Alex Brooks

UK strategy to cut antibiotic use outlined

Patients should not be prescribed antibiotics for simple coughs and colds or for viral sore throats, recommends a report published last week by the UK Standing Medical Advisory Committee. The report also advises that women with uncomplicated cystitis should be given only a three day course of treatment and that telephone prescription of anti-biotics should occur only in …

“Liquid ecstasy” trading to be investigated

Investigations into the illegal trading and advertising of gammahydroxybutyrate have been stepped up by the Medicines Control Agency. The drug is not licensed in the United Kingdom and can be prescribed only by a doctor on a named patient basis. The drug, also known as liquid ecstasy, has been promoted for body builders--who believe it stimulates the bodys …

Lifting of UK quarantine recommended

Cats, dogs, and non-carnivores entering the United Kingdom from European Union states and from countries that have been specified as free of rabies should not have to undergo quarantine, according to an independent expert …