The Impact of the US-Ukraine Resources Deal on Pharmacy

A new development in the Ukraine war sees the signing of a mineral deal with the United States of America (USA).  Here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk we thought to explore and present the potential implications of this historic deal on Pharmacy and the delivery of patient care.

The recent US-Ukraine mineral deal has significant implications across various industries, including Pharmacy. While the agreement primarily focuses on granting the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals and other natural resources, its ripple effects extend to pharmaceutical manufacturing, supply chains and global healthcare.

Impact on Pharmaceutical Raw Materials

Pharmaceutical products rely on a range of minerals and chemical compounds for drug formulation. Ukraine possesses lithium, titanium, uranium and rare earth elements which are crucial for medical applications. Lithium, for instance, is used in psychiatric medications, while titanium and uranium play roles in medical imaging and radiation therapy. With the US gaining access to these resources, pharmaceutical companies may benefit from a more stable supply of essential minerals, reducing reliance on other global suppliers (i.e. China), which currently dominates rare earth mineral production.

Supply Chain Stability and Drug Manufacturing

The Pharmaceutical Industry has faced supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and resource scarcity. The US-Ukraine deal could diversify mineral sourcing, ensuring greater stability in drug manufacturing. If Ukraine develops its mining infrastructure efficiently, pharmaceutical companies (e.g. GSK) may experience lower costs and fewer shortages of critical materials. Additionally, the deal could encourage investment in Ukraine’s pharmaceutical sector, fostering local drug production and reducing dependency on imports.

Geopolitical and Economic Considerations

As mentioned above, the agreement is also a strategic move in the ongoing US-China rivalry over mineral resources. By securing access to Ukraine’s minerals, the US strengthens its pharmaceutical and technological industries, reducing reliance on Chinese exports. This shift could lead to policy changes in drug pricing, manufacturing incentives and international trade agreements. However, Russia’s reaction to the deal remains uncertain at present and any escalation in geopolitical tensions could still pose risks to pharmaceutical supply chains.

Future Prospects

If the deal leads to long-term investment in Ukraine’s mineral extraction and pharmaceutical infrastructure, it could boost innovation in drug development. The availability of rare earth elements may enhance medical technology, including advanced imaging devices and targeted therapies. However, the success of this initiative depends on effective implementation, regulatory frameworks and sustained economic cooperation between the US and Ukraine.

President Trump and President Zelensky Discuss the Future…

Pre-Registration Recruitment Exam Tutoring

I am delighted to post a new Blog entry here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk to describe my latest online tutoring session.

Yesterday evening I delivered a highly productive and engaging Oriel Pre-Registration Recruitment Exam Tutoring session with a Pharmacy student studying in Scotland.  My friendly and supportive approach created a comfortable learning environment, allowing the student to ask many questions openly and gain confidence in their understanding.

Every developmental need was carefully addressed, with explanations tailored to the student's learning style and pace. I provided provided clear guidance, practical insights and interactive discussions to reinforce key concepts about the Oriel recruitment process (i.e. the Situational Judgement Test or SJT).  It was apparent that the student felt well-supported throughout.

During the session we considered:

• Student background and motivation

• The role of the student when undertaking the SJT

• Important aspects of the Professional Attributes Framework

• Proportionate timing

• What should be done vs what has been seen to be done

Overall, the positive interaction fostered an encouraging atmosphere making the session both enjoyable and effective. As a result, the student expressed enthusiasm for further learning and has now booked an additional session with me. 

My patience and dedication played a crucial role in the student’s progress, demonstrating the value of personalised tutoring. Ongoing support here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk will help the student deepen their comprehension and excel with their application.

For more information about our Oriel support service, please click here.

Why not book your appointment with me today?

All the best with your Oriel application!

Dr Mike Davies.

The Oriel Logo

Naga Munchetty: 'Sterilisation was my only option'.

Naga Munchetty has recently disclosed that she has been sterilised in order to minimise the impact of adenomyosis on her quality of life. We thought it would be a good idea to release a Blog here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk to consider and explain what adenomyosis is and what the process of sterilisation involves from a healthcare perspective.

Naga Munchetty, a BBC presenter, endured a 32-year battle with adenomyosis, a condition where the uterine lining grows into the muscle wall of the womb. This caused her severe pain, heavy bleeding, vomiting and fainting every two weeks since her teenage years. Despite seeking medical help, she was repeatedly dismissed until a private doctor diagnosed her in 2022. Naga opted for sterilisation in 2019, believing it was her only option to alleviate her symptoms. She and her husband had decided against having children and hormonal treatments were unsuitable for her lifestyle. The procedure involved keyhole surgery to block or cut her fallopian tubes. While sterilisation did not cure adenomyosis, it helped manage her symptoms and provided relief from the debilitating pain.

Sterilisation is a permanent contraceptive method involving surgical intervention to prevent pregnancy. In women, it typically involves tubal ligation where the fallopian tubes are blocked or cut preventing sperm from reaching the egg. In men, vasectomy is the equivalent procedure, severing the vas deferens to stop sperm from entering the semen. Sterilisation is highly effective, with a success rate exceeding 99%.  It is often chosen by individuals who are certain they do not want children or cannot use other contraceptive methods due to medical reasons.

The procedure is relatively quick, often performed as outpatient surgery under local or general anesthesia. Recovery is usually swift, with most individuals resuming normal activities within a few days. Sterilisation does not affect hormonal balance or sexual function, making it a preferred choice for many.

Beyond contraception, sterilisation can offer significant health benefits for individuals with conditions like adenomyosis or endometriosis. These conditions cause severe pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding and other debilitating symptoms. By preventing pregnancy, sterilisation eliminates the hormonal fluctuations associated with menstrual cycles, which can exacerbate these conditions. For some, it provides a sense of control over their reproductive health and alleviates the physical and emotional toll of chronic gynaecological issues.

Positive health outcomes after sterilisation include reduced risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, which can occur when bacteria travel through the reproductive tract. It also eliminates the risk of ectopic pregnancies, where a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, a potentially life-threatening condition. For individuals with gynaecological disorders, sterilisation can significantly improve quality of life by reducing pain and discomfort associated with their condition.

However, sterilisation is irreversible and individuals must carefully consider their decision. While it offers freedom from contraception and its associated side effects, it is not suitable for those who may wish to conceive in the future. Counselling and thorough medical evaluation are essential to ensure that sterilisation aligns with an individual's long-term health and lifestyle goals.

We hope you have found this Blog entry both interesting and informative. To book your medical education / career development appointment with us then please click here.

Naga Munchetty: ‘Sterilisation was my only option’.

Update: NHS Prescription Charges and NMS Claims

The latest United Kingdom (UK) government announcement marks two significant developments for community pharmacy and patient care in England for 2025/26. We thought we would provide an update here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk

NHS Prescription Charges Freeze:

For the upcoming financial period, NHS prescription charges will remain frozen at £9.90 per item. This means that neither the charge for individual prescriptions nor those for three‐month and annual pre-payment certificates, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) certificates, will increase. This decision continues a policy of stabilising costs and providing much-needed relief at a time when many people are feeling the pinch of the cost-of-living crisis. By keeping charges unchanged, the government projects that patients will save approximately £18 million over the next year. The unchanged fee structure ensures consistency for those who are already paying while exempt groups (e.g. children, over-60s, pregnant women and individuals with certain chronic conditions) will continue to receive their prescribed medicines free of charge. This measure forms part of broader government efforts to ease financial pressures and improve access to essential health services.

Updated NMS Claiming Guidance:

In parallel, new guidance on New Medicines Service (NMS) claims was issued today.  The updated rules simplify the payment structure for pharmacies, with each intervention or follow-up consultation now attracting a standardised fee of £14. If both consultations are completed for a single patient interaction, the combined payment totals £28. The guidance emphasises that claims should only be made when an actual consultation is conducted. For instance, if a pharmacy manages to deliver the intervention consultation but is unable to reach the patient for the follow-up, only the initial £14 fee can be claimed. Additionally, to ensure timely reimbursement, pharmacies must submit these claims via the MYS portal by the 5th day of the month following the service period. This revised process is designed to streamline administrative functions while maintaining high service standards in community pharmacy practice.

Together, these positive measures underline the government's commitment to supporting both patients and pharmacy services, ensuring affordability and operational clarity as the NHS continues to evolve.  This is a great step for all!

For more information or to book an appointment please click here.

Community Pharmacy in the UK

The Impact of US Stocks and Dollar Plunge on the Pharmaceutical Industry as Trump Attacks Fed Chair Powell: Our Overview….

President Donald Trump's recent comments targeting Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, labelling him "a major loser" for not lowering interest rates, have naturally sparked significant economic turbulence. The resulting plunge in US stocks and the dollar could have far-reaching implications for the global pharmaceutical drugs market and supply chain.  Here, we provide an overview as to the possible impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry and hence patient healthcare across the globe.

The Pharmaceutical Industry is deeply intertwined with global financial stability. A weakened US dollar, as seen in this case, can lead to increased costs for imported raw materials and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), many of which are sourced from countries like China and India. This could drive up production costs for US-based pharmaceutical companies, potentially leading to higher drug prices for consumers and healthcare systems (e.g. NHS), alike. Additionally, the volatility in stock markets may deter investment in pharmaceutical research and development, as investors seek safer assets like gold.

Trump's criticism of Powell and the Federal Reserve's monetary policy also raises concerns about the independence of central banks. If political pressure leads to premature interest rate cuts, it could create inflationary pressures that further complicate the pharmaceutical supply chain. Inflation can erode purchasing power and disrupt long-term contracts, making it challenging for companies to maintain stable pricing and supply agreements.

Moreover, the broader economic uncertainty stemming from Trump's comments and the subsequent market reactions could exacerbate existing supply chain vulnerabilities. The Pharmaceutical Industry relies on complex, global networks for manufacturing and distribution. Economic instability can disrupt these networks, leading to delays and shortages of critical medications. For instance, tariffs or trade restrictions, which Trump has previously advocated (and we have discussed at www.pharmascholar.co.uk), could further strain international supply chains and increase costs.

In summary, Trump's remarks and the ensuing economic fallout highlight the interconnectedness of global markets. The Pharmaceutical Industry, as a vital sector, is particularly susceptible to such disruptions. While the immediate effects may be financial, the long-term consequences could impact drug accessibility and innovation, posing challenges for both companies and consumers worldwide.

The US Stock Market and the Stress Caused by President Trump’s New Comments.

Morphine vs Oxycodone: An Overview for Prescribing

Given the interest and popularity of our Blog post entitled ‘Hyoscine Hydrobromide vs Butylbromide: An Overview’ here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk, I thought to produce a similar overview but this time for Morphine and Oxycodone.

The following piece provides a summary of the two drug substances and offers prescribing hints and tips. I hope you enjoy this latest Blog entry!!

Introduction

Morphine and Oxycodone are two widely used opioid analgesics for managing moderate to severe pain. Understanding their pharmacological differences, indications and prescribing guidelines is crucial for healthcare professionals to optimise pain management whilst minimising risks to the patient.

Pharmacology and Mechanisms of Action

Morphine is a naturally occurring alkaloid derived from the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum. It primarily binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, inhibiting neurotransmitters such as substance P and glutamate that are involved in pain signal transmission.  The molecular structure of Morphine allows it to interact with other opioid receptor subtypes (e.g. delta and kappa), contributing to its broad side effect profile (e.g. constipation and respiratory depression). 

Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is synthesised from thebaine, which is another alkaloid found in the opium poppy.  This drug also binds to mu-opioid receptors but has modifications that enhance its oral bioavailability and potency. The unique interaction of this drug with opioid receptors offers different therapeutic benefits and side effect profiles compared to Morphine.

Indications for Use

Morphine is often prescribed as the first-line opioid for both cancer and non-cancer pain. It is available in various drug formulations (e.g. immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, intravenous injections and rectal suppositories). Morphine is particularly effective for severe pain conditions due to its high efficacy in activating mu-opioid receptors.

Oxycodone is typically used as a second-line opioid when Morphine is ineffective or not tolerated. It is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations, for example.  Oxycodone is twice as potent as Morphine, making it suitable for patients requiring stronger analgesia.

Prescribing Information for Clinicians in the UK

When prescribing opioids, clinicians must consider several factors to ensure safe and effective pain management:

Correct Drug, Dose and Formulation:

• Ensure the correct opioid is selected based on the patient's pain severity and response to previous treatments.

• Be aware of dose equivalence between different opioids and routes of administration.

• Immediate-release (IR) formulations act quickly and can be given 'as required' for breakthrough pain, whilst modified-release (MR) formulations control background pain over a 24-hour period.

Brand Prescribing:

• Oxycodone should be prescribed by brand to reduce the risk of administration errors and ensure cost-effective prescribing.

• Preferred brands for Oxycodone include Longtec® for prolonged-release preparations and Shortec® for immediate-release capsules and solutions.

• Morphine MR preparations should also be prescribed by brand, such as Zomorph® and MST®.

  Dose Adjustments:

• For patients switching from Morphine to Oxycodone, divide the total daily dose of morphine by 1.5 to 2 to determine the appropriate Oxycodone dose.

• Regularly review the patient's pain management plan and adjust doses based on efficacy and side effects.

  Monitoring and Safety:

• Monitor patients for signs of opioid misuse, addiction plus adverse effects.

• Educate patients on the correct use of opioids and the importance of adhering to prescribed doses.

Conclusion

Morphine and Oxycodone are essential drugs in pain management, each with unique pharmacological profiles and indications. Healthcare professionals must carefully consider patient-specific factors and adhere to prescribing guidelines to optimise treatment outcomes and minimise risks. By understanding the differences between these opioids and following best practices, healthcare providers can effectively manage pain while ensuring patient safety.

We hope that you have found this Blog entry helpful. It is information like this that is particularly applicable for the Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA); please see pharmaPSA for more detail on this.  If you have any specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask our lead tutor Dr Mike Davies.

The MST Continus Modified Release Product containing Morphine Sulphate.

How will President Donald Trump's Changing Tariff Structure Influence Pharmacy Practice in the United Kingdom? - Our Analysis.

President Donald Trump has frequently changed his global tariff system within recent weeks and this ongoing uncertainty will likely have profound implications across various sectors, including community pharmacy in the United Kingdom (UK).  Our brief analysis will explore various impacts of these tariffs on the practice of community pharmacy, with particular reference given to economic, operational and patient care aspects.

Economic Impact

President Trump's tariffs, particularly those targeting the Pharmaceutical Industry will lead to increased costs for imported drugs. The UK, which relies heavily on imported medications (i.e. generics) has seen a rise in drug prices. This escalation is due to the tariffs imposed on countries like India and China, major suppliers of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and finished pharmaceutical products. Consequently, community pharmacies in the UK face higher procurement costs, which can strain their financial resources and potentially lead to reduced profit margins.

Operational Challenges

The operational landscape for community pharmacies has been significantly altered. The tariffs have disrupted supply chains, causing delays and shortages of essential medications. Pharmacies must navigate these disruptions, often resorting to stockpiling or seeking alternative suppliers, which can be both costly and logistically challenging. In addition, the increased costs of imported drugs may force pharmacies to adjust their pricing strategies, potentially leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

Patient Care and Access

The impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs on drug prices and availability will directly affect patient care. Higher costs and medication shortages can lead to reduced access to necessary treatments, particularly for vulnerable populations who rely on affordable generic medications. Community pharmacies, which serve as accessible healthcare providers, may struggle to maintain their role in offering cost-effective care. This situation could exacerbate health inequalities, as patients may face difficulties in obtaining their prescribed medications.

Strategic Responses

Community pharmacies in the UK must now adopt a strategic response to mitigate the adverse effects of President Trump's tariffs. This includes diversifying their supply chains to reduce dependency on heavily tariffed countries. Pharmacies might also explore partnerships with local manufacturers to secure more stable and cost-effective sources of medications. Additionally, advocating for National Health Service (NHS) policy changes and engaging in negotiations with suppliers can help manage the financial impact of tariffs.

Conclusion

In summary, Donald Trump's changing global tariff system has introduced significant economic, operational and patient care challenges for community pharmacies in the UK. The increased costs of imported drugs, supply chain disruptions and potential reductions in patient access to medications underscore the need for strategic adaptations within the sector. By diversifying supply chains and advocating for supportive policies, community pharmacies can navigate these challenges and continue to provide essential healthcare services to their communities.

If you have any specific questions or need further details on any aspect, feel free to ‘Contact Us’!

President Trump Signs an Executive Order on Trade.

Beijing Announces 84% Tariff on US Goods as Trade War Intensifies. How UK Pharmacy Might be Affected in 186 Words…

The new 84% retaliation tariff imposed by China is expected to significantly impact the UK pharmacy market. This tariff will likely increase the cost of importing pharmaceutical ingredients and finished products from China, a major supplier for the UK.  As a result, UK pharmacies may face higher operational costs, which could lead to increased prices for consumers!

The UK pharmacy market, which generated a revenue of approximately £26.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% until 2030, might experience slower growth due to these increased costs. As a result, pharmacies may need to adjust their supply chains, seeking alternative suppliers or negotiating better terms with existing ones to mitigate the impact.  Additionally, the tariff could disrupt the availability of certain medications, leading to potential shortages. This situation may force pharmacies to ration supplies or prioritise certain medications over others, affecting patient care and customer satisfaction.

Overall, the 84% tariff is poised to create financial and logistical challenges for the UK pharmacy market, potentially slowing its growth and affecting the availability and affordability of medications for consumers.

How do you feel about these potential changes?

Do you want a shift in career focus? If so, book your appointment with Dr Davies via today.

The Flag of China

Chinese Response to Donald Trump's New Tariff Model and the Impact on Pharma

We are living in fast moving times and as such I thought it would be prudent to provide a quick update on China’s response to Donald Trump’s new tariff model that threatens to up-end trade across the globe as we know it!

China's recent decision to impose a 34% tariff on United States (US) goods is poised to have significant implications for the Pharmaceutical Industry, which relies heavily on a complex global supply chain. This move, a direct response to the US tariffs on Chinese imports, will likely exacerbate existing tensions and create new challenges for pharmaceutical companies operating between these two economic giants.

The pharmaceutical industry depends on a vast network of suppliers for raw materials, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and manufacturing equipment. Many of these components are sourced from China due to cost advantages and manufacturing capabilities. The new tariffs will increase the cost of importing these essential materials, potentially leading to supply chain disruptions.  Companies may face delays and increased expenses as they seek alternative suppliers or negotiate new terms with existing ones.

The additional tariffs will directly impact the cost structure of pharmaceutical companies. Higher import duties on raw materials and APIs will raise production costs, which could be passed on to consumers in the form of higher drug price. This is particularly concerning for generic drugs, which are often produced with thin profit margins. The increased costs could make some drugs less affordable, affecting patient access to essential medications.

The tariffs could also alter the competitive landscape of the pharmaceutical industry. American companies that rely on Chinese imports may find themselves at a disadvantage compared to their international counterparts who are not subject to the same tariffs. This could lead to a shift in market dynamics, with those non-US companies potentially gaining a competitive edge in both the US and global markets.

In response to the tariffs, pharmaceutical companies may need to adjust their strategies and operations. This could involve diversifying their supply chains to reduce reliance on Chinese imports, investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities and seeking new markets to offset the increased costs. Such adjustments, however, will need time and financial investment, which may not be possible for all companies.

The long-term impact of the tariffs will depend on the duration of the trade tensions and the ability of pharmaceutical companies to adapt. If the tariffs remain in place for an extended period, companies may permanently shift their supply chains and production strategies, leading to a more fragmented and less efficient global pharmaceutical market. Additionally, ongoing trade disputes could discourage future investments in cross-border collaborations and innovations, potentially slowing the pace of pharmaceutical advancements.

In conclusion, China's imposition of a 34% tariff on US goods is likely to have profound and multifaceted effects on pharma.  While companies may find ways to mitigate some of the immediate impacts, the long-term consequences could reshape the industry's global supply chains, cost structures and competitive dynamics.

Mr Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China: New 34% Tariff for American Goods.

More Fantastic Career Development Feedback!

I have just received the following feedback after an online career support session with a new client here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk

I am really pleased to see that the time I spent with my client was beneficial and provided scope for movement along the right career path for them.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with me to book your appointment with me! You can contact me by simply clicking here.

Here is the feedback I have received from my latest client:

“I cannot recommend Dr. Michael Davies and PharmaScholar enough for their exceptional guidance in helping me transition into my academic role. From the very beginning, Dr. Davies demonstrated an unparalleled level of expertise, patience, and dedication to ensuring my success.  

His approach was  structured, insightful, and tailored to my specific needs, providing me with the tools and confidence necessary to excel in academia. Whether it was refining my research proposals, preparing for interviews, or developing effective teaching strategies, Dr. Davies offered clear, actionable advice that made a significant difference in my preparedness.  

What truly sets Dr. Davies apart is his genuine commitment to his students' growth. He took the time to understand my career goals, provided detailed feedback, and shared invaluable industry insights that I wouldn’t have gained elsewhere. His mentorship was not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them.

Thanks to his guidance, I felt well-equipped and confident stepping into my new role. If you're looking for a mentor who is  knowledgeable, supportive, and truly invested in your success, Dr. Michael Davies is the best choice. Five stars without hesitation!

Highly recommended for anyone pursuing a career in academia or pharmaceutical sciences.”  Mr HM, North West England, April 2025

Dr Mike Davies at www.pharmascholar.co.uk