First 13 ICBs to pilot single national formulary confirmed
The 13 ICBs piloting a single national formulary have been named.
Category Prescribing & medicines
Showing: Guidance Everything, including news and events
Topics:Collective action & GPCContracts & fundingPCNs & neighbourhoodsVaccinations & screeningPrescribing & medicinesReferrals & hospital servicesPublic healthIT, data & cyber securityWorkforce & employmentCQC, regulation & governancePCSE & patient registrationFees & non-NHS workPremises & estatesWellbeing & supportBLMC news
Oxcarbazepine 150mg (Viatris) shortage
Viatris oxcarbazepine 150mg tablets were unavailable until about 17 July 2026. Prescribe the Trileptal brand instead and reassure patients.
Levemir discontinued: switching to Toujeo
Patients on Levemir should be switched to another long-acting insulin. Toujeo once daily at about 80% of the total daily Levemir dose is suggested, with close glucose monitoring.
CQC annual update on the safer management of controlled drugs
CQC’s yearly report on controlled drugs sets out trends and lessons for prescribers and practices on safe management.
GPs told to refuse shared care agreements in collective action escalation
The BMA's next stage of collective action asks GPs to refuse new shared care agreements.
Mucogel (co-magaldrox) oral suspension discontinued
Mucogel sugar-free suspension has been discontinued, and there's no other magnesium/aluminium hydroxide combination. Use alternative antacids per the formulary and SPS tool.
Influenza outbreaks: access to antivirals for eligible care home staff and residents
Services commissioned for flu outbreak antivirals should give timely access to all eligible care home contacts.
Year-round prescribing of influenza antivirals
Oseltamivir and zanamivir are no longer restricted by the Selected List Scheme and can be prescribed year-round when clinically appropriate.
Mounjaro pilot to bypass GP appointments in parts of UK
A Mounjaro pilot in 12 areas lets some patients access weight-loss treatment without GP appointments.
Government to ‘ease pressure on GPs’ by expanding use of pharmacists, says minister
A minister says expanding the role of pharmacists will ease pressure on GPs.