Health Canada – Avoid use of codeine-containing non-prescription pain relievers in those under 18 years of age
Following a review, Health Canada is advising that those under the age of 18 should not use non-prescription pain relievers that contain codeine. Previously, these products were not recommended for those under 12 years of age. The recommended age limit has now been raised, as Health Canada’s recent review showed that opioid (including codeine) use at a young age increases the likelihood of problematic substance use in the future.
In February 2019, Health Canada recommended that people under 18 years of age should not use cough and cold products that contain opioids (including codeine).
Patients should continue to consult with healthcare providers about the use of prescription pain relief products containing codeine or other opioids. Pharmacists should continue to advise patients of appropriate alternatives to non-prescription codeine-containing products, provide patients with sufficient safety information, and remind patients to keep all medications out of reach of children. Health Canada is also asking manufacturers to update their product safety information to reflect this recommendation.
COVID-19 Update
COVID-19 cases are on the rise in Manitoba, it is important for pharmacy professionals to stay updated.
The government’s website updates daily with new information that may affect your pharmacy such as capacity guidelines and workplace guidance.
NAPRA Drug Schedules: Final Recommendations for acetaminophen and ibuprofen combination tablets
The National Drug Scheduling Advisory Committee (NDSAC) has approved the following final recommendations for the scheduling of acetaminophen and ibuprofen combination tablets:
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen in oral, fixed-dose combinations, in package sizes containing 20,000 mg or less of acetaminophen and 6,000 mg or less of ibuprofen, be granted Schedule III status and
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen in oral, fixed-dose combinations, in package sizes containing either more than 20,000 mg of acetaminophen or more than 6,000 mg of ibuprofen, be granted Schedule II status
Please see the National Drug Schedule Notice Board for additional information, and for further updates regarding NAPRA drug scheduling. Drug scheduling decisions made by the NAPRA National Drug Scheduling Advisory Committee are incorporated by reference in Manitoba and these drug scheduling decisions are now in effect.
Staff Update: Thank You and Best Wishes to Gus Gottfred
It is with great appreciation, thanks and best wishes that we announce Gus Gottfred, the College’s Communications and Quality Assurance Coordinator, will be leaving to spread his wings and pursue new opportunities. Since joining the College team 3 years ago, Gus has been our go-to person on all matters related to communications for the College, whether it is the CPhM Newsletter, Friday Five, eQuipped Newsletter, website or media relations. Gus has been working very hard over the last several months on development of a new College website that is expected to be launched in the coming weeks. The new website promises to be much more user-friendly for both the public and members and we thank Gus for remaining on staff to ensure the website is almost ready to launch. The College wishes Gus all the very best in his future endeavours.
Canadian Patient Safety Week is October 26 – October 30, 2020
The Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI) invites all Canadians – the public, providers and leaders – to become involved in making patient safety a priority. Sign up HERE to find out more about this year’s theme and how you can help during Canadian Patient Safety Week!