UPDATE- Field Safety Notice- Viscopaste Bandage 4948 7.5CMX6M

This is an update to the previous field safety notice first distributed 21/12/23

A customer response form is being circulated, if you had received any affected stock please complete and return to the address listed: QA@evolan.se

We have received a Recall from EVOLAN PHARMA on VISCOPASTE BANDAGE 4948 7.5CMX6M

Date of recall: 21st December 2023

MHRA FSN Link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/field-safety-notices-fsns-from-18-to-22-december-2023

Please return all affected stock to your original supplier for credit. Unfortunately we can only accept stock purchased from us (Alliance Healthcare Distribution Limited). Any other stock will be returned to your stores/Pharmacies.

Please note that anything not returned to us, or notified to us, within 3 months of this notification, cannot be reimbursed by way of a credit.

Class 4 Caution in use- Concerta XL tablets 18 &36mg

Orifarm UK has informed the MHRA of an error with the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) packaged within the parallel import packs of the specific batches of Concerta XL 18mg and 36mg prolonged release tablets mentioned in this notification.

MHRA drug alert date: 26th February 2024

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-4-medicines-defect-information-orifarm-uk-ltd-concerta-xl-18mg-and-36-mg-prolonged-release-tablets-el-24-a-slash-07?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=a2016e58-88b6-4a8d-a1aa-ce9f9fa4bb23&utm_content=immediately

This is a caution in use only we are not accepting stock returns

Further Information

For medical information and stock control queries please email jacook@Orifarm.com, or telephone 01923 204333.

South Normanton customer service centre welcomes Claire Ward

This week we welcomed Claire Ward, the mayoral candidate for the East Midlands, to our customer service centre in South Normanton and the Alloga UK Amber Park warehouse facility.

Claire met our Customer Service Agents to hear about the 1.5million customer conversations the team support each year, before meeting some of the 1,500 Alloga team members to learn more about the pre-wholesale business.

Claire also spent time with Marie Evans, Managing Director, Alliance Healthcare UK, who said: “It’s been wonderful to welcome Claire to the site and I’m delighted she had the opportunity to join our volunteering work in packing doctor packs full of essential medicines with International Health Partners today."

Class 2 recall- Adakveo 10mg/ml

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited is recalling Adakveo 10 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion, batch number SJFN5, due to the benefit-risk balance of Adakveo no longer being considered favourable by the MHRA. This is because the Phase III study (STAND) of Adakveo in sickle cell disease patients with vaso-occlusive crises did not confirm its clinical benefit. As a consequence, the conditional marketing authorisation in the UK is being revoked.

MHRA drug alert date:21/02/24

MHRA drug alert link:https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-2-medicines-recall-novartis-pharmaceuticals-uk-limited-adakveo-10-mg-slash-ml-concentrate-for-solution-for-infusion-el-24-a-slash-06?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=5161cd08-b491-4965-a94e-03f1b56d8e4e&utm_content=immediately

Further Information

For medical information enquiries please contact Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited at: https://www.novartis.com/uk-en/contact/contact-us, by email: medinfo.uk@novartis.com or via telephone: +44 1276 698370.

For stock control enquiries please contact: commercial.team@novartis.com

Please return all affected stock to your original supplier for credit. Unfortunately we can only accept stock purchased from us (Alliance Healthcare Distribution Limited). Any other stock will be returned to your stores/Pharmacies.

Early detection paves the way for healthier futures: Highlights from AHUK’s Cancer Day Event

Alliance Healthcare UK recently hosted an impactful World Cancer Day Coffee morning, shining a light on the urgency and importance of early cancer detection. The event was marked by compelling discussions, heartfelt stories, and resilience against this global health challenge.

"Never, never, ever give up."

The event kicked off with Matt Addison, Operation Director at Alliance Healthcare UK, presenting key cancer statistics that underscored the importance of early detection. His opening speech was filled with inspiring messages of strength, determination, and hope. He shared powerful phrases like "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger", "I can, and I will", and "Never, never, ever give up". These words set a strong theme for the event: standing strong against cancer and how early detection can save lives.

Jackie Lewis: A pillar in pharmacy

Pharmacist Director, and valued Alliance Healthcare customer, Jackie Lewis, provided invaluable insights from her own journey with cancer. Owner of Lewis Pharmacy in Exmouth for 19 years and an Alphega Pharmacy member, she encourages community pharmacists to support their patients on the cancer pathway.

Jackie has developed ‘Let’s Communicate Cancer’, a comprehensive training package for pharmacy teams that has received national accreditation from NHS. In collaboration with Alliance Healthcare UK, she introduced ‘Not Normal for You’—a service designed to enable pharmacy staff to identify early stages of cancer in patients.

Understanding cancer staging & trends

The importance of understanding cancer staging was highlighted during the event. With nearly half of all cancer cases diagnosed at stage 3 or 4—which is harder to treat—the goal set by NHS is to diagnose 75% of cancers at stage 1 or 2 by 2028.

38% of cancer cases are deemed preventable

With 38% of cancer cases deemed preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle was emphasised as crucial—non-smoking status, healthy weight management, nutritious eating habits, abstaining from alcohol consumption and sun safety are key preventive measures.

Regular screenings can help detect potential issues early; however, barriers such as embarrassment or fear often deter individuals from these important appointments—a concern discussed at length during the coffee morning.

Maximising opportunities within Pharmacy

Pharmacies are uniquely positioned to aid early detection—through over-the-counter conversations, consultations during vaccinations or simply asking about symptoms when customers buy medications. The 'Not Normal for You' service is one such initiative aimed at leveraging these opportunities for better patient outcomes.

“Cancer doesn't discriminate.”

Lee Garrett, National Account Manager – Hospitals, shared his personal experiences with cancer and the story of his friend Ben who has received 75 rounds of chemo and won’t stop until he beats Cancer.

His message was clear—if something doesn't feel right get it checked out without delay or embarrassment because "cancer doesn't discriminate". His recent challenge—to run 40 miles with family for Royal Marsden Charity—is a testament to showing support for those living with cancer and raising awareness of early detection.

Through hosting events like these and supporting patients via Alcura through their treatment process; Alliance Healthcare UK reaffirms its commitment towards creating healthier futures. This is more than just our purpose—it's a promise we live up to each day. United in our responsibility, we continue to take proactive steps forward in the battle against cancer, turning hope into action for a healthier tomorrow.

Class 3 recall-Ramipril 1.25mg tabs

Torrent Pharma (UK) Limited is recalling certain batches of Ramipril 1.25mg tablets as a precautionary measure due to these batches having a low assay and high related substances test results after their release to the market.

MHRA Drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-3-medicines-recall-torrent-pharma-uk-limited-ramipril-1-dot-25mg-tablets-el-24-a-slash-05?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=37e221c3-75aa-46d3-ad81-abb2683aab40&utm_content=immediately

Further Information

For medical information enquiries please contact APCER Life Sciences, via telephone: 0800 0885366, or email: Medinfo.Torrent@apcerls.com

For stock control enquiries please contact the Torrent Pharma (UK) Limited Customer Service & Sales Executive via telephone: 01293 574188,or email:  luke.davies@torrentpharma.co.uk  or priti.pragji@torrentpharma.co.uk

Please return all affected stock to your original supplier for credit. Unfortunately we can only accept stock purchased from us (Alliance Healthcare Distribution Limited). Any other stock will be returned to your stores/Pharmacies.

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week and the incredible impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the economy

This week, we proudly celebrate our apprentices at Alliance Healthcare, including Karly Godber, Customer Care Coordinator. Since joining us in 2018, Karly has completed two apprenticeships and experienced remarkable growth due to her commitment to learning and development.

Karly shares her journey: "Starting as a Customer Service Advisor, I was determined to build a career within Alliance Healthcare. I seized every opportunity and enrolled in an apprenticeship to achieve Customer Services Level 2. It not only enhanced my confidence but also led to a promotion as Senior Advisor. The SWOT model I learned on the course really helped structure my interview answers."

Following this, I embarked on the Team Leader Level 3 course. Despite virtual workshops due to the pandemic, we learned extensive knowledge from leaders across various areas of the business. Within three months, I became a Team Manager and utilised my newfound skills during a challenging period of change."

Apprenticeships have not only given me more skills and confidence in my career path, but they have also provided development opportunities and progression at Alliance Healthcare. As a team manager, I've encouraged eight team members to pursue their own apprenticeships, resulting in improved service and overall customer experience!"

Karly has now recently joined the Area Customer Care Management team and we wish her the best of luck in her new role!

Class 4 caution in use-Gepretix 100mg capsules

Exeltis UK Limited has informed the MHRA regarding an inconsistency in the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) packaged in cartons of the specified batches of Gepretix 100mg capsules.

MHRA drug alert date: 1st February 2024

MHRA drug alert link:  https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-4-medicines-defect-information-exeltis-uk-limited-gepretix-100mg-capsules-el-24-a-slash-04#contents

This is a caution in use only we are not accepting stock returns

Further Information

For medical information enquiries please contact Uk.medinfo@exeltis.com or telephone 01494411775.

For stock control enquiries please contact uk.office@exeltis.com

Class 4 caution in use- Pantoprazole 40mg Gastro resistant tablets

Crescent Pharma Limited has informed the MHRA regarding an error with the European Article Number (EAN) barcode on the cartons of the above-mentioned batches of Pantoprazole 40 mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets distributed by Crescent Pharma Limited.

MHRA drug alert date: 30th January 2024

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-4-medicines-defect-information-cadila-pharmaceuticals-uk-limited-pantoprazole-40-mg-gastro-resistant-tablets-el-24-a-slash-03?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=65c56ca6-e713-4ca4-9ffd-014847ff9cd3&utm_content=immediately

This is a caution in use only we are not accepting stock returns

Further Information

For medical information enquiries please contact pharmacovigilance-eu@cadilapharma.com or telephone: +44 1217901596

For stock control enquiries please contact info@crescentpharma.com or telephone: 01256 772730

Alliance Healthcare UK and Pharmacist Support Join Forces for Student Bursary Scheme

Alliance Healthcare UK, the country's largest medicines wholesaler, is partnering with Pharmacist Support in a three-year collaboration. Their joint effort will bolster the charity’s Student Bursary Scheme. 

Pharmacist Support is an independent charity that strives to enhance the well-being of pharmacists and their communities. A key initiative of theirs is the Student Bursary Scheme. This programme offers invaluable aid to 3rd year MPharm students (or 4th-year students on a 5-year sandwich degree) who are coping with unexpected hurdles. The scheme assists students enduring financial difficulties to proceed with their studies and make valuable contributions to Great Britain's pharmacy sector. 

Successful applicants receive bursaries between £3,000 and £5,000. These funds equip them with resources to surmount challenges and forge successful careers in pharmacy. 

Danielle Hunt, Chief Executive of Pharmacist Support, shared her enthusiasm about this partnership:  

"Collaborating with Alliance Healthcare UK represents a significant stride in our continuous endeavour to support future generations of pharmacists." 

Hunt also highlighted that both organisations share a commitment towards empowering the upcoming generation of pharmacy professionals. By engaging in this long-term collaboration, Alliance Healthcare UK becomes instrumental in driving Pharmacist Support's strategic plans for lasting change within the pharmacy industry. 

Marie Evans, Managing Director at Alliance Healthcare UK echoed Hunt's sentiments:  

"We are excited to partner with Pharmacist Support on their annual Student Bursary Scheme. This partnership reflects our commitment to investing in the future of pharmacy professionals and fostering a supportive environment for aspiring talents in the field. We believe in the importance of investing in the education and well-being of aspiring pharmacists, and this partnership aligns perfectly with our values and commitment to making a positive impact on the communities we serve." 

This three-year agreement marks an advancement in fostering positive change within the pharmacy sector by providing opportunities for growth and success. Both organisations anticipate making substantial contributions to student lives through the Pharmacist Support Student Bursary Scheme which launches on 29th January 2024. 

The central message behind this partnership is unequivocal: both organisations are profoundly committed to aiding those within the pharmacy profession who are grappling with adversity. This collaborative endeavour not only demonstrates corporate social responsibility but also promises enduring improvements within the broader pharmacy community. 

How can students apply?

The Bursary Scheme will open on Monday 29 January 2024

To request a bursary application form and guidance notes, Students should email grants@pharmacistsupport.org with evidence that they are enrolled on the 3rd year of an MPharm degree course (or 4th year if undertaking a 5-year sandwich/integrated degree).

The closing date for applications is 22 April 2024.