Clinical

Clozapine toxicity in spotlight after two Coroners reports

Monitoring blood concentrations of clozapine for toxicity is now advised in certain clinical situations says MHRA.

Hypertension treatments could improve Covid survival rates

People with high blood pressure have a better chance of surviving Covid-19 if they are taking hypertension medications, research shows. 

Bipolar disorder tablets to be discontinued

Priadel 200mg and 400mg modified release tablets are to be discontinued, with all remaining supplies expected to run out by April of next year. 

Value of statins in the elderly confirmed

Starting statins reduces the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among people aged 75 years and older, a new study finds. 

Benefits of steroids in inhalers outweighs risk say researchers

The advantages of using inhalers and nebulisers containing steroids outweigh the risks, claim researchers. 

 

Study to look at long term impacts of Covid-19

The study's findings will support the development of strategies for clinical and rehabilitation care

Most vulnerable children no longer need to shield

Independent evidence from RCPCH shows the risk of serious illness for children and young people is low.

Coeliac 'can be diagnosed with just a blood test'

Coeliac can be diagnosed in some adults with just a blood test, says the British Society of Gastroenterology.

Remdesivir gets EU approval as Trump hoovers up supplies

The European Commission granted a conditional marketing authorisation for the drug earlier today

NICE recommends steam treatment for enlarged prostate

Rezum recommended as a treatment option for moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms.

HIV drug has 'no benefit' in Covid-19 patients

The HIV medicine lopinavir-ritonavir has “no beneficial effect” in patients hospitalised with Covid-19, Oxford researchers have said.

Covid-19 prevention trial given green light to recruit more subjects

The MHRA has approved the recruitment of further participants for an Oxford trial investigating the use of hydroxychloroquine to prevent Covid-19.

Low cost steroid hailed as breakthrough Covid-19 treatment

The low-cost steroid dexamethasone has become the first drug proven to significantly reduce deaths in patients hospitalised with Covid-19.

Hydroxychloroquine 'ineffective in treating Covid-19'

Preliminary results from RECOVERY trial show hydroxychloroquine has no effect on mortality.

Guidance for pharmacy teams on making hand sanitiser

Commonwealth Pharmacists Association's training video supports production of WHO formula hand sanitiser. 

Hospitalised Covid patients with diabetes at risk

Study looking at impact of Covid-19 on hospitalised patients with diabetes finds one in ten die within seven days of admission