Guidance

Purchasing for safety

19 June 2024Using principles of purchasing for safety when making purchasing decisions supports the safe clinical use of medicines and can minimise inadvertent harm

Investigating suspected tampering with medicines

11 June 2024A systematic approach should be taken to responding to reports of possible malicious tampering, securing the evidence, and seeking specialist advice and support

Using and prescribing thiamine in alcohol dependence

6 June 2024Intramuscular and intravenous thiamine can be used to prevent complications of alcohol dependence such as Wernicke’s encephalopathy.

Treating lice during breastfeeding

31 May 2024Wet combing, dimeticone, malathion or permethrin can be used during breastfeeding; choice will depend on the indication. Other treatments can be considered.

Switching strategies for antidepressants

22 May 2024The choice of antidepressant switching strategy depends on the person and antidepressant. We describe the current strategies and their application.

Understanding enzyme or transporter-based drug interactions

22 May 2024Many interactions are due to inhibition or induction of metabolising enzymes or drug transporters. Enzyme, transporter, and drug half-lives dictate duration.

Prescribing and using thiamine to prevent refeeding syndrome

2 May 2024Intravenous thiamine for prevention of refeeding syndrome should be reserved for those with intestinal failure where the oral or enteral route is unavailable.

PGD planning explainer videos

1 May 2024Short videos explaining how to plan for the development of new, or review of existing Patient Group Directions (PGDs).

PGD supply and administration explainer videos

1 May 2024Short explanatory videos about the supply and administration of medicines under Patient Group Directions (PGDs).

PGDs in practice explainer videos

1 May 2024Short videos explaining Patient Group Directions (PGDs) and medicines mechanisms, and their use in practice.

SPS - Specialist Pharmacy Service

NHS