Drug safety notice: Slo-phyllin capsules being discontinued and Emerade recall

December 6, 2019

Merck, the suppliers of Slo-phyllin (theophylline) capsules, have reported that due to manufacturing issues from their supplier, the manufacture of this product has ceased immediately, and will be discontinued. There are several alternative preparations available for our patients.

Please see Slo-phyllin drug safety notice for further information on managing this supply issue.

Emerade recall

Emerade pens have been recalled by the MHRA due to the known issue regarding failure to activate. Emerade stock held by patients is not being recalled, and patients and caregivers in possession of Emerade pens need to be informed of updated safety information about the risk of failure to activate. Most Emerade pens will activate as normal and patients are advised to continue to follow existing advice to carry two in-date pens with them at all times. Prescribers should prescribe adrenaline pens (autoinjectors) of another brand, until this error has been corrected and ensure that training is provided for the alternative brands. Jext is currently the alternative brand available in the trust.

Please see Emerade recall sheet for further information about this recall.

For more information please contact the pharmacy department on ext. 5259.