David Lipanovic

Senior Clinical Reporter

UK needs robust vaccine development sector to prepare for next pandemic, says House of Lords committee

A letter from the chair of the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee has called on the government to create a “peacetimes vaccines taskforce”.…

Around 360,000 patients at risk of being ‘trapped’ on antipsychotics, researchers warn

The British Journal of General Practice's cross-sectional study highlights that between 360,000 and 390,000 patients in the UK could be being prescribed long-term antipsychotics "without regular psychiatric review”.…

Taking its toll: the global pancreatic enzyme shortage

The shortage of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy - sourced from pigs - is impacting the physical and mental health of thousands of patients who rely on it, with charities calling on the government to urgently intervene.…

Antibiotic-resistant infections at highest level since COVID-19 pandemic, finds report

A report by the UK Health Security Agency has revealed that in the past five years, 65% of antibiotic-resistant bloodstream infections were caused by E. coli.…

Over 40% of people with cystic fibrosis have experienced significant health problems resulting from PERT shortage

A survey carried out by the Cystic Fibrosis Trust revealed that 20% of patients are losing weight owing to a shortage in pancreatic enzyme replacement therapies.…

Smoking cessation drug to be provided on NHS three years after its withdrawal over carcinogen concerns

NHS England says generic varenicline could help more than 85,000 people stop smoking each year.…

NICE recommends cognitive behavioural therapy for treatment of menopause symptoms

The guidance says menopause-specific cognitive behavioural therapy can be used in addition to hormone replacement therapy or as an alternative.…

NHS Scotland scraps pharmacogenomic decision support service worth £66m

The support service was designed to offer prescribers clinically actionable pharmacogenomics information when prescribing relevant drugs.…

Robert Twycross (1941–2024)

As a pioneer in his field, Robert Twycross will be remembered for his profound contribution to the development and provision of palliative care across the world.…

Government advises chief pharmacists to coordinate aid between trusts amid radioisotope shortage

According to a national patient safety alert issued on 25 October 2024, the radioisotope shortage stems from a combination of technical issues and essential maintenance work.…