SMC June Update
The Scottish Medicines Consortium has issued its monthly advice on new medicines.
Glucosamine (Alateris®) has been rejected for the relief of symptoms in mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. This decision was based upon data from trials that indicated little or no benefit over placebo in improving symptoms
Perindopril arginine (Coversyl Arginine®) has been accepted for the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. The advisory documentation also warns that generic versions of perindopril are not dose equivalent with the arginine version and that these generic versions are available at a lower cost.
Perindopril in combination with indapamide (Coversyl Arginine plus®) has also been accepted for use in hypertension when blood pressure is not adequately controlled on perindopril alone. It should be noted that prescribing the constituents as separate generic items would be available at a lower cost.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of the recommendations of the SMC. Routine use of rejected medicines should be avoided.
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