News

• Support for updated QOF diabetes targets
• Published on Jul 05, 2010

The new QOF targets for HbA1c and NICE guidance have improved diabetes care, according to a survey by Bristol-Myers Squibb and AstraZeneca.

• Tocilizumab in RA
• Published on Jul 05, 2010

A licence extension for the anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody tocilizumab (RoActemra) recognises its effects on joint damage and physical functioning.

• Denosumab: monoclonal to treat osteoporosis
• Published on Jun 19, 2010

Amgen has launched a mono­clonal antibody for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at increased risk of fractures, and for bone loss associated with hormone ablation in men with prostate cancer who are at increased risk of fractures.

• Scrip charge review for long-term conditions
• Published on Jun 19, 2010

The DoH has published the Gilmore report on introducing prescription charge exemption for people in England with long-term conditions (www.dh.gov.uk).

• Quinine not routine for treating leg cramps
• Published on Jun 19, 2010

Quinine should not be routinely prescribed to treat leg cramps, advises the MHRA in its latest newsletter (Drug Safety Update 2010;3:Issue 11).