Clinical
How much caffeine is too much?
New observational research may provide further impetus for expectant mums to limit caffeine intake In a prospective cohort study of 50,943 mothers and their children recruited from 2002 to 2008, …
Schedule change proposed for ED drug
New proposal put forward for Pharmacist-Only sildenafil category The TGA’s Advisory Committee on Medicines Scheduling is set to again review the possibility of creating an S3 category for sildenafil (Viagra). There …
New treatment for psoriasis
A new therapy has approved by the TGA for treatment of adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis Tremfya (guselkumab) is the first biologic approved in Australia that selectively blocks …
Little role for sedating antihistamines: Experts
Newer, less sedating forms can be safely taken long term with no loss of efficacy, according to latest evidence In a new article for Australian Prescriber, immunology experts have concluded …
Blockbuster alert
Nine new blockbuster drugs headed our way soon: report A series of new ‘blockbuster’ drugs are expected to hit Australian shores in the next 12-24 months, a new report claims. …
Fast sepsis detection on the horizon
Scientists have designed a simple test that can detect sepsis from a single drop of blood Sepsis, a life-threatening condition in which the body’s extreme response to severe infection damages …
TGA issues medicines safety update
Pharmacists have been reminded that first-generation oral sedating antihistamines are not approved for use in kids under two Following a coronial hearing of a fatal case involving a 74-day-old infant …
Drugs’ hidden side effects
One in four drugs with human targets has been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the gut, causing antibiotic-like side effects A research team from the European Molecular …
The dispensing dilemma
Pharmacy should think carefully before devolving its primary dispensing role, experts warn While the current trend is for pharmacy’s clinical role and responsibilities to expand, we should be careful before …
‘Chronic pain needs GP assessment’: NPS MedicineWise
Australians experiencing pain for longer than three months to visit their GP, says the organisation, as it could be neuropathic pain Not-for-profit independent organisation NPS MedicineWise is encouraging Australians who …
Hit me with your best shot
The Immunisation Coalition is urging people aged over 65 to wait for the two new enhanced flu vaccines funded by the Government under the NIP Following a “horrific” flu season …
Asthma meds found to impact fertility
Short-acting asthma relievers have been linked to reduced fertility in women… but there’s good news for those who use long-acting preventers Women with asthma who use short-acting asthma relievers may …