Latest news with #pharmacist
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
A preservative removed from childhood vaccines 20 years ago is still causing controversy today − a drug safety expert explains
An expert committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on vaccines is meeting for the first time since Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. abruptly replaced the committee's 17 members with eight hand-picked ones on June 11, 2025. The committee, called the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, generally discusses and votes on recommendations for specific vaccines. For this meeting, taking place June 25-26, 2025, vaccines for COVID-19, human papillomavirus, influenza and other infectious diseases were on the schedule. According to an updated agenda, however, the committee is now also scheduled to hear a presentation on a chemical called thimerosal and to vote on proposed recommendations regarding its use in influenza vaccines. Public health experts have raised concerns about the presentation, noting that anti-vaccine advocates continue to promote confusion regarding the purported health risks of thimerosal despite extensive research demonstrating its safety. I'm a pharmacist and expert on drug information with 35 years of experience critically evaluating the safety and effectiveness of medications in clinical trials. No evidence supports the idea that thimerosal, used as a preservative in vaccines, is unsafe or carries any health risks. Thimerosal, also known as thiomersal, is a preservative that has been used in some drug products since the 1930s because it prevents contamination by killing microbes and preventing their growth. In the human body, thimerosal is metabolized, or changed, to ethylmercury, an organic derivative of mercury. Studies in infants have shown that ethylmercury is quickly eliminated from the blood. Ethylmercury is sometimes confused with methylmercury. Methylmercury is known to be toxic and is associated with many negative effects on brain development even at low exposure. Environmental researchers identified the neurotoxic effects of mercury in children in the 1970s, primarily resulting from exposure to methylmercury in fish. In the 1990s, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration established limits for maximum recommended exposure to methylmercury, especially for children, pregnant women and women of childbearing age. Fears about the safety of thimerosal in vaccines spread for two reasons. First, in 1998, a now discredited report was published in a major medical journal called The Lancet. In it, a British doctor named Andrew Wakefield described eight children who developed autism after receiving the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella. However, the patients were not compared with a control group that was vaccinated, so it was impossible to draw conclusions about the vaccine's effects. Also, the data report was later found to be falsified. And the MMR vaccine that children received in that report never contained thimerosal. Second, the federal guidelines on exposure limits for the toxic substance methylmercury came out about the same time as the Wakefield study's publication. During that period, autism was becoming more widely recognized as a developmental condition, and its rates of diagnosis were rising. People who believed Wakefield's results conflated methylmercury and ethylmercury and promoted the unfounded idea that ethylmercury in vaccines from thimerosal were driving the rising rates of autism. The Wakefield study was retracted in 2010, and Wakefield was found guilty of dishonesty and flouting ethics protocols by the U.K. General Medical Council, as well as stripped of his medical license. Subsequent studies have not shown a relationship between the MMR vaccine and autism, but despite the absence of evidence, the idea took hold and has proven difficult to dislodge. No unbiased research to date has identified toxicity caused by ethylmercury in vaccines or a link between the substance and autism or other developmental concerns – and not from lack of looking. A 1999 review conducted by the Food and Drug Administration in response to federal guidelines on limiting mercury exposure found no evidence of harm from thimerosal as a vaccine preservative other than rare allergic reactions. Even so, as a precautionary measure in response to concerns about exposure to mercury in infants, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Public Health Service issued a joint statement in 1999 recommending removal of thimerosal from vaccines. At that time, just one childhood vaccine was available only in a version that contained thimerosal as an ingredient. This was a vaccine called DTP, for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. Other childhood vaccines were either available only in formulations without thimerosal or could be obtained in versions that did not contain it. By 2001, U.S. manufacturers had removed thimerosal from almost all vaccines – and from all vaccines in the childhood vaccination schedule. In 2004, the U.S. Institute of Medicine Immunization Safety Review Committee reviewed over 200 scientific studies and concluded there is no causal relationship between thimerosal-containing vaccines and autism. Additional well-conducted studies reviewed independently by the CDC and by the FDA did not find a link between thimerosal-containing vaccines and autism or neuropsychological delays. In the U.S., most vaccines are now available in single-dose vials or syringes. Thimerosal is found only in multidose vials that are used to supply vaccines for large-scale immunization efforts – specifically, in a small number of influenza vaccines. It is not added to modern childhood vaccines, and people who get a flu vaccine can avoid it by requesting a vaccine supplied in a single-dose vial or syringe. Thimerosal is still used in vaccines in some other countries to ensure continued availability of necessary vaccines. The World Health Organization continues to affirm that there is no evidence of toxicity in infants, children or adults exposed to thimerosal-containing vaccines. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Terri Levien, Washington State University Read more: RFK Jr's shakeup of vaccine advisory committee raises worries about scientific integrity of health recommendations Ingredients in flu vaccine won't hurt you – two pharmacists explain why Health misinformation is rampant on social media – here's what it does, why it spreads and what people can do about it Terri Levien does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
The potentially life-threatening infection that's rife in summer revealed – and 7 signs you must never ignore
A PHARMACIST has warned hot weather could put women at higher at risk of a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. Urinary tract infections - known as UTIs - tend to soar in the summer, as warmer temperatures provide the "perfect climate" for bacteria to thrive. 2 UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and affecting the urethra or bladder. They're easily dealt with with rest, painkillers and antibiotics, but left untreated the infections can rapidly progress into deadly sepsis. Wendy Lee, lead pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, warned: 'While UTIs are entirely treatable, if left undiagnosed, they can worsen quickly, leading to blood poisoning, known as sepsis, which can be fatal. 'If you suspect you might have a UTI, you must seek treatment immediately.' The infections most commonly affect women - it's estimated that over half of all women in the UK will have at least one UTI in their lifetime. Men can get them too, though it's less common. 'UTIs can be caused by dehydration, which women are at greater risk of developing during the summer months," Wendy said. 'People tend to sweat more in hot weather and not drinking enough fluids could lead to lower urine production and a build-up of germs. 'The warmer weather provides the perfect climate for bacterial growth, which can then enter the urethra and cause infection.' Untreated UTIs, which start in the urethra or bladder, can travel upwards to the kidneys. The signs and symptoms of sepsis to look out for, according to The UK Sepsis Trust This can cause a kidney infection - known as pyelonephritis - which can lead to scarring, chronic kidney disease or sepsis. People over 65 are the most vulnerable to these secondary infections and should keep an eye out for UTI symptoms. NHS stats show that more than 1.8m Brits were admitted to hospital due to UTIs between 2018 and 2023. In 2022/23, 56 per cent of the 147,285 admissions were for people over 65. UTI symptoms you should never ignore Wendy flagged common symptoms of the infection to watch out for this summer: Pain or a burning feeling when urinating Needing to pee more frequently than usual Cloudy urine Blood in your pee Back pain or stomach pain Fever (high temperature) Chills and shivering, known as rigors The pharmacist warned: 'Any of these symptoms may indicate a more serious infection. Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, you can get UTI symptoms checked out by a pharmacist without needing to wait for a GP appointment. The scheme allows pharmacists to provide advice, treatment, and prescription medicines for seven common health conditions, which include UTIs in women. How to avoid UTIs this summer Wendy Lee, lead pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, shared her DOs and DON'Ts for avoiding UTIs this summer: DO maintain good personal hygiene - always keep the genital area clean, pat dry gently and wipe from your vagina towards your anus (front to back) when you use the toilet. Avoid holding urine for long periods and always go when you feel the urge. DO drink water or other fluids regularly, so you regularly pass urine and stay hydrated. DO wash your vagina before and after intercourse, and if able, urinate soon after sex DON'T use vaginal douches, scented intimate wipes, bubble baths, or heavily fragranced products. These can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and irritate the urinary tract. DO choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting trousers or synthetic fabrics that trap moisture, which can promote bacterial growth. DON'T rush when urinating, and make sure you empty your bladder fully DO limit alcohol and sugary drinks as this can be an irritant Wendy described what you can expect when visiting a pharmacy for a UTI. 'Following consultation, your pharmacist will advise on the most effective painkillers to treat your needs," she said. "They can also supply antibiotics, if required, as well as determine whether there is a need to have a follow-up appointment with a GP." There are also things you can do at home to treat UTI symptoms. 'If you suspect you have a UTI there are things you can do to ease the symptoms, like taking paracetamol up to four times a day to reduce the pain and high temperature," Wendy said. 'Try to take it easy, take frequent naps and drink lots of water because this will help dilute your urine, and in turn flush out the bacteria from your urinary tract. 'If you are perimenopausal or postmenopausal and experience recurrent UTIs, your pharmacist may advise speaking to your GP about oestrogen-based treatments such as vaginal creams, tablets or using a ring.' 2
CBS News
3 days ago
- Health
- CBS News
Pittsburgh pharmacist explains how medications can make people susceptible to heat-related illness
A pharmacist warns that certain medications may put people at greater risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While people in the Pittsburgh area are trying to stay cool in the extreme heat, be aware that some medications don't mix well with hot weather. "Heat, humidity, and sunlight are all factors that can impact medications and how a person responds to them," said Trisha Miller, a pharmacist at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside. She said it's important to know if your meds can put you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses. Medications that increase risk from heat include diuretics, beta blockers, anticholinergics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, antibiotics, antifungals and more. "Some medications, like diuretics, these are frequently called water pills," Miller said. "They can lead to volume depletion or electrolyte imbalances and increase the risk of someone becoming dehydrated. Other medications, like certain antipsychotics or anti-seizure medications, can impair somebody's ability to sweat or regulate their body temperatures and lead to their body becoming overheated. And then there are certain types of antibiotics or acne medications that increase photosensitivity, which is when there's a sensitivity to sunlight or UV rays that can lead to sunburns." Miller also said to never leave medications in hot places. "Medications should never be stored or left in cars. Most medications, unless it specifically tells you different directions, should be stored at room temperature, protected from sunlight, and from humidity. .. We don't want to necessarily have them near windows that might get direct sunlight," she said. But if you have to go out in the scorching heat, stay hydrated. Miller added to act quickly if you're feeling off. "That can be lightheadedness, that can be dizziness, that can be short of breath, headaches. I think catching those signs early and reaching out to their providers to make sure that things don't escalate because things can escalate very quickly in heat," Miller said. If you don't know how your medications react to heat or how to store them, just ask your pharmacist.
The Sun
4 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Urgent paracetamol warning as world's most common painkiller is linked to disease that kills 30 Brits every day
A PHARMACIST has issued a warning about the world's most used painkiller paracetamol, warning it could be "quietly harming" your liver. The pill is safe to take for headaches, muscle pain and fever, as long as you're sticking to recommended amounts. But "taking too much – even slightly exceeding the recommended dose – can be extremely dangerous for your liver", warned Dipa Kamdar, a senior lecturer in pharmacy practice at Kingston University. It's easy to assume that alcohol is the main culprit of liver damage. "In fact, many everyday habits, often overlooked, can slowly cause damage that may eventually lead to serious conditions such as cirrhosis - permanent scarring of the liver - or liver failure," the pharmacist wrote in The Conversation. This can include eating foods high in saturated fat or sugar, as well as smoking or not exercising enough - as well as taking too much paracetamol. "Despite its remarkable resilience – and even its ability to regenerate – the liver is not indestructible," Dipa said. "One of the challenges with liver disease is that it can be a silent threat. In its early stages, it may cause only vague symptoms like constant fatigue or nausea. "As damage progresses, more obvious signs may emerge. One of the most recognisable is jaundice, where the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow." Liver disease kills more than 11,000 people in the UK each year, according to The British Liver Trust. That amounts to more than 31 deaths a day, the charity said. It warned that liver disease deaths in the UK have quadrupled in the last 50 years, at the same time as deaths from other major diseases have fallen. Scientists discover that even really low doses of paracetamol could damage your heart Dipa explained paracetamol could be dangerous to the liver due to the way the organ processes the painkiller. As it breaks down the drug, it produces a toxic by-product called NAPQI. Normally, the body neutralises this by producing a protective substance known as glutathione. But in high doses, the liver can become overwhelmed, potentially leading to potentially life-threatening damage. "In an overdose, glutathione stores become depleted, allowing NAPQI to accumulate and attack liver cells," Dipa warned. "This can result in acute liver failure, which can be fatal. "Even small overdoses, or combining paracetamol with alcohol, can increase the risk of serious harm," the pharmacist went on. "Always stick to the recommended dose and speak to a doctor if you find yourself needing pain relief regularly." 2 Studies have looked into the potential dangers of taking paracetamol. Research published in 2013 showed a link between liver failure and low doses of paracetamol. As Andrew Moore, an honorary senior research fellow at the University of Oxford, wrote in The Conversation: "Paracetamol is known to cause liver failure in overdose, but it also causes liver failure in people taking standard doses for pain relief. "The risk is only about one in a million, but it is a risk." Other habits damaging your liver Dipa shared other habits that may be silently damaging your liver. Drinking too much alcohol is the obvious one. When you drink, your liver works to break down the alcohol and clear it from your system, but having too much of it at once overwhelms this process and causes toxic by products to build up and damage liver cells. This can cause fat to accumulate in the liver and continued drinking can progress it to alcoholic hepatitis and then cirrhosis. Experts recommend sticking to no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, and including alcohol-free days to give your liver time to recover. It's also worth taking a look at your diet to protect your liver, as foods high in saturated fat - like red meat, fried foods and processed snacks - can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to liver fat accumulation. Sugary foods and drinks are also a major risk factor, the pharmacist said. Not exercising enough can contribute to weight gain, which ups the risk of liver disease. But exercising can benefit your liver even in you don't lose weight, Dipa noted. Finally, the chemicals from cigarette smoke can make your liver work harder and contribute to cirrhosis. The British Liver Trust says 90 per cent of liver disease cases can be prevented by lifestyle changes. "You can protect [your liver] by drinking alcohol in moderation, quitting smoking, taking medications responsibly, eating a balanced diet, staying active and keeping hydrated," Dipa said.
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Over-the-counter medicine taken by MILLIONS linked to surging cases of liver damage - top pharmacists claims 'It's EXTREMELY dangerous'
A painkiller found in almost every British medicine cabinet could be quietly damaging people's livers, a leading pharmacist has warned. Paracetamol—used by millions daily to treat everything from headaches to fevers—is safe when taken correctly. But even slightly exceeding the recommended dose can cause permanent liver damage, says Dipar Kamdar, a pharmacist and fellow at Kingston University. 'While generally safe when used as directed, taking too much—even slightly—can be extremely dangerous for your liver,' she wrote this week in The Conversation. 'Even small overdoses, or combining paracetamol with alcohol, can increase the risk of serious harm. 'Always stick to the recommended dose and speak to a doctor if you find yourself needing pain relief regularly.' She explained that the danger comes from how the liver processes paracetamol. As it breaks down the drug, it produces a toxic by-product called NAPQI. Normally, this is neutralised by a protective substance in the body known as glutathione. But in high doses, the liver can become overwhelmed—leading to potentially life-threatening damage. 'However, in an overdose, glutathione stores become depleted, allowing NAPQI to accumulate and attack liver cells. This can result in acute liver failure, which can be fatal.' There is growing concern about the spiralling number of cases of liver disease. Diagnoses have surged by 40 per cent and deaths caused by liver disease have risen four-fold in the past two decades. Around 10,000 people a year die from it, with those aged 45 to 64 making up half. The British Liver Trust says 90 per cent of these can be prevented by lifestyle changes. There are two types of liver disease: alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (formerly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). Excess fat build-up in the liver can cause the organ to become inflamed. Over time, this may lead to scarring that limits liver function. Left untreated, it can result in end-stage liver disease, also known as cirrhosis. Liver disease often presents with few or no symptoms in its early stages, but as it progresses can cause fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain and swelling in the legs and ankles. The liver filters toxins, produces clotting factors and regulates blood flow. When it fails, complications follow, which can result in death. The British Liver Trust estimates that 80 per cent of people living with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease are going undiagnosed—with as many as one in three suffering from some form of the condition. The pharmacist also warns that poor diet and unhealthy eating habits is a key contributor to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. She advises against foods high in saturated fat, such as red meat, fried foods and processed snacks. While suggesting that 'diets rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, and fish may reduce liver fat and improve related risk factors such as high blood sugar and cholesterol. Other risk factors include lack of exercise, smoking and drinking alcohol. Mrs Kamdar says: 'The liver is a remarkably robust organ – but it isn't invincible. You can protect it by drinking alcohol in moderation, quitting smoking, taking medications responsibly, eating a balanced diet, staying active and keeping hydrated. 'If you notice any symptoms that may suggest liver trouble, such as ongoing fatigue, nausea, or jaundice, don't delay speaking to your doctor. The earlier liver problems are detected, the better the chance of successful treatment.'
