As reported by C+D earlier, batches of the saline nasal spray Sterimar Isotonic (100ml) have been recalled from high street chemists due to possible bacterial contamination. The BBC also covers this story.

The IPF has called on the government to look again at the possibility of a moratorium on 100-hour pharmacy applications as it considers removing the exemption later in the year. In a letter to pharmacy minister Earl Howe, IPF chief executive Claire Ward has warned of the devastating impact that the rush of interest is having on independents, with GP surgeries tempted into deals that would "decimate the contractor's business".

The Telegraph reports that taking two or more prescription drugs could double the risk of having a serious fall, according to research.

A new smart pill that tells patients how to better follow doctor's orders and take medication properly is to go on sale in Britain within months, The Telegraph reports. The edible microchip records precise details of medication programmes through a monitoring receiver patch attached to the patients' shoulder or arm.

Meanwhile, British researchers have found that vitamin D supplements could significantly improve the sight of elderly people, the Telegraph writes.

Experts have reassured women using HRT that the treatment won't increase the risk of breast cancer, the Telegraph reports. The Million Women Study originally suggested a link between HRT and breast cancer but experts claim the study is fundamentally flawed.

The BBC reports that fake and poor quality anit-malaria drugs could put millions of lives at risk and promote drug resistance among malaria parasites, warns a study funded by the Wellcome Trust. 

The NHS in England quickly needs to get to grips with neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease if it is to put a stop to rising case numbers, according to the Neurological Alliance. The Guardian also covers this story.

Meanwhile, the BBC reports that blood deliveries to London hospitals may be delayed this summer because of Olympic transport restrictions.

A doctor faces manslaughter chargers after a man he spent a minute assessing in custody and declared fit to be detained later died of alcohol and drug intoxication, the Guardian writes.    

A new study has found that computer exercise games such as the Wii Fit give the over 50s both a healthier brain and body, the Daily Mail reports.

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd has announced that, as of Monday January 23, 2012, the marketing authorisation for Zaditen Eye Drops (ketotifen) and Voltarol Ophtha (diclofenac) will be transferred to Spectrum-Thea Pharmaceuticals Ltd.