Keeping up to date with the latest happening in pharmacy practice is important for all PSS members, and with that in mind, the PSS Hospital Chapter proudly presents “What’s New in PL”. This monthly brief update is designed to highlight topics that are published on a reputable resource “The Pharmacist Letter”, which may be of interest to pharmacists. The update is relevant to all pharmacists with sub topics in the areas of clinical and community practice.

Please log on to the PSS website (www.pss.org.sg) with your membership number and password. Start reading by clicking on the Pharmacist’s Letter link!

Topic of the month: Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – Appropriate use and Safety concerns

PPIs are often used inappropriately in up to 70% of patients. Newer evidence suggests PPIs may be linked to an increase in dementia, heart attacks, and chronic kidney disease. Learn more about appropriate use and evidence on possible harms from PPIs. Resources and toolkits are available in this article.

Clinical Updates:

1)     Hypertension treatment in Patients with Diabetes: What are the BP goals and pharmacotherapy options in diabetes patients with hypertension? Summary of latest recommendations from JNC8, ADA, and ASH guidelines in this PL update.

2)     Insulin Safety: Do you know that U-500 is FIVE times as concentrated as U-100 insulins? A new Humulin R U-500 KwikPen provides an alternative to the U-500 vials. Strategies and resources to help prevent errors with insulin available in this PL update. Chart available: Tips to improve insulin safety.

3)     Pioglitazone: New evidence on its potential role in decreasing cardiovascular risk after a stroke or TIA. Find out who will benefit and who should avoid pioglitazone. Check out detailed PL summary.

Commonly asked questions in the community pharmacy:

1)     Concerns about the mosquito-borne-Zika virus and which insect repellents are safe for use in pregnancy? Learn more about Zika prevention. Chart available: Comparison of Insect Repellents.

2)     Sneezy blues: Help! The haze triggered my Allergic Rhinitis! Learn how to manage allergic rhinitis. Chart available: Nasal sprays for Allergic Rhinitis, OTC options for Allergic Rhinitis.

3)     What questions do patients ask you about OTC products for their pets? What OTCs are safe and what should be avoided in cats and dogs? Find out more in PL training course: Caring for Dogs and Cats: A primer for community pharmacists