td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28879 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 11:31:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-10 00:31:17 [post_content] => From guiding older patients on National Immunisation Program (NIP) stock to clarifying second-dose rules, here’s what pharmacists need to know about the 2025 influenza season.1. Patients aged 65 years and older should wait for NIP stock to arrive
By this time of the year, most pharmacies will have ordered and received private stock of influenza vaccines. But for the 2025 season, deliveries of NIP are expected to commence around late March, following the confirmation of pre-allocated orders by pharmacies. Older patients who present to the pharmacy requesting an influenza vaccine should be advised to wait until NIP stock arrives for optimum protection. Patients who are 65 years and over should receive the NIP-funded Fluad Quad 0.50 mL vaccine or Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, adjuvanted quadrivalent vaccines designed to boost the immune system's response to the vaccine. These vaccines help to generate a stronger and more sustained antibody response, providing better protection against influenza and its complications in this vulnerable age cohort – reducing hospitalisations and severe outcomes from influenza.2. Patients (mostly) only need one dose of an influenza vaccine
If a patient received an influenza vaccine earlier on in the season and is concerned about waning immunity – one vaccine is still enough. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to justify routinely administering a second influenza vaccine dose within the same season. Optimal protection from the influenza vaccine persists for around 3–4 months after vaccination. While the vaccine’s effectiveness begins to wane after this point, most patients should be sufficiently protected throughout the season. However, there are some exceptions. Patients eligible for a second dose include:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28864 [post_author] => 9832 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 10:32:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 23:32:16 [post_content] => Family and friend carers are essential members of the care team who often provide invaluable medication management support to the people they care for. [caption id="attachment_28875" align="alignright" width="300"]This article was sponsored and developed in collaboration with PSA and Carers NSW[/caption] However, pharmacists may perceive medication errors or non-adherence as a carer’s inability to fulfil this role,1 instead of an opportunity for improving education and support. Ensuring that carers are identified by pharmacists as members of the patient’s care team, included in discussions about the patient’s care and supported to fulfil their role is key to ensuring quality use of medicines and optimal outcomes for patients and carers. Across Australia, there are approximately 3 million carers who provide unpaid care or support to a family member or friend living with disability, mental illness, chronic or life-limiting illness, drug or alcohol dependency or who is ageing or frail.2 This includes at least 391,300 children and young people under 25 years of age.2 A carer may be a parent, partner, sibling, relative, child, friend or neighbour of the person requiring care. Carers come from all walks of life, and anyone can become a carer at any time. Carers are diverse and each caring experience is different. Carers provide a wide range of supports to help the person they care for to remain living at home and in the community. They may also provide ongoing support for someone living temporarily or permanently in residential care. This support can include personal care, domestic assistance, support with navigating and coordinating health and disability services, emotional and social support, as well as assistance with communication, decision making and advocacy.3 Pharmacies are a common setting that carers visit with, or on behalf of, the person they care for. Carers may support with:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28858 [post_author] => 7616 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 09:21:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:21:35 [post_content] => Food can act as a prompt for medicine administration and be an easy way for patients to incorporate doses into their routines.Explaining to patients that they should take a medicine on an empty stomach or in a specific way away from food may not always be met with great enthusiasm! Confusion, and not fitting into a patient’s routine where possible, can lead to poor adherence and negative patient outcomes.
Why does food sometimes matter?
Food, or the absence of it, may significantly impact systemic exposure, safety, tolerability and effectiveness of a medicine, depending on its pharmacokinetics and adverse effects.
Take alendronate for example – the product information (PI) recommends taking it at least 30 minutes before the first food of the day as its bioavailability is negligible when taken with or up to 2 hours after a meal.1,2
Why do some PIs have a differing definition of an ‘empty stomach’?
This may stem from Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance in America, where many medicines are first introduced to the market.
FDA guidance for medicine sponsors suggests that if a medicine needs to be taken in fasted conditions, studies using an overnight fast of at least 10 hours before medicine administration, and waiting at least 4 hours after the dose before eating, are optimal. However, this might not be practical for all medicines and patients. It is then up to the medicine’s sponsor to provide pharmacokinetic data to support pragmatic and realistic dosing instructions for patients to separate food and medicine administration. Sponsors can use modified fasting conditions with differing separation times, and must consider frequency of medicine dosing, the likely demographics of the patient, the condition being treated and any other relevant factors.3 These could vary significantly between different medicines!
Why does CAL 3b say something different to the PI?
The Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary and Handbook (APF) considers that an empty stomach for the purposes of medicine absorption is ‘at least half an hour before food or two hours after food’, as reflected in the wording of Cautionary Advisory Label (CAL) 3b.4,5
This standardised approach is to ensure medicine instructions are simplified and practical for patients, and may differ from the medicine’s PI. Remember, CALs are intended to be used as an adjunct, not a replacement, to verbal counselling.5
Consider adherence and use professional judgement when providing advice on dose administration.
This may require weighing up optimal dose timing and adherence if a patient can’t easily accommodate the timing of doses, particularly when treating chronic conditions.4
References
[post_title] => What is an empty stomach? [post_excerpt] => Confusion around what's meant by an empty stomach can lead to poor adherence. Here's how clear instructions can make a world of difference. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-is-an-empty-stomach [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-10 09:24:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:24:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28858 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => What is an empty stomach? [title] => What is an empty stomach? [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/what-is-an-empty-stomach/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28860 [authorType] => )
- Therapeutic Goods Administration. Fosamax Plus Product Information. 2024. At: www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg/136846
- Alendronate. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference; [updated 30 Oct 2024]. At: www.medicinescomplete.com/#/content/martindale/22524-r?hspl=alendronate#content%2Fmartindale%2F22524-r%2319721-a3-v
- US Food and Drug Administration. Assessing the effects of food on drugs in INDs and NDAs – clinical pharmacology considerations: guidance for industry. 2022. At: www.fda.gov/media/121313/download
- Grannell, L. When should I take my medicines? Aust Prescr 2019;42:86–9.
- Sansom LN, ed. Cautionary advisory labels Explanatory notes. Australian pharmaceutical formulary and handbook; [updated 2024 Jul 24]. At: https://apf.psa.org.au/dispensing-and-labelling/cautionary-advisory-labels/explanatory-notes
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28792 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 12:30:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 01:30:37 [post_content] => PSA announced the winners of the PSA New South Wales Excellence Awards at the Annual Therapeutic Update over the weekend, recognising outstanding pharmacists who have demonstrated excellence in their practice and dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for their communities. PSA NSW President Luke Kelly congratulated each of the award recipients, highlighting their dedication to the pharmacy profession and improving patient care. ‘Each of these award winners has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for improving health outcomes in their communities. Their contributions to the profession exemplify some of the best of pharmacy in NSW,’ he said. ‘Their dedication and leadership inspire the entire profession, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.’ Australian Pharmacist takes a look at the achievements of this year’s winning cohort.Pharmacist of the Year – Ammar Altayib MPS
Now a PhD candidate, former Sudanese refugee and NSW Pharmacist of the Year Ammar Altayib has been a clinical pharmacist for the past 7 years and has been nominated twice in recent years for patient safety awards for the Southern NSW Local Health District. With numerous academic qualifications including a Masters in Pharmacy, the father of four, in addition to his hospital role, also works on Saturdays at Queanbeyan Pharmacy, teaches Arabic and is a leader in his local community. While nominated for the AdPha Clinical Pharmacy Award last year, he instead took out the African Australian Inc Academic and Professional Excellence Award.
Lifetime Achievement Award – David North OAM MPS
David North OAM has been awarded the PSA NSW Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his 5 decades of outstanding service to pharmacy and the Illawarra community. His career has spanned community pharmacy ownership, hospital pharmacy leadership, and significant contributions to professional development and mentorship. David has played a key role in numerous community health initiatives, including projects on palliative care medication access, smoking cessation, asthma management, and opioid safety. His dedication to promoting medication safety and pharmacy’s role in public health has had a lasting impact. A PSA Life Member and long-time advocate for the profession, David has also served as a peer reviewer, mentor, and board member of the Pharmacists Support Service. His leadership, commitment to patient care, and advocacy have left a profound legacy, making him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Lily Pham MPS
NSW Early Career Pharmacist of the Year Lily Pham has quickly established herself as a leader in pharmacy. As Vice President of the PSA NSW Branch Committee, she has played a key role in policy submissions, stakeholder engagement, and expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice, particularly in mental health. She has presented at PSA events, met with politicians, and contributed to PSA’s Medicine Safety: Mental Health report. Lily is also undertaking a PhD at the University of Sydney, focusing on perinatal mental healthcare and the role of pharmacists in mental health screening. She works across hospital, community, and primary care settings, ensuring broad patient impact. A dedicated mentor, she supports early career pharmacists and leads professional development initiatives. Her commitment to patient care, research, and professional engagement makes her a deserving recipient of this award.
Intern of the Year – Peter Figliuzzi
NSW Intern of the Year Peter Figliuzzi is recognised for his leadership, initiative, and commitment to patient care. During his intern year, Peter developed a hospital discharge medication management system to ensure patients understood medication changes, reducing confusion and enhancing adherence. His proactive engagement with Veteran patients improved health outcomes through tailored MedsChecks and stronger patient-provider relationships. Additionally, he streamlined vaccination services by creating a patient recall system, improving vaccination rates in his community. Peter’s continued dedication to patient safety, quality use of medicines, and professional collaboration makes him a deserving recipient of this award. [post_title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [post_excerpt] => Four exemplary pharmacists were celebrated for their leadership, community impact, and commitment to health innovation. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:19:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:19:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28792 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28806 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28795 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 11:54:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 00:54:16 [post_content] => The semaglutide crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Will Australia's stock soon be replenished? Ozempic has been on the market since 2017. But a 2021 clinical trial, linking Ozempic to significant weight loss, led to an explosion in off-label use of the drug. As such, Ozempic has been in short supply worldwide since 2022, with demand, fuelled by off-label use for weight loss, massively outstripping supply. The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) has been on the Therapeutic Goods Administration's (TGA’s) medicine shortage database since April 2022. But the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has officially declared that the Ozempic and Wegovy shortage is over, with supply now meeting demand. Similar to Australia, the FDA declared that selling or making compounded versions of these drugs is now rendered illegal, with rare exceptions – since the drug is no longer considered to be in short supply. All doses of these GLP-1RA medicines are being continuously shipped, supported by 24/7 production and significant investments in manufacturing, said Novo Nordisk. ‘We are pleased the FDA has declared that supply of the only real, FDA-approved semaglutide medicines is resolved, affirming that Novo Nordisk is meeting or exceeding current and projected nationwide demand,’ said Dave Moore, Executive Vice President, US. Operations and Global Business Development and President of Novo Nordisk Inc. ‘No one should have to compromise their health due to misinformation and reach for fake or illegitimate knockoff drugs that pose significant safety risks to patients.’ According to some, the move is premature. The FDA has been hit with lawsuits by a trade associate and compounders for what they claim is an improper reliance on the manufacturers' assurances that they could meet demand, without taking into account evidence showing that patients were still struggling to access the medicines.Could Australia follow suit?
Not yet. Novo Nordisk has informed the TGA that supply of Ozempic will continue to be limited until 31 December 2025, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk told Australian Pharmacist. ‘This is due to the continued, unprecedented demand for Ozempic in Australia and around the world,’ said the spokesperson. Novo Nordisk said it has continued to make significant investments to expand its global manufacturing capacity and meet demand to the greatest extent possible. ‘Since 2023, Novo Nordisk has committed to investing at least 41 billion AUD to build production capacity,’ said the spokesperson. ‘However, it takes time to build supply levels to meet global and local demand.’ It’s important to continue to follow the joint guidance issued by the TGA and various professional bodies on this matter, said the spokesperson. ‘Novo Nordisk will continue to work with the TGA to provide updates on this matter.’What does the TGA advise?
Pharmacists are advised to inform patients that supply of Ozempic is expected to be limited in 2025 and discuss alternative treatments when patients are unable to access the medicine. The TGA has said that both Ozempic and Wegovy should be prescribed and supplied according to their approved indications; for the management of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management respectively. ‘Pharmacists should be aware that stock availability can change and sudden spikes in demand due to stockpiling or off-label use may affect continuity of care for patients stabilised on Ozempic,’ said the TGA.Will GLP-1 RAs be subsidised for weight loss?
While Ozempic is subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for type 2 diabetes, there is no GLP-1 RA that is TGA indicated for weight loss that is currently subsidised under the PBS. As a result, Australians using Wegovy for weight loss must pay approximately $250–500 out of pocket each month. However, since early 2025, in the United Kingdom, people who meet certain BMI criteria and have at least one weight-related co-morbidity have been able to access semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight management. In November 2023, PBAC reviewed Novo Nordisk’s request to list semaglutide on the PBS for adults with severe obesity and at least two weight-related conditions, including obstructive sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis of the knee, or pre-diabetes. PBAC rejected the proposal, citing concerns it didn’t consider the drug cost-effective at the price proposed. While recognising the long-term benefits of weight loss for people at risk of developing heart disease, diabetes or stroke, these were not factored into its cost-effectiveness assessment. PBAC suggested a future submission focus on patients with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or multiple high-risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, or kidney disease. Novo Nordisk previously told AP that it plans to resubmit an application to PBAC for Wegovy, factoring in these conditions since the drug’s new TGA indication for cardiovascular disease. ‘Novo Nordisk plans to resubmit Wegovy to the PBAC in 2025,’ said the spokesperson. [post_title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [post_excerpt] => The Ozempic crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Could Australia's stock levels soon be replenished? [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:17:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:17:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28795 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 24425 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28879 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 11:31:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-10 00:31:17 [post_content] => From guiding older patients on National Immunisation Program (NIP) stock to clarifying second-dose rules, here’s what pharmacists need to know about the 2025 influenza season.1. Patients aged 65 years and older should wait for NIP stock to arrive
By this time of the year, most pharmacies will have ordered and received private stock of influenza vaccines. But for the 2025 season, deliveries of NIP are expected to commence around late March, following the confirmation of pre-allocated orders by pharmacies. Older patients who present to the pharmacy requesting an influenza vaccine should be advised to wait until NIP stock arrives for optimum protection. Patients who are 65 years and over should receive the NIP-funded Fluad Quad 0.50 mL vaccine or Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, adjuvanted quadrivalent vaccines designed to boost the immune system's response to the vaccine. These vaccines help to generate a stronger and more sustained antibody response, providing better protection against influenza and its complications in this vulnerable age cohort – reducing hospitalisations and severe outcomes from influenza.2. Patients (mostly) only need one dose of an influenza vaccine
If a patient received an influenza vaccine earlier on in the season and is concerned about waning immunity – one vaccine is still enough. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to justify routinely administering a second influenza vaccine dose within the same season. Optimal protection from the influenza vaccine persists for around 3–4 months after vaccination. While the vaccine’s effectiveness begins to wane after this point, most patients should be sufficiently protected throughout the season. However, there are some exceptions. Patients eligible for a second dose include:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28864 [post_author] => 9832 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 10:32:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 23:32:16 [post_content] => Family and friend carers are essential members of the care team who often provide invaluable medication management support to the people they care for. [caption id="attachment_28875" align="alignright" width="300"]This article was sponsored and developed in collaboration with PSA and Carers NSW[/caption] However, pharmacists may perceive medication errors or non-adherence as a carer’s inability to fulfil this role,1 instead of an opportunity for improving education and support. Ensuring that carers are identified by pharmacists as members of the patient’s care team, included in discussions about the patient’s care and supported to fulfil their role is key to ensuring quality use of medicines and optimal outcomes for patients and carers. Across Australia, there are approximately 3 million carers who provide unpaid care or support to a family member or friend living with disability, mental illness, chronic or life-limiting illness, drug or alcohol dependency or who is ageing or frail.2 This includes at least 391,300 children and young people under 25 years of age.2 A carer may be a parent, partner, sibling, relative, child, friend or neighbour of the person requiring care. Carers come from all walks of life, and anyone can become a carer at any time. Carers are diverse and each caring experience is different. Carers provide a wide range of supports to help the person they care for to remain living at home and in the community. They may also provide ongoing support for someone living temporarily or permanently in residential care. This support can include personal care, domestic assistance, support with navigating and coordinating health and disability services, emotional and social support, as well as assistance with communication, decision making and advocacy.3 Pharmacies are a common setting that carers visit with, or on behalf of, the person they care for. Carers may support with:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28858 [post_author] => 7616 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 09:21:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:21:35 [post_content] => Food can act as a prompt for medicine administration and be an easy way for patients to incorporate doses into their routines.Explaining to patients that they should take a medicine on an empty stomach or in a specific way away from food may not always be met with great enthusiasm! Confusion, and not fitting into a patient’s routine where possible, can lead to poor adherence and negative patient outcomes.
Why does food sometimes matter?
Food, or the absence of it, may significantly impact systemic exposure, safety, tolerability and effectiveness of a medicine, depending on its pharmacokinetics and adverse effects.
Take alendronate for example – the product information (PI) recommends taking it at least 30 minutes before the first food of the day as its bioavailability is negligible when taken with or up to 2 hours after a meal.1,2
Why do some PIs have a differing definition of an ‘empty stomach’?
This may stem from Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance in America, where many medicines are first introduced to the market.
FDA guidance for medicine sponsors suggests that if a medicine needs to be taken in fasted conditions, studies using an overnight fast of at least 10 hours before medicine administration, and waiting at least 4 hours after the dose before eating, are optimal. However, this might not be practical for all medicines and patients. It is then up to the medicine’s sponsor to provide pharmacokinetic data to support pragmatic and realistic dosing instructions for patients to separate food and medicine administration. Sponsors can use modified fasting conditions with differing separation times, and must consider frequency of medicine dosing, the likely demographics of the patient, the condition being treated and any other relevant factors.3 These could vary significantly between different medicines!
Why does CAL 3b say something different to the PI?
The Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary and Handbook (APF) considers that an empty stomach for the purposes of medicine absorption is ‘at least half an hour before food or two hours after food’, as reflected in the wording of Cautionary Advisory Label (CAL) 3b.4,5
This standardised approach is to ensure medicine instructions are simplified and practical for patients, and may differ from the medicine’s PI. Remember, CALs are intended to be used as an adjunct, not a replacement, to verbal counselling.5
Consider adherence and use professional judgement when providing advice on dose administration.
This may require weighing up optimal dose timing and adherence if a patient can’t easily accommodate the timing of doses, particularly when treating chronic conditions.4
References
[post_title] => What is an empty stomach? [post_excerpt] => Confusion around what's meant by an empty stomach can lead to poor adherence. Here's how clear instructions can make a world of difference. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-is-an-empty-stomach [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-10 09:24:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:24:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28858 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => What is an empty stomach? [title] => What is an empty stomach? [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/what-is-an-empty-stomach/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28860 [authorType] => )
- Therapeutic Goods Administration. Fosamax Plus Product Information. 2024. At: www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg/136846
- Alendronate. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference; [updated 30 Oct 2024]. At: www.medicinescomplete.com/#/content/martindale/22524-r?hspl=alendronate#content%2Fmartindale%2F22524-r%2319721-a3-v
- US Food and Drug Administration. Assessing the effects of food on drugs in INDs and NDAs – clinical pharmacology considerations: guidance for industry. 2022. At: www.fda.gov/media/121313/download
- Grannell, L. When should I take my medicines? Aust Prescr 2019;42:86–9.
- Sansom LN, ed. Cautionary advisory labels Explanatory notes. Australian pharmaceutical formulary and handbook; [updated 2024 Jul 24]. At: https://apf.psa.org.au/dispensing-and-labelling/cautionary-advisory-labels/explanatory-notes
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28792 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 12:30:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 01:30:37 [post_content] => PSA announced the winners of the PSA New South Wales Excellence Awards at the Annual Therapeutic Update over the weekend, recognising outstanding pharmacists who have demonstrated excellence in their practice and dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for their communities. PSA NSW President Luke Kelly congratulated each of the award recipients, highlighting their dedication to the pharmacy profession and improving patient care. ‘Each of these award winners has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for improving health outcomes in their communities. Their contributions to the profession exemplify some of the best of pharmacy in NSW,’ he said. ‘Their dedication and leadership inspire the entire profession, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.’ Australian Pharmacist takes a look at the achievements of this year’s winning cohort.Pharmacist of the Year – Ammar Altayib MPS
Now a PhD candidate, former Sudanese refugee and NSW Pharmacist of the Year Ammar Altayib has been a clinical pharmacist for the past 7 years and has been nominated twice in recent years for patient safety awards for the Southern NSW Local Health District. With numerous academic qualifications including a Masters in Pharmacy, the father of four, in addition to his hospital role, also works on Saturdays at Queanbeyan Pharmacy, teaches Arabic and is a leader in his local community. While nominated for the AdPha Clinical Pharmacy Award last year, he instead took out the African Australian Inc Academic and Professional Excellence Award.
Lifetime Achievement Award – David North OAM MPS
David North OAM has been awarded the PSA NSW Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his 5 decades of outstanding service to pharmacy and the Illawarra community. His career has spanned community pharmacy ownership, hospital pharmacy leadership, and significant contributions to professional development and mentorship. David has played a key role in numerous community health initiatives, including projects on palliative care medication access, smoking cessation, asthma management, and opioid safety. His dedication to promoting medication safety and pharmacy’s role in public health has had a lasting impact. A PSA Life Member and long-time advocate for the profession, David has also served as a peer reviewer, mentor, and board member of the Pharmacists Support Service. His leadership, commitment to patient care, and advocacy have left a profound legacy, making him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Lily Pham MPS
NSW Early Career Pharmacist of the Year Lily Pham has quickly established herself as a leader in pharmacy. As Vice President of the PSA NSW Branch Committee, she has played a key role in policy submissions, stakeholder engagement, and expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice, particularly in mental health. She has presented at PSA events, met with politicians, and contributed to PSA’s Medicine Safety: Mental Health report. Lily is also undertaking a PhD at the University of Sydney, focusing on perinatal mental healthcare and the role of pharmacists in mental health screening. She works across hospital, community, and primary care settings, ensuring broad patient impact. A dedicated mentor, she supports early career pharmacists and leads professional development initiatives. Her commitment to patient care, research, and professional engagement makes her a deserving recipient of this award.
Intern of the Year – Peter Figliuzzi
NSW Intern of the Year Peter Figliuzzi is recognised for his leadership, initiative, and commitment to patient care. During his intern year, Peter developed a hospital discharge medication management system to ensure patients understood medication changes, reducing confusion and enhancing adherence. His proactive engagement with Veteran patients improved health outcomes through tailored MedsChecks and stronger patient-provider relationships. Additionally, he streamlined vaccination services by creating a patient recall system, improving vaccination rates in his community. Peter’s continued dedication to patient safety, quality use of medicines, and professional collaboration makes him a deserving recipient of this award. [post_title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [post_excerpt] => Four exemplary pharmacists were celebrated for their leadership, community impact, and commitment to health innovation. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:19:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:19:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28792 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28806 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28795 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 11:54:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 00:54:16 [post_content] => The semaglutide crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Will Australia's stock soon be replenished? Ozempic has been on the market since 2017. But a 2021 clinical trial, linking Ozempic to significant weight loss, led to an explosion in off-label use of the drug. As such, Ozempic has been in short supply worldwide since 2022, with demand, fuelled by off-label use for weight loss, massively outstripping supply. The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) has been on the Therapeutic Goods Administration's (TGA’s) medicine shortage database since April 2022. But the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has officially declared that the Ozempic and Wegovy shortage is over, with supply now meeting demand. Similar to Australia, the FDA declared that selling or making compounded versions of these drugs is now rendered illegal, with rare exceptions – since the drug is no longer considered to be in short supply. All doses of these GLP-1RA medicines are being continuously shipped, supported by 24/7 production and significant investments in manufacturing, said Novo Nordisk. ‘We are pleased the FDA has declared that supply of the only real, FDA-approved semaglutide medicines is resolved, affirming that Novo Nordisk is meeting or exceeding current and projected nationwide demand,’ said Dave Moore, Executive Vice President, US. Operations and Global Business Development and President of Novo Nordisk Inc. ‘No one should have to compromise their health due to misinformation and reach for fake or illegitimate knockoff drugs that pose significant safety risks to patients.’ According to some, the move is premature. The FDA has been hit with lawsuits by a trade associate and compounders for what they claim is an improper reliance on the manufacturers' assurances that they could meet demand, without taking into account evidence showing that patients were still struggling to access the medicines.Could Australia follow suit?
Not yet. Novo Nordisk has informed the TGA that supply of Ozempic will continue to be limited until 31 December 2025, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk told Australian Pharmacist. ‘This is due to the continued, unprecedented demand for Ozempic in Australia and around the world,’ said the spokesperson. Novo Nordisk said it has continued to make significant investments to expand its global manufacturing capacity and meet demand to the greatest extent possible. ‘Since 2023, Novo Nordisk has committed to investing at least 41 billion AUD to build production capacity,’ said the spokesperson. ‘However, it takes time to build supply levels to meet global and local demand.’ It’s important to continue to follow the joint guidance issued by the TGA and various professional bodies on this matter, said the spokesperson. ‘Novo Nordisk will continue to work with the TGA to provide updates on this matter.’What does the TGA advise?
Pharmacists are advised to inform patients that supply of Ozempic is expected to be limited in 2025 and discuss alternative treatments when patients are unable to access the medicine. The TGA has said that both Ozempic and Wegovy should be prescribed and supplied according to their approved indications; for the management of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management respectively. ‘Pharmacists should be aware that stock availability can change and sudden spikes in demand due to stockpiling or off-label use may affect continuity of care for patients stabilised on Ozempic,’ said the TGA.Will GLP-1 RAs be subsidised for weight loss?
While Ozempic is subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for type 2 diabetes, there is no GLP-1 RA that is TGA indicated for weight loss that is currently subsidised under the PBS. As a result, Australians using Wegovy for weight loss must pay approximately $250–500 out of pocket each month. However, since early 2025, in the United Kingdom, people who meet certain BMI criteria and have at least one weight-related co-morbidity have been able to access semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight management. In November 2023, PBAC reviewed Novo Nordisk’s request to list semaglutide on the PBS for adults with severe obesity and at least two weight-related conditions, including obstructive sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis of the knee, or pre-diabetes. PBAC rejected the proposal, citing concerns it didn’t consider the drug cost-effective at the price proposed. While recognising the long-term benefits of weight loss for people at risk of developing heart disease, diabetes or stroke, these were not factored into its cost-effectiveness assessment. PBAC suggested a future submission focus on patients with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or multiple high-risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, or kidney disease. Novo Nordisk previously told AP that it plans to resubmit an application to PBAC for Wegovy, factoring in these conditions since the drug’s new TGA indication for cardiovascular disease. ‘Novo Nordisk plans to resubmit Wegovy to the PBAC in 2025,’ said the spokesperson. [post_title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [post_excerpt] => The Ozempic crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Could Australia's stock levels soon be replenished? [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:17:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:17:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28795 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 24425 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28879 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 11:31:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-10 00:31:17 [post_content] => From guiding older patients on National Immunisation Program (NIP) stock to clarifying second-dose rules, here’s what pharmacists need to know about the 2025 influenza season.1. Patients aged 65 years and older should wait for NIP stock to arrive
By this time of the year, most pharmacies will have ordered and received private stock of influenza vaccines. But for the 2025 season, deliveries of NIP are expected to commence around late March, following the confirmation of pre-allocated orders by pharmacies. Older patients who present to the pharmacy requesting an influenza vaccine should be advised to wait until NIP stock arrives for optimum protection. Patients who are 65 years and over should receive the NIP-funded Fluad Quad 0.50 mL vaccine or Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, adjuvanted quadrivalent vaccines designed to boost the immune system's response to the vaccine. These vaccines help to generate a stronger and more sustained antibody response, providing better protection against influenza and its complications in this vulnerable age cohort – reducing hospitalisations and severe outcomes from influenza.2. Patients (mostly) only need one dose of an influenza vaccine
If a patient received an influenza vaccine earlier on in the season and is concerned about waning immunity – one vaccine is still enough. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to justify routinely administering a second influenza vaccine dose within the same season. Optimal protection from the influenza vaccine persists for around 3–4 months after vaccination. While the vaccine’s effectiveness begins to wane after this point, most patients should be sufficiently protected throughout the season. However, there are some exceptions. Patients eligible for a second dose include:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28864 [post_author] => 9832 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 10:32:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 23:32:16 [post_content] => Family and friend carers are essential members of the care team who often provide invaluable medication management support to the people they care for. [caption id="attachment_28875" align="alignright" width="300"]This article was sponsored and developed in collaboration with PSA and Carers NSW[/caption] However, pharmacists may perceive medication errors or non-adherence as a carer’s inability to fulfil this role,1 instead of an opportunity for improving education and support. Ensuring that carers are identified by pharmacists as members of the patient’s care team, included in discussions about the patient’s care and supported to fulfil their role is key to ensuring quality use of medicines and optimal outcomes for patients and carers. Across Australia, there are approximately 3 million carers who provide unpaid care or support to a family member or friend living with disability, mental illness, chronic or life-limiting illness, drug or alcohol dependency or who is ageing or frail.2 This includes at least 391,300 children and young people under 25 years of age.2 A carer may be a parent, partner, sibling, relative, child, friend or neighbour of the person requiring care. Carers come from all walks of life, and anyone can become a carer at any time. Carers are diverse and each caring experience is different. Carers provide a wide range of supports to help the person they care for to remain living at home and in the community. They may also provide ongoing support for someone living temporarily or permanently in residential care. This support can include personal care, domestic assistance, support with navigating and coordinating health and disability services, emotional and social support, as well as assistance with communication, decision making and advocacy.3 Pharmacies are a common setting that carers visit with, or on behalf of, the person they care for. Carers may support with:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28858 [post_author] => 7616 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 09:21:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:21:35 [post_content] => Food can act as a prompt for medicine administration and be an easy way for patients to incorporate doses into their routines.Explaining to patients that they should take a medicine on an empty stomach or in a specific way away from food may not always be met with great enthusiasm! Confusion, and not fitting into a patient’s routine where possible, can lead to poor adherence and negative patient outcomes.
Why does food sometimes matter?
Food, or the absence of it, may significantly impact systemic exposure, safety, tolerability and effectiveness of a medicine, depending on its pharmacokinetics and adverse effects.
Take alendronate for example – the product information (PI) recommends taking it at least 30 minutes before the first food of the day as its bioavailability is negligible when taken with or up to 2 hours after a meal.1,2
Why do some PIs have a differing definition of an ‘empty stomach’?
This may stem from Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance in America, where many medicines are first introduced to the market.
FDA guidance for medicine sponsors suggests that if a medicine needs to be taken in fasted conditions, studies using an overnight fast of at least 10 hours before medicine administration, and waiting at least 4 hours after the dose before eating, are optimal. However, this might not be practical for all medicines and patients. It is then up to the medicine’s sponsor to provide pharmacokinetic data to support pragmatic and realistic dosing instructions for patients to separate food and medicine administration. Sponsors can use modified fasting conditions with differing separation times, and must consider frequency of medicine dosing, the likely demographics of the patient, the condition being treated and any other relevant factors.3 These could vary significantly between different medicines!
Why does CAL 3b say something different to the PI?
The Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary and Handbook (APF) considers that an empty stomach for the purposes of medicine absorption is ‘at least half an hour before food or two hours after food’, as reflected in the wording of Cautionary Advisory Label (CAL) 3b.4,5
This standardised approach is to ensure medicine instructions are simplified and practical for patients, and may differ from the medicine’s PI. Remember, CALs are intended to be used as an adjunct, not a replacement, to verbal counselling.5
Consider adherence and use professional judgement when providing advice on dose administration.
This may require weighing up optimal dose timing and adherence if a patient can’t easily accommodate the timing of doses, particularly when treating chronic conditions.4
References
[post_title] => What is an empty stomach? [post_excerpt] => Confusion around what's meant by an empty stomach can lead to poor adherence. Here's how clear instructions can make a world of difference. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-is-an-empty-stomach [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-10 09:24:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:24:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28858 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => What is an empty stomach? [title] => What is an empty stomach? [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/what-is-an-empty-stomach/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28860 [authorType] => )
- Therapeutic Goods Administration. Fosamax Plus Product Information. 2024. At: www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg/136846
- Alendronate. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference; [updated 30 Oct 2024]. At: www.medicinescomplete.com/#/content/martindale/22524-r?hspl=alendronate#content%2Fmartindale%2F22524-r%2319721-a3-v
- US Food and Drug Administration. Assessing the effects of food on drugs in INDs and NDAs – clinical pharmacology considerations: guidance for industry. 2022. At: www.fda.gov/media/121313/download
- Grannell, L. When should I take my medicines? Aust Prescr 2019;42:86–9.
- Sansom LN, ed. Cautionary advisory labels Explanatory notes. Australian pharmaceutical formulary and handbook; [updated 2024 Jul 24]. At: https://apf.psa.org.au/dispensing-and-labelling/cautionary-advisory-labels/explanatory-notes
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28792 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 12:30:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 01:30:37 [post_content] => PSA announced the winners of the PSA New South Wales Excellence Awards at the Annual Therapeutic Update over the weekend, recognising outstanding pharmacists who have demonstrated excellence in their practice and dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for their communities. PSA NSW President Luke Kelly congratulated each of the award recipients, highlighting their dedication to the pharmacy profession and improving patient care. ‘Each of these award winners has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for improving health outcomes in their communities. Their contributions to the profession exemplify some of the best of pharmacy in NSW,’ he said. ‘Their dedication and leadership inspire the entire profession, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.’ Australian Pharmacist takes a look at the achievements of this year’s winning cohort.Pharmacist of the Year – Ammar Altayib MPS
Now a PhD candidate, former Sudanese refugee and NSW Pharmacist of the Year Ammar Altayib has been a clinical pharmacist for the past 7 years and has been nominated twice in recent years for patient safety awards for the Southern NSW Local Health District. With numerous academic qualifications including a Masters in Pharmacy, the father of four, in addition to his hospital role, also works on Saturdays at Queanbeyan Pharmacy, teaches Arabic and is a leader in his local community. While nominated for the AdPha Clinical Pharmacy Award last year, he instead took out the African Australian Inc Academic and Professional Excellence Award.
Lifetime Achievement Award – David North OAM MPS
David North OAM has been awarded the PSA NSW Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his 5 decades of outstanding service to pharmacy and the Illawarra community. His career has spanned community pharmacy ownership, hospital pharmacy leadership, and significant contributions to professional development and mentorship. David has played a key role in numerous community health initiatives, including projects on palliative care medication access, smoking cessation, asthma management, and opioid safety. His dedication to promoting medication safety and pharmacy’s role in public health has had a lasting impact. A PSA Life Member and long-time advocate for the profession, David has also served as a peer reviewer, mentor, and board member of the Pharmacists Support Service. His leadership, commitment to patient care, and advocacy have left a profound legacy, making him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Lily Pham MPS
NSW Early Career Pharmacist of the Year Lily Pham has quickly established herself as a leader in pharmacy. As Vice President of the PSA NSW Branch Committee, she has played a key role in policy submissions, stakeholder engagement, and expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice, particularly in mental health. She has presented at PSA events, met with politicians, and contributed to PSA’s Medicine Safety: Mental Health report. Lily is also undertaking a PhD at the University of Sydney, focusing on perinatal mental healthcare and the role of pharmacists in mental health screening. She works across hospital, community, and primary care settings, ensuring broad patient impact. A dedicated mentor, she supports early career pharmacists and leads professional development initiatives. Her commitment to patient care, research, and professional engagement makes her a deserving recipient of this award.
Intern of the Year – Peter Figliuzzi
NSW Intern of the Year Peter Figliuzzi is recognised for his leadership, initiative, and commitment to patient care. During his intern year, Peter developed a hospital discharge medication management system to ensure patients understood medication changes, reducing confusion and enhancing adherence. His proactive engagement with Veteran patients improved health outcomes through tailored MedsChecks and stronger patient-provider relationships. Additionally, he streamlined vaccination services by creating a patient recall system, improving vaccination rates in his community. Peter’s continued dedication to patient safety, quality use of medicines, and professional collaboration makes him a deserving recipient of this award. [post_title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [post_excerpt] => Four exemplary pharmacists were celebrated for their leadership, community impact, and commitment to health innovation. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:19:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:19:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28792 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28806 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28795 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 11:54:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 00:54:16 [post_content] => The semaglutide crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Will Australia's stock soon be replenished? Ozempic has been on the market since 2017. But a 2021 clinical trial, linking Ozempic to significant weight loss, led to an explosion in off-label use of the drug. As such, Ozempic has been in short supply worldwide since 2022, with demand, fuelled by off-label use for weight loss, massively outstripping supply. The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) has been on the Therapeutic Goods Administration's (TGA’s) medicine shortage database since April 2022. But the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has officially declared that the Ozempic and Wegovy shortage is over, with supply now meeting demand. Similar to Australia, the FDA declared that selling or making compounded versions of these drugs is now rendered illegal, with rare exceptions – since the drug is no longer considered to be in short supply. All doses of these GLP-1RA medicines are being continuously shipped, supported by 24/7 production and significant investments in manufacturing, said Novo Nordisk. ‘We are pleased the FDA has declared that supply of the only real, FDA-approved semaglutide medicines is resolved, affirming that Novo Nordisk is meeting or exceeding current and projected nationwide demand,’ said Dave Moore, Executive Vice President, US. Operations and Global Business Development and President of Novo Nordisk Inc. ‘No one should have to compromise their health due to misinformation and reach for fake or illegitimate knockoff drugs that pose significant safety risks to patients.’ According to some, the move is premature. The FDA has been hit with lawsuits by a trade associate and compounders for what they claim is an improper reliance on the manufacturers' assurances that they could meet demand, without taking into account evidence showing that patients were still struggling to access the medicines.Could Australia follow suit?
Not yet. Novo Nordisk has informed the TGA that supply of Ozempic will continue to be limited until 31 December 2025, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk told Australian Pharmacist. ‘This is due to the continued, unprecedented demand for Ozempic in Australia and around the world,’ said the spokesperson. Novo Nordisk said it has continued to make significant investments to expand its global manufacturing capacity and meet demand to the greatest extent possible. ‘Since 2023, Novo Nordisk has committed to investing at least 41 billion AUD to build production capacity,’ said the spokesperson. ‘However, it takes time to build supply levels to meet global and local demand.’ It’s important to continue to follow the joint guidance issued by the TGA and various professional bodies on this matter, said the spokesperson. ‘Novo Nordisk will continue to work with the TGA to provide updates on this matter.’What does the TGA advise?
Pharmacists are advised to inform patients that supply of Ozempic is expected to be limited in 2025 and discuss alternative treatments when patients are unable to access the medicine. The TGA has said that both Ozempic and Wegovy should be prescribed and supplied according to their approved indications; for the management of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management respectively. ‘Pharmacists should be aware that stock availability can change and sudden spikes in demand due to stockpiling or off-label use may affect continuity of care for patients stabilised on Ozempic,’ said the TGA.Will GLP-1 RAs be subsidised for weight loss?
While Ozempic is subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for type 2 diabetes, there is no GLP-1 RA that is TGA indicated for weight loss that is currently subsidised under the PBS. As a result, Australians using Wegovy for weight loss must pay approximately $250–500 out of pocket each month. However, since early 2025, in the United Kingdom, people who meet certain BMI criteria and have at least one weight-related co-morbidity have been able to access semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight management. In November 2023, PBAC reviewed Novo Nordisk’s request to list semaglutide on the PBS for adults with severe obesity and at least two weight-related conditions, including obstructive sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis of the knee, or pre-diabetes. PBAC rejected the proposal, citing concerns it didn’t consider the drug cost-effective at the price proposed. While recognising the long-term benefits of weight loss for people at risk of developing heart disease, diabetes or stroke, these were not factored into its cost-effectiveness assessment. PBAC suggested a future submission focus on patients with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or multiple high-risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, or kidney disease. Novo Nordisk previously told AP that it plans to resubmit an application to PBAC for Wegovy, factoring in these conditions since the drug’s new TGA indication for cardiovascular disease. ‘Novo Nordisk plans to resubmit Wegovy to the PBAC in 2025,’ said the spokesperson. [post_title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [post_excerpt] => The Ozempic crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Could Australia's stock levels soon be replenished? [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:17:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:17:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28795 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 24425 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28879 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 11:31:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-10 00:31:17 [post_content] => From guiding older patients on National Immunisation Program (NIP) stock to clarifying second-dose rules, here’s what pharmacists need to know about the 2025 influenza season.1. Patients aged 65 years and older should wait for NIP stock to arrive
By this time of the year, most pharmacies will have ordered and received private stock of influenza vaccines. But for the 2025 season, deliveries of NIP are expected to commence around late March, following the confirmation of pre-allocated orders by pharmacies. Older patients who present to the pharmacy requesting an influenza vaccine should be advised to wait until NIP stock arrives for optimum protection. Patients who are 65 years and over should receive the NIP-funded Fluad Quad 0.50 mL vaccine or Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, adjuvanted quadrivalent vaccines designed to boost the immune system's response to the vaccine. These vaccines help to generate a stronger and more sustained antibody response, providing better protection against influenza and its complications in this vulnerable age cohort – reducing hospitalisations and severe outcomes from influenza.2. Patients (mostly) only need one dose of an influenza vaccine
If a patient received an influenza vaccine earlier on in the season and is concerned about waning immunity – one vaccine is still enough. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to justify routinely administering a second influenza vaccine dose within the same season. Optimal protection from the influenza vaccine persists for around 3–4 months after vaccination. While the vaccine’s effectiveness begins to wane after this point, most patients should be sufficiently protected throughout the season. However, there are some exceptions. Patients eligible for a second dose include:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28864 [post_author] => 9832 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 10:32:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 23:32:16 [post_content] => Family and friend carers are essential members of the care team who often provide invaluable medication management support to the people they care for. [caption id="attachment_28875" align="alignright" width="300"]This article was sponsored and developed in collaboration with PSA and Carers NSW[/caption] However, pharmacists may perceive medication errors or non-adherence as a carer’s inability to fulfil this role,1 instead of an opportunity for improving education and support. Ensuring that carers are identified by pharmacists as members of the patient’s care team, included in discussions about the patient’s care and supported to fulfil their role is key to ensuring quality use of medicines and optimal outcomes for patients and carers. Across Australia, there are approximately 3 million carers who provide unpaid care or support to a family member or friend living with disability, mental illness, chronic or life-limiting illness, drug or alcohol dependency or who is ageing or frail.2 This includes at least 391,300 children and young people under 25 years of age.2 A carer may be a parent, partner, sibling, relative, child, friend or neighbour of the person requiring care. Carers come from all walks of life, and anyone can become a carer at any time. Carers are diverse and each caring experience is different. Carers provide a wide range of supports to help the person they care for to remain living at home and in the community. They may also provide ongoing support for someone living temporarily or permanently in residential care. This support can include personal care, domestic assistance, support with navigating and coordinating health and disability services, emotional and social support, as well as assistance with communication, decision making and advocacy.3 Pharmacies are a common setting that carers visit with, or on behalf of, the person they care for. Carers may support with:
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28858 [post_author] => 7616 [post_date] => 2025-03-10 09:21:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:21:35 [post_content] => Food can act as a prompt for medicine administration and be an easy way for patients to incorporate doses into their routines.Explaining to patients that they should take a medicine on an empty stomach or in a specific way away from food may not always be met with great enthusiasm! Confusion, and not fitting into a patient’s routine where possible, can lead to poor adherence and negative patient outcomes.
Why does food sometimes matter?
Food, or the absence of it, may significantly impact systemic exposure, safety, tolerability and effectiveness of a medicine, depending on its pharmacokinetics and adverse effects.
Take alendronate for example – the product information (PI) recommends taking it at least 30 minutes before the first food of the day as its bioavailability is negligible when taken with or up to 2 hours after a meal.1,2
Why do some PIs have a differing definition of an ‘empty stomach’?
This may stem from Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance in America, where many medicines are first introduced to the market.
FDA guidance for medicine sponsors suggests that if a medicine needs to be taken in fasted conditions, studies using an overnight fast of at least 10 hours before medicine administration, and waiting at least 4 hours after the dose before eating, are optimal. However, this might not be practical for all medicines and patients. It is then up to the medicine’s sponsor to provide pharmacokinetic data to support pragmatic and realistic dosing instructions for patients to separate food and medicine administration. Sponsors can use modified fasting conditions with differing separation times, and must consider frequency of medicine dosing, the likely demographics of the patient, the condition being treated and any other relevant factors.3 These could vary significantly between different medicines!
Why does CAL 3b say something different to the PI?
The Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary and Handbook (APF) considers that an empty stomach for the purposes of medicine absorption is ‘at least half an hour before food or two hours after food’, as reflected in the wording of Cautionary Advisory Label (CAL) 3b.4,5
This standardised approach is to ensure medicine instructions are simplified and practical for patients, and may differ from the medicine’s PI. Remember, CALs are intended to be used as an adjunct, not a replacement, to verbal counselling.5
Consider adherence and use professional judgement when providing advice on dose administration.
This may require weighing up optimal dose timing and adherence if a patient can’t easily accommodate the timing of doses, particularly when treating chronic conditions.4
References
[post_title] => What is an empty stomach? [post_excerpt] => Confusion around what's meant by an empty stomach can lead to poor adherence. Here's how clear instructions can make a world of difference. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-is-an-empty-stomach [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-10 09:24:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-09 22:24:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28858 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => What is an empty stomach? [title] => What is an empty stomach? [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/what-is-an-empty-stomach/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28860 [authorType] => )
- Therapeutic Goods Administration. Fosamax Plus Product Information. 2024. At: www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg/136846
- Alendronate. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference; [updated 30 Oct 2024]. At: www.medicinescomplete.com/#/content/martindale/22524-r?hspl=alendronate#content%2Fmartindale%2F22524-r%2319721-a3-v
- US Food and Drug Administration. Assessing the effects of food on drugs in INDs and NDAs – clinical pharmacology considerations: guidance for industry. 2022. At: www.fda.gov/media/121313/download
- Grannell, L. When should I take my medicines? Aust Prescr 2019;42:86–9.
- Sansom LN, ed. Cautionary advisory labels Explanatory notes. Australian pharmaceutical formulary and handbook; [updated 2024 Jul 24]. At: https://apf.psa.org.au/dispensing-and-labelling/cautionary-advisory-labels/explanatory-notes
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28792 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 12:30:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 01:30:37 [post_content] => PSA announced the winners of the PSA New South Wales Excellence Awards at the Annual Therapeutic Update over the weekend, recognising outstanding pharmacists who have demonstrated excellence in their practice and dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for their communities. PSA NSW President Luke Kelly congratulated each of the award recipients, highlighting their dedication to the pharmacy profession and improving patient care. ‘Each of these award winners has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for improving health outcomes in their communities. Their contributions to the profession exemplify some of the best of pharmacy in NSW,’ he said. ‘Their dedication and leadership inspire the entire profession, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.’ Australian Pharmacist takes a look at the achievements of this year’s winning cohort.Pharmacist of the Year – Ammar Altayib MPS
Now a PhD candidate, former Sudanese refugee and NSW Pharmacist of the Year Ammar Altayib has been a clinical pharmacist for the past 7 years and has been nominated twice in recent years for patient safety awards for the Southern NSW Local Health District. With numerous academic qualifications including a Masters in Pharmacy, the father of four, in addition to his hospital role, also works on Saturdays at Queanbeyan Pharmacy, teaches Arabic and is a leader in his local community. While nominated for the AdPha Clinical Pharmacy Award last year, he instead took out the African Australian Inc Academic and Professional Excellence Award.
Lifetime Achievement Award – David North OAM MPS
David North OAM has been awarded the PSA NSW Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his 5 decades of outstanding service to pharmacy and the Illawarra community. His career has spanned community pharmacy ownership, hospital pharmacy leadership, and significant contributions to professional development and mentorship. David has played a key role in numerous community health initiatives, including projects on palliative care medication access, smoking cessation, asthma management, and opioid safety. His dedication to promoting medication safety and pharmacy’s role in public health has had a lasting impact. A PSA Life Member and long-time advocate for the profession, David has also served as a peer reviewer, mentor, and board member of the Pharmacists Support Service. His leadership, commitment to patient care, and advocacy have left a profound legacy, making him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Lily Pham MPS
NSW Early Career Pharmacist of the Year Lily Pham has quickly established herself as a leader in pharmacy. As Vice President of the PSA NSW Branch Committee, she has played a key role in policy submissions, stakeholder engagement, and expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice, particularly in mental health. She has presented at PSA events, met with politicians, and contributed to PSA’s Medicine Safety: Mental Health report. Lily is also undertaking a PhD at the University of Sydney, focusing on perinatal mental healthcare and the role of pharmacists in mental health screening. She works across hospital, community, and primary care settings, ensuring broad patient impact. A dedicated mentor, she supports early career pharmacists and leads professional development initiatives. Her commitment to patient care, research, and professional engagement makes her a deserving recipient of this award.
Intern of the Year – Peter Figliuzzi
NSW Intern of the Year Peter Figliuzzi is recognised for his leadership, initiative, and commitment to patient care. During his intern year, Peter developed a hospital discharge medication management system to ensure patients understood medication changes, reducing confusion and enhancing adherence. His proactive engagement with Veteran patients improved health outcomes through tailored MedsChecks and stronger patient-provider relationships. Additionally, he streamlined vaccination services by creating a patient recall system, improving vaccination rates in his community. Peter’s continued dedication to patient safety, quality use of medicines, and professional collaboration makes him a deserving recipient of this award. [post_title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [post_excerpt] => Four exemplary pharmacists were celebrated for their leadership, community impact, and commitment to health innovation. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:19:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:19:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28792 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [title] => PSA NSW Excellence Award winners announced [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/psa-nsw-excellence-award-winners-announced/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 28806 [authorType] => )
td_module_mega_menu Object ( [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28795 [post_author] => 3410 [post_date] => 2025-03-03 11:54:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-03 00:54:16 [post_content] => The semaglutide crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Will Australia's stock soon be replenished? Ozempic has been on the market since 2017. But a 2021 clinical trial, linking Ozempic to significant weight loss, led to an explosion in off-label use of the drug. As such, Ozempic has been in short supply worldwide since 2022, with demand, fuelled by off-label use for weight loss, massively outstripping supply. The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) has been on the Therapeutic Goods Administration's (TGA’s) medicine shortage database since April 2022. But the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has officially declared that the Ozempic and Wegovy shortage is over, with supply now meeting demand. Similar to Australia, the FDA declared that selling or making compounded versions of these drugs is now rendered illegal, with rare exceptions – since the drug is no longer considered to be in short supply. All doses of these GLP-1RA medicines are being continuously shipped, supported by 24/7 production and significant investments in manufacturing, said Novo Nordisk. ‘We are pleased the FDA has declared that supply of the only real, FDA-approved semaglutide medicines is resolved, affirming that Novo Nordisk is meeting or exceeding current and projected nationwide demand,’ said Dave Moore, Executive Vice President, US. Operations and Global Business Development and President of Novo Nordisk Inc. ‘No one should have to compromise their health due to misinformation and reach for fake or illegitimate knockoff drugs that pose significant safety risks to patients.’ According to some, the move is premature. The FDA has been hit with lawsuits by a trade associate and compounders for what they claim is an improper reliance on the manufacturers' assurances that they could meet demand, without taking into account evidence showing that patients were still struggling to access the medicines.Could Australia follow suit?
Not yet. Novo Nordisk has informed the TGA that supply of Ozempic will continue to be limited until 31 December 2025, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk told Australian Pharmacist. ‘This is due to the continued, unprecedented demand for Ozempic in Australia and around the world,’ said the spokesperson. Novo Nordisk said it has continued to make significant investments to expand its global manufacturing capacity and meet demand to the greatest extent possible. ‘Since 2023, Novo Nordisk has committed to investing at least 41 billion AUD to build production capacity,’ said the spokesperson. ‘However, it takes time to build supply levels to meet global and local demand.’ It’s important to continue to follow the joint guidance issued by the TGA and various professional bodies on this matter, said the spokesperson. ‘Novo Nordisk will continue to work with the TGA to provide updates on this matter.’What does the TGA advise?
Pharmacists are advised to inform patients that supply of Ozempic is expected to be limited in 2025 and discuss alternative treatments when patients are unable to access the medicine. The TGA has said that both Ozempic and Wegovy should be prescribed and supplied according to their approved indications; for the management of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management respectively. ‘Pharmacists should be aware that stock availability can change and sudden spikes in demand due to stockpiling or off-label use may affect continuity of care for patients stabilised on Ozempic,’ said the TGA.Will GLP-1 RAs be subsidised for weight loss?
While Ozempic is subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for type 2 diabetes, there is no GLP-1 RA that is TGA indicated for weight loss that is currently subsidised under the PBS. As a result, Australians using Wegovy for weight loss must pay approximately $250–500 out of pocket each month. However, since early 2025, in the United Kingdom, people who meet certain BMI criteria and have at least one weight-related co-morbidity have been able to access semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight management. In November 2023, PBAC reviewed Novo Nordisk’s request to list semaglutide on the PBS for adults with severe obesity and at least two weight-related conditions, including obstructive sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis of the knee, or pre-diabetes. PBAC rejected the proposal, citing concerns it didn’t consider the drug cost-effective at the price proposed. While recognising the long-term benefits of weight loss for people at risk of developing heart disease, diabetes or stroke, these were not factored into its cost-effectiveness assessment. PBAC suggested a future submission focus on patients with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or multiple high-risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, or kidney disease. Novo Nordisk previously told AP that it plans to resubmit an application to PBAC for Wegovy, factoring in these conditions since the drug’s new TGA indication for cardiovascular disease. ‘Novo Nordisk plans to resubmit Wegovy to the PBAC in 2025,’ said the spokesperson. [post_title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [post_excerpt] => The Ozempic crisis is reportedly over in the United States. Could Australia's stock levels soon be replenished? [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-03 15:17:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-03 04:17:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/?p=28795 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [title_attribute] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [title] => The Ozempic shortage is over, says FDA [href] => https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/the-ozempic-shortage-is-over-says-fda/ [module_atts:td_module:private] => Array ( ) [td_review:protected] => Array ( ) [is_review:protected] => [post_thumb_id:protected] => 24425 [authorType] => )
CPD credits
Accreditation Code : CAP2404DMMB
Group 1 : 0.75 CPD credits
Group 2 : 1.5 CPD credits
This activity has been accredited for 0.75 hours of Group 1 CPD (or 0.75 CPD credits) suitable for inclusion in an individual pharmacist's CPD plan, which can be converted to 0.75 hours of Group 2 CPD (or 1.5 CPD credits) upon successful completion of relevant assessment activities.
Get your weekly dose of the news and research you need to help advance your practice.
Protected by Google reCAPTCHA v3.
Australian Pharmacist is the official journal for Pharmaceutical Society of Australia Ltd.