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The UK government has announced plans to update legislation to enable more services and individuals to provide take-home supplies of naloxone - a life-saving opioid overdose antidote - over the next few weeks. Naloxone can immediately reverse the effects of an opioid overdose by reversing breathing difficulties. The medicine can be administered by anyone in an emergency. However, current legislation allows only drug and alcohol treatment services to supply it without a prescription to individuals for future use. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) confirmed on Tuesday (14 May) that more professionals, including nurses, paramedics, police officers, probation officers and pharmacy professionals, will be able to supply the medicine without a prescription to save lives. Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins warned that opioid addiction can ruin lives and it accounts for the largest proportion of drug-related deaths across the UK.

Walgreens Boots Alliance, the parent company of Boots UK, has begun a strategic review of its business in the United Kingdom, chief executive officer Rosalind Brewer said on Tuesday (January 11) - as the pharmacy chain tries to renew its focus on US healthcare. Boots has over 2,200 stores across the UK, which include pharmacies, health and beauty stores, among others, according to the chain's website. "This review is very much in line with our renewed priorities and strategic direction. In particular, our increased focus on US healthcare. While the process is at an exploratory stage, we do expect to move quickly," Brewer said at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference. The review comes at a time when the company, which was formed in 2014 after the acquisition of stake in Alliance Boots by Walgreens, moves beyond its drugstores with its investments in two smaller healthcare providers, CareCentrix and VillageMD.

As the population continues to age, the number of dementia cases in the UK could increase to rise to 1.5 million by 2040, a new study has predicted. The study report from Future Health also cautioned that over half a million people with dementia could remain undiagnosed by 2040, representing an increase of nearly a quarter of a million compared to the current figure, if there is "no progress in improving diagnosis rates." At present, approximately 850,000 individuals in the UK are living with dementia, with an estimated 315,000 cases going undiagnosed. Sponsored by Lilly, the study also highlighted significant variations in diagnosis rates across the four nations. Despite improvements, England's dementia diagnosis rate stands at 64.6 per cent, falling short of the two-thirds target.

Former superintendent pharmacist and National Pharmacy Association (NPA) director, Phil Galt, has been appointed the new UK managing director for pharmacy software supplier Cegedim Rx. The position was previously held by Adam Dennett, who resigned after a successful ten-year tenure to pursue a new career outside healthcare, the company said. Cegedim Rx, the pharmacy entity of Cegedim Healthcare Solutions UK, announced the new appointment this month (April 5). Tristan de Foucher, head of European operations for Cegedim Group, said: "Adam has been a force of nature in this business for the past 10 years. Under his leadership, the team has continuously and successfully invested in and driven product innovation to stay ahead of the ever-changing demands placed upon community pharmacy." Galt has over 20 years of experience as a qualified pharmacist and a successful business leader. He has worked extensively in community pharmacy, focusing on both care delivery and technology implementation.

Aspen has committed not to charge more for its six generic cancer drugs for the next 10 years in the UK, according to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The CMA also clarified that "although these commitments were offered while the UK was a part of the European Union" they remain "legally binding". It added: "The CMA has now assisted the NHS to secure binding undertakings from Aspen, under the law of England and Wales, which enshrine the UK elements of the commitments and are enforceable by UK courts, including in relation to the supply of these drugs in Northern Ireland and Scotland." This allows NHS to monitor and ensure compliance by Aspen following the UK's exit from the EU. In 2017, the European Commission began an investigation into Aspen over concerns that the company had engaged in excessive pricing for 6 off-patent cancer medicines.

The Hyderabad Police are actively searching for UK-based pharmacist M. Ajith Kumar, who is suspected of involvement in a plot to poison his estranged wife's family in Hyderabad by contaminating their spices with arsenic. While the accused allegedly succeeded in fatally poisoning his mother-in-law through a slow method, timely arsenic testing saved the lives of others. In late June, a newlywed woman in her 30s visited a Guntur-based doctor, complaining of intense burning, tingling, and numbness in her hands and feet. The neurologist's keen observation foiled the alleged sinister plot of Ajith Kumar, suspected of using his chemical expertise to harm his wife and her family. Presently, the police are actively searching for M. Ajith Kumar, who is currently in London, in connection with the murder plot. Furthermore, the Hyderabad police have apprehended six individuals from the city who were complicit in his nefarious scheme. The investigation gathered key information from arrested suspects, including D. Vinod Kumar, a UK-based IT professional from Andhra Pradesh. Vinod Kumar's involvement in UK software projects provided by Ajith Kumar generated a substantial monthly income, leading him to assist Ajith in his plot against his estranged wife's family.

Pharmacy professionals to be included as key stakeholders in the implementation, delivery and evaluation of a wide range of genomic services, said the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS). RPS's statement has been developed in collaboration with pharmacy organisations who have co-badged the report, such as the British Oncology Pharmacy Association, the UK Clinical Pharmacy Association, Association of Pharmacy Technicians and the College of Mental Health Pharmacy. It looks at current and future roles for pharmacy professionals in genomic medicine across many aspects of practice such as person-centred care and collaboration, professional practice, education, leadership, management and research. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in the UK have already established roles in the application of genomic medicine in some areas of practice, such as antimicrobial stewardship and infectious diseases, and the management of certain genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis. The society believes, the current role of pharmacy professionals in genomics can be expanded upon in the future to both lead and support many relevant aspects of genomic implementation. These are described across all healthcare sectors, within the Genome UK strategy produced by the UK Government, and within the implementation plans published in England, Scotland and Wales. Lead for Pharmacogenomics at RPS Sophie Harding said: "Pharmacy professionals are the gatekeepers of medication safety and efficacy across all areas of healthcare. They are skilled at interpreting complex scientific data and use evidence-based medicine to maximise the benefits of treatments for patients, whilst supporting shared decision-making with patients and the multidisciplinary team.

The outbreak of Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) in the UK, which is associated with contaminated eye gels imported from India, has led to the death of one person, and many others falling ill, according to a government report. Bcc is a group of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that are widely found within the environment. Although it rarely causes infection, it can result in severe ones in individuals with compromised immune systems and those living with cystic fibrosis, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said. Between January 2023 and February 2024, there were 52 confirmed and six probable cases across the UK linked to the bacteria outbreak, as revealed in the Health Protection Report published by UKHSA. Forty-one of these cases were hospital inpatients, 38 of which were in critical-care settings. Twenty-five cases were considered to have "clinically significant infections attributable to Bcc", out of which 11 had eye infections, nine had respiratory infections and four had bacteremia (bacteria entering the bloodstream). Two individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) were infected, and while one was treated, the other died, with the report indicating Bcc infection to have "contributed to the death."

As Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announces the forthcoming UK general election, pharmacy bodies are calling on all political parties to commit to solving the issues facing the sector. The next UK general election will be held on 4 July, Sunak announced it on Wednesday afternoon during a press conference outside 10 Downing Street. "As the election is called it's imperative that any incoming government addresses the crisis in primary care and the looming cliff edge facing pharmacies, which for millions of people are the front door to the NHS and a crucial source of frontline health care," said Paul Rees, Chief Executive of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA). Noting that the first responsibility of the government is to keep its people safe and healthy, he emphasised the importance of addressing the "deep funding gap that is pushing record numbers of pharmacies to the edge of closure and beyond, exacerbating the issues of waiting lists for GPs and hospital care."

Parents are advised to check their children's hair often as cases of head lice infestations are increasing in the UK amid rising temperatures. Superdrug has reported a significant 121 per cent surge in sales of its head lice treatment spray, according to Wales Online. The high-street chemist explains that head lice are particularly prevalent during this time of year as the warmer weather triggers infestations. Head lice and nits (head lice eggs) are very common in young children and are picked up by head-to-head contact. The pesky insects make your head feel itchy. The National Health Service (NHS) recommends taking immediate action against head lice as soon as they are detected. It is not necessary to see a GP for head lice treatment.

The business landscape worldwide is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from a sole focus on profitability to incorporating a broader spectrum of considerations. Today, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria are integral to business operations, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices alongside financial growth. ESG stands for three interconnected pillars: Environmental, focusing on reducing a company's ecological footprint; Social, addressing the impact on employees, diversity, equity, inclusion, and the broader community; and Governance, which ensures responsible management practices, ethical behavior, and compliance with regulations. This holistic approach is becoming a critical foundation for long-term success in various industries, including healthcare. For the UK healthcare and pharmacy sectors, integrating ESG not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also offers substantial benefits. This article delves into the specific implications of ESG for UK pharmacies, highlighting how they can leverage these practices to foster both community well-being and business success.

he British Generic Manufacturers Association (BGMA) has voted Pete Kelly, managing director of Accord UK, to become its new chair. He replaces Peter Ballard, who has completed his second tenure as the association's chair and will now serve a further year as vice-chair. Pete leads the UK operations of Accord, one of the largest generic and biosimilar manufacturers in Europe. In the UK, the company currently supplies a fifth of all generic medicines. Mark Samuels, chief executive of BGMA, said: "We are very fortunate to have someone of Pete's experience and leadership qualities to take on the mantle of chair of the association. The industry faces a challenging period on many fronts, and Pete's input will be invaluable. "I would also like to record my enormous gratitude to Peter Ballard, our out-going Chair who has been an incredible servant to the association over many, many years. He will continue for another year as vice-chair, and we are pleased to have his continuing advice."

Balmedie Pharmacy based in Aberdeenshire, Scotland has been purchased by local expanding multiple operator JMF Healthcare. Balmedie Pharmacy is a well-performing community pharmacy that dispenses an average of 5,255 items per month. It lies completely unopposed in the large Aberdeenshire village of Balmedie, which is circa eight miles north of Aberdeen City Centre. The pharmacy has been owned by Brian Arris since 2004 and was recently brought to market to allow him to pursue other pharmacy business opportunities. Following a confidential sales process with Christie & Co, JMF Healthcare to benefit from new housing developments in this area of Aberdeenshire such as 300 new homes planned in Balmedie, approved plans for up to 500 new homes in Trump Menie Estate, and 284 new homes planned in Blackdog Village. Brian Arris, previous owner of Balmedie Pharmacy, comments, "I'm sad to see the business go as the excellent staff have helped grow the pharmacy from scratch since 2004 and we've all put our hearts and souls into providing good pharmaceutical care for the village and surrounding area. I'm confident everyone is left in safe hands with John at the helm now."

Good news for patients whose epilepsy cannot be controlled by standard anti-seizure drugs! Next month, NHS England will introduce a cutting-edge laser beam therapy that can prevent seizures in these individuals. Known as Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), the advanced treatment targets the part of the brain causing seizures without the need for invasive surgery, the health service said. The new fibre optic laser therapy is being offered at King's College Hospital in London and The Walton Centre in Liverpool. Starting from June, it will be gradually extended to eligible patients across England. Each year, it is expected to benefit up to 50 epilepsy patients in England who are resistant to standard anti-seizure medications. "This groundbreaking new treatment will change the lives of those with severe epilepsy improving quality of life and providing much-needed assurance," said Andrew Stephenson, Minister of State for Health.

England won't have any new Covid-19 restrictions before the end of 2021, health secretary Sajid Javid said on Monday (December 27) whilst the government awaits more evidence on whether the NHS can cope with high infection rates in the new year. "There will be no further measures before the new year," Javid told reporters, adding: "When we get into the new year, of course we will see then whether we do need to take any further measures." He said that the highly transmissible Omicron variant of the virus now accounted for around 90 per cent of cases across England and urged people to celebrate New Year cautiously. The government's attention is focused on the number of patients being hospitalised with Omicron after early data last week suggested the variant carried a lower risk of admission. The latest data showed the number of patients in hospital in England with Covid-19 was its highest since March, at 8,474, but a long way off peaks above 34,000 in January. A combination of factors, including Britain's vaccination programme, the lag between infections and hospitalisations and the potentially less harmful effects of the Omicron variant have all been put forward by health experts as possible explanations for lower numbers.

Boots UK has agreed to grant a five per cent pay increase to its pharmacists following a collaborative agreement with the Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA). This raise acknowledges the unique market conditions faced by pharmacists in the community pharmacy sector, Boots UK and PDA said in a joint statement on Oct. 9. According to the statement, the pay increase applies to all pharmacists within the PDA Union's bargaining unit, except for those who joined or received a pay raise after August 2023. Moreover, trainee pharmacists or those not meeting performance standards are not eligible for the raise. Additionally, pharmacists and store managers will receive a pro-rata, one-time non-consolidated payment of £750 in August 2024. This payment serves as recognition for their dedication to establishing and providing new core and advanced NHS services, particularly in light of the substantial changes anticipated in the upcoming year, the joint statement said. The services include new medicines, hypertension, contraception, and common conditions services in England, the clinical community pharmacy service in Wales, and the Pharmacy First services in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Alex Potter is the new Managing Director of PharmAssist Solutions UK, an online purchasing solution utilised by over 1,100 community pharmacies. Potter, previously the Director of Digital at Phoenix UK, will succeed the current MD, Amar Randhawa, and has expertise in the digital landscape across the industry, PharmAssist Solutions said in a statement. "We are delighted to have Alex on board," said Stuart Lucas, Chair of the PharmAssist Board. "His profound grasp of the pharmacy sector, combined with his expertise in digital innovation, will spearhead PharmAssist's evolution to meet the dynamic demands of its clientele." Meanwhile, Lucas expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Amar for his hard work and dedication over the last decade. "Amar, as the founder of PharmAssist, played a pivotal role in achieving numerous significant milestones and driving its growth," he added. "We wish him every success in his future endeavors."

The British Generic Manufacturers Association (BGMA) has elected Matthew Salzmann, UK Country Manager at Viatris, as its new Vice-Chair with immediate effect. He will replace the current chair of the BGMA, Diane DiGangi-Trench, who is the UK country head for Sandoz. Salzman, who is originally from Australia, has served approximately 1 billion patients worldwide last year as the UK Country Manager at Viatris, a global pharmaceutical company operating in 165 countries. In his role as BGMA Vice-Chair, Salzmann would focus on working in partnership with key stakeholders - the NHS, healthcare professionals, policy makers, clinical societies, patient associations, academia - to ensure access to affordable and sustainable medicines for patients and the NHS.

With growing concerns over the spread of Omicron variant, the UK has signed two contracts with drug majors Pfizer Inc. and Merck & Co to buy 4.25 million courses of antivirals for the NHS patients. The move is aimed at reducing hospitalisations and easing pressures on the NHS. The two new contracts are for 1.75 million additional courses of Merck Sharp and Dohme's (MSD) molnupiravir (Lagevrio®) and 2.5 million additional courses of PF-07321332/ritonavir (Paxlovid™) from Pfizer. The ordered drugs will be available from early next year and both are expected to be effective against Omicron. The recent order is in addition to the 480,000 courses of molnupiravir and 250,000 courses of PF-07321332/ritonavir procurement announced in October.

HayMax, maker of the famous organic drug-free allergen barrier balm has been awarded the 'British Made Award' for Best British Allergy Product 2022. The award celebrates businesses that work tirelessly to make their region one of the most diverse and dynamic the UK has to offer. HayMax MD and creator Max Wiseberg comments: "This award means a great deal to us. We've always been proud that our products have been manufactured in the UK. We are passionate about reducing the cost to the environment so being British-made means we keep the miles down and reduce our carbon footprint." HayMax balms are manufactured in the UK. It buys local to reduce the cost to the environment, even if it means it costs a bit more. HayMax's current pots are now made in the UK, which has been great for reducing their carbon footprint. Its tins come from London. The new pots can be recycled and re-used. The brand has now switched to using sugar cane to make its pots and has also reduced the amount of material used in the pots by just over 54%. And they have switched from the plastic labels to paper labels.