The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published Drug Safety Update for May 2024 (PDF).
This issue advises clinicians that in the coming months topical steroids will start to be labelled with potency information to assist with counselling patients with the aim of reducing the risk of developing topical steroid withdrawal reactions. The risk of such reactions increases with prolonged use and increased steroid potency. It is also recommended that when prescribing or dispensing topical steroids, clinicians should advise on the amount of product to apply, how often, where to apply it and when to stop treatment. Fingertip Units can be a convenient way to advise and measure an appropriate amount of product to apply.
This issue also contains a summary of letters to healthcare professionals in April. These generally related to supply issues and recalls. One letter raises awareness of the discontinuation of Levemir and Insulatard Innolet devices and several needles in the range from the same manufacturer.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of this month's new guidance and implement any necessary changes to practice.