The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has cautioned people to stop using certain eye gels, highlighting a potential risk of
microbial contamination that can cause an infection.
As a precaution, the agency on Friday announced recall of specific batches of carbomer-containing lubricating eye gels branded Aacarb, Aacomer and Puroptics,
which are generally used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye.
Burkholderia cenocepacia is suspected to have caused the microbial contamination, and the issue was raised after an ongoing investigation conducted by UK Health
Security Agency (UKHSA) identified a small number of cases of infection.
Investigations are on to determine if there is a link between these products and the infections which have been identified.
Meanwhile, retailers have been told to withdraw the affected products, and users are asked to return their product to the place of purchase immediately.
wheelchair cushion can make all the difference in comfort, health and proper positioning. Specifically designed to redistribute pressure caused by constant sitting, wheelchair Hard cushions are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and construction to accommodate every unique user's special requirements. They reduce the risk of issue breakdown caused by constant pressure, helping to prevent or relieve pressure ulcers and bedsores, while they also absorb shocks and provide stability, comfort and posture control. It has the finest quality of the upholstery which is very comforting for old aged and people with knee and other ailments.
Foam Wheelchair Cushions - Foam is light and varies widely in stiffness and density. Proper stiffness, density and resilience help ensure adequate support and an effective lifespan.
Gel Wheelchair Cushions -Gel wheelchair cushions are heavier than foams and, therefore, are often used in combination with foams. These materials are good at minimizing heat and are typically encased by a protective cover so are easily cleaned. Because of their incompressible nature, viscous fluid and Gel wheelchair cushions often use a contoured non-deforming foam base or a flat, compressible foam base to better enable the cushion to conform around the body. Gels and fluids absorb vibration but cannot absorb impact well. Therefore, these materials can absorb the vibrations that one might experience in a car, but not the impact one gets when bumping over a curbcut.
Air Wheelchair Cushions - Air is highly compressible and would make an excellent support surface, except for its requirement of an impermeable membrane.Because air wheelchair cushions are adjustable, they can be inflated to meet the needs of the user, but this adjustability also means that they must be maintained properly. An improperly inflated air cushion can be either too hard or too soft, and both are potentially damaging situations.
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."
A total of 14 Serious Shortage Protocols (SSP) will expire today (12 May) as the Department of Health and Social Care has confirmed availability of the
products to meet normal demand.
The products include Sandrena 0.5mg and 1mg gel sachets, Lipitor 10mg chewable tablets, Phenoxymethylpenicillin 125mg/5ml and 250mg/5ml oral solution, sugar free
variant of both doses and 250mg tablets, and Paracetamol 120mg and 240mg suppositories.
The expiring SSPs include three related to Sandrena gel sachets, one for Lipitor, eight concerning Phenoxymethylpenicillin and two for Paracetamol. These will expire
at 23.59pm on Friday 12 May and any prescriptions for these products must be dispensed in accordance with the prescription after that.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has suggested Estradiol patch as an alternative for patients who use 1 pump of Oestrogel daily.
DHSC has updated Annex A of SSP022 and SSP023 for Oestrogel Pump-Pack 0.06 per cent gel to include a dose conversion to a specific alternative Estradiol patch.
Previously, only dose conversions for patients using 2 to 4 pumps daily were included in Annex A of SSP022 and SSP023.
Separately, the supporting guidance for three SSPs which allow quantity restriction have been updated to reflect the requirement to endorse the reduced quantity
supplied in accordance with these SSPs.
SSP019 - Oestrogel pump-pack 0.06% gel
SSP020 - Ovestin 1mg cream
SSP021 - Premique low dose 0.3mg/1.5mg modified release tablets
"When endorsing an SSP for a reduced quantity, contractors must ensure that the correct SSP number is endorsed along with the product name and the reduced
quantity supplied in accordance with the SSP," said PSNC.
Enterosgel is a versatile safe drug-free alternative to current anti-diarrhoeal medicines found on pharmacy shelves.
Enterosgel is different from other anti-diarrhoeals within this category, as it is suitable for children aged one year and over, so can be taken by the whole family.
This intestinal adsorbent can be used for both acute diarrhoea due to gastrointestinal infections and for chronic irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea (IBS-D).
Why should community pharmacists stock this brand?
Unlike anti-diarrhoeals which work by slowing gut motility, Enterosgel is an intestinal adsorbent which physically binds harmful substances from the gut, that can
cause diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms and expels them naturally with the stools.
Because it is a medical device not a medicine, has no pharmacological action and is not absorbed by the body, it is a safe option for children and adults and can
help reduce the likelihood of side effects which can be an issue with anti-diarrhoeal medicines.
Enterosgel has a unique composition of an adsorbent mineral gel based in water, it contains no additional preservatives or additives so is easy to recommend from
vegetarians to people with allergies or intolerances. The gel is mixed with water and taken orally in between meals; it is tasteless so well tolerated even by
children.
There are many reasons why people might need help with their dental problems. Maybe they don't have insurance, or maybe they just don't have the money to go to
a dentist. In these
cases, the pharmacy can be a great option. Pharmacists can provide a variety of services that can help people with their dental problems, including over-the-counter
medications and advice on how to take care of teeth and gums. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the ways that pharmacies can help you take care of your
teeth! So, whether you have a toothache, cavities, or bad breath, a pharmacy can be a great place to turn.
1) OVER-COUNTER MEDICATIONS
One of the most common services that pharmacies provide is the sale of over-the-counter medications. These medications are designed to be taken for short periods of
time and can help with a variety of dental problems. For example, if you have a toothache, you can buy an antiseptic rinse or analgesic gel that can help relieve
the pain. If you have bad breath, you can buy mouthwash or breath fresheners that will help mask the odor. And if you have cavities, you can purchase fluoride
rinses or gels that can help with decay prevention. If you are worried about the cost of dentists, these medications can be a great way to get the relief you need
without breaking the bank. However, it doesn't mean that you should neglect regular dental visits!
2) PROVIDE YOU WITH EDUCATION
Another way pharmacy can help you with your dental problems is through advice and education. Pharmacists are trained to provide general information on oral hygiene
and health and can help you make educated decisions about which products to buy. They can also provide recommendations on how often you should brush and floss your
teeth, as well as advice on diet and lifestyle choices that can help prevent dental problems. In addition, some pharmacies may even have an oral health specialist
on staff who can answer any questions you might have about your teeth or gums
The UK based Pharma giant Futura Medical Plc's lead product, Eroxon, a topical Stim-gel is now available on NHS prescription in England and Wales for the
treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
The Muti-Drug Resistant (MDR) approved alternative to PDE5i, Eroxon is available as an over-the counter off shelf at retailers like Boots and Superdrug; and is
available on NHS prescription in England and Wales as a CE-marked medical device.
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection, typically concerning men over the age of 40 due to both,
psychological and physical causes such as anxiety, depression, diabetes, and obesity.
According to UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA), the approval of the medication is based on evidence from 2 Phase three clinical studies, which showed that
60 per cent of patients taking Eroxon achieved Minimal Clinically Important Differences (MCID) at 12 weeks.
Tynor Hot and Cold Pack is a convenient device to provide hot fomentation or cold compress. Tynor Hot and Cold Pack is of multipurpose advantage. It is a convenient and effective approach for both hot as well as a cold therapy. Hot pack can be used for body ache, joint pain, etc., whereas a cold pack can be used for fever, sprains, fever, bleeding, etc. It is easy to use and maintains the temperature for a long period of time. It is available in 11.22 x 7.67 inch universal sizes.
Hot fomentation of the injured or inflamed area enhances the threshold of pain and thus reduces the perception of pain. It has a synergistic effect along with pain relieving drugs. Raising temperature of the injured tissue also enhances the blood profusion and the healing process. Hot fomentation has a relaxing effect.
Cold compress helps in reduction of inflammation in injuries, protects by slowing the metabolic rate around the tissue, reduce oedema and bleeding. Cold compress helps in immediately lowering fever, in very high fever conditions. It can be used after an acute injury or surgical procedure.
No heat or cryo burns.
Requires no holding.
Reusable.
Easy application.
Appealing aesthetics.
Tynor Hot and Cold Pack Features
Multi functionality
Reduce swelling and odema at the site of injury.
Muscles spasm and pain.
Headache and minor injuries.
Versatile design
Can be used as either cold or hot pack.
Reusable in either hot & cold condition.
Temperature range - Can be used from 0 Cº to 75Cº.
Longer temperature retention time.
Fabric cover ensures no cryo burns or hot skin burns.
Physical features
Non-toxic, and biodegradable.
Gel remains soft and flexible upto 0 degree.
Durable, and puncture resistant.
Soft, "frost free" PVC cover.
Flexible conforms to the body contours.
Easy to clean and maintain.
Excellent workmanship.
Good aesthetics.
Elastic belt
Holds the pack against the body, No need to hold by hand.
Enhances convenience.
Tynor
To curb the supply issue of HRT medicine, the government has taken a further action by issuing SSPs for Oestrogel, Ovestin cream, Lenzetto transdermal spray and Sandrena gel sachets - with appropriate alternatives.
The move aims to allow community pharmacists to supply specified alternatives to the prescribed HRT products without needing to seek authorisation from the clinician
who has prescribed the medicine.
The regulator said that the availability of Premique Low Dose has impoved 'thanks to SSPs issued on 29 April to restrict dispensing for Oestrogel, Ovestin and Premique Low Dose to three months' supply'.
"Since these measures were implemented, further deliveries of all three products have been made, with Premique Low Dose returning to good availability this week. The manufacturers of Oestrogel and Ovestin, as well as suppliers of alternative HRT products, are taking action to increase UK supply."
It added, "SSPs restricting prescriptions to a maximum of three months' supply will also be issued for substitute products, as a precautionary measure to ensure the supply of those substitutes is maintained."
Androgel is the transdermal testosterone cream used in the HRT or hormone replacement therapy and TRT or Testosterone Replacement Therapy in case of males. Androgel, in the recent years, has become most popular TRT form due to the mode of administration. The person is simply required to rub the gel or cream and nothing more needs to be done.
The alcoholic transdermal testosterone medicine, Androderm is similar in action like the Androgel, testosterone gel. The product is very commonly used for treating low testosterone. Its bioavailability is also double than Androgel. Androderm was first developed in the 1990s and has already gained the FDA approval.
To help the pharmacists understand the Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) for three Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) products that was recently announced by
the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)'s, the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee has shared top tips on the correct SSP endorsement and
submission requirements.
Top Tips by PSNC for pharmacists on HRT SSPs:
Always double check that endorsements reflect the requirements outlined in the supporting guidance published for each SSP on the dedicated page of the NHSBSA's
website.
When endorsing using EPS, contractors are reminded to select the SSP endorsement and input the correct three-digit reference number leaving a space in between 'SSP'
and the three-digit reference number for example, SSP 019. Remember to insert the leading zero in the three digit reference number.
Each of the affected HRT medicines has its own SSP reference number. Check that the correct SSP number is endorsed for e.g. for Oestrogel® Pump-Pack 0.06% gel the
SSP endorsement should be 'SSP 019'. Please note the 'NCSO' endorsement is no longer accepted for SSPs.
Endorse the SSP product dispensed including the quantity. Ensure your endorsements are accurate and clear - NHSBSA processing staff must be able to determine what
has been supplied. Contractors should note that SSP claims submitted using EPS tokens are no longer permitted.
Over the past two years, the Covid pandemic has resulted in a backlog of elective care within the NHS, with record numbers of patients on waiting lists
across the UK. Despite efforts to catch up after the first wave, subsequent waves have put further strain on an already stretched NHS system.
This has had a tremendous impact on many patients waiting for routine dermatology appointments and, while every effort has been made to see patients with suspected
serious skin cancers within two weeks, this target is not always achieved.
With rising waiting times, pharmacists are increasingly the first port of call for patients suffering with a broad range of skin problems. From acne and rosacea,
eczema or psoriasis, to changing skin lesions or simple insect bites, pharmacists can give helpful advice, allowing some customers to find quick relief to their
skin complaint in mild cases, while directing others to see their GP without delay.
Below is some practical advice that pharmacists can give to their customers with commonly encountered skin complaints.
Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that not only affects teenagers but adults too. It is estimated that up to 40 per cent of women continue to suffer with acne into
their adult years. Acne has been linked to an increased incidence of depression, anxiety and even suicidal ideation.
Patients have reported feeling overlooked and often dismissed in their concerns by health care professionals.
Unfortunately, these issues have been further compounded by delays in being seen and treated due to the ongoing Covid pandemic. Pharmacists are well placed to help
acne patients choose the right skincare. This should consist of lightweight products, such as gel or milky cleansers, with moisturisers in serum, lotion or light
cream preparations. Some acne suitable products are further labelled as non-comedogenic.
Oil-based or occlusive preparations are best avoided. There are many good quality, non-comedogenic sun blocks suited
