PJ, June 2022, Vol 308, No 7962

Foundation trainees struggle to take registration exam after ‘technical issues’ cause delays

The General Pharmaceutical Council said it was “extremely sorry" for the severe delays experienced by candidates in Nottingham.…

Opioids: what can be done about long-term prescribing?

Recent data show the number of patients taking long-term opioids has increased significantly, suggesting there is still progress to make in this area of prescribing.…

Long-term opioid prescribing rates rose by almost a third during the COVID-19 pandemic

Exclusive: "Worrying" NHS data show a dramatic escalation in the number of patients prescribed opioids for longer than three months.…

In figures: the rise in long-term opioid use

Although overall opioid use in primary care has fallen in England, there has been a worrying increase in the number of patients taking them long term, and opioid deaths overall continue to rise.…

MHRA to consider evidence on transgenerational effects of sodium valproate

The regulator has asked the Commission on Human Medicines to look at data showing the transgenerational effects of sodium valproate in mice.…

Renal cancer: management

An overview of the most common forms of renal cancer, treatment options and the role of pharmacists in its management.…

Supported content

Discharge of bacteria from sewage into UK rivers risks antimicrobial resistance, experts warn

The chief medical officer for England, and the chairs of Ofwat and the Environment Agency, have said water companies are not doing enough to prevent sewage and coliforms from escaping into UK rivers.…

Government tax hikes on branded medicines ‘not sustainable’, warn manufacturers

The Department of Health and Social Care said the tax rate would increase to 14.3% in July 2022, and to 24.4% in 2023.…

Using genetic testing to prevent DPD toxicity

Testing for DPD deficiency is important to reduce the number of severe drug reactions and potential fatalities in patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment.…

Pharmacy consultations save nearly 100 GP appointments per practice per week, negotiators estimate

The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee said 80.7% of consultations “were as a result of patients self-referring into the pharmacy”.…