This is the text extract for 2011-03 Clinicians Newsletter, browse documents here.

Pharmaceutical Management Agency

GP Newsletter

Earthquake information Updates

“Make life easier, always prescribe generically”

March 2011

Firstly our thoughts go out to the people of Christchurch and their families at this tragic time. The Christchurch earthquake of 22 February 2011 has caused some disruption to medicine supplies. We will provide information on our website to keep you updated on medicine supply issues for the Canterbury region and the South Island. Please see http://www.pharmac.govt.nz/patients/EarthquakeUpdates Current items of interest are: • links to information on which community pharmacies are open and the services they are able to provide; • Medsafe fax regarding pharmacy emergency supply of medicines; • Pharmacist authorised Close Control for all prescriptions dispensed in the South Island.

Nicotine replacement therapy prescriptions reminder

The maximum dispensing rules for nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) were removed from 1 January 2011. We understand that this has resulted in uncertainty among some prescribers about quantities that should be prescribed. It appears that some prescribers are not including dose and quantity of supply on their prescriptions. Prescribers are reminded that all prescriptions must indicate the total quantity or period of supply, and include a dose and frequency. This is necessary to comply with regulation 41 of the Medicines Regulations 1984. For more information please refer to www.pharmac.govt.nz/2011/01/21/

Cerezyme – removal of Section 29 status

Cerezyme injection 40 iu per ml, 400 iu vial has been granted Ministerial Approval and no longer needs to be supplied under Section 29 of the Medicines Act 1981.

Infant Formula Discontinuation

As of 1 April 2011 all products listed under Infant Formula for Milk Intolerance and Lactose Intolerance and Cows’ Milk Protein Intolerance; Karicare Goats Milk Infant Formula, Delact, S26 and Karicare Soy All Ages will be delisted and no longer partially funded on prescription. These products will still be available for purchase at pharmacies and supermarkets.

Cilazapril Brand Change – Zapril

We have received a number of calls from patients, some on the advice of their doctor about the new brand of cilazapril, Zapril, in regards to the tablets breaking when taken out of the blister. We are in contact with the supplier, Mylan and are in the process of getting the tablets packaged into bottles rather than blisters to combat this issue. This information can be passed onto patients and we are happy to take calls in regards to this issue.

inPharmation

PHARMAC publishes a quarterly email newsletter, inPharmation, that includes news and updates on developments around PHARMAC and pharmaceutical issues. If you would like to receive inPharmation, contact simon.england@ pharmac.govt.nz.

Special Authority Queries: 0800 243 666 General Questions: 0800 66 00 50 (9am – 5pm Monday to Friday) Online: www.pharmac.govt.nz/healthpros/Schedule/PHONewsletter Inpharmation newsletter: www.pharmac.govt.nz/patients/ourviews/inpharmation Newsletter feedback: email rachel.mackay@pharmac.govt.nz Please note this is not a complete reference to all changes occurring from 1 March 2011, for the full reference; please consult your Update to the Pharmaceutical Schedule.