I had an interesting conversation with a company representative recently.
It turns out that the product "Dovobet ointment" will be available only in the 120g pack size in the near future as the 60g pack size will be discontinued.
The "gel form" will be available in both sizes.
The problem here is that if pharmacies receive prescriptions for 60g of the ointment, once it's gone, they will be able to properly supply the 120g and be paid for it...but the clinical indication for this product is clear - it shouldn't be used in a casual manner. Indeed the BNF states "apply once a day to a maximum of 30% of the body surface for 4 weeks (max of 15g daily); If necessary treatment may be continued beyond the 4 weeks or repeated on the advice of a specialist.
Now, we don't know what areas of skin are being treated -and treatment may rotate around the body as different body parts need to be treated - but by giving a larger pack, the temptation to overuse might be great...
Perhaps, we should provide patients with a MUR when supplying Dovobet to ensure appropriate use; and more importantly prevent inappropriate excessive application?
It turns out that the product "Dovobet ointment" will be available only in the 120g pack size in the near future as the 60g pack size will be discontinued.
The "gel form" will be available in both sizes.
The problem here is that if pharmacies receive prescriptions for 60g of the ointment, once it's gone, they will be able to properly supply the 120g and be paid for it...but the clinical indication for this product is clear - it shouldn't be used in a casual manner. Indeed the BNF states "apply once a day to a maximum of 30% of the body surface for 4 weeks (max of 15g daily); If necessary treatment may be continued beyond the 4 weeks or repeated on the advice of a specialist.
Now, we don't know what areas of skin are being treated -and treatment may rotate around the body as different body parts need to be treated - but by giving a larger pack, the temptation to overuse might be great...
Perhaps, we should provide patients with a MUR when supplying Dovobet to ensure appropriate use; and more importantly prevent inappropriate excessive application?
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