Medicines and Therapies

Over 30 tonnes of unwanted medical waste " the equivalent in weight of four elephants " has been correctly disposed of, thanks in part to a project that encourages people to return their unwanted medication to pharmacies

A project that encourages people to return their unwanted medication to pharmacies is proving to be a hit

The recent surprise audits of pharmacists in Auckland uncovered some issues around sildenafil. Dr Natalie Gauld, who was involved in the reclassification of the medicine, outlines why the strict criteria around dispensing it is important.

Community pharmacists can improve medicine safety in the wake of a report highlighting that about one-third of patients admitted to hospital are suffering some form of medicines-related harm. 

Community pharmacists who become suitably certified will be able to dispense the cancer treatment drug thalidomide from next month.

The New Zealand Medical Association looks set to again criticise the section of the Pharmacy Council's new code of ethics dealing with the supply of alternative medicine.