Safety Risks of Quinine: The MHRA has reminded healthcare professionals that Quinine should not be used routinely for the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps. The June 2010 edition of the Drug Safety Update suggests that, if no benefit is seen after a trial of 4 weeks, quinine treatment should be withdrawn. If benefit is seen, treatment should be reviewed every three months. The Drug Safety Update gives information about the safety issues surrounding use of quinine and includes recommendations for healthcare professionals.
02/07/2010
Discontinuation of Mixtard® 30 Novo Nordisk has announced that Mixtard® 30 is to be discontinued by 31st December 2010. Patients
are being advised to contact their doctor or nurse to discuss treatment options. Diabetes UK have made available a list of alternative products (PDF) to aid clinicians and patients during the transition.
02/07/2010
Sinemet Shortages Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) are currently experiencing problems supplying all Sinemet (co-careldopa) preparations. The shortage is likely to continue until 2011. A Medicines Q&A is available to assist clinicians in selecting
suitable alternatives.