Helping you deliver patient-centred care with the latest news and essential information about key products and developments in store.
Winter Wellness
This month, we interview Shammi Khosla, Head of Pharmacy Services, about all things winter wellness. He provides an update on how the Boots Winter Flu Jab Service will be different this year and how it can help to protect our communities. Click on the interview for more information.
Preparing for Stoptober
October is only a month away, so it's time to start preparing to support customers who are participating in Stoptober. You are likely to have more customers visiting your store for advice and products to help them stop smoking during this period, so it's important to get your knowledge up to date. For further information and resources, refer to the 'Supporting Stoptober' article in this edition of InStore.
Click the boxes below for the latest product updates and news.
Anbesol (P)Lidocaine hydrochloride; chlorocresol; cetylpyridinium chloride
Item codes: See Boots.com
Anbesol Liquid is the only lidocaine hydrochloride product in a liquid format available in pharmacy. Indicated for use in both babies and adults, it provides targeted oral pain relief from mouth ulcers, teething and denture irritation. The liquid has a very loyal customer base: 75 per cent of mothers with teething babies who tried Anbesol continue to purchase and use the brand.1
Anbesol Teething Gel is a triple action gel, developed with local anaesthetic for the effective relief of pain for teething infants. It contains antiseptic ingredients to help protect against infection. Also indicated for use in adults.
Both products are suitable for babies from five months. Advise customers to refer to the product packaging for full directions for use.
Aloclair Plus
Item codes: See Boots.com
Aloclair Plus provides fast pain relief and healing from mouth ulcers. Its unique formulation creates a protective barrier on the affected area, with PVP, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera.
Triple action:
- Fast acting
- Pain relief
- Speeds up healing
Available in handy spray and mouthwash formats. The spray's gentle formula is safe to use during pregnancy and in babies from two months. The mouthwash is suitable for children from three years.
Directions for use
Spray: Spray three times or as needed to cover the affected area. No need to use fingers.
Mouthwash: Rinse 10mls around the mouth for at least one minute to quickly coat multiple lesions. Use three to four times a day or as needed.
See product packaging for full directions for use.
MacuShield Original Chewable
Item code: 85-78-923
MacuShield Original Chewable is a bilberry-flavoured chewable tablet scientifically proven for eye health.*+
This product provides a MacuShield Original formulation with the addition of vitamin B2 to help maintain normal vision. It is suitable for vegetarians and vegans and contains no artificial sweeteners.
Scientific research shows that the nutrients meso-zeaxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin are found at the back of eye, at the macula, where they form the macular pigment (yellow colour). The MacuShield range contains LMZ3, a combination of mesozeaxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients are obtained from marigolds that are specifically grown for this purpose.
Directions for use
Chew one tablet daily with a meal.
* Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.
+ Vitamin B2 helps maintain normal vision.
JB-000101 Nov19
Salonpas Pain Relief Patch (GSL) Methyl salicylate; levomenthol
Item code: 78-73-360
An anti-inflammatory patch for pain relief of muscle and joints associated with strains, sprains, backache and bruises.
Salonpas Pain Relief Patch:
- Delivers the active ingredients directly to the site of pain with less systemic exposure
- Works for up to 12 hours
- Stretchable and flexible
- Can be used on and around joints
- Easy to apply.
This product is suitable for adults aged 18 years and over. For usage and directions, read the product pack and leaflet. Customers should be advised to use no more than two plasters in 24 hours. The patches should not be used for more than three days in a row.
Reference: 1. Mums View 2017.
Product information
Anbesol Liquid (lidocaine hydrochloride 0.9% w/w, chlorocresol 0.1% w/w, cetylpyridinium chloride 0.02% w/w). Indication: Adults, the elderly and children: For the temporary relief of pain caused by recurrent mouth ulcers, denture irritation. In children from 5 months: For relief of pain and discomfort associated with teething where non-pharmacological treatments have failed to provide sufficient relief. Legal Classification: P. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Alliance Pharmaceuticals Limited, Avonbridge House, Bath Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2BB, UK. Information about this product, including adverse reactions, precautions, contraindications and method of use can be found at https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1305/smpc
Anbesol Teething Gel (lidocaine hydrochloride 1.0% w/w, chlorocresol 0.1% w/w, cetylpyridinium chloride 0.02% w/w). Indication: For relief of pain and discomfort associated with teething in children from 5 months of age, where non-pharmacological treatments have failed to provide sufficient relief. For the temporary relief of pain caused by recurrent mouth ulcers and denture irritation. Legal Classification: P. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Alliance Pharmaceuticals Limited, Avonbridge House, Bath Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2BB, UK. Information about this product, including adverse reactions, precautions, contraindications and method of use can be found at https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1306/smpc. Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/. Adverse events should also be reported to Alliance Pharmaceuticals at pharmacovigilance@alliancepharma.co.uk.
Date of preparation: January 2020.
Salonpas Pain Relief Patch contains Methyl Salicylate; Levomenthol. Indications: For the symptomatic relief of pain of muscles and joints associated with strains and sprains. Legal category: GSL. Information about this product, including adverse reactions, precautions, contraindications and method of use can be found at https://mhraproductsprod.blob.core.windows.net/docs-20200204/3fb5807bbe852cb8f876082cf692e17676d812bb Marketing authorisation number: PL 23168/0001. Further information is available from Licence Holder: Hisamitsu UK Limited, 5 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1LG, UK. Last revised: February 2020.
SUPPORTING STOPTOBER
Stopping smoking is one of the most beneficial things a person can do for their health. Your support this October can help customers quit smoking for good.
The benefits of stopping smoking are seemingly endless - better lung function, a boosted immune system and improved smell and taste are just a few. Plus, the simple fact is: people who quit smoking live longer.1
Stoptober is coming up and the 28-day challenge is a great way to engage customers in conversations around smoking cessation. People who stop smoking for 28 days are five times more likely to quit for good.2 You may find an increase in the amount of enquiries you get for stop smoking aids during this period and your advice and support can really make a difference.
You can advise customers on a range of options to help with smoking cessation, such as support apps, nicotine replacement therapy and local stop smoking services.
References:
1. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/quit-smoking/ 2. https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/for-your-body/quit-smoking/stoptober/
Alternatives to smoking
Smokers can consider e-cigarettes as an alternative lifestyle choice. They can offer the same sensations and physical satisfaction as smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes, but without tobacco. E-cigarettes are not licensed medicines so can only be sold to adults as an alternative to smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes.
Menthol JUULpodsItem code: 88-45-336
For adult smokers looking for an alternative to cigarettes.*
- Menthol JUULpods feature a bold menthol flavour with an icy finish
- Regulated temperature controls and nicotine salts
- Contains a proprietary formulation that combines glycerol, propylene glycol, natural oils, extracts and flavours, nicotine and benzoic acid
- Simple - Remove the coloured cap from the JUULpol and insert into the JUUL device. No buttons required to turn it on; simply draw on the mouthpiece.
* This product contains nicotine, which is a highly additive substance.
BOOTS FOR BUSINESS: CORPORATE VACCINATIONS
Boots corporate vaccination services help employers to protect their employees from illnesses such as seasonal flu and hepatitis B.
Employers can purchase e-vouchers for certain vaccination services, which can be redeemed by their employees. Businesses can receive discounts on their evouchers dependent on how many they purchase.
Corporate Flu Vaccination Service
Minor illnesses, such as flu, are one of the main reasons for short-term absence in the workplace.1 By getting their employees vaccinated against seasonal flu, businesses can help reduce workplace absence.
Corporate Hepatitis B Vaccination Service
Hepatitis B is spread through blood and bodily fluids. Protecting employees against hepatitis B is important if they are coming into contact with these substances as part of their work, such as healthcare or emergency service workers.
How does it work?
- Employers purchase e-vouchers online and distribute them to their employees
- Employees can book an appointment online or in store at their chosen Boots pharmacy*
- Employees must provide their 8-digit voucher code at their appointment, and this should be checked before their consultation with the pharmacist
- Employees receive their vaccination at no cost to them, providing they meet the eligibility criteria.
Other corporate services available include the Corporate Pneumonia Vaccination Service and Corporate Travel Health. To find out more about Boots for business, visit: www.boots.com/boots-for-business
* Subject to store opening times, stock, pharmacist availability and patient eligibility.
Reference: 1. CIPD UK March 2020
INTERVIEW- SHAMMI KHOSLA
Protecting communities
Shammi Khosla, Head of Pharmacy Services at Boots UK, talks us through the importance of the flu jab and how the service will be different this year.
Why is the flu jab important?
The influenza vaccine, commonly referred to as the 'flu jab', is a great defence from influenza, which can be a very serious and potentially deadly illness. Safe and effective vaccines are available and have been used for more than 60 years. Due to changes in the virus, immunity from vaccination diminishes over time, which is why we have an annual vaccination programme.
For the elderly and vulnerable groups in our society, the vaccine reduces the severity of the disease, reduces complications, inhibits transmission and thus prevents death. Therefore, it is imperative we protect as many people as possible throughout our communities. The Boots Winter Flu Jab service has been helping to protect customers and colleagues for over 11 years.
It is imperative we protect as many people as possible throughout our communities
How does the flu jab support the NHS? The flu vaccination is an effective intervention that helps to reduce pressure on the health and social care system during the winter. We are all aware of the challenges Covid-19 highlighted for the NHS and the extreme actions taken to protect it during the outbreak. This coming winter, we may be faced with co-circulation of both Covid-19 and flu, which would intensify the pressure. By expanding the flu vaccination programme and encouraging uptake, we can keep more people well, allowing the NHS to focus their resources elsewhere - such as a potential second Covid-19 peak.
How will the service be different this year?
The government has announced the most comprehensive flu vaccination programme in the UK's history, with an ambition to vaccinate over 30 million people this year.
A significant change in England and Wales is the addition of new groups who will now be eligible to receive the flu vaccine for free - including a lower age group and those classified during the Covid-19 outbreak as shielded. That means that this season, a free vaccine will be available to:
- People who are on the shielded patient list and members of their household
- All school year groups up to year seven
- People aged over 65
- Pregnant women
- Those with certain pre-existing medical conditions, including at-risk under twos
- People aged 50 to 64, all of whom will be invited later in the season for a free vaccination
- All frontline health and social care workers, to protect themselves and their patients or residents.