PJ Online | Products (21 June 2003)

The summary of product characteristics for Celebrex (celecoxib) has been updated (Pfizer). The following statements regarding dosing in different ethnic groups, have been removed from the posology and method of administration section and the pharmacokinetic properties section, respectively: "Ethnic differences: In black patients, the lower dose (200mg per day) should be used initially. The dose may, if needed, later be increased to 400mg per day (see 5.2)" and "The exposure of celecoxib has been observed to be higher in the black population than in Caucasians. The ethnical difference in exposure may be more marked in elderly." In their place, the following statement has been added to the pharmacokinetic properties section: "No clinically significant differences were found in PK parameters of celecoxib between elderly African-Americans and Caucasians." See SPC.

Efexor safety information

The summaries of product characteristics for Efexor and Efexor XL (venlafaxine) have been updated (Wyeth). Gastrointestinal bleeding has been added to the undesirable effects section (rare). In addition, the following statement has been added to the special warnings and special precautions for use section: "There have been reports of cutaneous bleeding abnormalities, such as ecchymosis and purpura, with serotonin-reuptake inhibitors. Other bleeding manifestations (eg, gastrointestinal bleeding and mucous membrane bleeding) have been reported. Caution is advised in patients predisposed to bleeding due to factors such as age, underlying medical conditions or concomitant medications." See SPC.

Eloxatin undesirable effects

The summary of product characteristics for Eloxatin (oxaliplatin) has been updated (Sanofi-Synthelabo). The following statement has been added to the special warnings and precautions for use section: "In case of oxaliplatin extravasation, the infusion must be stopped immediately and usual local symptomatic treatment initiated." The undesirable effects section has also been amended to include rare cases of colitis, anaphylactic reactions (uncommon as single agent, common when given in combination with 5-fluorouracil/folinic acid), allergic reactions (common), and other effects including extravasation. This section also states that extravasation may result in severe local pain and inflammation and lead to complications, especially when oxaliplatin is infused through a peripheral vein. See SPC.

Discontinued products

Codis 500

Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK) is discontinuing the 24 pack size of Codis 500 (aspirin and codeine). Codis 500, pack size 32, remains available.

Haemaccel

Haemaccel (polygeline) intravenous infusion 500ml (Beacon Pharmaceuticals) will be discontinued as soon as existing stocks are exhausted. Any outstanding orders with Distriphar will be cancelled at that time. For further queries contact Distriphar customer services on 0870 513 3347.

Supply problems

Fungizone Intravenous

There continue to be supply problems for Fungizone (amphotericin B) Intravenous (Bristol-Myers Squibb). Supplies are not expected to be available until the end of July. For further information call Bristol-Myers Squibb Customer Services (tel 01244 586250).

Products miscellany

Gadsby's gluten-free range

A new range of gluten-free foods is available from Gadsby's Bakery, Southwell, Nottinghamshire (tel 01636 815214). Gadsby's Gluten-Free White Sliced Bread 400g £2.50; Gadsby's Gluten-Free White Unsliced Bread 400g £2.50; Gadsby's Gluten-Free White Bread Rolls 4 x 75g £2.00; Gadsby's Gluten-Free White Bread Flour 1kg £4.99.