March 2024

New Auckland-based research into pollen levels shows a longer exposure to allergens than in earlier studies, as Paulette Crowley reports

ONE STRENGTH of oestradiol patches has run out and stocks of most other strengths are running low, as use of the patches doubles in New Zealand.

The wheels are in motion to replace Pharmaceutical Society president Rhiannon Braund, who is resigning to take on a new position. The University of Otago professor, who works at the New Zealand Pharmacovigilance Centre, will be preparing to head up the country’s third pharmacy school in Waikato from May. 

A “flagship” programme to build multidisciplinary general practice teams with more than 500 new staff will end not long after it has been widely implemented, a disappointed PHO clinical director says.

The Pharmacy Council is going ahead with its proposed $75 increase to the Annual Practising Certificate fee this year, despite opposition from the profession.

COSMETICS CONTAINING perand polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or “forever chemicals” will be banned from being imported or manufactured in New Zealand from 31 December 2026.

The Government will increase the supply of free COVID19 rapid antigen tests until June this year.

Early career pharmacists working in rural areas should this month be able to apply for a scheme that will net them a $12,000 bonus after three years.

THERE HAS BEEN another step towards re-establishing a group that will give advice on pharmacy services.

The Red Sea conflict has already started to delay shipments of medicines to New Zealand.