Codeine use for cough and cold restricted in children
Codeine is associated with a risk of respiratory side-effects in children.
Hydroxyzine: risk of QT prolongation and torsade de pointes
Prescribing recommendations for the use of hydroxyzine (Atarax, Ucerax) have been revised following a European review.
Live vaccines: revised recommendations for administration
Public Health England has issued revised recommendations for the administration of more than one live vaccine.
Risk of abuse with gabapentin and pregabalin
Public Health England and NHS England have issued advice for prescribers on the risk of abuse of gabapentin and pregabalin.
Avastin: new treatment for cervical cancer
Avastin (bevacizumab) has been approved for the treatment of persistent, recurrent or metastatic carcinoma of the cervix, in combination with paclitaxel and cisplatin or paclitaxel and topotecan in patients who cannot receive platinum.
Ketoconazole HRA for Cushing’s syndrome: hepatoxicity risk
Ketoconazole HRA is a new treatment option for endogenous Cushing’s syndrome. Monitoring of liver function is mandatory owing to the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Further info from me if needed.
G Mohan.