British National Formulary April 2024 Update

This update contains 6 significant changes, 5 new monographs, 3 new preparations, 1 deleted monograph and 2 deleted preparations.

Significant Changes:

• Ceftriaxone: update to structure of indications and dose section.
• Clindamycin: update to structure of indications and dose section.
• Contraceptives, non-hormonal: updated guidance in-line with Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare recommendations on intra-uterine contraception.
• Ezetimibe: new indication for prevention of cardiovascular events.
• Omega-3-acid ethyl esters: (Omacor®/Teromeg® 1000 mg capsules): dose-dependent increased risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with established cardiovascular diseases or cardiovascular risk factors [MHRA/CHM advice].
• Valproate (Belvo®, Convulex®, Depakote®, Dyzantil®, Epilim®, Epilim Chrono® or Chronosphere®, Episenta®, Epival®, and Syonell®): new safety and educational materials to support regulatory measures in men and women under 55 years of age [MHRA/CHM advice] (advice in sodium valproate, valproic acid; see example in sodium valproate).

New Monographs:

• Cytisinicline.
• Ebglyss® [lebrikizumab].
• Kanuma® [sebelipase alfa].
• Rezzayo® [rezafungin].
• Zynlonta® [loncastuximab tesirine].

New Preparations: Emylif® orodispersible film [riluzole]; Etacortilen® eye drops [dexamethasone]; Mounjaro KwikPen® [tirzepatide].

Deleted Monographs: Benzoin tincture, compound.

Deleted Preparations: Hibitane® Plus 5% concentrate solution [chlorhexidine]; Zofran® suppository [ondansetron].