Direct-acting antiviral interferon-free regimens to treat chronic hepatitis C: risk of hepatitis B reactivation

All patients should be screened for hepatitis B before starting treatment for chronic hepatitis C with direct-acting antiviral interferon-free regimens.

Direct-acting antivirals to treat chronic hepatitis C: risk of interaction with vitamin K antagonists and changes in INR

INR should be monitored closely during treatment of chronic hepatitis C with direct-acting antivirals in patients also receiving vitamin K antagonists (eg, warfarin), because of possible changes in liver function during treatment.

Apremilast (Otezla ▼): risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour

There is an increased risk that some patients may experience psychiatric symptoms with apremilast, including depression and suicidal thoughts.

Intravenous N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for paracetamol overdose: reminder of authorised dose regimen; possible need for continued treatment with NAC

The authorised dose regimen for N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in paracetamol overdose is 3 consecutive bags given intravenously over 21 hours.

Letters sent to healthcare professionals in December 2016

A summary of letters sent to relevant healthcare professionals in December 2016.

Posted on the UK MHRA website on 19 January 2017