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Reference standards: A delay for Health Regulators

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Picture courtesy of BFAD
Because of late arrival of reference standards the result for testing on milk and milk products will be delayed.

This is a reality that we should focused on. Which only means that extensive and numerous analysis cannot be performed by BFAD. Limitation on operation maybe one of the factors, BFAD should seek funds from DOH and the government to improve and develop existing operation.

Isa sa mga nakikita kong solution para makabawas sa problema ng BFAD ay online application ng mga product registration. Kung alam ninyo lang kung gaano kahirap at ubos oras ang mag submit ng documento sa BFAD ay masasabi ninyo rin dapat ipatupad ang electronic application for faster processing ng application at ease narin sa mga BFAD employees. Tutal same din naman ang declaration ng documents at nilalaman nito compared sa actual na issubmit mo.

Pinoy Pharmacist ano bang ma i ssugggest mo para ma improved ang services ng BFAD?

Post your comment now.

Label : the last information a patient need to read

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Picture courtesy of FDA

At this point, there is no clear national movement within the health care system to address this issue. However, there is increased awareness within the clinical community, and small changes by practitioners can be incorporated into daily practices to benefit patients now. Even with no further instruction, the prescription label should, at a minimum, be sufficiently clear to allow patients to take their medications properly. Thoughtful consideration of how to word medication directions, and use of clear and concise auxiliary labels, will go a long way towards helping patients take their medications properly.

Providing supplemental medication information for patients sounds like a useful way to expand their knowledge, right? Unfortunately, not only are these rarely provided to patients, 77% of patients report never having read them. Furthermore, average readability measures at the high school graduate level, which is significantly higher than the average reading ability. And even appropriately written medication information is unable to help patients when it is not provided, nor read by patients.

Patients also frequently misinterpret auxiliary labels. This “For External Use Only” warning label, which is frequently used and (we think) easily understood, elicited the following responses when patients were asked what it meant: “Use extreme caution in how you take it”; “Medicine will make you feel dizzy”; “Take only if you need it.” Furthermore, the colors chosen for auxiliary labels may be perceived by patients to have specific meaning, such as associating red with danger. Physicians and pharmacists should be aware that, while these labels are intended to provide useful information, they may require more explanation. In some instances they have been associated with patients performing actions in direct opposition to their intended message.

Another area of major concern is dosage frequency. Pharmacists need to consider this patient deficit as they generate new prescriptions to ensure the label is comprehensible to the patient. Physicians can help, too, by writing out explicit directions in layman’s terms instead of standard Latin sig codes, and using more numbers than words. For example, a label reading “Take 1 tablet every morning” would be less confusing than “Take one tablet once a day”. Medications taken twice a day create the greatest confusion for patients.

Pharmacists may be able to develop creative methods for labeling medication for individual patients with low literacy, such as placing two dots on a vial that needs to be taken twice a day and only one dot on a vial that is to be taken once day.

Another factor that can greatly influence a patient’s health literacy is the ability to speak and read English. Individuals who do not speak English as their primary language and who have a limited ability to read, speak, write, or understand English have limited English proficiency (LEP). It is important to remember that patients with LEP who speak English well may have a difficult time reading English, and therefore are less able to interpret prescription label information

Filipinos read labels naman, kaso nga lang yung iba hindi talaga. They just rely on the advertisement set by the product owners. Paano ba natin sasabihin sa ating mga patient na kelangan nilang basahin ang label kasi isa ito sa mga importanteng bagay bago inomin ang gamot.

OTC cough and cold preparation: Is it safe for Pinoy Childs health??

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The FDA has released a Public Health Advisory regarding the use of over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold products in children younger than 2 years old. According to the FDA, these products should not be used for the treatment of a cold in infants and children less than 2 years old due to the potential of serious and life-threatening side effects. Although rare, these potentially serious adverse effects include: death, convulsions, rapid heart rate, and decreased level of consciousness. The FDA is in the process of completing its final recommendations regarding the use of OTC cough and cold products in children between the ages of 2 and 11 years old. Pending the final recommendations, the FDA recommends that parents and caregivers who choose to use these products in children ages 2 to 11 years old should:

1. Understand that these drugs will NOT cure or shorten the duration of a cold.
2. Use only measuring spoons or cups that come with the medications or that are made specially for measuring drugs.
2. Follow the dosing directions on the label of the medication.
3. Do not use any of these products to sedate or make a child sleepy.
4. Not use of these products to sedate or spawn a child sleepy.
5. Check the “Drug Facts” any of the label and apprentice what active ingredients are in the product.


Ewan ko lang kung nangyayari ito sa bayan natin. But im sure sa mga dukhang na hindi marunong mag basa ng label ay maaring din itong mangyari. Sa mga mahihirap tulad ko ay mas gugustohin nilang ibili nalang ng pagkain kesa ibili ng gamot ang anak ng may sipon at ubo. Marami din namang mga mahihirap na nagpupunta sa mga health center upang ipasuri ang kanilang mga anak. Mabuti naman ay aktibo ang ating gobyerno sa programang pangkalusugan. Alam nila na ang kalusugan ay mahalaga sa ating. Paano magiging maunlad ang pilipinas kung ang mga tao ay may sakit? Kaya suludo ako kay Sec. Duque sa kanyang mabuting intention na mapabuti ang kalusugan ng bawat pilipino. Mabuhay ka doc!

Pinoy Pharmacist dapat paigtingin natin ang dissemination of drug information sa ating mga pasyente. Tayo lang ang inaasahan nila pag dating sa gamot. Gawin natin ang ating mga trabaho. Paano nalang kung walang tayong move na gagawin? ano ang mangyayari sa ating Health Care system sa Pilipinas? Ano masasabi mo?

Ipost ang comments mga kapatid. Thank you. hehehe =)

54 Chinese Made Milk for testing

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The Bureau of Food and Drugs released a partial list of 54 milk and milk-based products from China which it said would be subject to testing.


Products should be temporarily removed from the market. Specific brands would be lifted as soon as laboratory tests proved they were not contaminated with melamine.

1. Anchor Lite Milk
2. Anchor Warm Frootmilk Drink Mango Magic
3. Anchor Wam Frootmilk Orange Chill
4. Anchor Wam Frootmilk Strawberry Spin
5. Anlene Milk
6. Anmum Materna 180g
7. Anmum Materna Chocolate
8. Dutch Lady Pure Milk
9. Farmland Skim Milk
10. Greenfood Yili Pure Milk
11. Jinwei Drink
12. Jollycow Pure Fresh Milk
13. Jollycow Slender Lowfat Milk
14. KLIM Instant Full Cream Milk Powder (1.8 kg)
15. M&M Chocolate brown 40 gm
16. Meiji Hokkaido Azuki (red bean ice cream)
17. Meiji Ujikintoki (red bean and green tea frozen confection)
18. Mengniu Original Drink Milk
19. Mengniu Pure Milk
20. Milk Chocolate Bars/China
21. Milk Chocolate Candies/China
22. Milkboy repacked
23. Monmilk Breakfast Milk Walnut Milk Beverage
24. Monmilk High Calcium Low Fat Milk
25. Monmilk High Calcium Milk
26. Monmilk Milk Deluxe Pure Milk
27. Monmilk Pure Milk
28. Monmilk Suan Suan Ru Sour Milk Beverage (Mango Flavor)
29. Natural Choice Milk Ice Bar
30. Nespray
31. Nestlé Carnation Calcium Plus Non Fat Milk Powder (1.6 kg)
32. Nestlé Chocolate flavor Ice Cream Cone
33. Nestlé Dairy Farm Pure Milk
34. Nestlé Vanilla Flavor Ice Cream Cone
35. Nutri-Express Milk
36. Nutri-Express 15 Nutritional elements (blue, red and orange label and cap)
37. Nutri-Express Milk Green Apple
38. Prime Roast cereas 28g
39. Pura Fresh Milk
40. Snickers brown 59gm
41. Strawberry Sorbet
42. Trappist Dairy Low Fat yogurt drink
43. Vita Fresh Milk
44. Wahaha Orange
45. Wahaha Yellow
46. Want Want MIlk Drink
47. Yili High Calcium 250ml
48. Yill HIgh Calcium Milk 1L
49. Yili High Calcium Low fat milk Beverage
50. Yili Lowfat Milk 1L
51. Yili Milk
52. Yili Puremilk 250ml
53. Yili Puremilk 1L
54. Yinlu Milk Peanut


source: bfad philippines

Featured Drug: Diazepam

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Popular Brands: Valium, Novodipam, Relanium, Seduxen, Stesolid, Betapam

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine derivative. Chemically, Diazepam is 7-Chloro-1,3-dihydro-1-methyl-5-phenyl-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one. It is a colorless crystalline compound, and is insoluble in water.

Mechanism of Action
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that binds to a specific subunit on the GABAA receptor at a site that is distinct from the binding site of the endogenous GABA molecule.[19][20] The GABAA receptor is an inhibitory channel which, when activated, decreases neuronal activity.

Because of the role of diazepam as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA, when it binds to benzodiazepine receptors it causes inhibitory effects. This arises from the hyperpolarization of the post-synaptic membrane owing to the control exerted over negative chloride ions by GABAA receptors.


Side effects

* Somnolence
* Suppression of REM sleep
* Addiction
* Impaired motor function
o Impaired coordination
o Impaired balance
o Dizziness and nausea
* Depression
* Impaired learning
* Anterograde amnesia (especially pronounced in higher doses)
* Cognitive deficits
* Reflex tachycardia

Diazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. This medication should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

In the Philippines, prescription with S2 license is required before you can avail this medication.


source: drugs.com, wikipedia

Book Review: Pharmacogenetics

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Book DetailsAuthor:Ian P. Hall (Editor), Munir Pirmohamed (Editor),
Publisher: Informa Healthcare
Number Of Pages: 344
Publication Date: 2006-05-16
ISBN / ASIN: 082472884X

Book Descripton: The only source on the subject to offer both an overview and a disease-based approach, this reference text spans the wide array of technical, methodological, regulatory, and ethical issues related to pharmacogenetics and stresses the impact of pharmacogenetic data on patient care and management. Providing expertly selected references, tables, and figures in each chapter, this guide details the relevance of pharmacogenetic applications to disease based specialities including sections on pharmacogenetics of cardiovascular, respiratory, central nervous system, infectious, gastroenterological, oncologic, hematologic, metabolic, and rheumatologic disorders.


It is highly recommended that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

Canadian Licensure Exam for Foreign Graduates: A Quick Summary

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This guide will provide you with information required to become a pharmacist in Canada.
If you are graduated in pharmacy in a country other than Canada and U.S.A and would like to get a pharmacist license in Canada there are some procedures you should follow.

1. Get a Canadian visa. Contact your travelling agent.
2. You should be evaluated by Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada.
3. Pass the two exams conducted by PEBC called "Evaluating Exam" and "Qualifying Exam"
4. Once pass (bott Evaluation and Qualifying exams) you will be given a certificate called ‘Certificate of qualification’ by PEBC
5. Choose the province where you want to practice and English score according to that province regulation.
6. Finish sufficient hours of training in the pharmacy (usually there are 2 stages of training, studentship and internship)
7. Lastly, pass the Law exam (Jurisprudence exam) and get the "Pharmacist License".



Here are the some links.

1. Evaluating Exam
2. Qualifying Exam
3. Proficiency test
4. Studentship Form
5. Studentship fees
6. Intership form


Totoo bang hot spot ngayon ang Canada for Pharmacist? Is it true na yumayaman ang talaga Pharmacist dun o yabang lang pag balik dito sa pinas? How much kaya ang net income ng pharmacist dun? Compared to Middle East saan mas maganda in terms of salary and work oppurtunities?

Adulterated Honey: Bees are not guilty

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Honey is primarily composed of fructose, glucose and water. It also contains other sugars as well trace enzymes, minerals, vitamins and amino acids. The color and flavor of honey differ depending on the bees' nectar source (the blossoms)

Honey is "manufactured" in one of the world's most efficient factories, the beehive.
In addition to gathering nectar to produce honey, honey bees perform a vital second function - pollination. About one-third of the human diet is derived from insect-pollinated plants, and honey bees are responsible for 80 percent of this pollination.

Pollination is the fertilization of a flowering plant. It occurs when pollen is transferred from the anthers of a flower to the ovules of that or another flower. Honey bees are responsible for pollinating a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes and more.

What is the problem in honey?
Honey once stored in warm or hot condition will breakdown into a simple sugar. Upon long term storage hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is increase depending on the pH of honey and on the storage temperature. HydroxyMethylFurfural is an aldehyde, whose molecule is illustrated at right, which can be used as an indicator of honey quality limits are set by food standard agencies. High levels of HMF (greater than 100 mg/kg) can be an indicator of possible adulteration of the product.

Should we consider locally manufactured honey to be adultered if stored in room temperature? I think the best answer is that, Stability may be compromised and shortened if stored in normal room temperature. A standard of 2 year may be applied for freshly prepared honey. Honey is best stored between 18-25 Degree Celsius for maximum shelf life requirements.

I know honey is not on our list mga pinoy pharmacist. But I have think we should let the public realized how important the degradation of honey over a period of time. Doing so, may help them in determining that before buying and Honey is not forever be stable and we should correct the connotation here in the Philippines.

Honey sold freely in the market without label may considered by adulterated. Shelf life is not indicated so as the important information. Bureau if Food and Drugs should strictly implement the regulation on this issue.

Book Review: The Goodman and Gilman Manual of Pharmacology and Therapeutics 2007

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Publisher: McGraw-Hill Professional
Number Of Pages: 642
Publication Date: 2007-09-28
ISBN-10 / ASIN: 0071443436
ISBN-13 / EAN: 9780071443432
Binding: Paperback

Book Description:
The Goodman & Gilman Manual of Pharmacology and Therapeutics offers the renowned content of Goodman & Gilman's Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Eleventh Edition, condensed into an ultra-handy, streamlined reference.

More than just a pocket drug guide, this indispensable resource offers:
A carry-along source of essential fundamental information, with all the authority of Goodman & Gilman's Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Eleventh Edition
The benefits of the world's leading pharmacology text in a convenient, portable format
Comprehensive, yet streamlined and clinically relevant coverage of the pharmacological basis of therapeutics

High-yield overview of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the foundations of pharmacology

Expert insights into the properties, mechanisms, and uses of all the major drug classes
Considerations of vital patient-specific issues

This book is Hooooottt!!!!! No wonder this one of the best reference for pharmacy

dork: /95128154/H027.rar

It is highly recommend that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

Lange Flash Cards: Pharmacology

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Lange Flash Cards: Pharmacology covers all major pharmacologic agents through a succinct and thorough presentation of each prototypical drug and key characteristics. The cards focus on the most high-yield drugs and examine the associated biochemistry, physiology, and microbiology in relation to the mechanisms of action of each drug. Clinical pharmacology is one of the most-tested subjects on Step 1, comprising approximately 15-20% of all questions
Table of contents

Lange Flash Cards: Pharmacology
1. Anti-microbial Agents
2. Adrenergic Agents
3. Cholinergic Agents
4. Central Nervous System Agents
5. Cardiovascular Agents
6. Hematologic Agents
7. Endocrine and Metabolic Agents
8. Gastrointestinal Agents
9. Anti-neoplastic Agents
10. Anti-inflammatory Agents
11. General Pharmacology Principles and Miscellaneous Agents


These are cards are great. They are concise and full of high-yield information that can help you in memorizing the topic. The vignette format is a great aid to remembering the pharmacology in a clinical contexto. Excellent for reviewing clinical use of various drugs, and they're also good for boards prep. You can use the clinical scenarios on the front for practical-application knowledge, and use the information on the back for details (metabolism, receptors, etc.). You get one too!!

Pinoy Pharmacist definitely need this!!!

dork: /95341205/cadbury.rar (not a download link)

It is highly recommend that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

Recall of Killer Milk from China in the Philippines

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At long last, BFAD approved the recall of these Milk from china. Even WHO lauds government to recall these products in the market. These milk contains the substance called Melamine which accumulate in our body. It is primarly execreted in the urine, but due to repeated exposure it can harm your kidneys resulting to kidney stones.

It a good thing that these milk manufacturers withdraw their product in the market. It is difficult to recall a product considering you are protecting its name. So what will be the market of Chinese milk industry? Ofcourse, there will be a stigma in everyone's head that if they heard that a milk comes from China, they will think that it already contain these deadly substances.

Pinoy Pharmacist kahit na hindi natin hawak ang Milk industry ay puwede parin tayong tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. By disseminating the right information, makakatulong ito sa public health awareness. Especially pag dating sa mga unlabelled na products. Pwede nating turuan ang ating mga kapamilya tungkol sa kahalagahan ng label sa produkto.

Health Literacy in the Philippines, Is it enough to read the label?

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Health literacy means the ability to understand health–related information – not
just the ability to read printed material just the ability to read printed material.
Health literacy is defined by Healthy People 2010 as: “The degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions.” Patients need to understand instructions on prescription drug bottles, appointment slips, medical education brochures, doctor’s directions and consent forms. They also need to be able to navigate through the health care system, which can be very complex.

According to American Medical Association, poor health literacy is “a stronger
predictor of a person’s health than age, income, employment status, education
level, and race.” There is a high correlation between the ability to read
and health literacy, but it is important to recognize that patients who are fully
literate may be health illiterate.

There is a growing body of evidence demonstrating that patients of all literacy
levels, not just those who have a low literacy level, have trouble comprehending
instructions on how to take their medications. The most frequent effects of patient confusion are dosage errors, followed by dose frequency errors.

People with low literacy are much more likely to misunderstand medication information, and comprehension is even lower when patients take multiple medications. Even basic information such as knowing the name of their blood pressure medication poses a challenge for up to 60% of people with low literacy. The end result of this patient confusion may be medication errors and an increase in ER and hospital visits.

If we relate it in our country, Filipino people tend to forget that every information in the label is important. They just rely on information on what they see on the television, radio and other other information ads. We should also recognizes the critical link between functional literacy and health status. The relationship between literacy and health is complex. Literacy impacts health knowledge, health status, and access to health services. Health status is influenced by several related socioeconomic factors. Literacy impacts income level, occupation, education, housing, and access to medical care. The poor and illiterate are more likely to work under hazardous conditions or be exposed to environmental toxins

Reasons for limited literacy in the Philippines:
1. Lack of educational opportunity
2. Learning abilities and disabilities
3. Older adults declines cognitive functions
4. Reading abilities
5. Poverty

But what can the Philippine government do? Some government agencies are conducting seminars to help our illiterate people in understanding the importance of literacy. I think the government should conduct and disseminate more information about literacy in the Philippines. The more people are health literate the better chance of reducing the health problem, medical errors and health visits.

Pinoy pharmacist what can you do to help our kababayans?




A quick look out of many office windows reveals a world of fast-moving cars, bustling people, and a steady stream of chaos. There are people dashing to and fro, up in the morning to rush off to work, and then rushing home in the evening. The stresses from everyday life begin to pile up. Before long fatigue sets in, muscles ache, and a general sense of malaise occurs. The body's immune system begins to suffer from the lack of rest and the build-up of stress.

The immune system takes a hit when we start to feel stressed and overloaded. Colds and sicknesses can set in easily, reducing production at work. Many people can't afford time off to rest and recuperate, but over-the-counter and prescription medications have many side effects that leave individuals feeling drowsy and slow. There is an alternative to taking pills that has minimal side effects (and mostly none at all) that can leave people feeling better than they did before, with energy flowing and the ability to face the world.

Wouldn't it be good to feel better, have more energy, get rid of those muscle aches and pains, and even have migraines ease up or go away completely? Is it worth a shot? What if this alternative came with very little risk of side effect? It sounds pretty appealing, and it might be surprising to learn that this procedure is acupuncture.

Acupuncture might seem like the current rage in alternative medicine, but it has been around for thousands of years. Acupuncture's roots can be traced back to the Taoist tradition. Practitioners of acupuncture, before it was called so, would meditate on how man and the world's energy merged with each other. The flow of nature was within the human body and governed by a life force or energy called Qi (pronounced chee). Within the body, as in nature, there were lines that energy ran down. These lines are called meridians, and there are fourteen meridians within the human body. From these fourteen meridians, there are thousands of points that allow the blocked energy (from bodily injury, stress, or a poorly cared-for self) to be corrected.

Quick fact: The traditional Chinese explanation of the effectiveness of acupuncture is based on the Taoist philosophy according to which good health depends on a free circulation of chi or life-force energy throughout all the organs of the body

The acupuncturist, after an initial physical and questioning the patient about his or her past medical history, will locate the damaged or blocked area and begin work. Thin, solid needles are inserted into the skin. It is virtually painless. The needles are then manipulated by the hand or electrical stimulation. The acupuncturist then leaves the patient to rest and relax before coming back in to remove the needles.

Acupuncture isn't a miracle cure and more than one visit is usually required to see large improvement on how we feel. However, it's a good alternative to prescription medication that can leave individuals feeling fuzzy or zombie-like. In fact, more and more insurance plans are covering the costs of acupuncture, realizing that the alternative medicine has great value in helping people. There are little side effects and risks, and it's certainly worth a try as opposed to filling oneself up with medication and drugs.

source:here

comment: Oriental medicine ay nauuso na din dito sa pinas. Anyone have tried acupuncture? Do you feel any pain? OUCCCHH!!!

1st Generic Summit

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Department of Health Project in cooperation with PITC and PCPI

Theme: Generation Generics, Saving Lives and Money Now!

What: 1st Generic Summit Department of Health Project in cooperation with Philippine International Trading Corporation and the Philippine Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry

When: September 25-26, 2008

Where: SMX Convention Center, Pasay City



Comment: For sure pupunta ako dito sa event na to. Maraming freebies eh

DOH-BFAD ADVISORY No. 007 s. 2008

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PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY

DOH-BFAD ADVISORY No. 007 s. 2008

Subject: Report of Contaminated Milk Products Produced by SANLU Group in China

This pertains to the report of milk products manufactured by Sanlu Group in China purportedly contaminated with toxic substance Melamine. Following the above reports, Verification with the records of the Bureau of Food and Drugs revealed that no establishment has applied for registration with the Office of the said milk product. Neither is there any establishment in the Bureau's roster of licensed importers importing the same directly from China or any other foreign source nor any of the said milk product fround in the market during the initial monitoring conducted by said Office.

The above norwithstanding and in the interest of protecting public health, the officers of the Bureau including those in the regions are continuously conducting further investigation and monitoring for any presence of the said milk product in the market.


source:bfad.gov(dot)ph

Comment: Good thing nagpalabas agad ang BFAD ng public advisory about the milk product. What about the issues in BPA? BPA is found in the plastic bottle in which may leech into the infant milk. Parang ang nangyayari tuloy ay kung ano ang usong issue sa ibang bansa un lang din ang kayang regulate ng BFAD. BFAD galaw galaw naman baka ma stroke...

FDA Issues Warning Letters to Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd., and an Import Alert for Drugs from Two Ranbaxy Plants in India

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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today issued two Warning Letters to Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd., of the Republic of India, and an Import Alert for generic drugs produced by Ranbaxy's Dewas and Paonta Sahib plants in India.

The Warning Letters identify the agency's concerns about deviations from U.S. current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) requirements at Ranbaxy's manufacturing facilities in Dewas and Paonta Sahib (including the Batamandi unit), in India. Because of the extent and nature of the violations, FDA today issued an Import Alert, under which U.S. officials may detain at the U.S. border, any active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) (the primary therapeutic component of a finished drug product) and both sterile and non-sterile finished drug products manufactured at these Ranbaxy facilities and offered for import into the United States.

The problems at these two Ranbaxy plants relate to deficiencies in the company's drug manufacturing process. These actions are proactive measures that the FDA is taking in order to assure that all drugs that reach the American public are manufactured according to cGMP requirements. While this action does not involve removing products from the market, FDA has no evidence to date that Ranbaxy has shipped defective products. We will continue to monitor the situation.

Today's announcement does not impact products from Ranbaxy's otherplants which are not affected by today's actions. FDA has inspected those facilities and, to date, they have met U.S. cGMP requirements for drug manufacturing.

The FDA recommends that consumers continue taking their medications manufactured by Ranbaxyand not disrupt their drug therapy, which could jeopardize their health. Patients who are concerned about their medications should discuss their concerns with their health care professional.

Earlier today, the FDA informed Ranbaxy that until it resolves the deficiencies at each of these two facilities and the plants come into compliance with U.S. cGMP requirements, FDA's drug compliance office will recommend denial of approval of any New Drug Applications (NDAs) and Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs) that list the Paonta Sahib or Dewas plants respectively as the manufacturer of APIs or finished drug products

Ranbaxy is one of the largest foreign suppliers of generic drugs to the United States. The company makes a number of drug products.

The FDA Import Alert covers more than 30 different generic drug products (Drug List) produced in multiple dosage forms and dosage amounts ( i.e., 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg) at these two locations.FDA has evaluated whether these actions would create any potential drug shortages in the United States, and has determined that other suppliers can meet market demand, with one exception. Because Ranbaxy is the sole supplier to the U.S. of one drug product, Ganciclovir oral capsules (an antiviral drug), to avoid creating a shortage of the drug, FDA generally will not detain shipments of this product, and plans to arrange for additional oversight and controls until the company resolves these manufacturing issues.

"With this action we are sending a clear signal that drug products intended for use by American consumers must meet our standards of safety and quality," said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director, FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). "The FDA has notified other agencies and health care professionals to make them aware of today's actions so that they can take appropriate action and advise patients as needed." The Warning Letters issued today document the results of FDA investigations at these two sites.

One Warning Letter addressed problems at Ranbaxy's Dewas facility found during an inspection conducted by FDA in early 2008. During that inspection, FDA investigators documented significant cGMP deviations in the manufacture of sterile and non-sterile finished products and violations with respect to the manufacture and control of APIs. Specific areas of concern included the following aspects of the firm's quality control program:

* The facility's beta-lactam containment program (measures taken to control cross-contamination), which appeared inadequate to prevent the potential for cross-contamination of pharmaceuticals;
* Inadequate batch production and control records;
* Inadequate failure investigations; (A failure investigation is done to address any manufacturing control or product rejection to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence); and,
* Inadequate aseptic (sterile) processing operations.

The second Warning Letter addressed the Paonta Sahib facility following an inspection at its Batamandi unit, also in early 2008.This inspection documented various cGMP deficiencies, including the following:

* The lack of assurance responsible individuals were present to determine the firm was taking necessary steps under cGMP;
* Inaccurate written records of the cleaning and use of major equipment;
* Incomplete batch production and control records; and,
* Inadequate procedures for the review and approval of production and control records for drug products.

Following the two inspections, FDA provided Ranbaxy with a separate list of inspectional findings for each of the facilities. In mid-April and May, Ranbaxy responded in writing to these findings in lengthy submissions to FDA. The agency then evaluated its findings, Ranbaxy's responses, and the firm's overall inspectional history, an evaluation that required substantial time due to the complex scientific and technical nature of both the identified deficiencies, particularly at the Dewas site, and the firm's responses. Ultimately, FDA concluded that the firm's responses were not adequate and that the Warning Letters were the appropriate regulatory response.

"Today's actions are clearly warranted by the serious violations established by FDA's investigations at these two sites," said Deborah M. Autor, director, CDER's Office of Compliance, FDA. "Until the company addresses these deficiencies, APIs and finished drug products from these plants will remain on the Import Alert, and we will not approve any Abbreviated New Drug Applications or New Drug Applications that list either of the two facilities as the manufacturer of APIs or finished drug products."

This represents the second time in less than three years FDA has issued a Warning Letter to Ranbaxy. In 2006, FDA cited Ranbaxy for violations of U.S. cGMP at its Paonta Sahib facility.

source:here

Comments: Naku madami palang deficiency itong Ranb@xy na ito. Magiging supplier pa naman namin sila in the next 6 months. So far cla na ang biggest supplier namin for Pharmaceutical products. I doubt kung kukunin pa ng management ang supplier na to. Baka problema lang ang abutin namin. QC regulators lang ang mahihirapan gumawa ng nonconformance and incidence reports. For sure babahain kami ng problema nito. hayyyyyyyyyyyyy buhayyyyyy! Maganda sana pakinggang marami kayong product na binebenta, on the contrary mahirap naman kapag nagkaroon ng problema o deficiencies.Dahil tayo naman ang hahabulin ng BFAD pag nag kataon. Ano ba ang gagawin natin mga Pinoy Pharmacist???

USP NF 2007 (United States Pharmacopeia/National Formulary)

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Hardcover
Publisher: Not Avail; 1 Har/Pap/ edition (May 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1889788473
ISBN-13: 978-1889788470
Product Dimensions: 14.4 x 10.4 x 10 inches


The United States Pharmacopeia is a compendium of quality control tests for drugs and excipients to be introduced into a medicinal formulation. It is published every year [1] by the United States Pharmacopoeial Convention. It forms the basis of enforcement actions by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and is the official pharmacopoeia of the U.S.A. and many other nations. Therefore, in case of a dispute, those methods for, amongst others, identification, assay and purity determination of a drug substance or excipient which are stated in the USP will be the legally binding ones.

Within the field the compendium is referred to simply as the USP. The initials USP are affixed to materials' names to indicate that they conform to the specifications in the USP and may be used medicinally.

Comment: This is a one of thea "MUST HAVE" reference for every pharmacist out there!

FAPA : Translational Research for Better Patient Outcome and Safety

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November 7-10 2008 Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, Singapore

An exciting 4-day programme awaits at the FAPA 2008 Congress! The 3 thematic symposia which support the main conference theme “Translational Research: The Approach to Quality Healthcare”, will consist of a series of plenary lectures that underscore the theme.
Catch the Keynote Lecture
“Translational Research for Better Patient Outcome and Safety”
by Joseph S. Bertino, Jr., Pharm. D, Bertino Consulting
Workshop on Medicinal Product Registration 2008 by Health Sciences Authority

The Pharmaceuticals and Biologics Branch of the Therapeutic Products Division, Health Products Regulation Group, Health Sciences Authority will be conducting the Workshop on Medicinal Product Registration 2008 - Updates and New Initiatives on 7 November 2008 (Friday) at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel.

The one-day workshop would provide updates and new initiatives on medicinal product registration in Singapore and topics include priority review & verifi cation route, GMP assessment of manufacturing sites, basics of application filing, generic drugs, emerging issues (cell & tissue therapy, biosimilars) and more. The workshop is particularly relevant for product licence holders / applicants, and those who are involved in the registration of medicinal products in Singapore.

Source: Event details can be viewed from the HSA website.

Comment: I love to attend in this convention but i don't have the money to spend for all the expenses. Anyone attending? Maybe you can send me some copy of the presentations. =)

Featured Drug: Atorvastatin

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Mechanism of Action
Atorvastatin is a selective, competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. Cholesterol and triglycerides circulate in the bloodstream as part of lipoprotein complexes. With ultracentrifugation, these complexes separate into HDL (high-density lipoprotein), IDL (intermediate-density lipoprotein), LDL (low-density lipoprotein), and VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) fractions. Triglycerides (TG) and cholesterol in the liver are incorporated into VLDL and released into the plasma for delivery to peripheral tissues. LDL is formed from VLDL and is catabolized primarily through the high-affinity LDL receptor. Clinical and pathologic studies show that elevated plasma levels of total cholesterol (total-C), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (apo B) promote human atherosclerosis and are risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease, while increased levels of HDL-C are associated with a decreased cardiovascular risk.


Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism

Absorption: maximum plasma concentrations occur within 1 to 2 hours
Distribution: Mean volume of distribution of atorvastatin is approximately 381 liters. Atorvastatin is ≥98% bound to plasma proteins.
Metabolism: metabolized to ortho- and parahydroxylated derivatives and various beta-oxidation products
Excretion:eliminated primarily in bile following hepatic and/or extra-hepatic metabolism

Indication
1.Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease
2.Hypercholesterolemia

Adverse Effects
Muscle problems, Liver problems

Source:drugs.com

Comments: Hi! this is my first featured drug for this blog. I may not write everything from the source. I will just highlight those information i think important to us. Ang mahal ng gamot na ito. Magkano na kaya ito sa botika?

Book Review: Indian Pharmacopoeia:



ISBN: 8190065831
Book Format: Hardcover
Language: English
Publisher: The Controller of Publications
Edition: 1st ed.
Place of Publication: New Delhi
Year of Publication: 2003
Physical Description: 140p.

The latest edition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia was published in 1996. It was updated by additions and amendments introduced through addendum 2000. Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the Indian Pharmacopoeia is the legally recognised book of standards for the quality of drug substances and their preparations included therein. In view of the rapid developments is pharmaceutical sciences and technology, it became necessary to make further changes in the existing compendium. Addendum 2002 amends as well as adds new drugs and preparations to the Indian pharmacopoeia 1996 with a view to keeping the pharmacopoeia updated to the extent possible. Besides amending the existing monographs and appendices, it contains 19 new monographs including monographs of 12 antiretroviral drugs and 7 formulations of these substances. A new appendix on residual solvents has been incorporated. Some monographs have undergone major amendments. The appendix on high performance liquid chromatography has been replaced with a new version which also includes the ion chromatography. The Addendum 2002 is a companion volume to the Indian pharmacopoeia which is indispensable for all concerned with the quality of drugs.

Ngayon ko lang nalaman na meron palang Indian Pharmacopoeia. Hehehe sino may link ng philippine pharmacopoeia para ma book review naman natin.


It is highly recommended that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

google dork: IP_by_www.w5awarez.com.part1

Pharmacy Technician in Canada

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Source: onip.ca

What is a Pharmacy Technician?
A Pharmacy Technician provides technical and clerical support to pharmacists. Unlike pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians cannot counsel patients and cannot take prescription information over the phone

Related job titles
* pharmacy assistant
* pharmacy helper
* pharmacy cashier
* pharmacy clerk

According to the Environmental Scan of Pharmacy Technicians, September 2001, the word "technician" is often used to describe any non-pharmacist in a pharmacy who assists in dispensing. Any person may call himself or herself a technician without having completed technical certification.

Major duties

The responsibilities of a Pharmacy Technician are varied depending on the specific pharmacy. Under the supervision of one or more pharmacists, a pharmacy technician's essential duties include:

* assisting the pharmacist in the day-to-day operation of the pharmacy
* measuring, mixing, packaging, labeling and delivering drugs
* restocking medications and related supplies
* identifying expired products for disposal, destruction, or return to manufacturer
* inputting prescriptions into the computer system
* maintaining computerized lists of medications taken by patients
* filling medication orders
* maintaining inventory
* dealing with clients on a one-to-one basis, directing them to items or the pharmacist for medication consultation
* looking after home health-care products such as canes, vision aids and hearing aids
* pre-packaging medications (including unit dose packaging)

Sometimes duties may also include:

* answering telephones
* receiving written prescriptions
* cleaning and sterilizing dispensing bottles and instruments
* answering questions regarding non-drug products
* operating a cash register
* preparing receipts, invoices, letters and memos, and general filing
* receiving and sending electronic communication
* delivering medications to institutional wards


Qualifications and requirements
Often the first qualification mentioned in the job postings is:

* graduate of an approved Pharmacy Assistant Program, or
* applicants must be graduates of a recognized pharmacy technician program or equivalent.

The evaluation of your non-Canadian education is extremely important in this case. But some retail pharmacies may require no more than a high school diploma that includes courses in chemistry and biology

* Certification (CPhT) from a college of pharmacy is preferred
* Knowledge of the English language is essential. Your communication skills and knowledge of terminology play a vital role.
* Computer keyboard skills are preferred.
* Accuracy is important. There is no room for error.

Other required qualifications may include:

* organizational and time management skills
* problem-solving skills
* ability to work with minimal supervision


Compensation
Salaries vary depending on the pharmacy, the location and the skills and responsibilities of the technician. Those working in retail can expect to start at approximately $7.50 to $8.50 per hour while those working in hospitals earn approximately $17 to $22 per hour.

Who are the employers?

The majority of jobs are in retail pharmacies. Other employers include

* hospitals, and community pharmacies

Occasionally, you may also find these positions with

* pharmaceutical companies
* insurance companies


Comment:
A lot of Filipinos now are looking for opportunities in Canada. Maybe because its one of the best places to live. Considering the PRO's and CON's, Is it really worth going there? If there's a lot good opportunities here for pharmacist and pharmacy technicians will you stay here?

Sinong Filipino Pharmacist gusto mangibang bayan para maging Pharmacy Technician? Kung kumikita ka ng 30-50 thousand a month at may magandang kapalaran ang nag hihintay sayo aalis ka pa ba?

I think mali ang nagiging nosyon sa pilipinas na kapag ikaw ay nag abroad ay garantisadong yayaman ka. Sa pag kakataong ito, nais kong ipamahagi ang messahe sa ating mga kapwa Pinoy Pharmacist na hindi lahat ng pilipino na nagpupunta sa Canada o kahit sa bansa na pupuntahan nila ay magiging successful. Kung makikita ninyo lang sa TV,radio at sa mga iba pang pahayagan kung ano talaga ang situation sa ibang bansa. Kung ang amerika bumagsak ang ekonomia, bakit gusto mo dun? Hindi mo ba alam naghihirap sila dun?

Bilang Pinoy Pharmacist ano ba ang maipapayo mo sa mga Registered Pharmacist na gustong pumunta ng ibang bansa para matrabaho bilang Pharmacy Technician?

Killer Milk Powder

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A third baby has died and the number sickened after being fed milk powder laced with an industrial chemical has soared five-fold to more than 6,000 in one of the worst food quality scandals to rock China.

The Health Minister Chen Zhu said: “As far as possible, minimise the harm to infants’ health from the contaminated milk powder.”

Hospitals were crowded with anxious parents seeking the free treatment promised by the government for their babies.Supermarket workers in many cities raced to pull tins of formula off shelves in a huge recall and amid fears the numbers of infants ill after drinking powdered milk adulterated with the compound melamine could rise. Minister Chen said more and more parents were expected to take their children to hospitals in the coming days.

The Government has announced that a fifth of 109 dairy manufacturers that have been checked had produced batches of milk products adulterated with melamine, used in plastics and fertilisers banned from foods. But the compound is rich in nitrogen, used to measure protein, and can be used to disguise milk that fails to meet standards or has been diluted.

source: timesonline.co.uk

Lets take a look on what is melamine on wikipedia

This article is about the chemical substance called melamine. The term "melamine" is also used to describe melamine resin, a plastic material.

Not to be confused with melanin, a pigment found in skin and hair.

Melamine is an organic base with the chemical formula C3H6N6, with the IUPAC name 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine. It is only slightly soluble in water.

Melamine is a trimer of cyanamide. Like cyanamide, it is 66% nitrogen (by mass) and provides fire retardant properties to resin formulas by releasing nitrogen when burned or charred. Dicyandiamide (or cyanoguanidine), the dimer of cyanamide, is also used as a fire retardant.

Melamine is a metabolite of cyromazine, a pesticide. It is formed in the body of mammals who have ingested cyromazine.[2] It was also reported that cyromazine is converted to melamine in plants.[3][4]

USES

Melamine is used combined with formaldehyde to produce melamine resin, a very durable thermosetting plastic, and melamine foam, a polymeric cleaning product. The end products include countertops, dry erase boards, fabrics, glues, housewares and flame retardants. Melamine is one of the major components in Pigment Yellow 150, a colorant in inks and plastics.

Melamine is also used to make fertilizers.

Melamine derivatives of arsenical drugs are potentially important in the treatment of African trypanosomiasis[7]

Melamine use as non-protein nitrogen (NPN) for cattle was described in a 1958 patent.[8] In 1978, however, a study concluded that melamine "may not be an acceptable nonprotein N source for ruminants" because its hydrolysis in cattle is slower and less complete than other nitrogen sources such as cottonseed meal and urea.[9]

source: wikipedia

Comments:

Based on this incidence, can we conclude that Products(especially on milk products) from China are low of quality?

Safety in our Work

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How to protect the safety of your staff in the workplace

The Health and Safety Executive defines violence as any incident in which an employee is “abused, threatened or assaulted by a member of the public in circumstances arising out of the course of his or her employment”.

Victims may suffer physical injuries as well as psychological trauma and can need time off to recover, proving costly to their employer. Then there is the cost to the NHS (estimated by the National Audit Office at £173m per year) and the benefits system.

With staff from one in every 15 pharmacies surveyed suffering violence, and half of all respondents recalling at least two incidents where they suffered violence or the threat of violence or abuse.

Who is at risk?

Anyone whose job brings them into contact with the public can be at risk of violence, and those in frontline health professions such as pharmacy are likely to be more vulnerable.Employers and staff have to work together to reduce the risk of violence, which often occurs due to a combination of factors such as working unsocial hours, working alone, handling money, or coping with distressed or angry customers.

Employers’ responsibilities

Making the workplace safer improves morale and reduces staff turnover and absenteeism. In addition, employers have a duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 to ensure a safe workplace for all staff, which includes assessing (see Panel below) and preventing violence.


Safety checklist

• Are staff trained in good customer service and conflict resolution?

• Are staff confident? (an atmosphere of fear can increase the likelihood of violence)

• Are staff aware of customers with a history of violence?

• Are security measures up to date? (eg, video cameras or alarm systems, coded security locks on the doors, wider counters)

• Can lone worker situations be avoided?

• Do staff know how to report violence?


Things to consider when undertaking a risk assessment

By law all employers must carry out a workplace risk assessment. Many violent incidents can be predicted, and a risk assessment helps to identify them. Conflict management training consultants Maybo advise considering the following three stages:

Awareness Are staff aware of situations they might face and customers they may encounter?

Prevention What actions can be taken to prevent conflict arising or to reduce the frequency and impact of incidents? How can staff prevent conflict escalating into violence? (This typically involves the use of interpersonal skills, such as conflict resolution training.)

Disengagement Do staff know how to disengage themselves from conflict and how to report and record any events?

Training tips

Conflict resolution training gives staff the skills to spot the signs of violence before it happens.
If staff have to work alone, personal alarms and panic buttons can help ensure their safety.

Staff responsibilities

Employees also have responsibility for their own wellbeing and that of their colleagues. The aim in any difficult situation should always be to diffuse, rather than exacerbate, an incident, but the law does allow people to take any reasonable action to defend ourselves and our property using reasonable force.

source:PharmJ

In the philippines, may incidence ba ng mga ganito in your workplace? Post your experiences here!

What Does a NURSE Do in the Pharmacy?

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A nurse working in Pharmacy, you ask? What does a nurse do in the pharmacy? Good question. In October of 2007, RN Mary Dinos accepted a position as the Nurse/Pharmacy Liaison. It is a position that has piqued the curiosity of not only the pharmacists, but other nurses and doctors alike. Like any newly created position, it takes awhile to delineate and formulate the specific duties that can be done by a Registered Nurse in the Pharmacy.

Initially Mary spent a great deal of her time in the Pharmacy observing the pharmacists during their shifts, on days and evenings, to get an idea of the routine in the pharmacy. She talked with the staff as to what would help make the process run smoother and more efficiently. Mary began answering phones in Pharmacy and respond to the questions or concerns of the nurses.

This was a real eye opener for Mary. She was incredulous at the number of times the pharmacists had to stop processing the orders to answer the phones, which of course, leads to interrupted 'train of thought' and increased risk of error. Mary thought about the times that she was just as bad, if not worse, when she was working as a staff nurse on the floors. She never realized just what the pharmacists did or how busy they were, trying to get the orders processed, and would frequently just pick up the phone to
ask 'quick question' about a drug.

One of Mary's goals for 2008 is to educate all of the floor nurses in the Micromedex tool.
TIP: Micromedix is an incredible resource for drug information and is available on the main menu of the hospital intranet. She has been reaching out to the nurses and showing them how to 'pull-up' Micromedex and just minimize the screen so it is always at their fingertips while they are working with the BMV. Nurses using Micromedix as a tool can easily look up the generic or brand name of a drug, or information on an acceptable dose, or even if they were just not sure what a drug was used for. The job of Liaison also entails education and support for the nurses on the BMV units. Bergen A3 went live in November of this year and Mary was up on the unit and down in the Pharmacy working both days and evening shifts and weekends to help the nurses and pharmacists through the transition. That will also be her duty as more of the units "Go Live".

Currently eight nursing units are using BMV to assure safe delivery of medications. Just before administration of a medication to a patient, a nurse uses automation and barcodes on a patients wristband, the medication itself and their ID badge to assure the right drug at the right dose is given to the right patient at the right time. Valley believes in this automation and it ability to make patients safer by reducing medication errors. Coming in at number 4 is Medication Order Management Systems. Valley implemented this technology to all inpatient units in December of 2001 and was one of the first in the state of NJ to do so. By scanning orders to the pharmacy, orders are received in a clearer media and workflow can be adjusted for quicker turn around. Coming in at 5 on our list is. Is Smart Pump technology. Valley uses smart pump technology, where drugs are entered into the pumps automation. This technology is safer for patients. What is in our future?? As Valley’s commitment to Renewal advances, so is our commitment for a safer medication management system that improves the way medications help patients. Using automation in a medication management system allows hospital’s to gain advances by investing in hardware and software. While these are generally expensive ‘looking’ the real bargain is the avoidance of medication related errors. In addition, as hard to fill nurse and pharmacist positions are utilized to provide care to patients, automation used to help with workload is always welcome. Part of Valley’s renewal includes plans for a new pharmacy and plans for additional pharmacy automation. As pharmacy automation is changing all the time as the void is great, we plan to stay current to assure the new pharmacy will be state of the art.
She is also trying to address recurring issues on the units that have already been
using the BMV system for the past couple of years. Even though Mary has worked for valley at The Luckow Pavilion in the Infusion Center for the past five years, she is a new face here in the Main Hospital. She has been making rounds daily on the units, meeting the nurses and nurse managers, and trying to make herself known as someone the
staff can go to when there is a pharmacy related issue that needs to be addressed. Medication drawers can be filled with old drugs because the patient has been discharged. The nurse needs to return a discharged patient's meds to the "Pharmacy OUT" bin. The “Pharmacy IN” bins in the medication rooms on many of the units are overflowing with meds, which are not brought to the patient's individual

source: Valley Health

Possible kaya ito sa pinas?

Book Review: Drug Metabolism: Current Concepts

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Product Details
Book Publisher: Springer (11 April, 2006)
ISBN: 1402041411
Book author: Mino R. Caira, Corina Ionescu

Drug metabolism: Current Concepts provides a comprehensive understanding of the processes that take place following ingestion of a medicinal agent or xenobiotic, with an emphasis on the crucial role of metabolism (biotransformation). How a sound knowledge of these phenomena is incorporated into the design of effective new drug candidates is also explained. The user-friendly text focuses on concepts rather than extraneous details and is supported by many illustrated examples of biotransformations as well as frequent references to current critical reviews and articles highlighting the nature of research objectives in this vibrant area of medicinal development. The final topic on strategies for drug design relies on the background provided by the rest of the book. This book is ideally suited as an advanced text for courses in drug metabolism for students of medicine, pharmacy, pharmacology, biochemistry; and for courses in drug design and drug delivery for students of medicinal chemistry. It is also appropriate for professional seminars or courses that relate to the fate of a drug in the body, drug interactions, adverse reactions and drug design.

Cool book! Student should see this one. Very helpful on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacology subjects.


It is highly recommended that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

Pharmacy Tools

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I want to repost this from my friendster blog. Since this is my official blog from now on. This is my first 1st project while im still studying during college. This cd contains different programs, documents, free softwares, and site bookmarks that i have collected for pharmacist. It is currently stored in my cd case in my room. I haven't use it for a long period of time since my cd-rom drive is not working. I dont know why should i repost this cd again. But anyway, atleast my readers of my blog knows that someone is trying to makes these junks. Is it really interesting to hear the title of this cd? Pharmacy tool. Its like super tool for pharmacist. Hehehe maybe i should name it "Junk collections for Pharmacy". Who cares? Maybe a reader of this get interested and call me at my phone to get a copy. Something like "Hey! can i get a copy of your cds? I really want it. Maybe I can send you some blank disk and burn them for me. Please please pretty please". Ok this is all for now, i have something more important to do, I'll repost some more of my cd collection soon when the time has time for me. heheheh Funny quote. I just think of that when Im doing this post.

Limang Tips para makatipid sa pag bili ng gamot

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Limang (5) paraan para makatipid sa pagbili gamot

1.Gumamit ng Generic Drug. Ito na siguro ang pinakaunang maiisip mo kung bibili ng gamot sa botika. Ito na rin siguro ang pinakamatipid na paraan para di mabutas ang bulsa natin. Mas maganda kung tatanungin mo sa Pharmacist ng botika kung ano ang magandang generic ng gamot na nireseta sayo ng doktor. Wag mag duda sa mga generic drugs. Basta't mapagkakatiwalaan ang pagbibilhan mong botika at mahusay naman ang kumpanyang gumawa, pareho lang ang epekto nito sa branded.

2. Humanap ng mas mababang presyo ng gamot. Paano kung walang stock generic? Mag tanong isa ibang botika. Siguro naman ay meron ding ibang katulad nito na nakakagamot sa pareho o mas murang halaga. Konsultahin muna ang iyong doktor bago mag palit at bumili ng kung ano ano. Mas mainam na may rekomendasyon ng doktor bago bumili ng gamot na hindi mo naman alam kung ano ang epekto nito.

3. Magtanong tanong sa mga katabing tindahan o botika. Subukan mo munang mag tanong ng mas murang presyo sa ibang katabing botika. Baka naman mahal ang presyo ng gamot sa binibilhan mo.

4. Bumili ng maramihan. Sa panahon ngyon, nauuso ang wholesale discount. Kahit ang mga Chinese gawain ito. Kapag bumili ka ng marami, mas malaki ang diskwento mo. Kaya kapag niresetahan ka ng doktor ng sampung piraso ng gamot, mag tanong sa botika kung magkano ang diskwento nito kapag bibilhin mo lahat.

5. Alamin ang mga freebies at discounts programs. Tignan at basahin maigi kung ano ano ang mga libreng promo na bibilhin ninyo. Marami kumpanya ngyon na nagpapamigay at nagppromo ng produkto para makilala ang pangalan ng produkto nila. Usisain at makinabang sa mga promo na ito.

"Buksan ang ating mga kaisipan sa katotohanan" Ang sabi nila maaring maganda sa pandinig ang pangalan ng produkto pero sa totoo lang ay hindi mo ito kelangan. Maging mapag-usisa, palatanong, at mautak sa lahat ng produkto na ating bibilhin. Suriin mabuti at huwag bibili.. uulitin ko.. Huwag BIBILI sa mga hindi makapagkakatawalaang botika.

Book Review : Handbook of Copper Pharmacology and Toxicology

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Publisher: Humana Press
Number Of Pages: 606
Publication Date: 2002-07-15
Sales Rank: 2388692
ISBN / ASIN: 0896039439
EAN: 9780896039438
Binding: Hardcover
Manufacturer: Humana Press
Studio: Humana Press
Average Rating:
Total Reviews:

Book Description:

Edward J. Massaro and a panel of leading biomedical researchers and clinical practitioners review, in-depth, the status of our current knowledge concerning the biochemistry of copper in general and its role in health and disease in particular. Drawing on the wealth of new information emerging from the molecular biology revolution, these experts survey the most important research areas of copper pharmacology and toxicology, including copper proteins and transport, copper toxicity and therapeutics, and copper metabolism and homeostasis. They also discuss the molecular pathogenesis of copper in a variety of metabolic diseases, Menkes and Wilson's diseases and occipital horn syndrome, as well as the role of copper in Parkinson's disease, prion disease, familial amytrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Alzheimer's disease.


If you want to know more about copper I think this is the best book you'll ever need. I haven't opened this book, I'm just wondering on what will be the effect if we inhale the fumes burning copper wires?

It is highly recommend that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

DOH Celebrates Generic Awareness Month

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This month Department of Health celebrates "Generic Awareness Month" through Republic Act (R.A.)6675. This is to promote, require and ensure the production of an adequate supply, distribution, use and acceptance of drugs and medicines identified by their generic name.

Under Rebulic Act 6675 also known as the Generics Act of 1988, physicians, dentist and veterinarians are required to indicate the generic names of all drugs prescribed whether through a personal prescription pad or a doctor's order sheet in the hospital chart. It is required that generic names of all drugs must always be written first before a brand name which is optional and placed in parenthesis.

For violation of this act, the Secretary of DOH shall have the authority to impose administrative sanctions such as suspension or cancellation of license to operate or recommend suspension of license to practice profession to the Professional Regulation Commission as the case may be.

Is/Are there any healthcare prescriber or establishments being penalized, suspended or cancelled their license(s) violating this act? If yes, how many? If no, why not? What do Pharmacist say about this issue since they are the ones dispensing the medicines? These I think just some basic questions to ask if we talk more about this issue.

Book Review: Excipient Development for Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Drug Delivery Systems

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Publisher: Informa Healthcare
Number Of Pages: 452
Publication Date: 2006-07-28
Sales Rank: 795605
ISBN / ASIN: 0849327067
EAN: 9780849327063
Binding: Hardcover
Manufacturer: Informa Healthcare
Studio: Informa Healthcare
Average Rating:
Total Reviews

Book Description:


To facilitate the development of novel drug delivery systems and biotechnology-oriented drugs, the need for new, yet to be developed, and approved excipients continues to increase. Excipient Development for Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Drug Delivery Systems serves as a comprehensive source to improve understanding of excipients and forge potential new avenues for regulatory approval. This book presents detailed, up-to-date information on various aspects of excipient development, testing, and technological considerations for their use. It addresses specific details such as historical perspective, preclinical testing, safety, and toxicology evaluation, as well as regulatory, quality, and utility aspects. The text also describes best practices for use of various functional excipients and extensive literature references for all topics.



It is highly recommended that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

Book Review: Clinical Pharmacology

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By P. N. Bennett, Morris J. Brown,

Publisher: Churchill Livingstone
Number Of Pages: 804
Publication Date: 2003-05-27
Sales Rank: 1837318
ISBN / ASIN: 0443064806
EAN: 9780443064807
Binding: Paperback
Manufacturer: Churchill Livingstone
Studio: Churchill Livingstone
Average Rating: 4
Total Reviews: 1

Book Description:

This book is for students, doctors and indeed for all concerned with evidence-based drug therapy. A knowledge of pharmacological and therapeutic principles is essential if drugs/medicines are to be used safely and effectively for increasingly informed and critical patients.

Doctors who understand how drugs get into the body, how they produce their effects, what happens to them in the body, and how evidence of their therapeutic effect is assessed, will choose drugs more skilfully, and use them more successfully than those who do not. The principles involved are neither so numerous nor so difficult to understand as to deter any prescriber, including those whose primary interests lie elsewhere than in pharmacology.

All who use drugs cannot escape either the moral or the legal 'duty of care' to prescribe in an informed and responsible way.

Hi, this is my first post for Book Review. The purpose of this review is to know more about books published in other countries such as the United States. I'll try to post every other day some pharmacy books which will help students, practitioners and other health care professionals in choosing the right reference.

Download link are forbidden but you may search the internet for related links.



It is highly recommended that you buy this book. Do not buy or download illegal stuff.

Seminar on Licensing of Establishments (Drug/Cosmetic/Medical Device) as per AO 56 s. 1989, AO 43 s. 1999, and AO 90 s. 2002

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Seminar on Licensing of Establishment
(Drug/Cosmetics/Medical Device) Manufacturer / Traders
A.O 56 s1989, A.O 43 s.1999 and A.O 90 s.2002

3rd Floor BFAD Annex Bldg

8:00am to 12:00 noon

Registration free : 600.00 PHP

Source: Bureau of Food And Drugs
click here

This seminar is highly recommended for fresh graduates! Join now!

GMP Training Seminar on Documentation

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GMP Training Seminar on Documentation
September 15-16 2008
BFAD, AVR - Annex Bldg


Pre-registered companies must cancel their registration at least 3 days before the seminar.
For more details kindly contact Ms. Rhoda Laine D. Manaloto and Nora Eco and Carol Custodio.
Closing date for the pre-registration is on September 12, 2008
No Pay will be accepted on the day of seminar

Seminar Fee: P3,000
Cheque Payments: payable to PCPI
Bank payments: UCPB Shangrila branch : 00164-002049-7

source: Bureau of Food and Drugs
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I already attended this seminar a few months ago. And now i want to post it for people who wants to attend the seminar

Codeine risky for breastfeeding infants

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Codeine is an inactive prodrug of morphine. In most people only about 10% of the drug is converted to morphine.

Codeine (with acetaminophen) is often given to women to control pain following childbirth. It is most commonly prescribed for mothers whose delivery invloves a surgical episiotomy or caesarean section. The drug has been considered compatible with breast feeding, according to well-recongnized guidelines published by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Researchers found that about 5% of women are CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers. this results in significantly higher morphine concentrations in plasma and breat milk, which can lead to potentially life threatening central nervous system (CNS) depression in the breastfed infant.

Codeine can be harmful and even fatal to some brestfed infants, according to new evidence from Dr. Gideon Koren, director of the Motherisk Program at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. Concern regarding the safety of codeine during breastfeeding arose after a two-week old infant died of an overdose of morphine acquired from breast milk

However, Koren notes that the adverse CNS effects are usually rapidly and completely reversible once exposure to the breast milk is discontinued.

But the real question is who can guarantee that that CNS depression will be reversible? Do filipino pain doctors aware of this issue? And how about the pharmacist?

Is your blog ready for 125 x 125 ads?

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I think most of the blogs today are equip with earning ads. I don't know who started these kind of marketing strategy but there are already thousands or even millions (who can count?) of blogs out there using it.

Should we place these ads on our blog? I think should think first the balance the argument and consider some points before putting ads in your blogs.

How much would they pay you placing their ads?
Look who's advertising in your related niche?
Think of position in your market
Consider your Competing Ads and Affiliate Programs

What do you think about putting ads in your blog?