This month's changes to the clinical content of these publications are described in three parts:
• BNF & BNFC update should be read by all users of the BNF or BNFC
• BNF update should be read by all users of the BNF
• BNFC update should be read by all users of the BNF for Children
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Epoetin beta (NeoRecormon®)
The MHRA have issued new advice when considering the use of epoetin beta (NeoRecormon®) for the prevention of anaemia of prematurity in premature infants. Due to the possible increased risk of retinopathy, prescribers should consider the risk versus benefits of treatment and monitor the infant for features of retinopathy. For more information see Epoetin beta, NeoRecormon.
Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole tablets (Ketoconazole HRA®) are now available for the treatment of endogenous Cushing's syndrome in adults and adolescents. Initiation should be carried out by specialists. Prescribers should be made aware of the potential risks of hepatotoxicity and adrenal insufficiency. Patients and their carers should be informed about how to recognise signs and symptoms of liver disorder and adrenal insufficiency, and to discontinue treatment and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, or dark urine develop. For more information, see Ketoconazole.
Pomalidomide
Pomalidomide may cause interstitial lung disease (ILD), cardiac failure and hepatotoxicity. Patients should be carefully assessed and monitored for signs and symptoms of cardiac failure and worsening of respiratory symptoms. Regular monitoring of liver function tests are also required. For more information, see Pomalidomide.
Amiodarone
New advice for the use of amiodarone in combination with sofosbuvir, daclatasvir, or sofosbuvir with ledipasvir has been issued by the MHRA. Concomitant use should be avoided unless an alternative antiarrhythmic cannot be given. Patients should be monitored carefully, particularly during the first weeks of treatment, and should be advised to seek urgent medical attention if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, light-headedness, palpitations or fainting. For more information see Amiodarone and Drug Safety Update (May 2015).
Drug information updates
You'll also find updated drug and prescribing information for a number of monographs this month, including aliskiren, sumatriptan, and omalizumab. For more information see the individual drugs.
Other changes
To review other changes in the BNF, click on changes.
Other changes
To review changes in BNFC, click on changes.
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