Cocaine has a long history of use in the treatment of pain and inflammation – and in recent decades as a recreational drug. Cocaine is an extract of the leaves of the coca plant, which has been grown in...

Since 1 April, medicines crucial to those suffering from cancer, Parkinson’s and motor neurone disease have become available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The listed medicines include brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris), safinamide (Xadago) and riluzole (Teglutik). Brentuximab vedotin Brentuximab vedotin is...

While around 176 million women worldwide suffer from endometriosis, awareness of the condition amongst both the public and healthcare practitioners remains low. Pharmacists can make a valuable impact by raising awareness of the symptoms of endometriosis and providing support...

In the first of a six-part series, we expand on the PSA Choosing Wisely recommendations. This month: beware the prescribing cascade. The decision to initiate a medication is a complex one1 and whilst prescribers strive to act in the best...

A recent survey by NPS MedicineWise has found that more than 7 million Australians take some form of complementary medicines every day. Fifty-nine per cent of these people were also found to be taking prescription medicines. In response, NPS...

Can oxybutynin be useful for some patients who are unsuited for hormonal pharmacotherapy? Some people might describe hot flashes as an unannounced and brief feeling of intense heat, with the sensation that their body is on fire and they...

The National Asthma Council Australia announced a significant update to the Australian Asthma Handbook earlier this month. Known as Handbook version 2.0, it will continue to form the national guidelines for diagnosis and management of asthma in primary care. Key...

Naloxone has long been used by emergency responders in cases of known or suspected opioid overdose. It has been accessible over-the-counter (OTC) in an injectable form since 2016, however, high costs, confidence in administration of injections, lack of awareness...

A new retrospective cohort study has found that self-poisoning, by ingesting psychotropic medicines, in Australian children and adolescents is increasing. The prescribed medicines often used in these self-harm episodes are not recommended for use in children. The study analysed...

A new cohort study has found that influenza-associated hospitalisation in children is significantly more likely in those with chronic lung diseases (CLDs), despite the availability of free vaccines. Expanding pharmacy vaccinations to include patients under the age of 16...