News
UK pharmacy chief backs down on automation claims
England’s chief pharmaceutical officer has backed down on his claims about automation reducing error rates, Chemist + Druggist reports. Keith Ridge is on record as saying that error rates are …
Proof Zika causes birth defects
The Brazilian Zika virus strain can cross the placenta and cause growth restriction — including signs of microcephaly — in mice, according to findings published in Nature this week. These …
Immune link to dementia
University of Adelaide researchers have developed a new theory for the causes of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases, involving an out-of-control immune system. Published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, …
Early career pharmacist wanted for PSA Board
The PSA is offering an opportunity for an early career pharmacist to become a National Board Director to help shape the future of the profession. Following a resolution passed at …
Forum: Pharmacy only cold and flu tabs available from Coles?
This is in the Coles catalogue this week (take a look here). How can ths be? Other current topics in the AJP Discussion Forum include: PBS Safetynet What would you …
Clinical tips: quitting smoking
Quitting smoking can be an arduous process, and pharmacists can provide invaluable advice, writes Karalyn Huxhagen The Australian Association of Smoking Cessation Professionals has a website with invaluable tips and …
This week’s best reader comments
AJP takes a look back at this week’s best reader comments Our interview with Saxby Pharmacy’s and Friends of Science in Medicine’s Ian Carr, “Naturopathy: if it wasn’t so serious …
Strong move towards integrative medicine
Healthcare is moving towards integrative medicine, says a spokesperson for Blackmores, citing data which shows eight out of 10 Australian pharmacists take supplements themselves. Earlier this week, Friends of Science …
Still on hold
Codeine rescheduling decision deferred again as naproxen stays S2 The TGA has once again delayed announcing its final decision on the rescheduling fate of codeine-containing medicines. In its latest release …
Dosage, Safe Storage and Dangerous Drugs
PDL has already received reports of dispensing errors from pharmacists lacking awareness of the recent additions to the available range of strengths for Norspan patches and Targin tablets. Norspan is …
GP blog: ‘It isn’t about them and us anymore.’
An editorial in a GP magazine which queried the existence of community pharmacies has been criticised by editor of Scotland’s Pharmacy in Practice Ross Ferguson, who says the original article …
Nicotine for vaping to be available with script
A new option for Australian smokers who want to try to quit via “vaping” has been launched amid the ongoing debate about whether the use of liquid nicotine in personal …