PJ, May 2023, Vol 310, No 7973

Genetic ‘biobank’ version of Yellow Card scheme to be piloted by drugs regulator

Genetic data and samples from patients who have experienced adverse side effects to medicines will be stored in the biobank, which will be used to determine whether the reaction was the result of a genetic trait.…

United States, Japan and Australia added to UK fast-track medicines approvals list

Medicines approved in countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Singapore and the United States will be eligible for the Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's fast-track approval route in 2024.…

PJ view: a pharmacogenomic revolution is gathering pace

There has been rapid progress in the use of pharmacogenomics in patient care over the past 18 months — and it appears to be just the start.…

Infographic: the resurgence of HRT

Prescribing of hormone replacement therapy for women in England has increased dramatically over the past decade, fuelled by rising demand amid greater awareness of its benefits and further evidence on its risks.…

Community Pharmacy Scotland rejects government’s funding offer for 2023/2024

The Community Pharmacy Scotland Board unanimously rejected the Scottish government's funding offer, saying it fears it "is not enough to keep our world-leading services running".…

Cystic fibrosis: management of non-respiratory manifestations

A closer look at the effects of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator dysfunction on the pancreas, liver and gastrointestinal tract, and the pharmacological management of these symptoms.…

One in five patients stop taking opioids for chronic pain after group support intervention, finds study

Of patients assigned to participate in group and 1-on-1 support sessions as part of their care, 29% had stopped taking opioids at the 12-month follow up, compared with 7% who received usual care.…

Pharmacists as scientists: debunking cancer myths using stories to communicate

The pick of the latest academic papers from Parastou Donyai, chief scientist at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.…

Heat-related illnesses: preparing for periods of high temperatures

With climate change making periods of high temperatures more likely, pharmacists need to engage in early preparation and provide effective support for heat-vulnerable individuals.…

Third of mental health hubs opened to support NHS staff during COVID-19 pandemic now closed 

The Royal College of Nursing has reported that 13 out of 41 mental health and wellbeing hubs have closed, and a further 7 have less than a year's funding left.…