicines Information Service has collated a list of useful blogs for primary care healthcare professionals to help them keep up to date with medicines information news.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Pandemrix - Restricted use in people under 20 years of age

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:26:21 +0100

Following concerns about a suspected link between the Pandemrix® (influenza A [H1N1]) vaccine and narcolepsy in children and adolescents, a review undertaken by the European Medicines Agency concluded that the vaccine may only be used in people under 20 years of age if the recommended annual seasonal trivalent influenza vaccine is unavailable and if immunization against H1N1 is still needed.

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) August 2011 is now available

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:13:46 +0100

Issue number 6 of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Cost Comparison Charts (July 2011)

Thu, 4 Aug 2011 13:53:52 +0100

Visit our Publications and Prescribing Analysis and Support pages

Prescribing Publications dates (August 2011)

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 10:03:32 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing publication dates.

Prescribing Reports work plan (August 2011)

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 10:02:25 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Reports completion dates.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - July 2011

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:07:59 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Prescribing Reports work plan (July 2011)

Tue, 5 Jul 2011 15:44:03 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Reports completion dates.

Prescribing Publications dates (July 2011)

Tue, 5 Jul 2011 15:43:08 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing publication dates.

Prescribing Support Update - Newsletter June 2011

Tue, 5 Jul 2011 10:10:15 +0100

Visit our Prescribing Support Update web page for further information

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - June 2011

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:16:05 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) June 2011 now available

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:54:24 +0100

Issue number 5 of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Prescribing Publications dates (May 2011)

Thu, 26 May 2011 15:17:25 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing publication dates.

Prescribing Reports work plan (May 2011)

Thu, 26 May 2011 15:15:21 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Reports completion dates.

New Drug Evaluation - Fingolimod

Mon, 23 May 2011 16:45:53 +0100

New Drug Evaluation no. 110
Publication date May 2011

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Evaluation Report - Tolvaptan for SIADH (NETAG appraisal)

Mon, 23 May 2011 16:34:17 +0100

Publication date April 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

NETAG treatment recommendations can be accessed via www.netag.nhs.uk

Evaluation Report - Sunitinib for the treatment of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours (PNETs)

Fri, 20 May 2011 14:40:39 +0100

Publication date March 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - May 2011

Mon, 16 May 2011 10:40:41 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Education: Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma in Therapeutics 2011/12

Tue, 10 May 2011 10:52:06 +0100

The Certificate and Diploma Course in Therapeutics is organised by the Regional Drug and Therapeutics Centre and the Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University.

The aim of the course is to assist in the continuing professional development of health professionals with involvement in medicines use or management, through the provision of specialist postgraduate education tailored to identify vocational needs in the field of therapeutics.

Course dates: September 2011 to Julye 2012

Additional Information:

RDTC Website
Course Flyer (pdf)
Course Brochure (pdf)

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - April 2011

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:59:11 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Drug Update - Insulin Analogues

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 15:42:39 +0100

Drug Update no. 66
Publication date March 2011

Visit our Drug Updates web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - PSNC release advice on oxybuynin elixir shortage

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 14:17:36 +0100

PSNC release advice on oxybuynin elixir shortage
Ditropan 2.5mg/5ml elixir (oxybutynin) was recalled by Sanofi-Aventis in March 2011, with stocks unlikely to become available on the market for at least 24 months. This means that there is currently no licensed liquid preparation available on the UK market.

The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC) have issued guidance on prescription endorsing to pharmacists.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - The NPSA has released a number of signal alerts.

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 11:06:58 +0100

The NPSA has released a number of signal alerts. Signal alerts are designed to share key risks which emerge from reporting of serious incidents to the National Reporting and Learning System. Signals released on the 25th March 2011 relevant to medicines include:

Intravenous morphine administration on neonatal units
Monitoring plasma sodium levels in babies
Multiple use of single use injectable medicines

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) March 2011 is now available

Wed, 9 Mar 2011 13:00:58 +0000

Issue number 4 of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - March 2011

Mon, 7 Mar 2011 17:39:42 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Evaluation Report - Vandetanib in locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:19:52 +0000

Publication date February 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Evaluation Report - Sorafenib for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:16:50 +0000

Publication date February 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Evaluation Report - Cabazitaxel for the treatment of metastatic hormone-refractory prostate cancer

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:14:46 +0000

Publication date February 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Evaluation Report - Bendamustine for rituximab-refractory non-hodgkin’s lymphoma

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:14:05 +0000

Publication date February 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Evaluation Report - Abiraterone for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:13:08 +0000

Publication date February 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - February 2011

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:47:23 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

New Drug Evaluation - Ticagrelor

Wed, 9 Feb 2011 11:57:34 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 109
Publication date January 2011

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Evaluation Report - Adacolumn in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (NETAG appraisal)

Wed, 2 Feb 2011 11:25:05 +0000

Publication date January 2011

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

NETAG treatment recommendations can be accessed via www.netag.nhs.uk

Evaluation Report - Sativex for spasticity due to MS (NETAG appraisal)

Wed, 2 Feb 2011 11:24:01 +0000

Publication date October 2010

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

NETAG treatment recommendations can be accessed via www.netag.nhs.uk

Evaluation Report - Tocilizumab for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (NETAG appraisal)

Wed, 2 Feb 2011 11:22:21 +0000

Publication date July 2010

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

NETAG treatment recommendations can be accessed via www.netag.nhs.uk

Evaluation Report - Roflumilast for COPD (NETAG appraisal)

Wed, 2 Feb 2011 11:17:48 +0000

Publication date June 2010

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

NETAG treatment recommendations can be accessed via www.netag.nhs.uk

Regional Medicines Information News Service - New information on possible risk of liver injury with dronedarone

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 09:59:50 +0000

The MHRA has provided information on the possible risk of liver injury associated with the use of dronedarone, following cases of serious liver injury in patients using the drug. Further information can be found here

Prescribing Reports and publications work plan (January 2011)

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:38:28 +0000

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Report and Publication completion dates.

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) Christmas 2010 is now available

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:02:25 +0000

Issue number 3 of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - December 2010

Tue, 7 Dec 2010 15:01:40 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - MI Resource Pack for PCT Pharmacists

Tue, 7 Dec 2010 10:08:34 +0000

This ‘Resource Pack’ for PCT Pharmacists has been put together not only to introduce ourselves to you but to also let you know what services we offer and where to find information. It is a comprehensive explanation of freely available evaluated information found in websites and books on the Internet.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Our contact details are changing.

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 15:11:03 +0000

There is now a new telephone number in operation for the RDTC’s regional medicines information service- 0191 282 4631. However, our existing number will also be operational for a number of months. You can also send us enquiries by e-mail or via our on-line form.

New Drug Evaluation - Combodart

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 11:10:59 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 108
Publication date November 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Painkillers in Pregnancy

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:06:25 +0000

Painkillers in Pregnancy A new study emerged this week that suggested there may be an association between use of common painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen with cryptorchidism, which may affect fertility of male offspring. However, the study had a number of limitations which are discussed in a NHS Behind The Headlines article. This article would also be a useful tool for discussions with patients who are concerned about the findings.

Any healthcare professional who would like more information on the use of drugs during pregnancy can call UKTIS on 0844 892 0909. Members of the Public who would like further information should contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) November 2010 is now available

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:08:26 +0000

The November 2010 issue of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - November 2010

Mon, 8 Nov 2010 09:58:06 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Use of Specials in Primary Care

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 13:47:39 +0100

The use of specials medicines raises a number of issues including high costs, short expiry dates, and increased liability for the prescriber. There has recently been some interest in the media surrounding the cost of specials medicines, prompting interest in the prescribing of these medicines. In response, a number of useful documents have been produced by UKMi, including a Medicines Q&A entitled ‘Therapeutic Options for Patients unable to take solid dosage forms’ and a quick reference guide (Academic Detailing Aid) of the processes to consider. There is also a useful resource pack available to registered NeLM users (registration is free) entitled"Getting the best value for money from "Specials"

New Drug Evaluation - Prucalopride

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 17:35:01 +0100

New Drug Evaluation no. 107
Publication date September 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - October 2010

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 14:50:22 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - New Recommendations on the use of OTC cough preparations containing codeine

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:11:42 +0100

New advice has been issued by the Commission on human medicines regarding the use of cough medication containing codeine in children under the age of 18 and breast feeding women.

The CHM concluded that the overall risks of treatment outweigh the potential benefits and use of these products should no longer be recommended in children under 18 years. It has also advised that breastfeeding warnings are added to the product information of these products. There is no recall of existing stock, which does not need to be removed from shelves. Packaging with updated information is expected to appear in pharmacies from April 2011. In addition, all OTC liquid codeine medicines will need to be packaged in child resistant containers by June 2012. Examples of some OTC products affected include Pulmo Bailly, Galcodine adult & paediatric, and codeine linctus BP.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has issued guidance for pharmacists which can be found here.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Recommended websites for community pharmacists

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:10:14 +0100

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society, in association with UKMi, has created a list of useful, quality websites that would be of value to community pharmacists. Since many community pharmacists have limited access to the internet in their working environment or may be unfamiliar with the range of sites helpful to their daily professional practice, it is hoped that this approved list of resources will be a practical starting point for retrieval of medicines information in the community pharmacy sector. The list can be found here.

Primary Care health professionals are reminded that their regional medicines information service can also provide them with timely, effective information about medicines.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Calcium supplements and myocardial infarction

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:08:42 +0100

Following a meta-analysis being published in the BMJ suggesting a possible increase in the risk of myocardial infarction in patients who take calcium supplements, The Regional Drugs and Therapeutics Centre has produced a Medicines Q&A investigating the implications of this research and how it may affect clinical practice.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Reduction in use of cocaine

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:07:21 +0100

The National Treatment Agency’s annual report states that, for the first time, there has been a reduction in the number of adults addicted to heroin and crack, along with a substantial reduction in the number of people seeking treatment for problems associated with cocaine use. The annual report has been reported in many newspapers. The reasons for the reduction in use of cocaine include higher prices and a reduced purity caused by efforts to disrupt the supply chain of cocaine. There also appears to be evidence that users are turning to so-called ‘legal highs’ as an alternative to low- quality cocaine.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Drugs in Pregnancy updates on the National electronic library for medicine

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:04:01 +0100

Summaries of the UK teratology information service summary documents about drugs in pregnancy are now being uploaded onto the National electronic library for medicine, including updated guidance on the use of SSRI antidepressants in pregnancy. The full documents are available on Toxbase (requires registration- free for healthcare professionals). For advice about the use of drugs in pregnancy, contact UKTIS on 0844 892 0909.

Safer Medication Use - Antipsychotic Use in the Elderly with Dementia

Thu, 7 Oct 2010 13:41:58 +0100

Publication no. 9
Publication date September 2010

Visit our Safer Medication Use web page

Prescribing Reports and publications work plan (October 2010)

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 13:40:09 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Report and Publication completion dates.

Prescribing Reports and publications work plan (August 2010)

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 13:52:29 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Report and Publication completion dates.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - NPSA: Rapid Response Report Prevention of over infusion of intravenous fluid and medicines in neonates

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 10:07:22 +0100

The National Patient Safety Agency has released a Rapid Response Report (RRR) regarding prevention of over-infusion of IV fluids and medicines in neonates, which applies to all NHS organisations providing neonatal services. The report states that there is a potential risk of accidental over infusion due to incorrect setting up of specific IV infusions or overriding of safety mechanisms on infusion pumps. The NPSA gives recommendations regarding inclusion of safety guidance into local policies, standards and training.

Visit our Regional MI Service News Page for further news items.

Regional MI News Service - Medicines Information news Today (The Mint) August 2010 now available

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:22:23 +0100

The August 2010 issue of our newsletter, Medicines Information News Today (The Mint) is now available for download. Aimed at community pharmacists, GPs, and other primary care health professionals, The Mint summarises important new items in the field of Medicines Information and signposts towards useful documents. Included in this issue:

Calcium supplements and Cardiovascular events
Sativex now licensed
Modafinil now only for narcolepsy
Black Cohosh- Herbal Medicines Quick Take
New and interesting updates
Yellow card centre Northern and Yorkshire.

If you would like to receive our newsletter regularly, please send us an e-mail at nyrdtc.di@ncl.ac.uk or you can contact us on 0191 260 6198.

Visit our Regional Medicines Information Service web pages.

Drug Update - Aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:43:11 +0100

Drug Update no. 65
Publication date July 2010

Visit our Drug Updates web page

New Drug Evaluation - Indacaterol

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:42:25 +0100

New Drug Evaluation no. 106
Publication date July 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Modafinil for narcolepsy only

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:08:23 +0100

Following a safety review, the European Medicines Agency has directed that the benefits of modafinil only outweigh its risks when used to treat sleepiness associated with narcolepsy. The marketing authorisation has been withdrawn for all other indications such as idiopathic hypersomnia, and excessive sleepiness due to obstructive sleep apnoea and chronic shift work sleep disorder.

Visit our Regional MI Service News Page for further news items.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - August 2010

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:56:56 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - MeReC Bulletin Vol. 21 No. 01

Mon, 9 Aug 2010 12:05:16 +0100

The July 2010 edition of the MeReC bulletin focuses on the evidence surrounding the use of advanced wound dressings. It concludes that there is a paucity of high quality evidence in this field, and that advanced wound care products should be used only when there is a compelling indication. It also discourages indiscriminate use of antimicrobial wound dressings due to concerns regarding the possible development of bacterial resistance and toxicity.

Visit our Regional MI Service News Page for further news items.

New Drug Evaluation - DENOSUMAB For Postmenopuasal Osteoporosis

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 13:12:59 +0100

New Drug Evaluation no. 105
Publication date June 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Latest New Drugs Online Newsletter now available

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:48:16 +0100

Visit our Regional MI Service News Page for further news items.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - July 2010

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 15:41:00 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Safety Risks of Quinine

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 15:19:43 +0100

The MHRA has reminded healthcare professionals that Quinine should not be used routinely for the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps. The June 2010 edition of the Drug Safety Update suggests that, if no benefit is seen after a trial of 4 weeks, quinine treatment should be withdrawn. If benefit is seen, treatment should be reviewed every three months. The Drug Safety Update gives information about the safety issues surrounding use of quinine and includes recommendations for healthcare professionals.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Discontinuation of Mixtard® 30

Fri, 2 Jul 2010 14:54:59 +0100

Novo Nordisk has announced that Mixtard® 30 is to be discontinued by 31st December 2010. Patients are being advised to contact their doctor or nurse to discuss treatment options. Diabetes UK have made available a list of alternative products (PDF) to aid clinicians and patients during the transition.

Regional Medicines Information News Service - Sinemet Shortages

Fri, 2 Jul 2010 15:00:26 +0100

Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) are currently experiencing problems supplying all Sinemet (co-careldopa) preparations. The shortage is likely to continue until 2011. A Medicines Q and A is available to assist clinicians in selecting suitable alternatives.

36th UKMi Practice Developement Seminar

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 14:01:18 +0100

Registration is now open for the 36th UKMi Practice Development Seminar

Click here to view further information (pdf file)

Click here for go to the UKMi website for online registration

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - June 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:01:47 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

Evaluation Report - The use of nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel in the management of metastatic breast cancer

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:23:02 +0100

Publication date May 2010

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Evaluation Report - New treatments for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:21:52 +0100

Publication date May 2010

Visit our Evaluation Reports web page

Safer Medication Use - Using Strong Opioids Safely

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:18:17 +0100

Publication no. 8
Publication date May 2010

Visit our Safer Medication Use web page

Safer Medication Use - Oral Antiplatelet Drugs

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:19:25 +0100

Publication no. 7
Publication date May 2010

Visit our Safer Medication Use web page

Prescribing Reports and publications work plan (May update)

Mon, 10 May 2010 13:09:31 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Report and Publication completion dates.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - May 2010

Mon, 10 May 2010 13:07:53 +0100

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

New Drug Evaluation - Tredaptive

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:58:30 +0100

New Drug Evaluation no. 104
Publication date March 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Prescribing Support - Newsletter April 2010

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:37:03 +0100

Prescribing Support
UPDATE NEWSLETTER
Volume 3
Issue 2
April 2010

Visit our Prescribing Support Update Newsletter page

Safer Medication Use - Tricyclic Antidepressants and the Elderly

Thu, 1 Apr 2010 15:39:07 +0100

Publication no. 6
Publication date March 2010

Visit our Safer Medication Use web page

Prescribing Reports and publications work plan (Updated)

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:54:13 +0100

This is a PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Report and Publication completion dates.

Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma in Therapeutics 2010/11

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 09:33:01 +0000

The Certificate and Diploma Course in Therapeutics is organised by the Regional Drug and Therapeutics Centre and the Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University.

The aim of the course is to assist in the continuing professional development of health professionals with involvement in medicines use or management, through the provision of specialist postgraduate education tailored to identify vocational needs in the field of therapeutics.

Course dates: September 2010 to June 2011

Additional Information:
Course Flyer
Course Brochure
RDTC Website

New Drug Evaluation - Dronedarone

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:37:16 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 103
Publication date February 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - March 2010

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:48:27 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

New Drug Evaluation - Saxagliptin

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:29:12 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 102
Publication date January 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - February 2010

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 13:03:36 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.

New Drug Evaluation - Febuxostat

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:06:40 +0000

New Drug Evaluation no. 101
Publication date January 2010

Visit our New Drug Evaluations web page

Prescribing Support - Newsletter January 2010

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:00:50 +0000

Prescribing Support
UPDATE NEWSLETTER
Volume 3
Issue 1
January 2010

Visit our Prescribing Support Update Newsletter page

Prescribing Support Service - Change of Contact Details

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:41:07 +0000

Please note the new email address for our Prescribing Support Service

nyrdtc.rxsupp@nuth.nhs.uk

telephone and fax numbers remain as:

Tel: 0191 260 6188 (office hours)
Fax: 0191 260 6191

Prescribing Reports and publications work plan (Updated)

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:37:59 +0000

This is a two page PDF file containing estimated Prescribing Report and Publication completion dates.

Monthly Horizon Scanning Report - January 2010

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:42:38 +0000

Visit our Monthly Horizon Scanning Reports web page.