CLASS 3 RECALL - CLONIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE 50MICROGRAMS/5ML ORAL SOLUTION

SyriMed are recalling the below batch as a precautionary measure due to an issue related to the container closure (child-lock cap). The Marketing Authorisation Holder has received a number of complaints related to defective container closures and the investigation has identified an issue with the bottle capping during the manufacturing process for this batch only

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-3-medicines-recall-syrimed-clonidine-hydrochloride-50micrograms-slash-5ml-oral-solution-el-21-a-slash-05?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=9d29e170-51bd-475e-b98c-3e284cb06be1&utm_content=immediately   

Further Information

For more information or medical information queries, please contact: customer.services@syrimed.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

This recall will remain open for 3 months from the date issued unless an alternative date is agreed by instigator. The closure of this will be 16/05/2021. Please note after this date customer returns may still be accepted but customers may not be credited.

CLASS 2 RECALL - MIDABUC - MIDAZOLAM (AS HCL) 10MG/ML OROMUCOSAL SOLUTION

: Eaststone Limited has informed us of an issue related to underfilled or empty bottles for MidaBuc - Midazolam (as HCL) 10mg/mL Oromucosal Solution. The below batch is being recalled as a precautionary measure following customer complaints

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-2-medicines-recall-eaststone-limited-midabuc-midazolam-as-hcl-10mg-slash-ml-oromucosal-solution-el-21-a-slash-04?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=08ba5ead-1c0a-467b-b061-951a4cff9bb4&utm_content=immediately

Please note that Alliance Healthcare do not stock and we are not accepting stock returns.

Further Information

For more information or medical information queries please contact Eaststone at specials@eaststone.co.uk or alternatively call 0800 678 3102.

Walgreens Boots Alliance’s 2020 CSR Report launch, “Health and Humanity: Lessons from the Global Frontline”.

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) launched its 2020 CSR Report via a virtual event: “Health and Humanity: Lessons from the Global Frontline”.

The COVID-19 pandemic meant that 2020 was a year like no other. On Wednesday 10 February, colleagues from Alliance Healthcare in the UK took a moment to recognise their commitment to help people across the UK lead healthier and happier lives and support the Walgreens Boots Alliance sustainability agenda and global force for good.

Thousands of viewers, from more than 30 countries, tuned in to hear about the impact WBA is making in our communities and beyond. The event was an exceptional showcase of how WBA is a force for good in so many ways.

The full broadcast is now available on the WBA corporate website, through social networks Twitter and LinkedIn, and on Bloomberg Live channels (website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram).

To download and view WBA’s 2020 CSR Report, please click here.

Contents of the report include:

• Videos about our partnerships with Vitamin Angels, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Macmillan Cancer Support, The Hygiene Bank, Get a Shot. Give a Shot., Red Nose Day and more
• Photos from the CSR report
• LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram graphics that celebrate WBA’s CSR partnerships and milestones
• Animated GIFs highlighting WBA’s CSR partnerships and commitments

Watch a video now and take a look back with us on a year like no other.

Class 4 Drug Caution in use - AMBISOME LIPOSOMAL 50 MG POWDER FOR DISPERSION FOR INFUSION

Gilead Sciences Ltd has informed us of a quality defect issue, in relation to specific lots of 5µm sterile filters, which are co-packed in cartons of the AmBisome product. The medical device is called Minisart Filter 16534-K

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-4-medicines-defect-information-ambisome-liposomal-50-mg-powder-for-dispersion-for-infusion-pl-16807-slash-0001-el-21-a-slash-03?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=b511116a-dcc6-4c20-ab3a-38f79ce58479&utm_content=immediately

Alliance healthcare do not stock this product therefore we are not accepting stock returns.

For more information or medical information queries, please contact:

Gilead Sciences Ltd Medical Information Telephone: +44 (0) 8000 113700 E-mail: ukmedinfo@gilead.com

For stock control queries, please contact:

Customer Care direct line: +44 (0)203 681 4681 E-mail: UKCustomer.Services@gilead.com

CLASS 2 RECALL - PALEXIA ORAL SOLUTION 20MG/1ML

Grünenthal Ltd has informed us of a potential microbial contamination during routine stability testing for the batches listed in this recall. Due to the detection of possible Burkholderia contaminans the batches listed are being recalled as a precautionary measure. Burkholderia contaminans is a gram-negative bacterium and any potential infection may be more serious for immunocompromised patients and patients suffering from cystic fibrosis. This recall affects all batches of oral solution in the UK market that are still within their expiry date

This product is a Schedule 2 Controlled Drug, so please use the Returns Portal for any recalled stock you may need to return to ensure there is authorisation to return. If you are unable to use the Returns Portal please call Customer Services for assistance.

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-2-medicines-recall-grunenthal-ltd-palexia-20-mg-slash-ml-oral-solution-pl-21727-slash-0054?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=ec81d6b3-a9c2-4242-ad66-27309a75a6fb&utm_content=immediately  

Further Information

For more information or medical information queries please contact +44 (0) 870 351 8960

medicalinformationuk@grunenthal.com

Grünenthal Ltd,1 Stokenchurch Business Park Ibstone Road HP14 3FE

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

This recall will remain open for 3 months from the date issued unless an alternative date is agreed by instigator. The closure of this will be 08/05/2021. Please note after this date customer returns may still be accepted but customers may not be credited.

Alliance Healthcare continues its support in the fight against cancer

Today is World Cancer Day - a day that unites people, communities and the world by raising cancer awareness.

At Alliance Healthcare, we are proud of how we have been supporting the fight against cancer through Alcura, our patient care business, and the dedicated fundraising support of our employees.

We may be in the process of battling COVID-19 but every working day we continue to deliver approximately 16,500 oncology medicines. Through our Alcura services we deliver a range of oncology medicines and cancer treatments.

Our team of dedicated oncology nurses continues to provide vital homecare support to over 100 patients as part of their cancer treatment. The nurses are qualified to administer a range of oncology drugs, post chemotherapy, to help prevent the reoccurrence of cancer, as well as provide holistic support, including telephone counselling, to help patients manage the side effects of chemotherapy.

Paul Robinson, National Nurse Manager, says: “When we first meet a patient, they are usually very poorly and recovering from months of gruelling chemotherapy and often need lots of reassurance and support.  As cancer nurses we can give the support they need and in this way, a trusting relationship develops.”

Since 2012 Alliance Healthcare has raised and donated over £900k for EORTC Cancer Research Fund . Our dedicated employees have been instrumental in achieving this by organising and taking part in a number of fundraising activities including an annual football and netball tournament, kayaking, cycling and hiking challenges, half marathons and marathons, family fun days, bake sales and quiz nights, and more!

Even through COVID-19 our teams have maintained that support by joining in with an Easter egg competition, photo competitions, lockdown lottos and raffles – and all in a COVID-secure way.

At Alliance Healthcare, we are committed to continue fighting for a cancer-free future.

Alliance Healthcare team members:

Clockwise from top left: Emma Cooper, Emma Crake, Joanne Aspinall, Steve Smith, Ben Miles, David Wood, Ryan Newell, Kunal Nath. Tasnim Ali, Clare Pretty and Janice Clarke, Matt Addison, Krystian Zurawski, Georgia Unsworth

Alucura National Nurse Manager, Paul Robinson

CLASS 3 RECALL - KOLANTICON GEL 500ML

Intrapharm Laboratories Ltd has received a number of complaints that the product consistency is lumpy. The investigation has confirmed through review of the retained samples that the consistency of the complaint samples are similar and the retained samples for this batch show the same homogeneity issue

MHRA drug alert link: https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/class-3-medicines-recall-intrapharm-laboratories-ltd-kolanticon-gel-500ml-el-21-a-slash-01?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=1c3cadd1-c259-4e77-b3e8-c13faf584fe2&utm_content=immediately  

For more information or medical information queries, please contact: medinfo@intrapharmlabs.com or telephone +44 (0)330 1359 437.

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.

If you have any questions, then please contact your local Service Centre Customer Services team.

Alphega Pharmacy Members Win at Reputable Pharmacy Awards for Outstanding Work in Community Pharmacy

A remarkable six Alphega Pharmacy members have triumphed at this year’s Pharmacy Business Awards, which recognises the most inspirational individuals and pharmacy teams who work miracles in the heart of their local communities.

The night was a celebration of pharmacy heroes who were honoured for their dedication to patient care and extraordinary work in the healthcare industry, with special guests Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health, and Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London in attendance.      

Alphega Pharmacy member Kieran Eason, Superintendent Pharmacist of Easons Pharmacy, was awarded: “Local Health Initiative of the Year” for delivering brilliant clinical services to patients. Kieran approached a locally commissioned minor ailment service with vigour and passion – notching up 50 consultations in just a week. Easons Pharmacy now provides diagnosis and treatment to more than 200 patients a month – covering a range of minor health issues from ear and throat conditions to UTIs and eczema. Judges hailed it “a resounding success”.

Alphega Pharmacy member Amish Patel, Hodgson Pharmacy, was honoured with the “Pharmacy Technology” award for leading the way in using technology to offer high quality, patient led services and has seen a resulting uptick in numbers. Located in a rural area with 60 per cent of locals over 65, Amish has reached out using a variety of technological tools, and has even seen people travel from abroad to access his services. Amish’s work has seen a remarkable effect on patients in his local community.

Alphega Pharmacy member Graham Phillips, Superintendent Pharmacist of Manor Pharmacy and ProLongevity Founder, was awarded: “Public Health Pharmacist” for his for his dedication to ProLongevity, a Diabetes Prevention Service. Graham’s 8-week ProLongevity programme is based on a personalised lifestyle approach that helps people lose weight, improve wellbeing and avoid or reverse diabetes. This innovative programme has been a huge success with life changing results for partakers and is a game changer for preventative healthcare.

Alphega Pharmacy member Heidi Norton, Bidford Pharmacy has been recognised as a key member of the forward-looking and hardworking Bidford Pharmacy team. Transitioning from the airline industry to healthcare was probably the most inspired move Heidi ever made, and has resulted in her winning the “Pharmacy Assistant” award. Heidi’s particular strength is talking to people, sometimes even visiting them at home – in her own time, she has helped identify a stroke, skin cancer and helped countless others with sympathy, care and knowledge.

Alphega Pharmacy member Amit Pattni, Sonichem Pharmacy has been honoured with the “GP-Primary Care Integration” award for his work with mental health issues and diabetes. Amit Pattni took both issues head on and impressed local doctors enough to attract £25,000 for a specific project. Working closely with the local GP surgery, Sonichem Pharmacy has provided much needed bespoke consultations for mental health patients and on-going personal support. The service has been a huge success with positive outcomes for all patients.

Presented by Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, the “Pharmacy Business of the Year” award was proudly presented to Alphega Pharmacy member Rikin Patel, Sharmans Pharmacy. Sharmans Pharmacy, Northwood, London, has been at the heart of its local community for over 120 years. Located in an affluent suburb, this impressive pharmacy has been beautifully designed to operate as a well-being hub for the community offering a wide range of clinical and enhanced services.

The pharmacy has been completely refurbished with a bright, modern design to maximise the patient experience. Stocking a wide range of premium brands such as Clarins, Chanel and Lancome, the pharmacy caters to the wider healthcare needs of the community.

Adding the latest automation and four new consulting rooms, which are almost always fully occupied, the pharmacy has a 20-strong team that includes five podiatrists and three osteopaths.

Our “Pharmacy Business of the Year” winner is a forward-thinking pharmacy, constantly innovating to deliver greater service models and health outcomes for its patients. Rikin Patel and his team are role models for the future of community pharmacy.

Raj Nutan, Head of Alphega Pharmacy UK said: “Our members work tirelessly to provide a first class service in the communities in which they serve and are an important cog in NHS Primary Care Team. The pharmacy industry has gone through some challenging times recently, and our members have shown utter resilience and determination to ensure that patients receive the best care possible. I am overjoyed that our members’ efforts have received this high level of acknowledgement.”

Alliance Healthcare and Alphega Pharmacy congratulate our Alphega Pharmacy members, and support them with the continuation of their fantastic work in community pharmacy.

FIELD SAFTEY NOTICE - BD SYRINGES AND NEEDLES

BD has become aware that when syringes and needles are used for intraocular injections, the potential exists for “floaters” in patients’ eyes which are believed to be due to silicone. (Note: Syringes and needles manufactured by BD have silicone applied to the inside of the barrels to provide lubrication for the plunger stopper, allowing it to move easily). The potential hazard is deposition of silicone oil (SO) droplets in the vitreous.  The potential harm could be symptomatic “floaters” in the patient’s field of vision which, normally, are tolerable and resolve over a few months.  However, if sufficiently bothersome, floaters may lead to a vitrectomy for their removal

MHRA drug alert link: N/A              

This field safety notice is Advisory only so Alliance Healthcare are not accepting stock returns.

Should you have any questions or experience any issues associated with the product or issue described in this Field Safety Notice, please contact BDUKFieldAction@bd.com. BD has notified the appropriate regulatory agencies of these actions.

Alliance Healthcare ‘Returns’ mandatory on the Portal from 1 February

Alliance Healthcare continues to help our customers self-serve by driving forward adoption of our digital processes via the The Alliance Healthcare Portal (myahportal) and phasing out the paper return notes process entirely. 

From Monday 1 February customers can only process returns claims through ‘Returns’ via the Alliance Healthcare Portal. Returns submitted using the old style returns notes will be not be processed for credit and the goods will be sent back to customers.

The portal provides customers with a simplified approach to access multiple Alliance Healthcare systems and order products online, including surgical orders from NWOS and other functionalities.   

As part of our digital evolution of using ‘Returns’ online, customers will see the following benefits:

-  Saves time – automatically completes sections of the returns note for you e.g. name and address details, along with product searches

-  Visibility of returns claims online – for ease of reference

-  Efficient process - No need to call Customer Service, authorisation to return specialist handling products* can be completed on line. (*a few exceptions apply)

-  One claim for all - no need to separate out product types when submitting claims

-  Guidance on specific product returns  -  clearly explains what to do if you have faulty items, quality issues and recalls

-  Removes confusion – clear information on our terms & conditions for returning products

-  Access from anywhere – you just need to be online

Over 19,000 customers have now registered with myahportal. Marta from Ashtons Hospital Pharmacy, Brighton said: “It is very easy to fill all the necessary fields and the reference return number given at the end keeps my files in order. I am very pleased that Alliance Healthcare keeps trying to improve their ways of working and that they are listening to their Customer’s feedback.”

The portal is accessible at myahportal.co.ukand customers can self-register in just a few minutes.

To support customers during the registration and in using the portal, a ChatBot system has been enabled that offers instant question and answer support for the user. Online support is also available via email at: customerportal@alliance-healthcare.co.uk, and a helpline on 0330 100 0448 - option 8, for any technical support and assistance.

The old paper ‘Returns’ system will close from 31 January.