Pharmacy Knowledge

Introduction

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) such as liraglutide, semaglutide, and dulaglutide have transformed the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. While their efficacy in glycemic control and weight reduction is well established, emerging post-marketing reports and regulatory investigations have raised concerns about potential neuropsychiatric adverse effects, particularly suicidal ideation, in susceptible populations.

Pharmacists, as accessible healthcare providers, are uniquely positioned to monitor for early warning signs of neuropsychiatric side effects, especially in patients with a known history of mental illness.

The Neuropsychiatric Safety Signal

In 2023, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) initiated a review of GLP-1 RAs following reports of suicidal thoughts and self-injury in patients using semaglutide and liraglutide, particularly for weight loss indications1. The U.S. FDA also began evaluating similar safety data. While a causal relationship has not been definitively established, the reports prompted heightened scrutiny due to the seriousness of the potential…

April 28, 2025

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released its official recommendations for the composition of the 2025–2026 seasonal influenza vaccines. These guidelines serve as a critical reference for vaccine manufacturers to ensure broad protection against circulating flu strains in the upcoming season.

Key Highlights:

Trivalent Vaccine Composition:For the 2025–2026 flu season, the FDA continues to recommend a trivalent formulation consisting of two influenza A strains and one influenza B strain.

Selected Strains Include:

• Influenza A (H1N1): A/Victoria/4897/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus

Introduction

Anaphylaxis is a rapid-onset, potentially fatal allergic reaction requiring immediate intervention. Traditionally, intramuscular epinephrine via auto-injectors like EpiPen has been the standard emergency treatment. However, needle phobia and administration challenges have led to delays in treatment. The recent FDA approval of Neffy, the first needle-free epinephrine nasal spray, offers a promising alternative for patients and healthcare providers.

FDA Approval and Indications

In August 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Neffy (epinephrine nasal spray) for the emergency treatment of type I allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in adults and children weighing 30 kg (66 lbs) or more. Subsequently, in March 2025, the FDA expanded Neffy's indication to include pediatric patients aged 4 years and older weighing between 15 to <30 kg (33 to <66 lbs), making it the first needle-free epinephrine treatment approved for younger children.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety

Neffy's approval was based on multiple clinical studies…