Mental health

NHSE launches 24/7 support for ‘overwhelmed’ pharmacists

NHS England (NHSE) has launched a “confidential 24/7 text support service” for pharmacists who are feeling “worried or overwhelmed” and need someone to speak to.

GPhC: Pharmacies to ‘verify’ patient history before supplying hair loss drug

The pharmacy regulator has advised that pharmacy teams carry out a “robust” assessment before supplying finasteride – a hair-loss drug with psychiatric and sexual health risks.

Wegovy: No evidence of 'causal' link between semaglutide and suicide

A “thorough review” by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has found that evidence “does not support” a link between suicidal ideation and diabetes and weight management drug semaglutide. 

‘Every 21 seconds’: Rapid-fire online prescriber struck off after patient death

A pharmacist independent prescriber has been removed from the GPhC register after issuing tens of thousands of prescriptions using online questionnaires.

Coroner: Man dies by suicide after GP deregistration despite pharmacy plea

GP bureaucracy can leave individuals “without access to medication, which could cause or contribute to their death”, a coroner has warned.  

Adult ADHD prescriptions up 28% in England, NHS data reveals

As the amount of medication prescribed for ADHD rose by nearly 15% in 2023/24, a Labour councillor has blamed Brexit for shortages of medicines to treat the condition.

Pharmacists to use ‘clinical expertise’ as nine SSPs issued for antipsychotic pills

Pharmacists have been asked to “call on their clinical expertise to determine” which of nine new quetiapine tablet serious shortage protocols (SSPs) is “most appropriate” to use. 

Coroner: Patient died from overdose after GP pharmacist ignored warning

A coroner has raised concerns about GP practice “safety measures” after advice from a dispensing pharmacist and consultant psychiatrist was ignored.  

'Euros anxiety’ leads to 209% magnesium sales spike

Superdrug has reported a 209% rise in sales of magnesium tablets to combat the UK's "summer of stress" due to Euro 2024, the general election and changeable weather.

‘Limitless’ online drug availability puts lives ‘at risk’, coroner warns after death

A coroner has demanded tighter regulation after an "elite" army veteran overdosed on drugs he bought through an “online company”.