Integrating narrow therapeutic index drug formulations in transplantation

There is considerable debate regarding generic drug substitution in solid organ transplant recipients, and various European transplant associations and societies have expressed caution about the potential adverse consequences from uncontrolled switching between the different narrow therapeutic index drug (NTID) formulations now available to the physician and pharmacist. This issue was discussed the 17th Congress of the EAHP, Milan, Italy. The Astellas-sponsored symposium, chaired by Professor Atholl Johnston (Professor of Clinical Pharmacology, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, UK), explored the risks and benefi ts of switching between alternative NTID formulations, and outlined current European recommendations. Professor Johnston introduced the symposium, highlighting the severe shortage of organ donors across all organ categories in Europe, and the fact that every donated organ represents a gift, either by the family of the deceased or by the living donor. Consequently, it is essential to make optimal use of organs and not waste this precious resource.

• View at Publisher
• View at Scopus
• View at Web of Science