MPA Statement on Prescribing and Dispensing Hydroxychloroquine
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The use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in COVID-19 patients is a rapidly evolving area. Current evidence suggests that HCQ may have benefits in treating patients with detectable COVID-19 virus. Pharmacists have an ongoing obligation to dispense HCQ to patients that were receiving the drug for FDA approved indications previously, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Without the benefit of specific regulatory guidance, the Michigan Pharmacists Association (MPA) recommends that HCQ only be prescribed for patients with confirmed viral infections or, if the prescriber determines to be appropriate, a presumptively positive patient. MPA recognizes pharmacists must use their professional judgement and defer to the prescriber regarding individual patient decisions, and that HCQ is being prescribed for a legitimate medical purpose associated with the Covid-19 virus based on currently available information. HCQ is listed on the FDA’s drug shortage list and, therefore, may be compounded. Prescriptions for HCQ for the purpose of stockpiling or hoarding should be refused.
Individuals may want to listen in to the virtual Board of Pharmacy Meeting (
April 8, 2020 Board of Pharmacy Agenda
) as the Board discusses HCQ tomorrow, Wed., April 8, 2020, beginning at 10 a.m. To
listen in on the meeting, dial 877-820-7831, when prompted, please enter the following conference ID: 973313
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CDC Guidance to Pharmacies and Recommendations on Vaccinations During COVID-19
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The CDC released information regarding vaccinations. The recommendation is no vaccines, except where noted for pediatric patients and limited clinical face-to-face services. Please take a moment to review the
attached document for valuable links with the directives and additional information.
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American Epilepsy Society Comment on Therapeutic Substitution of Medications
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The American Epilepsy Society (AES) strongly encourages pharmacists to make every effort to keep patients with epilepsy on their current regimen of antiseizure medications (ASM). Pharmacists should consult with the patient’s prescriber/healthcare provider prior to making any therapeutic substitution of ASM.
Generic substitution of ASM has been shown to be safe and is appropriate for patients with epilepsy. While the AES appreciates efforts to ensure patients receive medications during the COVID-19 crisis, there are important concerns for individuals with epilepsy that make therapeutic substitutions of ASM less than optimal and possibly harmful. For many patients with epilepsy, it is very difficult to balance seizure control with adverse effects and drug-drug interactions of ASM. Additionally, ASM have a wide range of mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, adverse effect profiles and drug interactions. While almost all ASM have similar FDA approved indications, individual patients with the same seizure classification may have very different clinical responses to the same medication. In addition, many patients require multiple adjustments of ASM, particularly when given in combination, to achieve optimal outcomes.
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MPA Screens Legislators Before Entering Session
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The Michigan Legislature is convening today to deal with matters of the state as it pertains to COVID-19. MPA was there to serve as health screeners before members of the legislature could enter the session. Thank you to MPA member Alex Mchawrab, MPA COO Dianne Malburg, PSI Insurance Agency Manager Ron Devers and MPA Government Affairs Manager Brian Sapita for assisting in this process.
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Michigan Seeking Qualified Volunteers
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Pharmacists, student pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are needed to volunteer to assist in the dispensing process at TCF center (previously known as COBO hall) in Detroit. If interested contact MPA Director of Emergency Preparedness
Farah Jalloul
or register at
www.michigan.gov/fightcovid19.
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Print this sign, take your picture and post on social media with your story and tell us how you are making a difference during COVID-19. You can also email your photo and story to MPA Communications Manager
Jamie James.
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