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Drug Safety Update - August 2012

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published Drug Safety Update for August 2012 (PDF).

This update contains drug safety information informing clinicians that all intra-nasal formulations of calcitonin (Miacalcic®) are being withdrawn because of an increased risk of cancer associated with the long-term use. These products are licensed for use in osteoporosis; the injectable products will remain available for short term use in conditions such as Paget’s disease and hypercalcaemia in malignancy.

The stop press section contains updated advice on drug interactions associated with simvastatin. Analysis of data from clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance has been used to update the recommended contra-indications and cautions.

Action: Clinicians will find this publication to be a useful review of current issues in drug safety.