A selection of recent questions answered for members by the NPA’s Pharmacy Services Team

Q Has SMA Gold Prem 2 powder undergone a name change?

A Yes. SMA Gold Prem 2 Catch-up formula powder has been reformulated and renamed as SMA Pro Gold Prem 2 Post Discharge Formula powder. The new formulation is now 100% whey and contains a partially hydrolysed protein which is easier to digest and the formulation may have a slightly different taste. In addition, the new formulation contains a different type of fat called SN-2 beta palmitate (which has been added to increase stool softness) as well as a reduction in the iron content (0.8mg for the SMA Pro Gold Prem 2 powder compared to 1.2mg for the SMA Gold Prem 2 powder).

The new formulation however is no longer suitable for halal or vegetarian diets. NHS prescriptions written as SMA Gold Prem 2 powder would have to be returned to the prescriber for amendment to SMA Pro Gold Prem 2 powder, if SMA Pro Gold Prem 2 is the product which is required by the prescriber and is going to be dispensed and supplied.

 

Q Can I dispense Neo-Safe T CU 380 if I have an NHS prescription for Neo-Safe T380 intrauterine device?

A Yes. ThemanufacturerofNeo-SafeT380intrauterinedevice, Williams Medical Supplies, has confirmed that Neo-Safe T380 intrauterine device is the same as Neo-Safe T CU 380 intrauterine device. The Dictionary of Medicines and Devices Browser does not state the letters “CU” in the description of the product, however, the packaging of the product does state “CU”.

This product should not, however, be confused with the Neo-Safe T CU 380 mini intrauterine device; this is a ‘mini’ version with a smaller width and a shorter length than the Neo-Safe T CU 380 intrauterine device. Neo-Safe T CU 380 mini intrauterine device is not allowed on an NHS prescription because it does not appear in the Appliances section of the current England and Wales, Northern Ireland and Scottish Drug Tariffs.

 

Q Can I dispense a HBP(A) instalment prescription form for methadone 1mg/ml oral solution for 28 days treatment from Scotland in England?

A Yes. The NHS Business Services Authority(NHSBSA) has confirmed that an HBP(A) instalment prescription can be dispensed in England even though the treatment period may exceed 14 days. This is the maximum treatment period that may be prescribed on an FP10MDA prescription. HBP(A) prescriptions may be used to cover a 28-day treatment period.

Endorsement should be made on the left hand side endorsement column (ensuring it does not encroach on the doctor’s writing) and should include the date of dispensing, the item dispensed and the quantity dispensed. This should be endorsed each time the patient collects an instalment. A Packaged Dose (PD) endorsement can be made for doses to be taken away packaged individually.

FAQ information is correct at the time of publishing on the NPA website.