Second edition of BNF for Children published
The 2006 edition of the BNF
for Children is this week being distributed to approximately 200,000 NHS health care professionals.
Highlighted changes to the new edition include updated information on
the use of dexamethasone in mild croup, the choice of antibacterial agent
to prevent Staphylococcus aureus lung infections in cystic fibrosis,
management of severe hyperkalaemia and updated warnings related to the
risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour in children treated with atomoxetine
for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Commenting on the BNFC, health minister Andy Burnham said: “For
the second year we are investing in making this important resource available
throughout the NHS. It will be enormously useful in all parts of the
service. I would particularly commend it to those working in primary
care. This is vital information for all those who are using medicines
with children; it isn’t just a resource for specialists, far from
it. It gives health professionals excellent advice on using licensed
and unlicensed medicines to provide the best possible care for children.” |