The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) has issued its monthly advice on newly licensed medicines.
Esketamine (Spravato®) has been rejected for use in adults with a moderate to severe episode of Major Depressive Disorder, as acute short-term treatment, when co-administered with oral antidepressant therapy, for the rapid reduction of depressive symptoms, which according to clinical judgement constitute a psychiatric emergency. The manufacturer failed to make a submission for this indication.
Buprenorphine / naloxone (Zubsolv®) has been accepted for restricted use in substitution treatment for opioid drug dependence, within a framework of medical, social and psychological treatment. The restriction limits use to patients for whom methadone is not suitable. It is expected that clinicians with specialist experience in the field will undertake prescribing.
Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (Lokelma®) has been accepted for restricted use in the treatment of hyperkalaemia in adult patients. The restriction limits use to emergency care settings for the treatment of acute, life-threatening hyperkalaemia alongside standard care.
Levofloxacin plus dexamethasone (Ducressa®) has been accepted for use in the prevention and treatment of inflammation, and prevention of infection associated with cataract surgery in adults. Consideration should be given to official guidance on the appropriate use of antibacterial agents.
Finerenone (Kerendia®) has been accepted for use in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (stage 3 and 4 with albuminuria) associated with type 2 diabetes in adults.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of the recommendations of the SMC. Routine use of rejected and restricted medicines should be avoided.