Drug Safety Update: November 2023

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MHRA Drug Safety Update

November 2023

Falsified, potentially harmful Ozempic▼ and Saxenda products have been found in the UK.

Nirmatrelvir, ritonavir (Paxlovid▼): be alert to the risk of drug interactions with ritonavir  

There is a risk of harmful drug interactions with the ritonavir component of the COVID-19 treatment Paxlovid▼ due to its inhibition of the enzyme CYP3A, which metabolises many commonly used drugs. Prescribers should obtain a detailed patient history of current medications before prescribing Paxlovid, checking the Paxlovid product information for known and potential drug interactions.

Healthcare professionals should be vigilant for suspected adverse reactions and safety concerns associated with e-cigarettes and e-liquids, commonly known as vapes. Please report adverse reactions to the Yellow Card scheme and promote vigilance among patients.

A summary of recent letters and notifications sent to healthcare professionals about medicines.

It's easy to report

Report a suspected adverse drug reaction online
or download the Yellow Card app

REPORT ONLINE

Drug Safety Update is a monthly newsletter from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and its independent advisor the Commission on Human Medicines.