- Prescribing Advice for GPs - https://www.prescriber.org.uk -

MeReC Updates

The National Prescribing Centre has released new three new MeReC publications covering Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and the Cardiovascular Risks of NSAIDs.

The publications are available as follows:

The Rapid Review covers a recently published meta-analysis from the British Medical Journal examining the cardiovascular risks of non-selective and Cox-II selective NSAIDs. It recommends avoiding all NSAIDs where possible, using low doses for short periods where necessary and considering gastroprotection in those at high risk of upper gastrointestinal complications.

The Briefing and Bulletin cover different aspects of COPD care. The Briefing details recognition and diagnosis, spirometry, management of stable COPD and pulmonary rehabilitation. The Bulletin covers the available drug options in the management of stable COPD.

Action: Clinicians involved in the diagnosis and treatment of COPD will find useful information in the Bulletin and Briefing. Clinicians who prescribe NSAIDs will find the recommendations in the Rapid Review of use in minimising cardiovascular risks.