For older people and frail people, the long-term benefit of medicines reduces and the potential for harm from adverse effects increases. When the benefit–risk balance changes in this way, medicine review and optimisation are important to simplify the therapeutic regimen, reduce inappropriate medicines and minimise risks. In this article, pharmacist prescriber Linda Bryant uses two case studies to illustrate important considerations during medicine reviews
Free webinar about upcoming changes to meningococcal vaccine funding
Free webinar about upcoming changes to meningococcal vaccine funding

PHARMAC is widening access to the meningococcal ACWY vaccine. From 1 December, the vaccination will be funded for an estimated 35,000 people, aged between 13 and 25 (inclusive), who live in boarding school hostels, tertiary education halls of residence, military barracks and prisons.
The Immunisation Advisory Centre, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health is holding a webinar for all health professionals to discuss these changes. Held at 5;30 pm on Monday 25th November, the session will cover:
• Meningococcal disease in NZ
• The funded Men ACWY vaccine and private Purchase Men B vaccine
• Vaccine administration, claiming and ordering
There will also be ample time to answer people’s specific questions. A link to register for this free webinar can be found on immune.org.nz