Pharmacy alerts

Valproate (Belvo, Convulex, Depakote, Dyzantil, Epilim, Epilim Chrono or Chronosphere, Episenta, Epival, and Syonell): updated safety and educational materials

Drug safety update: The MHRA has published a drug safety update on Valproate products with updated safety and educational materials to support patient discussion on reproductive risks.

Promixin® (colistimethate) 1-million-unit powder for nebuliser solution unit dose vials to be discontinued

National Patient Safety Alert: The MHRA has published a National Patient Safety Alert that Promixin (colistimethate) 1-million unit powder for nebuliser solution unit dose vials are to be discontinued.

Prolonged-release opioids: indication for relief of post-operative pain removed

Drug safety update: The MHRA has published a drug safety update on prolonged-release opioids.

Valproate (Belvo, Convulex, Depakote, Dyzantil, Epilim, Epilim Chrono or Chronosphere, Episenta, Epival, and Syonell): review by two specialists required for male patients

Drug safety update: The MHRA has published a drug safety update on the requirements for initiating valprote products.

Original pack dispensing

From 1 January 2025, NHS community pharmacists and their teams can dispense up to 10% more or less than the quantity prescribed of eligible medicines on NHS prescriptions if it means the medicine can be dispensed in the manufacturer’s original packaging and if they follow the prescriber’s directions on the prescription. The regulations on what types of prescriptions can be dispensed or reimbursed differ between England, Scotland and Wales. Please read our guidance or check Community Pharmacy England, Community Pharmacy Scotland and Community Pharmacy Wales for more information on what the new rules apply to. Our guidance covers the changes, what the rules apply to, steps to use professional judgment and additional considerations. The guidance can be found on the RCPharm website.

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) NatPSA/2024/013/DHSC shortage

Patient Safety Alert: The MHRA has published an additional Patient Safety Alert on the shortage of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) NatPSA/2024/013/DHSC.