Briefs

MHRA Updates Recommendations for Metal-on-Metal Hip Replacements

The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has updated its recommendations for metal-on-metal hip replacements because of concerns about the devices’ safety and durability.

In August 2010, Johnson & Johnson subsidiary DePuy Synthes recalled two models of its hip replacement systems, while the National Health Service ended most metal-on-metal hip replacement procedures due to high failure rates.

In 2012, MHRA recommended annual blood tests and imaging for metal-on-metal hip replacements showing symptoms of tissue reactions and for all patients with larger or DePuy ASR implants. The new recommendations expand the annual screening to include all female patients who have had hip resurfacing and all male patients with smaller femoral head implants.

Novo Nordisk Recalls Cartridge Holders for Insulin Delivery Devices

Novo Nordisk recalled insulin cartridge holders used in some batches of its NovoPen Echo because they may crack or break if exposed to certain cleaning agents or chemicals. Using a device with a cracked or broken cartridge holder could result in the device delivering a lower dose of insulin which could potentially lead to high blood sugar, the company said.

Novo Nordisk received numerous complaints of damaged cartridge holders and some reports of adverse events. It said it has corrected the problem.