*Based on absorption data when compared to standard paracetamol tablets. To verify contact: verify@perrigo.com
Solpa-Extra 500mg/65mg Soluble Tablets contains paracetamol and caffeine. For the treatment of mild to moderate pain. Adults and adolescents over 16 years: 1-2 tablets dissolved in water every 4-6 hours. Max 8 tablets a day. Adolescents aged 12-15 years: 1 tablet dissolved in water every 4-6 hours. Max 4 tablets a day. Not suitable for children under 12 years. Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the ingredients. Precautions: Particular caution needed under certain circumstances and medical advice sought for renal or hepatic impairment, Gilbert’s Syndrome, chronic alcoholism, glucose-6-phosphatedehydrogenase deficiency, haemolytic anaemia, glutathione deficiency, malnutrition or dehydration, the elderly, patients weighing less than 50kg. Precautions needed in asthmatic patients sensitive to acetylsalicylic acid, patients on a controlled sodium diet and with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance. Patients should be advised not to take other paracetamol containing products concurrently. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of overdose even if the patient feels well because the risk of irreversible liver damage. Excessive intake of caffeine should be avoided while taking this product. Interactions: warfarin and other coumarin, other medicines following the same metabolic pathway, cholestyramine, probenecid, chloramphenicol, metoclopramide, domperidone, sedatives, tranquilizers, flucloxacillin and some decongestants. Pregnancy and lactation: Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Side effects: Rare: allergies. Very rare: thrombocytopenia, anaphylaxis, bronchospasm, hepatic dysfunction, cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions, very serious skin reactions, TEN, drug-induced dermatitis, SJS, AGEP, sterile pyuria. Unknown: nervousness, dizziness, neutropenia, leukopenia. Further information is available in the SmPC. Product not subject to medical prescription. PA 1186/017/001. MAH: Chefaro Ireland DAC, The Sharp Building, Hogan Place, Dublin 2, Ireland. Date of preparation: Feb 2023. SPC: https://www.medicines.ie/medicines/solpa-extra-soluble-tablets-33783/spc MAT9346
This Publication is for Healthcare Professionals Only
Page 5: Support shown for expansion in Pharmacy
Page 6: Enhanced price transparency
Page 8: Redeveloped School of Pharmacy opens at RCSI
Page 16: Free Health Checks from Clonmel Healthcare
Page 17: Gwynne Morley talks through the latest IQVIA Top 100 OTC Products
Page 29: An overview of the Women’s Health Category
Irish Pharmacy News is circulated to all independent, multiple Pharmacists and academics in Ireland. All rights reserved by Irish Pharmacy News. All material published in Irish Pharmacy News is copyright and no part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without written permission. IPN Communications Ltd. has taken every care in compiling the magazine to ensure that it is correct at the time of going to press, however the publishers assume no responsibility for any effects from omissions or errors.
Foreword
In one of our lead news stories this month, we detail how the PSI - the Pharmacy Regulator has announced the launch of a public consultation on draft guidance to support enhanced transparency on the pricing of medicines, fees and professional services in pharmacy so that patients and the public can make informed decisions about their health and treatment.
The PSI is inviting feedback on the draft guidance from members of the public, pharmacists, pharmacy owners, healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups and other stakeholders.
PSI Registrar and Chief Officer, Joanne Kissane, said, “The PSI considers that transparency in pricing for patients and members of the public is desirable as an aid to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their care. The purpose of the guidance is to support pharmacists and pharmacy owners in meeting expectations around pricing transparency and to make clear their obligations under relevant legislation and the pharmacists’ Code of Conduct.”
Turn to page 6 to read more about this.
The August issue of IPN features our annual IQVIA Top 100, widely accepted as the industry standard from which brand performance is measured across the OTC sector. With self-care firmly at the root of these statistics, we note an interesting new report highlighting the untapped potential of Self-Care in improving public health and reducing pressure on Ireland’s healthcare system.
The research, unveiled ahead of Self-Care Awareness Day on July 24th, reveals that patients in Ireland currently save ¤727 million annually by managing minor ailments through Self-Care — but with greater adoption, they could save an additional ¤166 million.
Turn to page 16 for the full story.
Page 17 begins our exclusive interview with Gwynne Morley, General Manager of IQVIA to gain further insights into how the Top 100 statistics are compiled and on the value of this market to pharmacy.
The consumer health sector is demonstrating continued resilience, according to Gwynne. She says, “Despite economic fluctuations, the global consumer health sector - encompassing OTC medications, Personal Care, Nutrition, and Patient Care - has demonstrated resilience, particularly in categories like digestive remedies.
“Self-care will continue to grow, with consumers worldwide longing for greater access to healthcare and more control over their own care, while governments and payors aspire to reduce costs by encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles and self-manage more conditions when safe to do so.”
The Top 100 statistics themselves can be found on pages 24-25. I hope you enjoy the issue.
Unprecedented Levels of Crime in Pharmacies
Pharmacies continue to experience unprecedented levels of crime, with 89% of pharmacies being the victims of criminal activity within the last 12 months, according to the latest Crime Survey conducted by the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU). This marks a sharp increase from 72% in 2020 and shows a continued rise in the level of crime experienced by pharmacies over the last number of years.
The IPU Crime Survey 2025 received responses from 230 pharmacies across Ireland and had the following key findings:
• 89% of pharmacies were the victim of crime in the previous 12 months.
• 94% of these had experienced two or more incidents, with 28% experiencing 10 or more incidents.
• 59% of pharmacies reported repeat criminal activity by the same individual.
• Shoplifting was the most common crime, accounting for 96% of crime reported. However, raids, fraud and burglary are all prevalent.
• In 14% of incidents the assailant had a weapon, which included a gun, a knife or a syringe.
Securing the pharmacy is an increasing concern for pharmacies across Ireland, with 64% of pharmacies increasing their security spend in the last year. The average annual spend on security for pharmacies is now estimated to be ¤5,300, with 65%
relying on professional security firms for guidance.
IPU President Tom Muray expressed concern about the findings stating, “Pharmacists are medicine experts and communities across Ireland rely on the professional healthcare advice from pharmacies. The rise in crime jeopardises staff safety and has an impact on public health. Nearly nine in ten pharmacies experiencing crime is a stark and unacceptable reality.”
While shoplifting remains the most frequent offence, with cosmetics and fragrances, fake tan and other front of counter items being stolen, 10% of pharmacies also reported theft of controlled drugs (3%) and other medicines including prescription (7%), with over-thecounter drugs (10%).
Beyond financial loss – estimated at ¤4,500 annually per pharmacy –the impact on staff is severe:
• 56% of respondents reported that staff experienced stress or trauma.
• 1 in 10 pharmacies reported having to close temporarily due to crime.
While crime continues to increase, underreporting remains an issue amongst pharmacies.
• 62% believed there is a perception that the incident was too minor to report.
• 58% lacked faith in prosecution or legal consequence.
Concluding, IPU President Mr Murray stated, “The majority of pharmacists (89%) believe that there is a need for more visible policing in our communities to reduce the risk of crime against pharmacies. In addition, there is a strong view that tougher sentencing is required (91%) with many pharmacists concerned about the ‘revolving door’ mentality that currently exists, which often sees repeat offenders back on our streets without facing the relevant sanctions.”
“Crimes against pharmacies are crimes against frontline healthcare. We need decisive action now to protect pharmacy staff and community healthcare.”
Pharmacy makes the Top 100
Several community pharmacies across Ireland have been shortlisted as Finalists in the Retail Excellence Awards Top 100 Stores 2025.
These include stores from the Adrian Dunne Pharmacy Group, Hickey’s Pharmacy in Drogheda, McCauley Pharmacy Midleton and Poppyfield, Mulligans Pharmacy, Ryans Pharmacy and Brennans Pharmacy.
Fergus Brennan commented, “I'm thrilled and proud to share some exciting news. Brennan's Pharmacy Buncrana, Clonmany, and Creeslough have been named among the Top 100 stores in Ireland by Retail Excellence Ireland – a wonderful acknowledgment of the care and expertise our staff bring to their work every day.
“Earning a place among the country's top 100 retailers means the world to us. It demonstrates our team's commitment to excellence in pharmacy services and genuine care for our customers. It's wonderful to see such excellence in retail across our beautiful county.
“A heartfelt thank you to our loyal customers who trust us with their health and wellbeing, our fantastic pharmacy teams who go above and beyond every day, and everyone who supports us on this journey.”
SunSmart
With the sunny weather forecast in the coming days, the HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Healthy Ireland are reminding people that sun safety is not just for when you're going abroad. The sun can be strong enough to cause sun damage from the start of April to the end of September in Ireland.
Data from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) show that over 1,200 cases of melanoma, which is the most serious form of skin cancer, are diagnosed in Ireland every year. This figure is projected to rise to over 3,000 cases per year by 2045.
Dr Breeda Neville, Specialist in Public Health Medicine at the HSE’s NCCP says, “Melanoma skin cancer is strongly linked to intermittent, high-intensity UV radiation exposure which can occur during outdoor recreational activities like sunbathing or water sports, or if you use a sunbed. The more time you spend unprotected in the sun, the more UV damage your skin is exposed to which increases your risk of skin cancer, including the deadliest form – melanoma. Follow the SunSmart 5 S’s whether at home or abroad this summer.”
SunSmart 5 S’s
Almost nine in 10 cases of skin cancer could be prevented by following the Healthy Ireland SunSmart 5 S’s to protect your skin:
• Slip on clothing that covers your skin such as, long sleeves, collared t-shirts.
• Slop on sunscreen: Use sunscreen with SPF 30+ for adults and 50+ for children which provides high UVA protection and is waterresistant. Reapply regularly.
• Slap on a wide brimmed hat.
• Seek shade – Sit in the cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight. Use a sunshade on your buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight.
• Slide on wraparound sunglasses.
Hepatitis C Testing
The HSE is expanding its hepatitis C online order-to-home testing service to include a new, rapid oral swab self-test.
This new oral test makes testing for hepatitis C easier, more accessible and stigma free, delivering results in 20 minutes. It complements the existing lab-based self-test, offering people a choice of how to check for hepatitis C.
The service is fully confidential, and the test arrives in discreet packaging. Anyone who receives a reactive test result will be supported in accessing free hepatitis C confirmation testing and treatment services, ensuring timely and effective care.
Hepatitis C is a virus that affects the liver and, if left untreated, can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions over time. The virus is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Those most at risk include:
• people who use or have used drugs
• current or former prisoners
• people experiencing homelessness
• people born in countries where hepatitis C is more common.
Professor Aiden McCormick, Clinical Lead for the HSE National Hepatitis C Treatment Programme, comments, “It’s never been easier to find out if you have hepatitis C.
“This new self-test is a painless, blood-free oral swab. We urge anyone who could be living with hepatitis C to get checked for peace of mind so that we can connect them to life saving treatment. This is designed as a convenient way to reach people who might not otherwise get tested for hepatitis C virus (HCV), and therefore go undiagnosed.
“To date the National Hepatitis C Treatment Programme has treated over 7,000 people with a 95% cure rate, and is on track to meet the elimination targets set out by the World Health Organisation (WHO).”
Strong Support for Pharmacy Expansion
Ambitious plans to expand the range of services provided in Ireland’s 1,900 community pharmacies have strong public support according to new research from IPSOS B&A. The survey, commissioned by the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), shows overwhelming support for a broader role for pharmacists in community healthcare.
Key findings of The Pharmacy Index 2025 include:
• 51% of the adult population have visited a pharmacy in the past week, equating to 118 million visits per annum.
• 95% of people rate the quality of the professional service received in pharmacies as good while 97% trust the advice they receive from pharmacists.
• There is near-universal support for expanding pharmacy services:
• 94% support pharmacist prescribing
• 92% would use health screening services in pharmacies
• 95% support pharmacy-led services to help improve adherence to their medicines
• 77% of people report having to wait longer for GP appointments than in the past.
• 87% of people find pharmacists very accessible, compared to 44% for GPs and 16% for secondary care
Tom Murray, President, Irish Pharmacy Union
• 79% of people perceive that pharmacists are available at a time that suits them, versus 29% for GPs and 14% for hospitals
The research confirms that pharmacists are trusted, highly accessible healthcare professionals who play a vital role in helping patients manage their health.
“The pharmacist is the medicines expert in every community,” said IPU President Tom Murray. “We are uniquely positioned to help patients understand and manage their treatments, ensure safety, and support better health outcomes.”
“The research shows strong public backing for using that expertise to do more within our communities. There is overwhelming support for initiatives such as pharmacist prescribing, health screening, and structured services to support medication adherence.
“These are not just new services they are smarter ways of delivering care,” Mr Murray said. “At a time when many people are waiting longer for GP appointments, pharmacists are already the first point of contact for healthcare in towns and villages across Ireland. It makes sense to enable us to provide more comprehensive care and increase capacity across health services.”
New Master’s degree in Pharmacy
The University of Galway has completed the PSI accreditation process to establish a new Master's degree in pharmacy (MPharm). The Council of the PSI, the pharmacy regulator’s governing board, was pleased to accredit the programme*. The University will be able to enrol students to the new programme commencing this, Autumn.
This follows the Government announcement to expand healthcare places, including the creation of three new pharmacy programmes. The commencement of the Galway programme, operating under the University's College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, brings to four the number of MPharm programmes in the state. The existing offerings, all accredited by the PSI, are provided already at Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
The MPharm provides the qualification necessary for registration to practice as a pharmacist and is a five-year integrated programme that
incorporates clinical and other experiential learning placements.
Commenting on establishment of the new pharmacy programme, Professor Leo Quinlan, Head of School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Galway said, “We are proud to have received accreditation for our new MPharm programme here at the University of Galway. This milestone reflects the dedication and hard work of our staff, partners, and supporters across the healthcare and academic sector. The introduction of this programme marks a significant step forward for pharmacy education in the west of Ireland, expanding access to pharmacy training and helping to build the
future healthcare workforce. We look forward to welcoming our first students this autumn and to supporting their journey as future pharmacists committed to patient care and excellence in practice.”
Following the accreditation of the Programme, the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll McNeill, said, “This programme, the first in the west of Ireland, will enable us to grow our pharmacy workforce as we work to maximise the role that pharmacists play in our health service. The future of community pharmacy is bright, with real and meaningful opportunities for both our health service and programmes like this make that future even brighter.”
Supporting Enhanced Price Transparency in Pharmacies
The PSI - the Pharmacy Regulator has announced the launch of a public consultation on draft guidance to support enhanced transparency on the pricing of medicines, fees and professional services in pharmacy so that patients and the public can make informed decisions about their health and treatment. It is inviting feedback on the draft guidance from members of the public, pharmacists, pharmacy owners, healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups and other stakeholders.
As the pharmacy regulator, the PSI is committed to assuring the safety and quality of pharmacy services in the public interest, and in upholding confidence in pharmacy. Pharmacists, as healthcare professionals and experts in medicines, charge a range of fees for the services they provide. While the PSI does not determine the prices charged by pharmacies, the regulator expects pharmacies are transparent about the costs and fees associated with the dispensing of medicines and for pharmacy services.
In April this year the PSI was requested by the Minister for Health to consider the development o,at patients have an improved understanding of the fees that they pay in respect of the products they are dispensed
PSI Registrar and Chief Officer, Joanne Kissane
and the services they use in pharmacies. The draft guidance, developed in response to the Minister’s request, builds upon previously published direction to pharmacists on this topic.
The draft guidance adopts a principles-based approach to support pharmacists, pharmacy owners and pharmacy teams in meeting expectations around the provision of pricing information to patients and the public. It also intends to be aligned and consistent with pharmacists’ obligations under the PSI Code of Conduct.
PSI Registrar and Chief Officer, Joanne Kissane, said, “The PSI considers that transparency in pricing for patients and members of the public is desirable as an aid to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their care. We are pleased to bring this draft guidance to public consultation stage and strongly encourage members of the public, pharmacists, pharmacy owners and all stakeholders across the pharmacy and wider healthcare
Date for your DiaryStakeholder Briefing Navigating through Uncertainty
The Pharmaceutical Managers’ Institute (PMI) are delighted to collaborate with Davys for a Stakeholder Briefing which will take place on August 26th at their offices on Dawson Street.
Caitriona Duggan, Country Director of Amgen and Vice-President of IPHA will be joined by Paul Nicholson, Head of Investment Strategy with Davys. During their talks, we'll examine the effect of US trade policies and tariffs changes on the global market and the potential impact on the Irish pharma market.
Visit www.thepmi.com for booking details.
system to take the opportunity to review the guidance and provide feedback.
“The purpose of the guidance is to support pharmacists and pharmacy owners in meeting expectations around pricing transparency and to make clear their obligations under relevant legislation and the pharmacists’ Code of Conduct.
“As pharmacy practice expands to provide more healthcare services to patients in the community, there is benefit in clarifying what should be displayed and communicated about prices and fees for professional pharmacy services.
“The PSI will consider all views and feedback we receive during this public consultation so that we can meet the overall objective of the guidance, which is to ensure that people will have an improved understanding in respect of the fees they pay.”
The consultation will remain open until midnight on Sunday 17th August 2025. All feedback will be considered, and this may inform further changes to the guidance before a decision by the PSI Council (PSI board) to rollout the guidance later this year.
For more information and to participate in the consultation and including how you can submit feedback, please visit www.thepsi.ie.
78th World Health Assembly
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) participation at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva in May is detailed in a new report published last month.
A 33-member delegation represented FIP, advocating for the pharmacy profession on global health priorities such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, primary health care, and universal health coverage. The delegation included Ireland’s Daragh Connolly from the Irish Pharmacy Union.
FIP delivered thirteen statements to WHO Member States and hosted a high-level side event at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The federation also launched an infographic outlining proposed actions for transforming pharmacy to support resilient health systems.
FIP CEO Dr Catherin Duggan said, “At WHA78, the official FIP delegation delivered ten formal statements spanning critical agenda items—from non-communicable diseases and mental health to substandard and falsified medical products, antimicrobial resistance, pandemic preparedness, workforce sustainability, and the prevention of violence. Across every intervention, we highlighted how pharmacists expand access, safeguard medicines, and strengthen resilient, people-centred health systems. Through the call for “Think Health, Think Pharmacy” we reminded ministers, partners and stakeholders that the pharmacy profession is an essential ingredient of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“Our contributions were, as ever, underpinned by the FIP Development Goals, global workforce surveillance, regional AMR roadmaps, FIP’s programmes of work, and our upcoming strategic plan, demonstrating the breadth of evidence and tools we bring to policy dialogue. By engaging in high-level discussions, bilateral meetings and side events, our delegates forged new partnerships, advanced the profession’s visibility, and influenced resolutions that will guide Member States in the years ahead.”
Marketed by
ALLERGIES TAKING OVER YOUR LIFE?
once daily taken before a meal. Children under 12 years: Efficacy and safety of fexofenadine hydrochloride 120 mg has not been studied in children under 12. Children from 6 to 11 years of age: Administer fexofenadine hydrochloride 30 mg. Special populations: No need to adjust the dose confirmed by studies in special risk groups (older people, renally or hepatically impaired patients). Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Warnings and Precautions for Use: Limited data in the elderly and renally or hepatically impaired patients. Administer with care in these special groups. Warn patients with a history of or ongoing cardiovascular disease that, antihistamines have been associated with the adverse reactions, tachycardia and palpitations. Interactions: Fexofenadine does not undergo hepatic biotransformation and therefore will not interact with other medicinal products through hepatic mechanisms. Fexofenadine is a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and organic-anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP) substrate. Concomitant use with P-gp inhibitors or inducers can affect the exposure to fexofenadine. Co-administration with P-gp inhibitors erythromycin or ketoconazole resulted in 2-3 times increase in the level of fexofenadine in plasma. The changes were not accompanied by any effects on the QT interval and were not associated with any increase in adverse reactions compared to the medicinal products given singly. A clinical drug-drug interaction study showed that co-administration of apalutamide (a weak inducer of P-gp) and a single oral dose of 30 mg fexofenadine resulted in a 30 % decrease in AUC of fexofenadine. No interaction with omeprazole. Administration of an antacid containing aluminium and magnesium hydroxide gels 15 minutes prior to fexofenadine hydrochloride caused a reduction in bioavailability, most likely due to binding in the gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to leave 2 hours between administration of fexofenadine hydrochloride and aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacids. Pregnancy and Lactation:
Pregnancy: Do not use unless clearly necessary. No adequate data from the use of fexofenadine hydrochloride in pregnant women. Limited animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to effects on pregnancy, embryonal/foetal development, parturition or postnatal development. Breast-feeding: Not recommended. No data on the content of human milk after administering fexofenadine hydrochloride. However, when terfenadine was administered to nursing mothers’ fexofenadine was found to cross into human breast milk. Fertility: No human data available. Ability to Drive and Use Machinery: Based on the pharmacodynamic profile and reported adverse reactions it is unlikely that fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets will produce an effect on the ability to drive or use machines. In objective tests, Fexo Allergy Relief has been shown to have no significant effects on central nervous system function. This means that patients may drive or perform tasks that require concentration. However, in order to identify sensitive people who have an unusual reaction to medicinal products, it is advisable to check the individual response before driving or performing complicated tasks. Undesirable Effects: Nervous system disorders: Common: headache, drowsiness, dizziness. Gastrointestinal disorders: Common: nausea. General disorders and administration site conditions: Uncommon: fatigue. Refer to the SPC for other undesirable effects. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Rowa Pharmaceuticals Limited., Newtown, Bantry, Co. Cork. Marketing Authorisation Number: PA0074/096/001 Further information and SPC are available from: Rowex Ltd., Bantry, Co. Cork. Freephone: 1800 304 400 Fax: 027 50417 E-mail: rowex@rowa-pharma.ie
Legal Category: Not Subject to medical prescription. Date of Preparation: September 2024 CCF FOR API: 26741
Composition: Each tablet contains 120 mg of fexofenadine hydrochloride equivalent to 112 mg of fexofenadine. Description: Peach coloured oblong, bi-convex film-coated tablet. Dimensions of 14.9-15.3 mm x 6.4-6.8 mm; plain on both sides. Indication(s): Adults and children 12 years and older: Relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Dosage: Adults and children aged 12 years and over: One tablet (120mg) once daily taken before a meal. Children under 12 years: Efficacy and safety of fexofenadine hydrochloride 120 mg has not been studied in children under 12. Children from 6 to 11 years of age: Administer fexofenadine hydrochloride 30 mg. Special populations: No need to adjust the dose confirmed by studies in special risk groups (older people, renally or hepatically impaired patients). Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Warnings and Precautions for Use: Limited data in the elderly and renally or hepatically impaired patients. Administer with care in these special groups. Warn patients with a history of or ongoing cardiovascular disease that, antihistamines have been associated with the adverse reactions, tachycardia and palpitations. Interactions: Fexofenadine does not undergo hepatic biotransformation and therefore will not interact with other medicinal products through hepatic mechanisms. Fexofenadine is a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and organic-anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP) substrate. Concomitant use with P-gp inhibitors or inducers can affect the exposure to fexofenadine. Co-administration with P-gp inhibitors erythromycin or ketoconazole resulted in 2-3 times increase in the level of fexofenadine in plasma. The changes were not accompanied by any effects on the QT interval and were not associated with any increase in adverse reactions compared to the medicinal products given singly. A clinical drug-drug interaction study showed that co-administration of apalutamide (a weak inducer of P-gp) and a single oral dose of 30 mg fexofenadine resulted in a 30 % decrease in AUC of fexofenadine. No interaction with omeprazole. Administration of an antacid containing aluminium and magnesium hydroxide gels 15 minutes prior to fexofenadine hydrochloride caused a reduction in bioavailability, most likely due to binding in the gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to leave 2 hours between administration of fexofenadine hydrochloride and aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacids Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnancy: Do not use unless clearly necessary. No adequate data from the use of fexofenadine hydrochloride in pregnant women. Limited animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to effects on pregnancy, embryonal/foetal development, parturition or postnatal development. Breast-feeding: Not recommended. No data on the content of human milk after administering fexofenadine hydrochloride. However, when terfenadine was administered to nursing mothers’ fexofenadine was found to cross into human breast milk. Fertility: No human data available. Ability to Drive and Use Machinery: Based on the pharmacodynamic profile and reported adverse reactions it is unlikely that fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets will produce an effect on the ability to drive or use machines. In objective tests, Fexo Allergy Relief has been shown to have no significant effects on central nervous system function. This means that patients may drive or perform tasks that require concentration. However, in order to identify sensitive people who have an unusual reaction to medicinal products, it is advisable to check the individual response before driving or performing complicated tasks. Undesirable Effects: Nervous system disorders: Common: headache, drowsiness, dizziness. Gastrointestinal disorders: Common: nausea. General disorders and administration site conditions: Uncommon: fatigue. Refer to the SPC for other undesirable effects. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Rowa Pharmaceuticals Limited., Newtown, Bantry, Co. Cork. Marketing Authorisation Number: PA0074/096/001 Further information and SPC are available from: Rowex Ltd., Bantry, Co. Cork. Freephone: 1800 304 400 Fax: 027 50417 E-mail: rowex@rowa-pharma.ie
Composition: Each tablet contains 120 mg of fexofenadine hydrochloride equivalent to 112 mg of fexofenadine. Description: Peach coloured oblong, bi-convex film-coated tablet. Dimensions of 14.9-15.3 mm x 6.4-6.8 mm; plain on both sides. Indication(s): Adults and children 12 years and older: Relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Dosage: Adults and children aged 12 years and over: One tablet (120mg) once daily taken before a meal. Children under 12 years: Efficacy and safety of fexofenadine hydrochloride 120 mg has not been studied in children under 12. Children from 6 to 11 years of age: Administer fexofenadine hydrochloride 30 mg. Special populations: No need to adjust the dose confirmed by studies in special risk groups (older people, renally or hepatically impaired patients). Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Warnings and Precautions for Use: Limited data in the elderly and renally or hepatically impaired patients. Administer with care in these special groups. Warn patients with a history of or ongoing cardiovascular disease that, antihistamines have been associated with the adverse reactions, tachycardia and palpitations. Interactions: Fexofenadine does not undergo hepatic biotransformation and therefore will not interact with other medicinal products through hepatic mechanisms. Fexofenadine is a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and organic-anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP) substrate. Concomitant use with P-gp inhibitors or inducers can affect the exposure to fexofenadine. Co-administration with P-gp inhibitors erythromycin or ketoconazole resulted in 2-3 times increase in the level of fexofenadine in plasma. The changes were not accompanied by any effects on the QT interval and were not associated with any increase in adverse reactions compared to the medicinal products given singly. A clinical drug-drug interaction study showed that co-administration of apalutamide (a weak inducer of P-gp) and a single oral dose of 30 mg fexofenadine resulted in a 30 % decrease in AUC of fexofenadine. No interaction with omeprazole. Administration of an antacid containing aluminium and magnesium hydroxide gels 15 minutes prior to fexofenadine hydrochloride caused a reduction in bioavailability, most likely due to binding in the gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to leave 2 hours between administration of fexofenadine hydrochloride and aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacids Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnancy: Do not use unless clearly necessary No adequate data from the use of fexofenadine hydrochloride in pregnant women. Limited animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to effects on pregnancy, embryonal/foetal development, parturition or postnatal development. Breast-feeding: Not recommended. No data on the content of human milk after administering fexofenadine hydrochloride. However, when terfenadine administered to nursing mothers’ fexofenadine was found to cross into human breast milk. Fertility: No human data available. Ability Drive and Use Machinery: Based on the pharmacodynamic profile and reported adverse reactions it is unlikely that fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets will produce an effect on the ability to drive or use machines. In objective tests, Fexo Allergy Relief has been shown to have no significant effects on central nervous system function. This means that patients may drive or perform tasks that require concentration. However, in order to identify sensitive people who have an unusual reaction to medicinal products, it is advisable to check the individual response before driving or performing complicated tasks. Undesirable Effects: Nervous system disorders: Common: headache, drowsiness, dizziness. Gastrointestinal disorders: Common: nausea. General disorders and administration site conditions: Uncommon: fatigue. Refer to the SPC for other undesirable effects. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Rowa Pharmaceuticals Limited., Newtown, Bantry, Co. Cork. Marketing Authorisation Number: PA0074/096/001 Further information and SPC are available from: Rowex Ltd., Bantry, Co. Cork. Freephone: 1800 304 400 Fax: 027 50417 E-mail: rowex@rowa-pharma.ie
Composition: Each tablet contains 120 mg of fexofenadine hydrochloride equivalent to 112 mg of fexofenadine. Description: Peach coloured oblong, bi-convex film-coated tablet. Dimensions of 14.9-15.3 mm x 6.4-6.8 mm; plain on both sides. Indication(s): Adults and children 12 years and older: Relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Dosage: Adults and children aged 12 years and over: One tablet (120mg) once daily taken before a meal. Children under 12 years: Efficacy and safety of fexofenadine hydrochloride 120 mg has not been studied in children under 12. Children from 6 to 11 years of age: Administer fexofenadine hydrochloride 30 mg. Special populations: No need to adjust the dose confirmed by studies in special risk groups (older people, renally or hepatically impaired patients). Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Warnings and Precautions for Use: Limited data in the elderly and renally or hepatically impaired patients. Administer with care in these special groups. Warn patients with a history of or ongoing cardiovascular disease that, antihistamines have been associated with the adverse reactions, tachycardia and palpitations. Interactions: Fexofenadine does not undergo hepatic biotransformation and therefore will not interact with other medicinal products through hepatic mechanisms. Fexofenadine is a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and organic-anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP) substrate. Concomitant use with P-gp inhibitors or inducers can affect the exposure to fexofenadine. Co-administration with P-gp inhibitors erythromycin or ketoconazole resulted in 2-3 times increase in the level of fexofenadine in plasma. The changes were not accompanied by any effects on the QT interval and were not associated with any increase in adverse reactions compared to the medicinal products given singly. A clinical drug-drug interaction study showed that co-administration of apalutamide (a weak inducer of P-gp) and a single oral dose of 30 mg fexofenadine resulted in a 30 % decrease in AUC of fexofenadine. No interaction with omeprazole. Administration of an antacid containing aluminium and magnesium hydroxide gels 15 minutes prior to fexofenadine hydrochloride caused a reduction in bioavailability, most likely due to binding in the gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to leave 2 hours between administration of fexofenadine hydrochloride and aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacids Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnancy: Do not use unless clearly necessary No adequate data from the use of fexofenadine hydrochloride in pregnant women. Limited animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to effects on pregnancy, embryonal/foetal development, parturition or postnatal development. Breast-feeding: Not recommended. No data on the content of human milk after administering fexofenadine hydrochloride. However, when terfenadine was administered to nursing mothers’ fexofenadine was found to cross into human breast milk. Fertility: No human data available. Ability to Drive and Use Machinery: Based on the pharmacodynamic profile and reported adverse reactions it is unlikely that fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets will produce an effect on the ability to drive or use machines. In objective tests, Fexo Allergy Relief has been shown to have no significant effects on central nervous system function. This means that patients may drive or perform tasks that require concentration. However, in order to identify sensitive people who have an unusual reaction to medicinal products, it is advisable to check the individual response before driving or performing complicated tasks. Undesirable Effects: Nervous system disorders: Common: headache, drowsiness, dizziness. Gastrointestinal disorders: Common: nausea. General disorders and administration site conditions: Uncommon: fatigue. Refer to the SPC for other undesirable effects. Marketing Authorisation Holder: Rowa Pharmaceuticals Limited., Newtown, Bantry, Co. Cork. Marketing Authorisation Number: PA0074/096/001 Further information and SPC are available from: Rowex Ltd., Bantry, Co. Cork. Freephone: 1800 304 400 Fax: 027 50417 E-mail: rowex@rowa-pharma.ie
Legal Category: Not Subject to medical prescription. Date of Preparation: September 2024 CCF FOR API: 26741
Legal Category: Not Subject to medical prescription. Date of Preparation: September 2024 CCF FOR API: 26741
Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found on the HPRA website (www.hpra.ie) or by emailing Rowex pv@rowa-pharma.ie
Legal Category: Not Subject to medical prescription. Date of Preparation: September 2024 CCF FOR API: 26741 Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found on the HPRA website (www.hpra.ie) or by emailing Rowex pv@rowa-pharma.ie
Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found on the HPRA website (www.hpra.ie) or by emailing Rowex pv@rowa-pharma.ie
Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found on the HPRA website (www.hpra.ie) or by emailing Rowex pv@rowa-pharma.ie
Date of preparation: (02/2025) CCF: 26995
Date of preparation: (02/2025) CCF: 26995
Abbreviated prescribing information Date of preparation: (02/2025) CCF: 26995
Supply status: Supply through pharmacies only
Supply status: Supply through pharmacies only
Powering the Future of Pharmacy
RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has celebrated the formal opening of its newly redeveloped School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences teaching labs, marking a major milestone in health sciences education in Ireland. The opening was officiated by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD.
This strategic investment, including a ¤1.2 million grant from the Higher Education Authority, has increased the school’s laboratory teaching capacity by 60%, providing a world-class learning environment for up to 140 students, up from 89.
The upgrade also includes the launch of the Kiran Pathak Patient-Centred Care Laboratory, an innovative 88-student space designed to simulate real-world clinical interactions and nurture both technical and interpersonal skills among students.
The investment also sees the enhanced integration of pharmacy technicians and practicing pharmacists into the teaching team, ensuring students gain practical, real-world insights from day one.
The new facilities support the expansion of the school’s undergraduate degree and Masters programmes which will increase the pool of graduates who will go on to work in clinical patient facing healthcare settings and the Irish BioPharma industry, making a significant contribution to health and well-being nationally.
Minister James Lawless TD said: “RCSI has been a crucial partner in our efforts to expand training for healthcare professionals in order to ensure our health services have the high-quality graduates they need to serve the people of Ireland. This state-of-the-art facility will be a
centre of excellence, preparing the health sciences professionals of the future to hit the ground running.”
RCSI was recently ranked number one globally for Good Health and Wellbeing (UNSDG 3) in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025. This recognition reflects the university’s transformative approach to health sciences education and research - a vision further realised through this upgraded lab infrastructure.
Professor Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor of RCSI, said:
“This expanded and upgraded laboratory space reinforces RCSI’s commitment to delivering future-focused, student-centric healthcare education, responsive to the needs of modern health systems. At this lab, our School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences will prepare a new generation of pharmacists and health scientists to thrive in an ever-evolving health system.”
“We are grateful to the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and to the Higher Education Authority, for their support and confidence in our capacity to deliver on their priorities for higher education in Ireland”, added Professor Kelly.
The School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences at RCSI is globally recognised for pioneering
Pictured (l-r): Prof. Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor, RCSI; Prof. Fergal O'Brien, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, RCSI; Prof. Tracy Robson, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, RCSI; Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD; and Colin McElduff, Senior Laboratory Technician, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI
Over ¤2.3m
to Improve Cancer Care
HSE South West has announced a major investment by the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) of over ¤2.3 million to improve cancer care across the region over the next 18 months.
This funding will support eight new projects and create 16.5 new healthcare jobs, including nurses, doctors and oncology support staff.
The new posts include:
• Specialist nursing support for patients in the rapid access lung service
• A new family breast cancer pathway, which will aid in early detection
• A new post for a regional team supporting adolescents and young adults with cancer
research and industry-informed curricula, ranking in the top 200 universities in the world for pharmacy and pharmacology in the 2025 QS Subject rankings.
Funding from the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has enabled the school to expand places for its flagship MPharm programme from an intake of 30 to 85 EU students annually. This expansion addresses an identified skills gap by providing a trained workforce to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the population and the expanding scope of practice of the pharmacy profession, as recommended by the Expert Taskforce in 2024.
The school offers cuttingedge programmes including a BSc in Advanced Therapeutic Technologies (ATT) and a Masters in Technologies and Analytics in Precision Medicine, supported by a ¤7.8 million HEA Human Capital Initiative grant. The BSc ATT programme, launched in 2022 is on target to grow to a class size of 70 students, with entry via the CAO to support the evolution of the Irish Life Sciences sector, recognising the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Technologies, Precision Medicine and transversal skills.
A significant focus on research underpins the philosophy of the school, with its staff and students participating in research across the translational spectrum from drug discovery and delivery, through to population health and healthcare education research.
• Recruitment of a new patient support worker for breast cancer patients
• Recruitment of a senior occupational therapist and speech and language therapist, to support an increased number of patients and families
Clinical Director of Cancer Services at CUH Dr Dearbhaile Collins said, “This welcome investment allows us to provide the best possible cancer services for the communities of HSE South West. These additional staff will support many essential services across the region. Importantly, they will provide specialised care to our adolescent and young adult patients with cancer, patients on oral anti-cancer treatments, and the ongoing care of our cancer survivors.
“Furthermore, they will reinforce our family history clinics to improve early detection, rapid access clinics, bladder cancer surgical care and the crucial acute oncology services. We are also proud to announce that one of these positions will enable the region to lead out on the national molecular tumour board programme.”
Clinical Director of Cancer Services at CUH Dr Dearbhaile Collins added, “These additional staff will support many essential services across the region. Importantly, they will provide specialised care to our adolescent and young adult patients with cancer, patients on oral anti-cancer treatments, and the ongoing care of our cancer survivors.”
Love
Direct soothing impact
doesn’t need to hurt.
A mother’s feeling of love can be overwhelming. It’s easy to forget that it’s just as important to take care of yourself as your baby. Because if you as a mum feel good, chances are that your baby will absorb that harmony. Which is why it might be a good idea to deal with those not so blissful parts of becoming a mother. Such as sore nipples. In fact, 80 to 90% of breastfeeding mothers experience some degree of soreness, inflammation or nipple damage. Multi-Mam Compresses treat sore nipples with a direct soothing and cooling effect, and also support the natural healing process, no harm for the baby and based on natural ingredients.
Learn more at multi-mam.ie Available in pharmacies nationwide.
Diabetes tied to Inequality
New research from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences highlights significant inequalities in diabetes prevalence across Ireland, linked to differences in socio-economic status, age and education levels.
The research, led by the RCSI School of Population Health, analysed data from the Healthy Ireland survey spanning 2015 to 2023.The team found that those from disadvantages areas, as well as those with lower levels of education are more likely to have, or develop, diabetes.
Among disadvantaged communities, 6% of individuals reported having diabetes – almost three times higher than the 2.2% recorded among those in more affluent areas. Similarly, research reveals that diabetes rates are three times as high among those who have not progressed beyond primary school education when compared to those with postgraduate degrees.
While these findings underscore stark inequalities in diabetes prevalence, the study suggests that targeting existing diabetes prevention programmes at these groups could improve diabetes prevalence among the Irish population over time.
An individualised approach
Professor Edward Gregg, co-investigator on the study and Head of RCSI’s School of Population Health, said: “The research shows that, while our overall diabetes rates are stable, the high prevalence in lower socio-economic areas remains.
In order for diabetes prevention strategies to be effective, we must account for, and accommodate,
Dr Gintare Valentelyte
the specific challenges faced by various marginalised groups across the country.”
Lead author of the study, Dr Gintare Valentelyte, added, “The need for targeted and accessible support among all social demographics is evident from our research findings. I hope this research highlights the existing gap in services and education and that it inspires a more individualised approach to diabetes prevention.”
Strong partnerships
The study provides critical insights to guide more equitable public health interventions aimed at reducing diabetes prevalence across Ireland.
This publication has emanated from research conducted with the support of Science Foundation Ireland, as well as a Research Ireland Research Professorship Programme for Professor Edward Gregg. The research was carried out in partnership with Imperial College London, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics; School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast; Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne; and the School of Medicine, Western Sydney University.
Calls for Greater Heart Failure Support
TDs and Senators from across the country have participated in vital public health support at the inaugural Oireachtas Heart and Stroke group meeting on heart failure at Leinster House.
They are backing a call for the estimated 137,000 people living with heart failure in Ireland to receive greater access to cardiac rehabilitation, psychological support and help to ease financial hardship caused by the condition.
Members of the group, set up by the Irish Heart Foundation, heard from Patient Champions and heart failure patients Stephen Comerford and Teresa O’Hanlon, Professor Emer Joyce, Consultant Heart Function and Transplant Cardiologist at The Mater Hospital, Dr Eamonn O’Shea, GP, HSE/ICGP Integrated Care GP Clinical Lead Cardiovascular with the Irish College of General Practitioners and the Foundation’s Director of Advocacy and Patient Support, Chris Macey.
They spoke about Ireland’s rapidly growing cardiac condition, a chronic disease that occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t pump blood as well as it should, and the disabilities and challenges faced by people living with heart failure in Ireland.
“The HSE has estimated that 30 per cent of heart failure patients are back in hospital within 90 days of discharge,” said Chris Macey, Director of Advocacy with the Irish Heart Foundation.
“Half of all admissions are due to poor self-care and are therefore largely preventable. Heart failure patients, along with others living with heart disease and stroke, need more help to address the psychological impact of their condition, financial hardship that can result and gain greater access to rehabilitation services.
“The purpose of this new group is to ensure that services and supports for people affected by cardiovascular disease are prioritised across the country.”
World Pharmacists Day
The International Pharmaceutical Society (FIP) has announced the theme for this year’s World Pharmacists Day, to be celebrated on 25 September 2025: “Think Health, Think Pharmacist.”
Selected by the FIP Bureau, this year’s theme underscores the essential role that pharmacists play in ensuring sustainable, resilient healthcare systems around the world.
FIP, the global leader in advancing pharmacy, has been championing the pharmacy profession for over a century. As the world continues to face complex, interconnected health challenges—ranging from access to care and antimicrobial resistance to climate change and financial instability—ensuring strong, sustainable health systems is more vital than ever.
A key concern now confronting countries across all regions is how to maintain a well-equipped, qualified health workforce amid growing financial constraints from economic slowdowns, shrinking budgets, and rising healthcare demands.
In some places, budget pressures have led to the hiring of non-professional health workers to perform roles that require the expertise of trained pharmacists. This short-term approach, driven by immediate cost-saving goals, can have far-reaching, detrimental consequences.
In truth, pharmacy without the pharmacist is a risk to health. It undermines the quality and safety of care, threatens medicine optimisation, and jeopardises public trust in health systems. We are addressing what might be one of the most critical issues of our time: safeguarding health by investing in qualified pharmacists, even in times of financial turbulence.
World Pharmacists Day (25 September) marks the anniversary of the inception of FIP in 1912 and was adopted by the FIP Council in 2009. As such, the World Pharmacists Day campaign is led by FIP every year, with the theme chosen by the FIP Bureau.
As a service to the profession, FIP develops and offers a range of World Pharmacists Day / World Pharmacy Week campaign materials for use each year. Visit www.fip.org
Reference: 1. Nicorette® Lozenge SmPC.
Nicorette Cools 2 mg Lozenge. Composition: Each lozenge contains 2 mg nicotine (as nicotine resinate). Compressed lozenge (lozenge). Indications: to be used for the treatment of tobacco dependence by relief of nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings in smokers 18 years and above. Permanent cessation of tobacco use is the eventual objective. Nicorette Cools 2 mg Lozenges should preferably be used in conjunction with a behavioural support programme. Dosage: Selecting the strength of lozenge to be used will depend on the smoking habits of the individual. Adults: Nicorette Cools 2 mg Lozenges are suitable for smokers with low nicotine dependency e.g. those smoking their first cigarette of the day more than 30 minutes after waking up or those who smoke 20 cigarettes or less per day. Lozenges should not be used for more than 9 months. If users still feel the need for treatment, a healthcare professional should be consulted. Behavioural therapy advice and support will normally improve the success rate. Abrupt cessation of smoking: The patient should make every effort to stop smoking completely during treatment with Nicorette Cools Lozenges. The lozenges should be used whenever there is an urge to smoke. Sufficient lozenges should be used each day and most smokers usually require 8 to 12, not to exceed 15 lozenges. The duration of treatment is individual, but up to six weeks treatment is recommended to break the habit of smoking. The nicotine dose should then be gradually reduced, by decreasing the total number of lozenges used per day. The treatment should be stopped, when the daily consumption is down to 1-2 lozenges. Use a lozenge whenever there is an urge to smoke to maintain complete abstinence from smoking. In the event of sudden cravings any spare lozenges should be retained and used whenever there is a craving or an urge to smoke. Gradual cessation through progressive reduction in smoking: For smokers who are unwilling or unable to quit abruptly. Use a lozenge between smoking episodes to manage the urge to smoke, to prolong smoke-free intervals and with the intention to reduce smoking as much possible. The number of lozenges a day is variable and depends on the patients needs. Nonetheless it should not exceed 15 lozenges per day. If a reduction in number of cigarettes per day has not been achieved after 6 weeks, professional advice should be sought. Reduced tobacco consumption should lead to complete cessation of smoking. A quit attempt should be made as soon as the smoker feels ready, but not later than 6 months after start of treatment. When the number of cigarettes has been reduced to a level from which the user feels able to quit completely, then the schedule for “abrupt cessation” as given above should be started. If the attempt to stop smoking completely has not been started within 6 months after the beginning of treatment, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional. Paediatric population: Nicorette Cools 2 mg Lozenges should only be used by adolescents (12-17 years inclusive) with advice from a healthcare professional. Nicorette Cools Lozenges are not to be used by children below the age of 12. The safety and efficacy of Nicorette Cools 2 mg Lozenges in children and adolescents has not been investigated. One lozenge should be placed in the mouth and allowed to dissolve. Periodically, the lozenge should be moved from one side of the mouth to the other, and repeated, until the lozenge is completely dissolved (approximately 16-19 minutes). The lozenge should not be chewed or swallowed whole. Users should not eat or drink while a lozenge is in the mouth. Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to nicotine or to any of the excipients. Children under the age of 12 years. Those who have never smoked. Special warnings and precautions for use: The benefits of quitting smoking usually outweigh any risk associated with correctly administered nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). A risk-benefit assessment should be made by an appropriate healthcare professional for patients with the following conditions: Cardiovascular disease: Dependent smokers with a recent myocardial infarction, unstable or worsening angina including Prinzmetal’s angina, severe cardiac arrhythmias, recent cerebrovascular accident and/or who suffer with uncontrolled hypertension should be encouraged to stop smoking with non-pharmacological interventions (such as counselling). If this fails, Nicorette Cools 2 mg Lozenge may be considered but as data on safety in this patient group are limited, initiation should only be under close medical supervision. Diabetes Mellitus. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be advised to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely than usual when smoking is stopped and NRT is initiated as reduction in nicotine induced catecholamine released can affect carbohydrate
NICORETTE LOZENGE STARTS TO FIGHT CRAVINGS IN JUST 2 MINUTES
metabolism. Allergic reactions: Susceptibility to angioedema and urticaria. Renal and hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment and/or severe renal impairment as the clearance of nicotine or its metabolites may be decreased with the potential for increased adverse effects. Phaeochromocytoma and uncontrolled hyperthyroidism: Use with caution in patients with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism or phaeochromocytoma as nicotine causes release of catecholamines. Gastrointestinal Disease: Swallowed nicotine may exacerbate symptoms in patients suffering from oesophagitis, gastric or peptic ulcers and oral NRT preparations should be used with caution in these conditions. Seizures: Use with caution in subjects taking anti-convulsant therapy or with a history of epilepsy as cases of convulsions have been reported in association with nicotine. Lozenges can represent a choking hazard. Use with caution in individuals with aspiration and swallowing problems. Paediatric population: Danger in children: Doses of nicotine tolerated by smokers can produce severe toxicity in children that may be fatal. Products containing nicotine should not be left where they may be handled or ingested by children. Stopping Smoking: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in tobacco smoke induce the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP 1A2 (and possibly by CYP 1A1). When a smoker stops smoking, this may result in a slower metabolism and a consequent rise in blood levels of such drugs. This is of potential clinical importance for products with a narrow therapeutic window, e.g. theophylline, tacrine, clozapine and ropinirole. Transferred dependence: Transferred dependence is unusual and is both less harmful and easier to break than smoking dependence. Excipients: This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per lozenge, that is to say essentially ‘sodium-free’. Undesirable effects: Effects of smoking cessation: Regardless of the means used, a variety of symptoms are known to be associated with quitting habitual tobacco use. These include emotional or cognitive effects such as dysphoria or depressed mood; insomnia; irritability, frustration or anger; anxiety; difficulty concentrating, and restlessness or impatience. There may also be physical effects such as decreased heart rate; increased appetite or weight gain, dizziness or presyncopal symptoms, cough, constipation, gingival bleeding or aphthous ulceration, or nasopharyngitis. In addition, and of clinical significance, nicotine cravings may result in profound urges to smoke. The Nicorette Cools Lozenge may cause adverse reactions similar to those associated with nicotine given by other means. Most of the undesirable effects reported by the subjects occur during the early phase of treatment and are mainly dose dependent. Irritation in the mouth and throat may be experienced, however most subjects adapt to this with ongoing use. Allergic reactions (including symptoms of anaphylaxis) occur rarely during use of Nicorette Cools Lozenge. Immune System Disorders Common Hypersensitivity Not known Allergic reactions including angioedema and anaphylaxis Psychiatric disorders Uncommon Abnormal dream Nervous system disorders Very common Headache Common Dysgeusia, paraesthesia Unknown Seizure* Eye disorders Not known Blurred vision, lacrimation increased Cardiac Disorders Uncommon Palpitations, tachycardia, atrial fibrillation Vascular disorders Uncommon Flushing, hypertension Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Very common Cough, hiccups, throat irritation Uncommon Bronchospasm, dysphonia, dyspnoea, nasal congestion, oropharyngeal pain, sneezing, throat tightness Gastrointestinal disorders Very common Nausea, mouth/throat and tongue irritation Common Abdominal pain, dry mouth, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, flatulence, salivary hypersecretion, stomatitis, vomiting, heartburn Uncommon Eructation, glossitis, oral mucosal blistering and exfoliation, paresthesia oral Rare Dysphagia, hypoaesthesia oral, retching Not known Dry throat, gastrointestinal discomfort, lip pain Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Uncommon Hyperhidrosis, pruritus, rash, urticaria Not known Erythema General disorders and administration site conditions Common Burning sensation, fatigue Uncommon Asthenia, chest discomfort and pain, malaise. * Cases of seizures have been reported in subjects taking anti-convulsant therapy or with a history of epilepsy. Marketing Autorisation Holder: JNTL Consumer Health I (Ireland) Ltd., Block 5, High
Partnering for Your Pharmacy’s Success
At United Drug Wholesale, our focus is simple: helping pharmacies succeed. Whether you're an independent pharmacy or part of a large pharmacy group, we are here to support your business so you can continue delivering the best possible care to your patients.
Michael Taylor, Head of Sales and Retail Solutions, has developed a commercial team structure designed to give every customer the dedicated, expert support they need. For pharmacy groups and chains, Mary Moore leads the way, acting as a key partner for head office teams. Her focus is to align group objectives with practical solutions, backed by consistent, centralised support.
Tailored support nationwide
For independent pharmacies, Orlagh Dunne and her team offer hands-on guidance. With over seven years of industry experience, Orlagh understands the challenges and opportunities in both retail and wholesale and is ready to help pharmacies grow.
Our experienced Area Support team—Leonard Manley (Central), Barry Scannell (South), Orla Doyle (North) and Kerry Murphy (East)— provide tailored local support. Between them, they bring over 100 years of pharmacy experience to our customers.
Smarter Buying with Pharmax and Profitlines Plus
We’ve also invested in key services like Pharmax and ARC. Pharmax is our compliance-led buying group, giving members access to best-in-class pricing, exclusive promotions and simplified ordering via our newly improved platform. Profitlines Plus, now integrated into Pharmax, offers streamlined ordering across more than 3,000 front-of-shop and wholesale products, delivering both time savings and improved margins.
Meanwhile, ARC, our bespoke claims management system, helps pharmacies safeguard revenue through automated claims tracking, alerts, and reporting, reducing errors and freeing up time for patient care.
Specialist Patient Care and Unlicensed Medicines
In specialist patient care, we remain Ireland’s leading provider of Ostomy and Urology products, offering expert service, a wide range of products, and the training your team needs to support patients confidently. Our Elements portfolio gives you access to over 1,400 unlicensed medicines, ensuring you can source hard-to-find products quickly and compliantly.
Training and insights are a key part of our support. Through our Knowledge Hub on UDW.ie, pharmacists can access webinars, podcasts, category insights and training tools to stay informed and grow their business.
At United Drug Wholesale, everything we do is built around your business. With three depots in Dublin, Limerick and Ballina, and over 14,000 stocked lines, we offer next-day delivery and reliable service across Ireland. Backed by the strength of the PHOENIX group, we’re proud to offer local knowledge with global scale— helping Irish pharmacies do what they do best.
To find out how we can support your pharmacy, speak to your United Drug representative or visit UDW.ie.
Deasy’s Pharmacy Group: DispenSense
& TillSense
Since its launch in December 2022, pharmacies using DispenSense have dispensed over 5 million items nationwide.
Navi Group has consistently led the charge in introducing innovative IT solutions to the pharmacy market in recent years. With DispenSense, the core focus of developing the software was to simplify and enhance the dispensing experience. The incorporation of state-of-the-art technologies within DispenSense ensures that it is not just a software solution; it’s a catalyst for positive change within the pharmacy landscape.
This cutting-edge software with unrivalled features and modules being added continuously, strives to make dispensing more reliable, safe, and efficient. DispenSense empowers pharmacy teams to overcome everyday workflow challenges and efficiency blockers, in turn maximising their focus on patient care.
Case study
Cormac Deasy owns 4 pharmacies in the Cork/Kerry region and has had DispenSense installed in all four.
“Install week was a great week at our pharmacies. There was a certain feeling that I was going blind into something new but all was very relaxed and stress free thanks to the DispenSense team putting our staff very much at ease. DispenSense is a fantastic product implemented seamlessly by a fantastic team!”
Cormac Deasy, owner of Deasy’s Pharmacy Group, Cork
Why choose DispenSense?
Background & buying decision
Deasy’s Pharmacy Group operates three pharmacies in the mid Cork area in Ballymakeera, Coachford and Macroom town, and a fourth pharmacy in Killarney, Co. Kerry.
Migrating data
The DispenSense team migrated each pharmacy in the Deasy Group to the new system in a matter of days, with prescriber, product, patient and prescription data transferred successfully to the DispenSense platform from their old system before going live in each pharmacy.
The DispenSense team also smoothly migrated the stock levels from Park Road pharmacy, where the majority of products were in their dispensary robot, minimising the impact to pharmacy operations at every step.
Onboarding
The DispenSense team ensured every member of each Deasy’s pharmacy was fully trained on the new system and any nerves or worries about moving from a system they had used for years to a new platform were quickly addressed.
“No handholding was required by [the DispenSense] diligent trainers. They were excellent throughout, always supportive and there to answer all our queries whenever we needed. Integration is seamless and imported data is displayed as though it was entered in DispenSense De Novo, so there is no old and new, just a bold step forward into the future of pharmacy dispensing software,” – Cormac Deasy, owner.
Feedback
Two years on, and feedback from Deasy’s group remains very positive.
Cormac says, “The support we receive from the DispenSense team is excellent. They immediately respond to our questions and promptly address any issues. The product is working very well, and we are looking forward to upcoming features.”
necessary flexibility, innovation, and tools to manage your pharmacy business effectively and efficiently.
Why choose TillSense?
TillSense is a more efficient EPOS solution, freeing up time for more customer interaction. It is cloud-based and can run on most hardware, reducing maintenance costs for pharmacies. A centralised email service, used for communication with the customer is integrated into the system.
Built-in integration with Markethub ESELs (electronic shelf edge labels) allows for efficient and immediate updating of prices throughout the pharmacy, enabling better price management in a busy environment.
Other features:
• The mobile till solution will allow the pharmacy staff to serve customers and take payment on an iPad or Android device
• System shows current stock levels available in the pharmacy
• Supported through an in-house development team, facilitating regular updates and additional development based on customer feedback
• Managed price file solution available as add-on POS system overview
• The main point of sale (POS) screen displays products, live stock, and categories with a user-friendly interface designed for ease of use on a touch screen display
• The main POS screen within the TillSense application displays the notifications centre, purchase limits, cash drawer alerts, and scheduled activities for staff members
who designed DispenSense, there is a similar look and feel to both, and your PCs can be configured to run both software programmes on one system. Several times a year, the TillSense team push out new versions of their software to reflect new trends, improved features and feedback from us, the customers.”
TillSense are getting ready to onboard their 100th pharmacy –just one year since their launch. If you are interested in getting DispenSense and TillSense installed in your pharmacy, or would like to learn more, head to navi.ie or send us an email at info@navi.ie
“Install was a great week at our pharmacies. There was a certain feeling that I was going blind into something new but all was very relaxed and stress free thanks to the DispenSense team putting our staff very much at ease. DispenSense is a fantastic product implemented seamlessly by a fantastic team!”
Cormac Deasy, owner of Deasy’s Pharmacy Group, Cork
When the DispenSense team first introduced our PMR solution to owner and pharmacist, Cormac Deasy, the innovative aspects of the cloud-based solution immediately appealed to him. “One of the most exciting aspects of this system is its cloud-based nature. This feature alone has allowed us to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the retail pharmacy industry. I can access critical data and monitor our operations from anywhere, at any time. The convenience this offers is a huge advantage.”
Since then, Cormac has also adopted TillSense, Navi Group’s latest EPOS Solution, in all 4 of his pharmacies.
TillSense is Navi Group’s most advanced EPOS solution, designed specifically for pharmacies based on feedback received from their network of independent pharmacies.
For many years, the pharmacy sector has required innovation and a POS system that can cater to the needs of a constantly growing industry. TillSense provides the Navi Group’s newest dispensary software, DispenSense, is the latest breakthrough in pharmacy technology, designed to revolutionise and simplify the dispensing process and workflow management.
• Reporting dashboards that are fully customisable to meet the needs of any business, providing greater overall visibility, KPIs, and business analytics
• The main payment screen displays payment options, customer accounts, and invoicing if necessary
• Mobile application view for inventory adjustments, product re-ordering rules, and other inventory operations
Owner Cormac says, “As TillSense was designed by the same team
“As TillSense was designed by the same team who designed DispenSense, there is a similar look and feel to both, and your PCs can be configured to run both software programmes on one system. Several times a year, the TillSense team push out new versions of their software to reflect new trends, improved features and feedback from us, the customers”
Cormac Deasy, owner of Deasy’s Pharmacy Group, Cork
Using the latest, cutting-edge technologies to make dispensing to your patients reliable, safe & e cient. To learn more or book a demo, get in touch on info@navi.ie or check out our website, navi.ie.
Potential of Self-Care on Public Health
The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) has launched a new report highlighting the untapped potential of Self-Care in improving public health and reducing pressure on Ireland’s healthcare system.
The research, unveiled ahead of Self-Care Awareness Day on July 24th, reveals that patients in Ireland currently save ¤727 million annually by managing minor ailments through Self-Care — but with greater adoption, they could save an additional ¤166 million.
According to the research, for every ¤1 spent on over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, patients in Ireland, the HSE and the economy combined save on average ¤10.70, thanks to reduced GP visits, lower treatment costs, and improved time efficiency. While the HSE annually saves ¤495 million as a consequence of patients managing minor ailments, with further emphasis on Self-Care, savings of an additional ¤113 million could also be achieved.
Crucially, Self-Care can relieve the pressures on an overburdened GP system by freeing up an additional one working hour per GP per day allowing them to instead
treat patients with more serious conditions. A move towards the practice of more Self-Care in community settings aligns with the objectives of Sláintecare and recent developments in the HSE’s Common Conditions Service.
“The message is clear: Self-Care is not alone care — it’s smart care, supported by pharmacists and aligned with public health priorities,” said Oliver O’ Connor, Chief Executive at IPHA. “As we face growing pressures on general practice, we must integrate responsible Self-Care into policy, education, and community health strategies.”
The report underscores that SelfCare is already delivering results — but with the right support, it could be transformative for patients, practitioners, and the wider health system. IPHA therefore suggests five key recommendations which, if implemented, could see a greater level of Self-Care practiced
in Ireland to benefit the wider healthcare system and the economy:
• Integrate Self-Care into national health policy
• Reclassify suitable medicines from prescription to OTC
• Expand pharmacist-led SelfCare services
• Invest in digital health tools to support informed Self-Care decisions
• Launch public awareness and health literacy campaigns
By embracing the full potential of Self-Care, we can create a more resilient, efficient, and accessible healthcare system for everyone.
Clonmel Show Delivers Free Health Checks
Clonmel Healthcare, the number one generic supplier of medicines by value and volume in the Irish market*, delivered over 200 voluntary health screenings to attendees at the Clonmel Show on Sunday 6th July. In celebration of the company’s 55th year in business, a dedicated team of nurses provided vital basic health checks.
A steady stream of visitors to the stand throughout the day took advantage of the nurse-led checks including blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen levels. This positive response highlights a clear community appetite for accessible health information and services.
The initiative comes at a critical time, as new research released by Clonmel Healthcare revealed a concerning trend: almost one third of Irish people (31%) do not engage in any preventative health checks. The comprehensive study**, part of a global survey
Clonmel Healthcare carried out over 200 free health checks.
(L–R): Thaynara Dalcin; Sinéad Looby, Warehouse Operative at Clonmel Healthcare; and Samantha Doundoulakis, Marketing Manager Rx at Clonmel Healthcare. Picture John Kelly
"It was great to see a strong turnout at the Clonmel Show and we were delighted to provide 200 free health checks to our local community on the day," commented Donagh O’Leary, Managing Director, Clonmel Healthcare. “Our recent research underscores the vital importance of initiatives like this. It is clear there's a significant gap in preventative health engagement across Ireland, driven by factors like awareness and even fear. We are committed to addressing these barriers through education and community support.
across 22 countries, sheds light on the barriers preventing individuals from taking proactive steps for their health. Reasons cited by the 31% of Irish respondents include a lack of awareness about recommended check-ups (28%), perceived cost (21%), limited access/availability (17%), and, notably, avoiding check-ups for fear of a bad diagnosis (15%).
“Our presence at the Clonmel Show was more than just a celebration of our 55 years, it was a tangible step towards demystifying health checks and making them accessible."
Clonmel Healthcare has a long and proud history of serving the Irish community, offering a wide range of over-the-counter medicines, prescription pharmaceuticals, and innovative speciality medication solutions in areas such as Parkinsons Disease and Biosimilars.
What is New within Ireland’s OTC Landscape?
Irish Pharmacy News has been working with data analyst company, IQVIA, for the last ten years to comprise this annual report which highlights the Top 100 Over-the-Counter pharmacy brands in Ireland.
The information contained over the following pages is widely accepted as the industry standard from which brand performance is measured across the OTC sector.
The 2025 Top 100 Over the Counter (OTC) Market Report is compiled using IQVIA’s audited OTC data, based on the total value of wholesale sales for OTC products into retail pharmacy over the course of the previous 12 months to April 2025 (May 2024 - April 2025). It’s a rolling annual value which includes the five major OTC categories including pain relief, cough, cold and respiratory products, vitamins and minerals, digestive health, and habit treatment. There have been no changes in data collection or methodology since last year’s article.
We spoke to General Manager of IQVIA, Gwynne Morley, to gain further insights into how these statistics are compiled and on the value of this market to pharmacy.
Giving a current perspective on the overall value of the OTC sector to community pharmacy in Ireland, especially in light of any recent economic or policy developments, Gwynne told us, “The OTC sector in Ireland, valued at €566 million1 from May 2024 to April 2025, experienced a 4% growth in value and a 0.6% increase in volume2. The five major OTC categories - Pain Relief, Cough, Cold & Respiratory (CCR), Vitamins & Minerals, Digestive Health, and Habit Treatment - account for €451 million1 of the total value.”
Key categories and growth
1. Pain Relief: This remains the most consumed category, valued at €161 million1, with a 3.6%2 growth in value sales. Despite a 1%2 decline in volume, the category's value growth indicates a shift towards higher-priced or more effective products.
2. Cough, Cold & Respiratory (CCR): The second largest category, valued at €106 million1, grew by 2.7%2 in value.
However, it saw a slight 0.4%2 decline in volume, reflecting similar trends seen in Pain Relief.
3. Vitamins & Minerals: This category grew by 1.4%2, highlighting a steady demand for supplements that support overall health and wellness.
Gwynne Morley, General Manager, IQVIA Ireland
Muted growth expected in 2025 due tariffs uncertainty; Inflation on a downward trend gradually
Regionally, EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa) have outpaced the global average in OTC growth (See Figure 2).
4. Digestive Health: With an impressive 8.3%2 growth, this category shows increasing consumer focus on gut health and related issues.
5. Habit Treatment: Leading the growth with an 8.5%2 increase, this category underscores the rising demand for products that assist with lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation aids.
She continues, “The OTC sector remains a critical revenue stream for community pharmacies, especially as consumers increasingly self-medicate and as the future role of the pharmacist expands3, following the task force consultation, offering consultations, and prescribing for minor ailments.
“Recent healthcare reforms, such as free GP care for more demographics and prescription validity extensions, have
enhanced pharmacy accessibility and reinforced their role in primary care.
The consumer health sector is demonstrating continued resilience, according to Gwynne. She says, “Despite economic fluctuations, the global consumer health sector - encompassing OTC medications, Personal Care, Nutrition, and Patient Care - has demonstrated resilience, particularly in categories like digestive remedies.
“Economic indicators suggest a period of cautious optimism. Global GDP growth is expected to stabilize from 2025 onwards, following a phase of moderated expansion. Inflation, which peaked in 2023, is on a downward trend, providing a more predictable environment for consumer spending. This economic backdrop is crucial as it influences consumer confidence and spending
patterns, directly impacting the consumer health sector (See Figure 1).
Regionally, EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa) have outpaced the global average in OTC growth (See Figure 2).
“The OTC sector in Ireland has stabilised after experiencing significant fluctuations in recent years. In 2022, there was a 7%4 increase in volume, driven by a surge in demand for Cough, Cold, and Respiratory (CCR) products as the country emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, sales declined by 3%5 in 2023 before rising again by 1%2 in 2024. Despite these volume changes, the sector performed better in value terms due to relatively high inflation.
“Irish consumers are comfortable with self-medicating, with 82% of respondents in a 2023 survey indicating they were comfortable treating minor health
The European OTC market is showing robust value growth while inflation is settling down
Europe OTC market evolution: (MAT Q1 2025)
conditions themselves. Additionally, 79% reported easy access to OTC products, and 87% preferred visiting a pharmacy over a GP for minor health advice6. This trend supports the robust demand for OTC products.
respectively2. This downturn is largely attributed to recent advancements in prescription weight loss medications, which we will explore further in Question 7 of this article.
Self-Care Growth
“ The OTC sector in Ireland has stabilised after experiencing significant fluctuations in recent years. In 2022, there was a 7%4 increase in volume, driven by a surge in demand for Cough, Cold, and Respiratory (CCR) products as the country emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, sales declined by 3%5 in 2023 before rising again by 1%2 in 2024. Despite these volume changes, the sector performed better in value terms due to relatively high inflation.
“Self-care will continue to grow, with consumers worldwide longing for greater access to healthcare and more control over their own care, while governments and payors aspire to reduce costs by encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles and self-manage more conditions when safe to do so.
Self-Care Growth
“Two OTC categories that featured prominently in our discussion last year were weight loss and habit treatment. The weight loss OTC segment has experienced another sharp decline, with volume and value dropping by 30.9% and 53.1%
“In contrast to the decline seen in other OTC categories, the habit treatment segment has demonstrated strong performance, with volume increasing by 4.3% and value by 8.3%2. This growth reflects a renewed public health focus on smoking cessation and nicotine dependency, particularly considering Ireland’s evolving tobacco and vaping landscape.
healthcare system approximately €460 million each year. Recent research by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) highlights persistent and worsening socioeconomic disparities in smoking prevalence, especially among the least educated and most deprived populations. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted, equityfocused cessation strategies7
“Irish consumers are comfortable with self-medicating, with 82% of respondents in a 2023 survey indicating they were comfortable treating minor health conditions themselves. Additionally, 79% reported easy access to OTC products, and 87% preferred visiting a pharmacy over a GP for minor health advice6. This trend supports the robust demand for OTC products.
“While Ireland is internationally recognised for its leadership in tobacco control, smoking remains the leading preventable cause of illness and premature death, responsible for over 5,000 deaths annually and costing the
“At the same time, vaping has surged in popularity, particularly among adolescents. Surveys show that 9% of 12–17-year-olds and 15.5% of 15–16-yearolds now use e-cigarettes, with higher usage among boys. In response, the Irish government introduced legislation in December 2023 banning the sale of nicotine-inhaling products to individuals under 18, alongside restrictions on vending machine sales, advertising near schools, and promotions at children’s
“Self-care will continue to grow, with consumers worldwide longing for greater access to healthcare and more control over their own care, while governments and payors aspire to reduce costs by encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles and self-manage more conditions when safe to do so.
Figure 2
Figure 2
TOP 100
Purchasing Patterns
events. These measures aim to curb youth uptake and reinforce Ireland’s broader tobacco control efforts8
Post-pandemic health consciousness has driven increased demand for products that support gut health and boost immunity. Vitamins, minerals, and supplements (VMS) - particularly Vitamin D - remain central to this trend.
Purchasing Patterns
In 2022, nearly half of Irish consumers (48%) reported taking food supplements, with Vitamin D being the most used9
Over-the-counter (OTC) purchasing patterns are influenced by a variety of factors, including consumer health needs, seasonal trends, and marketing strategies. Shoppers often turn to OTC products for common ailments such as colds, allergies, pain relief, and digestive issues, with demand typically spiking during flu season or allergy peaks.
“Together, these developments have contributed to increased demand for pharmacy-based habit treatment solutions, including Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs), as consumers seek accessible, pharmacist-supported alternatives to manage nicotine dependence. Pharmacies remain a trusted and convenient point of care, particularly for underserved communities, and are well-positioned to support Ireland’s goal of reducing smoking-related health inequalities.
Over-the-counter (OTC) purchasing patterns are influenced by a variety of factors, including consumer health needs, seasonal trends, and marketing strategies. Shoppers often turn to OTC products for common ailments such as colds, allergies, pain relief, and digestive issues, with demand typically spiking during flu season or allergy peaks.
We asked Gwynne if the sector was witnessing any changes in this field.
We asked Gwynne if the sector was witnessing any changes in this field.
“A clear shift toward preventative health continues to shape consumer behaviour in Ireland and across Europe.
“This surge in supplement use reflects a broader movement toward proactive wellness, where consumers are seeking to maintain health rather than simply treat illness. Across Europe, similar patterns are emerging, with VMS and digestive health categories (see Figure 3) consistently outperforming overall sector growth, highlighting their growing importance in the consumer health landscape.”
“Purchasing patterns are evolving and the global consumer health landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, led by Millennials and Generation Z, who are driving a shift toward holistic wellness,” she told us.
“Purchasing patterns are evolving and the global consumer health landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, led by Millennials and Generation Z, who are driving a shift toward holistic wellness,” she told us.
“Millennials, often dubbed the “wellness generation,” prioritise healthy eating, regular exercise, and
Figure 3
Figure 3:
“Millennials, often dubbed the “wellness generation,” prioritise healthy eating, regular exercise, and reduced smoking, while Gen Z - digital natives - are socially conscious and value authenticity in online content10. This generational influence aligns with a broader evolution from a reactive, medical model of care to a proactive, preventative wellness paradigm that emphasises individual responsibility and daily integration of health practices. Globally, the wellness economy is booming, projected to reach $6.3 trillion, with major contributions from personal care, nutrition, physical activity, and preventative health11. As traditional boundaries between food and medicine blur, innovative hybrid products are emerging, reflecting consumers’ growing demand for solutions that support both immediate health needs and long-term wellbeing.
“Older adults are a key driver of demand in the OTC sector, particularly for
products that support healthy ageing. This includes consistent interest in pain relief, digestive aids, and nutritional supplements designed to maintain mobility, bone health, and overall vitality. At the same time, parents are increasingly purchasing supplements for their children, with Vitamin D emerging as the most used, reflecting heightened awareness of its role in immune support and bone development.”
Consumer demand for sustainable and environmentally responsible OTC products continues to grow, particularly among younger demographics such as Millennials and Gen Z, she adds.
“These consumers are increasingly prioritising brands that align with their ethical and environmental values, making sustainability a key competitive differentiator in the OTC space.
“In response, the industry is embracing a range of innovative strategies:
• Refillable and low-waste packaging: Companies like Cabinet Health are leading the way with refillable medicine systems designed to eliminate single-use plastic. These solutions not only reduce environmental impact but also appeal to eco-conscious shoppers seeking practical, sustainable alternatives.
• B Corp-certified brands: Brands such as Seed Health are setting new standards in sustainability by embedding environmental and social responsibility into their business models. These certifications signal transparency and accountability, which resonate strongly with today’s informed consumers.
• Digital-first, direct-to-consumer models: Many emerging OTC brands are adopting digital-first approaches that minimise packaging waste and carbon emissions through streamlined
logistics and subscription-based delivery systems. These models also enable greater personalisation and consumer engagement.
• Sustainable sourcing and formulation: There is a growing emphasis on ethically sourced ingredients, biodegradable materials, and clean-label formulations. This shift reflects a broader movement toward holistic wellness that considers both personal and planetary health.
“As sustainability becomes a core expectation rather than a niche preference, OTC manufacturers and retailers are increasingly integrating environmental considerations into product development, marketing, and supply chain operations. This evolution not only supports global climate goals but also strengthens brand loyalty and long-term sector relevance.”
Regulatory Changes
In mid 2024 and into 2025, Ireland enacted several regulatory changes impacting the OTC market. Most notably, the Department of Health published the final report of the Expert Taskforce recommending an expansion of pharmacists’ scope to include limited independent prescribing for common conditions (e.g. allergic rhinitis, cold sores, uncomplicated urinary tract infections), with plans to launch a Common Conditions Service this year.
Gwynne notes, “Ireland’s OTC sector is being reshaped by a series of regulatory changes focused on safety, sustainability, and responsible self-medication. The Health Products Regulatory Authority’s (HPRA) ongoing review of codeinecontaining products - prompted by concerns over misuse - could lead to reclassification, significantly affecting the pain relief category. In parallel, the withdrawal of pholcodine-containing cough suppressants in June 2023following an EU-wide safety review linking the ingredient to an increased risk of anaphylactic reactions during anaesthesia - has already altered the cough and cold segment. This move
underscores the increasing emphasis on pharmacovigilance and patient safety.
“At the EU level, a proposed directive to reverse-switch all OTC antifungals and antivirals to prescription-only status has sparked industry-wide concern. If implemented, this measure could drastically reduce consumer access to widely used treatments such as fluconazole, clotrimazole, and acyclovir, placing additional pressure on healthcare systems and potentially delaying early treatment.
“In terms of product communication, labelling regulations have also evolved. The HPRA’s updated guidance now mandates the inclusion of recycling symbols on packaging and supports the transition to electronic product information (ePI). This aligns with broader EU digital health initiatives and reflects a growing commitment to sustainability and accessibility.
“Collectively, these regulatory shifts signal a tightening environment that prioritises safety, transparency, and environmental responsibility. While they may pose challenges for manufacturers and retailers, they also present opportunities for innovation in formulation, packaging, and patient education.”
Innovation and Engagement
Several recent innovations have significantly influenced consumer engagement and purchasing behaviour in the Irish OTC sector. Gwynne highlights the below:
• CIALIS FOR MEN: Marking a milestone in Irish healthcare, CIALIS FOR MEN became the first erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment available OTC in Ireland. Launched in late 2024 via a pharmacist-led consultation model, it offers men over 18 a discreet and accessible solution without the need for a GP visit. Its availability reflects a broader trend toward pharmacist-prescribed care and has generated strong consumer interest.
• FYBOCALM: This digestive health product from Reckitt features
TOP 100
proprietary Gutshield™ technology, which forms a protective film on the intestinal lining to soothe and strengthen the gut. Positioned at the intersection of innovation and wellness, FYBOCALM taps into growing consumer demand for gut health solutions that go beyond traditional antacids and laxatives.
• Personalised Supplements: Brands like Nourished are redefining the supplement space with 3D-printed, personalised gummy vitamins tailored to individual health goals. These products combine convenience, customisation, and clean-label appeal, resonating particularly with younger, tech-savvy consumers seeking proactive wellness solutions.
“Together, these innovations reflect a broader shift toward personalised, preventative, and pharmacist-supported healthcare, reinforcing the evolving role of OTC products in everyday wellbeing.
“The surge in innovation around weight management has not only reshaped consumer interest but also significantly impacted the private out-of-pocket (OOP) sector in Ireland. According to IQVIA data presented at the 2025 AESGP Annual Meeting, the global wellness economy - of which healthy eating, nutrition, and weight loss represent a $1.1 trillion segment - is increasingly influencing consumer health behaviours. In Ireland, this is reflected in the growing demand for prescription-based obesity treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are often accessed privately due to limited public reimbursement.
“This shift has contributed to a sharp decline in the OTC weight loss category, as consumers pivot toward clinically validated, prescription-led solutions. The OOP segment for these medications is expanding rapidly, driven by heightened awareness, social media influence, and a growing emphasis on long-term health outcomes. Pharmacies are playing a key role in this transition, offering consultation services, and supporting adherence through digital tools and lifestyle coaching.
From fever to blocked noses, Calpol has got you covered.
Calpol 120 mg/5 ml Sugar Free Infant Oral Suspension, Calpol Six Plus Sugar / Colour Free Oral Suspension. Composition: Calpol Infant Oral Suspension contains
contains Paracetamol 250 mg per 5 ml. Pharmaceutical Form: Oral Suspension, Indications: Calpol is indicated for the symptomatic relief of headache, migraine, neuralgia, toothache and teething pains, sore throat, influenza, feverishness and feverish colds. Dosage:
Calpol Infant: Calpol Six Plus Oral Suspension:
Children under 6 years: Calpol Six Plus Suspension is not suitable for administration to children under 6 years of age. Renal impairment: It is recommended, when giving paracetamol to patients with renal impairment, to reduce the dose and to increase the minimum interval between each administration to at least 6 hours unless directed otherwise by a physician. Patients should be advised to contact their healthcare professional before use. Recommended Dose for Adults with Renal Impairment:
Hepatic impairment: In patients with hepatic impairment or Gilbert’s Syndrome, the dose should be reduced or the dosing interval prolonged. Patients should be advised to contact their healthcare professional before use. The Elderly: Experience has indicated that normal adult dosage is usually appropriate. However, in frail, immobile, elderly subjects or in elderly patients with renal or hepatic impairment, a reduction in the amount or frequency of dosing may be appropriate. For certain patient groups, a reduced maximum daily dose should be considered: Patients who are underweight (for adults, those under 50kg), Chronic alcoholism, Dehydration, Chronic malnutrition. These patients should be advised to contact their healthcare professional before use. Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Special warnings and precautions for use: Paracetamol should be administered with caution under the following circumstances: Hepatic impairment, Chronic alcoholism, Renal impairment (GFR≤50ml/min), Gilbert’s Syndrome (familial non-haemolytic jaundice), Concomitant treatment with medicinal products affecting hepatic function, Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, Haemolytic anaemia, Glutathione deficiency, Dehydration, Chronic malnutrition, Patients who are underweight (for adults, those under 50 kg), Elderly. In general, medicinal products containing paracetamol should be taken for only a few days without the advice of a physician or dentist and not at high doses. If high fever or signs of secondary infection occur or if symptoms persist for longer than 3 days, a physician should be consulted. Prolonged or frequent use is discouraged. Patients should be advised not to take other paracetamol containing products concurrently. Taking multiple daily doses in one administration can severely damage the liver; in such cases medical assistance should be sought immediately. Serious skin reactions such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), Stevens - Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), have been reported very rarely in patients receiving paracetamol. Patients should be informed about the signs of serious skin reactions and use of the drug should be discontinued at the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. Cases of high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA) due to pyroglutamic acidosis have been reported in patients with severe illness such as severe renal impairment and sepsis, or in patients with malnutrition or other sources of glutathione deficiency (e.g. chronic alcoholism)who were treated with paracetamol at therapeutic dose for a prolonged period or a combination of paracetamol and flucloxacillin. If HAGMA due to pyroglutamic acidosis is suspected, prompt discontinuation of paracetamol and close monitoring is recommended. The measurement of urinary 5-oxoproline may be useful to identify pyroglutamic acidosis as underlying cause of HAGMA in patients with multiple risk factors. Calpol Infant Sugar Free: Carmoisine (E122) which may cause allergic reactions.-Methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218),Propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), Ethyl parahydroxybenzoate (E214) which may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed).This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per 5ml, that is to say essentially ‘sodium-free’. This medicine contains 14.32mg propylene glycol (E1520) in each 5ml dose, which is equivalent to 2.86mg/ml. This medicine contains 0.16mg benzyl alcohol in each tablet. High volumes should be used with caution and only if necessary, especially in subjects who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or subjects with liver or kidney impairment because of the risk of accumulation and toxicity (metabolic acidosis). This medicine contains 0.00071mg of alcohol (ethanol) in each 5ml which is equivalent to 0.000142 mg/ml. The amount in 5 ml is equivalent to less than 1ml beer or 1 ml wine. The small amount of alcohol in this medicine will not have any noticeable effects. Due to the sorbitol (E420) and maltitol (E965) content of this product, patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine. Sorbitol and maltitol may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and have a mild laxative effect. Calorific value 2.3kcal/g maltitol. Calpol Six Plus Sugar/Colour Free: Contains 2.04g Maltitol and 1.4g Sorbitol per 5ml.Sorbitol and maltitol may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and have a mild laxative effect. Patients with hereditary problems of fructose intolerance (HFI) should not take/be given this medicine. Calorific value 2.3kcal/g maltitol. Methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoates may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed). This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per 5ml, that is to say essentially ‘sodium-free’. This medicine contains 20.92mg propylene glycol (E1520) in each 5ml dose, which is equivalent to 4.18mg/ml. This medicine contains 0.05mg benzyl alcohol in each tablet. High volumes should be used with caution and only if necessary, especially in subjects who are
or
CALPOL® Vapour Plug & Nightlight is an electrical device and non-medicine. CALPOL® Saline Nasal Spray is a medical device for congestion relief. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL.
“As the regulatory and reimbursement landscape evolves, the intersection of prescription innovation and consumer self-care is expected to further blur, creating new opportunities, and challenges, for both OTC and Rx stakeholders.”
So what is Gwynne’s outlook for the Irish OTC sector for the remainder of 2025 and into early 2026?
“The Irish OTC sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% through 2029, with particularly strong gains expected in digestive health (+10.5%), cough, cold and respiratory products (+7.7%), and pain relief (+7.4%)12. This growth will be driven by an ageing population, increasing adoption of digital health solutions, and sustained consumer interest in self-care and wellness,” she reflects.
“Consumer behaviour in Ireland continues to shift toward greater autonomy, convenience, and value in healthcare decision-making. The growing comfort with self-medication reflects both rising healthcare costs and increased trust in pharmacy-led care3 Digital engagement is also accelerating. E-pharmacies and online consultations are gaining traction, particularly among younger, tech-savvy consumers who value convenience and accessibility. This trend is reinforced by the future expansion of pharmacist roles, including prescribing for common conditions and extending prescription validity, as outlined in the Department of Health’s 2024 Expert Taskforce report.
“At the same time, value-consciousness is a defining trait of today’s consumer. Patients are actively seeking healthcare solutions that are affordable, effective, and sustainable - whether through generic alternatives, eco-friendly packaging, or bundled wellness services.
“In response, pharmacies are evolving rapidly. Many now offer personalised advice, digital tools, and expanded clinical services to meet rising
expectations and retain customer loyalty. This transformation positions pharmacies as central hubs in Ireland’s broader shift toward preventative, accessible, and patient-centred care.”
Comprehensive insights into the Irish OTC sector can be accessed through IQVIA Consumer Health’s OTC Review 2025: Ireland. Contact them today for more information at askiqvia@iqvia.com
References:
1. IQVIA OTC Ireland Monthly Database, MAT April 2025
2. IQVIA OTC Ireland Monthly Database, Previous Period Growth April 2025
IQVIA (NYSE:IQV) is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and healthcare intelligence to the life sciences and healthcare industries. IQVIA’s portfolio of solutions are powered by IQVIA Connected Intelligence™ to deliver actionable insights and services built on high-quality health data, Healthcaregrade AI®, advanced analytics, the latest technologies and extensive domain expertise. IQVIA is committed to using AI responsibly, with AI-powered capabilities built on bestin-class approaches to privacy, regulatory compliance and patient safety, and delivering AI to the high standards of trust, scalability and precision demanded by the industry. With approximately 88,000 employees in over 100 countries, including experts in healthcare, life sciences, data science, technology and operational excellence, IQVIA is dedicated to accelerating the development and commercialisation of innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide.
IQVIA is a global leader in protecting individual patient privacy. The company uses a wide variety of privacy-enhancing technologies and safeguards to protect individual privacy while generating and analyzing information on a scale that helps healthcare stakeholders identify disease patterns and correlate with the precise treatment path and therapy needed for better outcomes. IQVIA’s insights and execution capabilities help biotech, medical device and pharmaceutical companies, medical researchers, government agencies, payers and other healthcare stakeholders tap into a deeper understanding of diseases, human behaviors and scientific advances, in an effort to advance their path toward cures. To learn more, visit www.iqvia.com.
Present in Ireland since 1990, IQVIA pioneered the country as a hub for clinical research. In addition to supporting life sciences in their clinical efforts across Europe and the globe, IQVIA’s activity in Ireland includes supporting the life sciences industry from research and development through to commercialization, as well as healthcare providers, to improving treatment outcomes and patient pathways.
Irish Pharmacy News has been working with data analyst company, IQVIA, for the last ten years to comprise this annual report which highlights the Top 100 Over-the-Counter pharmacy brands in Ireland.
The information contained over the following pages is widely accepted as the industry standard from which brand performance is measured across the OTC sector.
The 2025 Top 100 Over the Counter (OTC) Market Report is compiled using IQVIA’s audited OTC data, based on the total value of wholesale sales for OTC products into retail pharmacy over the course of the previous 12 months to April 2025 (May 2024 - April 2025). It’s a rolling annual value which includes the five major OTC categories including pain relief, cough, cold and respiratory products, vitamins and minerals, digestive health, and habit treatment.
There have been no changes in data collection or methodology since last year’s article.
We spoke to General Manager of IQVIA, Gwynne Morley, to gain further insights into how these statistics are compiled and on the value of this market to pharmacy.
Giving a current perspective on the overall value of the OTC sector to community pharmacy in Ireland, especially in light of any recent economic or policy developments, Gwynne told us, “The OTC sector in Ireland, valued at ¤566 million from May 2024 to April 2025, experienced a 4% growth in value and a 0.6% increase in volume. The five major OTC categories - Pain Relief, Cough, Cold & Respiratory (CCR), Vitamins & Minerals, Digestive Health, and Habit Treatment - account for ¤451 million1 of the total value.”
The consumer health sector is demonstrating continued
resilience, according to Gwynne. She says, “Despite economic fluctuations, the global consumer health sector - encompassing OTC medications, Personal Care, Nutrition, and Patient Care - has demonstrated resilience, particularly in categories like digestive remedies.
PARALIEF DRIVING CASH SALES AND PROFIT IN YOUR PHARMACY
“Economic indicators suggest a period of cautious optimism. Global GDP growth is expected to stabilize from 2025 onwards, following a phase of moderated expansion. Inflation, which peaked in 2023, is on a downward trend, providing a more predictable environment for consumer spending. This economic backdrop is crucial as it influences consumer confidence and spending patterns, directly impacting the consumer health sector.
PARALIEF DRIVING CASH SALES AND PROFIT IN YOUR PHARMACY
“Two OTC categories that featured prominently in our discussion last year were weight loss and habit treatment. The weight loss OTC segment has experienced another sharp decline, with volume and value dropping by 30.9% and 53.1% respectively. This downturn is largely attributed to recent advancements in prescription weight loss medications, which we will explore further in Question 7 of this article.
“In contrast to the decline seen in other OTC categories, the habit treatment segment has demonstrated strong performance, with volume increasing by 4.3% and value by 8.3%. This growth reflects a renewed public health focus on smoking cessation and nicotine dependency, particularly considering Ireland’s evolving tobacco and vaping landscape.”
*Disclaimer: Please note that the seven year comparison listed opposite details a range from Jan-April for the years 2020-25 and from Jan-May for 2024. These, along with other comparisons with previous years, may include brands and categories whose classification may have changed over that period. The IPN/IQVIA Top 100 OTC products and the method of its collation evolves with the pharmacy.
PARACETAMOL
SixPlus
LACTULOSE FRS
IQVIA Top 100 Pharmacy Products
CHESTY N/D
Has women’s health in Ireland improved? Category Report: Women's Health
Though women’s health has received much-needed funding, more investment is needed and pharmacists can play a crucial role, writes The People’s Pharmacist of the year, Chanel Geoghegan
Significant advancements have been made in women’s health in Ireland. Recently, the government launched the Women’s Health Action Plan 2024-2025 Phase 2: An Evolution in Women’s Health. This Action Plan aims to build on the development of women’s health services over the last two years as well as the delivery of new services. It is supported by investment of more than ¤11 million, bringing total additional funding for women’s health to over ¤140 million since 2020.
The investment is much needed in this underfunded, marginalised sector of the healthcare system. Menopause, endometriosis and osteoporosis are key areas of focus for the taskforce, with some of the schemes being more successful than others. Pharmacists are the most trusted healthcare professionals and will be vital in any rollout and implementation of the taskforce’s recommendations.
The government funding will be used to expand and develop priority initiatives as identified by the Women’s Health Taskforce.
Key areas that affect community pharmacies include:
• Free contraception to women aged between 17 to 35 years, empowering all young women to have access to various options of contraception regardless of their income.
• Endometriosis: Development of two supra- regional complex endometriosis services, which are essential as it is estimated that 155,000 women are affected by endometriosis in Ireland; however, on average, it takes nine years to receive a diagnosis
• Menopause: The government are increasing capacity of Specialist Menopause Clinics, and the roll-out of additional “See-and-Treat” Gynaecology Clinics. While most pharmacists welcome the reduced cost of HRT treatment for women, the
administrative burden of trying to source many of the current products on the market can be overwhelming. A priority should be to ensure a stable supply for the women of Ireland.
The task force also recommended initiatives targeted at women at midlife or older, to improve bone health and cardiovascular health. Loss of bone density in women, especially after the menopause, can lead to conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis. This increases the risk of fractures and other complications. Health Service Executive figures show that almost 4,000 people were hospitalised for osteoporosisrelated hip fractures in Ireland in 2019, of which 69% were women.
As pharmacists, we are one of the most trusted healthcare providers, so we are ideally placed to recommend proactive measures such as regular screenings, and lifestyle adjustments that can help strengthen the bones and reduce the risk of debilitating injuries. The use of bone boosting supplements can be encouraged, 1000iu of vit D daily helps to absorb the calcium in your diet and store it in your bones, it also helps to support muscles that surround bones to prevent falls. 1200mg of calcium daily is recommended for women over the age of 50. Weightbearing exercises like walking or resistance training are vital for protecting against osteoporosis and safeguarding bone density. These exercises enhance balance, posture, and agility, thereby decreasing the chances of falls and related injuries. Weight management counselling especially when there is unintentional weight loss is crucial. Weakened muscles heighten the risk of falls and with compromised bone strength, fractures become more likely. Cigarette smoking can weaken bone density and heighten osteoporosis risks. Patients should be encouraged to use nicotine replacement therapy to reduce or stop smoking.
Written by Chanel Geoghegan, Superintendent Pharmacist, Hickeys Pharmacy, Clones, Co. Monaghan
Community pharmacists are the most frequently accessed and most accessible primary healthcare providers with over 78,000,000 visitors per year. Our advice and recommendations can therefore play a vital role in the healthcare of women.
Over the last 10 years in community pharmacy, women have become far more knowledgeable about the various products available on the market. They are seeking nutrition tailored to their specific dietary needs, including gender specific formulations, and are increasingly turning to supplements for targeted benefits like mood support, energy and skin health. Probiotic sales are increasing each year as the importance of gut health is recognised. Women are purchasing specific probiotics for vaginal health, hoping to reduce instances of thrush and recurrent UTI’s. Older women are prioritizing joint health and natural remedies for sleepless nights and leg cramps. Younger women are more focused on their mental health and are far more aware of how their hormones can affect their mood. They will have already done their research before approaching the pharmacy counter for advice. Women overall are becoming more informed and proactive in managing their
health, seeking out information and solutions that empower them to make informed decisions.
While the new investment in women’s health in Ireland is welcome, many conditions remain poorly understood and lack tailored prevention, diagnosis and management strategies. Endometriosis effects an estimated 155,000 of women in Ireland, heart disease and stroke account for a quarter of all female deaths in Ireland. Menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. Early intervention from healthcare professionals can greatly improve the quality of a patient’s life. Pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare provider, with increased government support and investment, we can expand our services to include more health screenings and to play an important role in chronic disease management. Our expertise and knowledge are highly valued by the public ensuring we will play a significant role in the promotion of women’s health in the future.
Digestive Health in Pharmacy: From Symptom Relief to Whole-Body Wellness Category Report: Digestive Health
Digestive health is no longer just about treating discomfort—it's about supporting overall wellness. Irish pharmacies are uniquely positioned to lead this transformation, offering trusted advice, curated product ranges, and a personalised approach to gut health. With the right strategies, the category is poised for continued growth and innovation.
Once considered a niche area, digestive health is now a cornerstone of over-the-counter (OTC) healthcare, reflecting broader global trends in wellness, gut health, and preventative care. The digestive system is a complex network that processes food from the moment it enters the mouth until it is absorbed or eliminated. It begins with mechanical and chemical breakdown in the mouth, continues through the stomach and small intestine where nutrients are absorbed, and ends with the elimination of waste. This intricate system is essential to our overall health—and when it’s not functioning well, we feel it.
A Category Built on Trust and Stability
The Digestive Health category remains a core part of the OTC offering in pharmacy. While there have been few new product launches in recent years, the category is well-supported by advertising, with major campaigns running throughout the year. Established brands such as Nexium, Dulcolax, Senokot, Imodium, Gaviscon, and Arret continue to dominate, with no supply issues reported in 2025.
Nexium remains the category leader in heartburn relief, with strong brand loyalty despite the availability of generics. Gaviscon continues to perform well with its unique liquid format, and Rennie has recently introduced
Written by Emily Kelly, Community Pharmacist, McCauley Pharmacy
a new chewing gum formulation for indigestion. Motilium, a pharmacist-only medicine, is also seeing growth, highlighting the importance of pharmacist advice in the responsible sale of restricted products.
New Entrants and Natural Solutions
The most recent addition to the category is the Fybocalm range—a natural line of products targeting wind, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. This reflects a growing consumer interest in natural remedies, especially among those seeking gentler, holistic approaches to digestive wellness.
Growth Driven by Lifestyle and Demographics
Despite limited innovation, the category is experiencing strong month-on-month growth. Several factors are contributing:
Busy lifestyles and low unemployment have led to increased consumption of takeaways and convenience foods.
An ageing population is more susceptible to digestive issues.
Seasonal tummy bugs and general illnesses continue to drive demand.
Increased physical activity has led to a surge in demand for rehydration products, particularly among runners and gym-goers. Brands like Aya have responded by expanding their flavour ranges to meet this demand.
The Rise of the Informed Consumer
Pharmacists are seeing a shift in patient behaviour. While many still seek symptom relief, there is a growing number of well-educated,
proactive consumers who are deeply interested in gut health, the microbiome, and preventative care. These patients are asking about probiotics, prebiotics, and lifestyle changes to support long-term digestive wellness.
Gut Health and the Microbiome: A New Frontier
The gut microbiome—a community of trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi—plays a vital role in digestion, immunity, and even mental health. Up to 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, and the gut-brain axis is now recognised as a key player in emotional and cognitive health.
An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to symptoms such as:
• Bloating
• Wind
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Emerging research also links gut imbalances to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
• Pharmacists can empower patients with practical, evidence-based advice to maintain a healthy gut:
• Eat a balanced, fibre-rich diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
• Manage stress through mindfulness, yoga, or breathing exercises
• Get adequate sleep (7–9 hours per night)
• Exercise regularly
• Limit processed foods and sugar
• Use antibiotics responsibly and consider probiotics during or after treatment
Probiotics vs Prebiotics: What’s the Difference?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits. They help restore the balance of good bacteria, support the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that feed beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping them thrive.
Together, they form a powerful duo for maintaining gut health.
The Pharmacist’s Role: Trusted Advisor and Educator Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to:
• Guide patients in selecting appropriate OTC products
• Provide lifestyle and dietary advice
• Counsel on the safe use of restricted medicines
• Educate on the benefits of probiotics and gut health
• Empower patients to selfmanage chronic conditions like IBS
• IBS patients, in particular, are often highly informed and benefit from pharmacist support in balancing medication with lifestyle strategies.
• Digestive health is no longer just about treating symptoms— it’s about supporting overall wellness. As the category continues to grow, pharmacists are at the forefront, offering trusted advice, guiding product selection, and helping patients navigate the evolving landscape of gut health. Whether it’s recommending a tried-andtrue remedy or introducing a natural alternative like Fybocalm, pharmacists play a vital role in helping patients feel their best from the inside out.
RECOMMEND WITH CONFIDENCE: ALFLOREX® CHILDREN
Just like adults, kids depend on good bacteria for optimal digestive health and overall well-being.
This tasty vanilla flavoured powder dissolves easily in milk, yoghurt, or smoothies, delivering live bacteria to the gut in peak condition. A delicious and simple way to support children’s health every day!
61% of Irish parents with poor gut health stated their children experience similar gut health issues*
Scientifically studied bacterial strain 35624TM
Subtle vanilla flavoured powder – easily added to milk, yoghurt and smoothies
Proven
gut
The Importance of Good Gut Health in Children Category Report: Children's Digestive Health
The bacteria in a child’s gut plays an important role in keeping them healthy, both mentally and physically.
Gut health has become a hot topic in recent years and the discussion is usually about gut microbiome which are the trillions of bacteria that live inside our gut. These bacteria play a key role in keeping children mentally and physically healthy and also reduce the risk of illness and disease.
Symptoms of a poorly functioning gut include uncomfortable digestion, stomach aches, poor nutrient absorption, poor immunity and sleep, mood fluctuations and general fatigue. All can have a detrimental impact on children.
The gut microbiome is established in the early years of life. It’s particularly important to support a child’s gut microbiome to thrive while they’re growing. In fact, it is believed that before the age of four or five children’s microbiome remains flexible. This is a great time to build a strong and healthy gut health in children. Beyond this age the microbiome is harder to change
as it becomes well established. Everyone’s microbiome is unique and, interestingly, diet can be responsible for up to 75% of this variation!
Elimination of Waste
The gut removes waste from the body. This is important to help support liver function. So, to keep a child’s bowel movements regular (and prevent uncomfortable constipation), encourage a diet with plenty of fibre. For instance, include wholegrains, veggies and fruit in their diet. This will keep the bowels regular and also feed the healthy gut bacteria. Water is also important to help keep bowel movements soft and regular.
The Immune System
The gut is home to 70% of the body’s immune system. It is also the main entry point for bugs to get into the body. Therefore, if a child’s gut is not a strong barrier they will be more likely to pick
up nasty bugs. This can lead to illness. Research suggests that a poor balance of bacteria in the gut during early childhood can increase risk of gut-related allergies like asthma and eczema. Advise parents that they can help build their child’s immunity by fuelling the good bacteria in their gut. This will, in turn, keep children feeling energetic and healthy.
The Gut-Brain Axis
The Gut-Brain Axis is the physical and chemical connection between the gut and brain. To clarify, it is a network of millions of nerves sending messages both ways. Chemicals called neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA (which controls feelings of fear and anxiety), are sent to and from the brain. Many of these are produced in the gut. A thriving, healthy gut microbiome contributes to production of chemicals and signalling messages for good mental and physical health in children.
The Role of Probiotics
Probiotics are the “healthy” bacteria that make up the gut microbiome. Probiotics work to maintain health and immunity. They also fight inflammation and disease. Parents can boost the good bacteria in a child’s gut by feeding them probiotic rich foods. Good bacteria can help to form a strong, healthy microbiome. A probiotic supplement is also an option.
Researchers are still learning about all the benefits of probiotics and how they work. Probiotics may help with digestion, preventing infectious diseases and even playing a role in maintaining a healthy weight.
Some studies say probiotics help children with digestive issues such as:
• Constipation
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Infectious diarrhea
Though it is unclear if probiotics benefit children, it's clear they typically won't cause harm in healthy children. However,
pharmacy teams should recommend parents wait until a child is over 1 year of age before giving probiotics.
Children who are seriously ill or who have a compromised immune system should consult their GP before taking probiotics. Some studies suggest that children with a central line or port should also avoid probiotics. In children with these medical devices, there have been reported cases of sepsis.
Fibre
A child’s diet should contain fibre as an essential component. It is required to achieve good gut health in children and different fibres help the gut in their own unique ways.
While we often think of fibre as a singular nutrient there are actually many different types, for example:
• Insoluble fibre: Wholegrain breads and cereals and the skin of fruit and vegetables help to soften bowel content, promoting regular (and comfortable) bowel movements.
• Resistant starch: This is a type of fibre which is not digested as normal by the body. Resistant starch is found in wholegrain cereals, legumes and starchy vegetables like potato. It travels to the large intestine where it feeds good bacteria in the gut. These good bacteria produce what you need for a healthy digestive system and protection against disease.
• Prebiotics: These are another type of fibre which also feed the friendly bacteria in the gut. This provides another nourishing food source to the healthy bacteria in your gut. The great news is prebiotics are found in foods that are very child-friendly and delicious. Think bananas, apples and oats plus foods that are easy to sneak into meals like barley, onion or flaxseed.
• Soluble fibre: These help to slow the emptying process in the stomach, which can help children to feel fuller for longer. Soluble fibre is found in fruits, vegetables, oats, barley and legumes.
Eye Care Supplements: Supporting Pharmacists in AMD, Dry Eye Care, and General Eye Health Category Report: Eye Health
Introduction
As the global population ages, the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), dry eye disease, and other ocular health issues continues to increase. In Ireland, the demand for effective eye care solutions is rising, and pharmacists are at the forefront of providing guidance and recommending products that help patients manage these conditions. Supplementation plays a crucial role in both the prevention and management of various eye health conditions, from AMD to dry eye syndrome. This article aims to explore the most current and effective eye care supplements and treatments, providing pharmacists with valuable tools to support patient care.
Supplements for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in individuals aged 50 and older. It involves the deterioration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. AMD is classified into dry (nonneovascular) and wet (neovascular) forms, with the dry form being more prevalent.
Written by Christopher McGarrity, Supervising Pharamcist in McCabes Pharmacy Letterkenny
Key Active Ingredients for AMD:
1. Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in high concentrations in the retina, particularly in the macula. These antioxidants help protect the eye from oxidative damage caused by light and environmental stress. They also play a role in filtering harmful blue light and maintaining the integrity of retinal cells.
MacuSave: Contains meso-zeaxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin, providing a powerful combination of carotenoids to support macular health.
2. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and protect the eyes from oxidative damage. It also supports the health of blood vessels in the eye, reducing the risk of retinal damage, which is particularly important in AMD.
essential nutrients to support overall eye health.
When recommending supplements for AMD, it is crucial to consider the patient's individual needs and the severity of the disease. Early-stage AMD patients can benefit from daily supplementation with lutein, zeaxanthin, and other antioxidant-rich nutrients like vitamin C. For more advanced stages, the combination of these ingredients along with omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and copper can offer additional protection and help slow disease progression.
It is also important to educate patients on the role of diet in managing AMD. Recommend a balanced diet rich in leafy green vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants to complement their supplementation regimen.
Managing Dry Eye Disease
Recent studies have provided new insights into the role of supplements in managing AMD:
• AREDS2 Supplements in Late-Stage Dry AMD: A study led by the National Eye Institute found that daily supplementation with the AREDS2 formula— containing vitamins C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and copper—can slow the progression of geographic atrophy (GA), an advanced form of dry AMD. This finding extends the benefits of AREDS2 supplements to patients with late-stage dry AMD, suggesting they may help preserve central vision in these individuals. (macularsociety.org)
• Efficacy of Multi-Ingredient Supplements: Clinical evaluations of supplements containing lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin, and vitamin D3 have demonstrated significant improvements in dry eye symptoms, including increased tear volume and reduced ocular surface inflammation. These supplements offer a promising adjunct to traditional treatments, particularly for contact lens users.
Nutrof Total: Offers a complete formula of 11 nutrients including vitamins D, E and C that contribute to the protection of cell constituents from oxidative damage.
3. Zinc and Copper
Zinc plays a key role in maintaining retinal function and supports the immune system. Copper, in combination with zinc, helps in the formation of red blood cells and the absorption of iron, contributing to the health of ocular tissues. Zinc is an essential component of the AREDS2 formulation and is crucial for AMD management.
Ocuvite Complete: Offers a comprehensive combination of vitamin C, zinc, copper, and other ingredients to protect the macula.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA)
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the risk of dry eye symptoms and support the retinal cells in AMD patients. They are also essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s vascular system.
Ocuvite Complete: Combines omega-3 fatty acids with other
Dry eye disease (DED) is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort, affecting daily activities such as reading, driving, and using electronic devices. It is caused by a lack of sufficient tear production or poor-quality tears, leading to inflammation of the ocular surface. Environmental factors, such as prolonged screen time and air conditioning, contribute to the condition, especially in older adults. The mainstay of dry eye management includes the use of lubricating eye drops, antiinflammatory medications, and oral supplements. Pharmacists play a key role in recommending the right treatment based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms.
1. Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)
Sodium hyaluronate is a natural moisture-retaining substance that is used in eye drops to help hydrate the eye and reduce the friction on the ocular surface. It works by forming a protective film over the eye, which helps to lock in moisture and promote healing of the eye’s surface.
HYLO-Forte®: Contains a higher concentration of sodium hyaluronate (2 mg/mL), ideal for patients with severe or chronic dry eye symptoms. It provides intensive hydration and relief.
NOT ALL DRY EYE DROPS HAVE CLINICALLY PROVEN EFFICACY
Preser vative -free
THEALOZ DUO DOES!
Phosphate -free
Hypotonic Osmoprotec tive
Thealoz® Duo relieves the signs and symptoms of Dry Eye Disease1
See the difference: 1 drop of Thealoz® Duo lasts for up to 4 hours1
The increase in TFT with Thealoz® Duo was significantly longer than with HA (p<0,01). With Thealoz® Duo the effect remained statistically significant over 240 min.
reatment of mild non-infectious allergic or inflammator y conjunctival diseases. Posology: The recommended dosage of 14 days. Gradual tapering off up to one administration ever y other day may be recommended in order to avoid substance or to any of the excipients; Known glucocorticosteroid-induced ocular hypertension and other forms of ocular (except when combined with specific chemiotherapeutic agents for herpes virus), conjunctivitis with ulcerative keratitis conjunctivitis and purulent blepharitis, stye and herpes infection that may be masked or aggravated by
y glucocorticoids are excreted in breast milk and may cause suppression of growth or of endogenous corticosteroid
Category Report: Eye Health
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA)
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These essential fatty acids help support tear production and reduce inflammation in the eyes. Omega-3s are often recommended for patients with dry eye disease to improve tear quality and decrease ocular inflammation.
Omega-3 Supplements: Provides a high concentration of EPA and DHA to support overall eye health and reduce dry eye symptoms.
3. Trehalose
Trehalose is a natural sugar that has been shown to protect and stabilize the cells of the ocular surface, especially under stressful conditions like dryness. It also has antioxidant properties, helping to protect the eye from oxidative damage caused by environmental factors.
Thealoz Duo Eye Drops:
Combines trehalose with sodium hyaluronate to offer both protective, hydrating effects and long lasting relief for all dry eye sufferers including contact lens wearers.
For patients with dry eye disease, a combination of lubricating eye drops containing sodium hyaluronate, like Thealoz Duo, and oral omega-3 supplements like Omega-3 often provides the best results. Encourage patients to avoid environmental triggers such as excessive screen time and recommend regular use of preservative-free for consistent relief. For chronic cases, consider recommending anti-inflammatory treatments like cyclosporine A or corticosteroids, in consultation with the prescribing physician.
General Eye Health Vitamins: Supporting Ocular Wellness
In addition to specific treatments for conditions like AMD and dry eye, general eye health supplements can help maintain good vision and prevent age-related decline. Nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in protecting the eyes from oxidative stress, supporting retinal health, and improving tear production.
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, especially in low-light conditions. It supports
the retina’s ability to convert light into nerve signals that are sent to the brain. Vitamin A is also involved in maintaining the health of the cornea and overall eye surface.
Vitabiotics Visionace Plus Omega-3: This supplement includes vitamin A as part of a comprehensive formulation to support overall eye health.
2. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that protects the eyes from oxidative damage. It is particularly helpful in reducing the risk of cataracts and age-related degeneration by protecting the cells of the eye from harmful free radicals.
Vitabiotics Visionace Plus Omega-3: This supplement combines vitamin E with omega-3 fatty acids and lutein to protect the eyes from oxidative damage.
For patients looking to maintain general eye health, a combination of antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E) and omega-3 fatty acids is often recommended. These nutrients help protect against oxidative damage, support retinal health, and maintain tear production. Be sure to recommend products that provide a balanced formulation to
ensure comprehensive support for eye health. Products like Visionace Plus Omega-3 and Sona Omergan Omega 3-6-9 are excellent choices for overall wellness.
Additionally, encourage patients to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, as this can further support eye health and prevent future issues.
Conclusion
As the role of pharmacists in managing eye health becomes increasingly important, recommending the right eye care supplements and treatments can significantly improve patient outcomes. By offering evidencebased recommendations for AMD, dry eye disease, and general eye health, pharmacists can empower patients to take control of their eye health.
Products like Macusave, Thealoz Duo, and Vitabiotics Visionace Plus Omega-3 provide targeted solutions for different aspects of eye health. By staying informed about these products and their benefits, pharmacists can enhance their patient care and play a key role in preserving vision for a lifetime.
Yeast free Lactose free
No artificial preservatives No artificial sweeteners
Contains all 3 macular cartenoids which are essential for macular health:
10mg Lutein
10mg Meso-Zeaxanthin
2mg Zeaxanthin
Vitamin B2 & Vitamin E
Gold+ also contains: Vitamin C, Copper & Zinc
*Contains Vitamin B2, which helps to maintain normal vision.
Contains FloraGLO Lutein, the most clinically sourced Lutein worldwide**
Category Report: Oral Care
Spit Happens: A Pharmacist’s Guide to Keeping your Mouth Healthy
“How often do you floss?” We have all been there, sitting in the dentist’s chair waiting for our verdict, desperately hoping all those free sweets gifted to the dispensary haven't wreaked havoc on our oral health. However this article is not about that, this article serves to guide you through the rogue and mundane queries we get on a daily basis when patients enter the pharmacy. ‘Should I brush before or after mouthwash?’, ‘Which of these 20 products will whiten my teeth the best?’, ‘Do I really need a bamboo toothbrush?’ - I could go on but this article is not designed to remind you of the everyday queries, nor educate on pathophysiology of oral conditions but rather share novel knowledge on topics we so willingly wish we had learnt at college.
Mouth Ulcers
- Toothpaste, toothpaste, toothpaste. I’m sure many pharmacists will have heard of SLS
(Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) in the context of its pharmaceutical properties such as solubilisation or emulsification. But what many are not aware of is that SLS is widely used in toothpastes as a surfactant. This strong detergent is known to cause mouth ulcers by stripping back the mucin layer which protects the oral mucosa, in turn leading to pain and inflammation. So, what's the solution? Avoidance. Sensodyne has a great range of SLS-free toothpastes which I always recommend to patient’s suffering recurrent mouth ulcers. A word of warning - always check the ingredients as some Sensodyne products are formulated with SLS.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash, slightly more specific for its antibacterial properties and often the preferred choice compared to hexetidine. Corsodyl is the brand we all know but many companies have non-branded alternatives. Due to its antibacterial properties,
Written by Lucas Armstrong, Pharmacist, McCabes Pharmacy Group
it is a great choice for mouth ulcers and many have even found it to have a transient numbing effect helping to alleviate the pain. Chlorhexidine is not however a perfect candidate as patients must avoid tea or coffee for (at least!) 30 minutes as it will likely cause staining.
- Local anaesthetics are contained in products such as Anbesol Solution or Strepsils Intensive Lozenges to provide fast acting relief from pain associated with the ulcer. Whilst not typically licensed for mouth ulcers, throat sprays such as Medispray (also contains chlorhexidine) or Strepsils Plus Throat Spray have been recommended by doctors. However, pharmacists must warn against overuse to avoid potential rare antiarrhythmic side effects.
- Topical gels such as bonjela can help for minor pain due to it’s antiinflammatory effects whilst others on the market (Aloclair) will occlude the damaged tissue hence preventing irritation.
- On prescription this topic becomes ever more novel, unique and particularly off licence. Firstly we have the corticosteroids with the treatment goal of reducing inflammation and shortening healing times. The most common will be soluble prednisolone to be used as a mouthwash which has demonstrated positive effects but often leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. Hydrocortisone buccal tablets (Oralsone ULM) are also a possibility as they are placed in direct contact with the ulcer(s) allowing a more localised effect than a steroid mouthwash. One disadvantage is that the patient may feel pain at the beginning or when talking as the tablet moves. Triamcinolone (Kenalog) in Orabase is a great choice to ensure the ulcer received targeted
steroid delivery while the ulcer is also protected by the orabase. An unexpected entry to the list… beclometasone inhalers. Yes, you did read about inhalers in a mouth ulcer article. The off label use consists of spraying 50–100 mcg of beclomethasone via an MDI directly onto the ulcer. With all this use of steroids in the mouth we must consider one main risk, oral thrush. With any of these treatments I will always counsel the patient to be on the lookout for symptoms.
Mouth Washes
Before or after brushing? The age old question to something so mundane. Use before and risk the mouthwash not cleaning where physical debris remains. Use after and wash away the concentrated fluoride left by the toothpaste. So…is there actually an answer, and do we even need a daily mouthwash? The correct order is first floss, then mouthwash, then brush and do not rinse. If you prefer to use mouthwash after brushing you - can - do this but only 30 minutes after brushing to let the fluoride absorb. If you speak to your dentist and you have excellent oral hygiene it's quite likely they will tell you that you might not actually need to use mouthwash.
Mouthwashes are great for controlling bad breath however excessive use of products with high alcohol contents can dry out the mouth resulting in even worse halitosis so always try an alcohol free rinse if halitosis persists despite persistent use.
Cold sores
- Iodine is a new addition to this list but has been used as an antiseptic for over a century. When applied locally as povidone-iodine (PVP-I), this mineral oxidises viral components, hence denaturing them and hinders the virus from completing its life cycle i.e. treating the cold sore. Whilst not my own personal preference due to staining or strong smell, its effectiveness cannot be denied.
- Valaciclovir, the less known valine prodrug of aciclovir, has a
unique one day treatment ability for cold sores. From speaking to patients who have recurrent HSV outbreaks I have found their best results come from the intensive licenced dose of 2000mg BD for one day. Anecdotally it resulted in a faster time to crusting and a larger elapsed time between HSV eruptions making me a big fan of this regimen.
- Amino acids, I’m sure we’ve all heard of L-lysine but first lets consider L-arginine. It enhances viral protein synthesis and exacerbates the herpes infection. This is why it is important to check for food supplements taken by patients presenting with repeat cold sore eruptions. The best advice for a cold sore prone person is to avoid supplementation with arginine and reduce arginine rich foods once
cold sore prodromal symptoms begin. L-lysine on the other hand acts as an antimetabolite to HSV suppressing viral growth. That being said, doses less than 1g per day were found to be ineffective as a prophylaxis or treatment to HSV outbreaks. Doses of >3g per day were needed to achieve a result. Whilst lysine may not be the most effective treatment for an outbreak it is better used in prophylaxis and is a relatively safe naturally occurring compound with good tolerability at the circa 3g daily dose.
Teeth Whitening
Anxiety symptoms
Memory &
- PAP (Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid) is the newest addition to the teeth whitening family found in powders, gels and strips. It works by breaking down surface stains or chromogens in the teeth leading to a brightening of the smile however
it does not possess a direct bleaching effect.
- In contrast, hydrogen peroxide directly bleaches teeth through oxidation in the enamel and at the dentine layer. Whilst the most renowned whitening product it’s very rarely formulated in whitening products for general sale in Ireland. More commonly it (or its sibling Carbamide Peroxide) are supplied in the form of a gel used in custom trays.
- Whilst many of the products for sale in pharmacies are incredible at lifting stains of maintaining whiteness, there are few that will achieve the same results as the concentrated products available from your dentist.
Tooth Brushes
Electric, manual, bamboo? What’s actually important here is not
the toothbrush but rather the technique. We can spend up to ¤300 for one singular toothbrush with all the bells and whistles but it will still be useless if you only brush for 20 seconds!
Brushing of the teeth should take approximately 2 minutes and patients should be advised NOT to rinse with water immediately after use. Rinsing with water after brushing will remove the concentrated fluoride left by the toothpaste meaning your hard work has just gone down the drain (literally!).
PROFESSIONAL Áine Maher-Loughnan, Pharmacy Future Operations Manager, Boots Ireland
The robots are coming?
The IPU Pharmacy Practice Working Group (PPWG) is a group of community pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and IPU staff with an interest in improving pharmacy. In this article, Áine Maher-Loughnan, Boots Ireland’s Future Pharmacy Operations
In pharmacy, one of our core tasks is medication dispensing, getting the right medication to the right patient, with the right advice at the right time. There are many challenges with this task, the mechanics involved are time consuming, which can in turn be tedious,
tasks is medication dispensing, getting the right medication to the right patient, with the right advice at the right time. There are many challenges with this task, the mechanics involved are time consuming, which can in turn be tedious, repetitive, and as with any manual process,
To overcome these challenges, we raised a question and explored a solution; how do we manage the existing workload for our pharmacies and pharmacists so they can continue to evolve as healthcare professionals and enhance the patient offering in our pharmacies? How do we minimise
fulfilling and enjoyable activities for in addition to the dispensing process there are many other daily dispensing associated activities that need to be completed each and every day, fundamental to the smooth running of the pharmacy business. Failure to complete these tasks can have significant consequences on patient safety,
pharmacy revenue and legislative compliance. It is through this lens that dispensing robots were researched. Selection of a dispensing robot should not just focus on a desire to dispense more efficiently, factors such as its impact and integration with other core daily activities are important considerations. Another question in any decision for investment in this technology is how does automation through use of a dispensing robot add value to your business and when and how will the business see a return on this investment.
Key measures when selecting a dispensing robot
As an output from process mapping operational activity in the dispensary, the following four measures key to the selection of a robot were defined:
1. Pharmacy dispensing system software integration: Ease of integration with the dispensing system software provider was a fundamental requirement when choosing a dispensing robot. Pharmacy is already overburdened with non-integrated systems. A non-integrated robot was not an option;
2. Stock management functionality: Effective dispensary medication stock manage ment is the backbone of a well-run dispensary but relies on time-consuming use of resource. Use of live-stock, whilst a game changer in optimum stock management, requires a manual process of stock counting, date checking and managing high cost, unused and slow moving stock. A poorly managed stock-file results in a mismatch of stock to patient need. Identifying and optimising how many of these medicine stock management tasks would be automated by the robot and putting a monetary value to the consistent completion of these tasks was undertaken;
3. Time savings: Dispensing robot marketing materials often boast enticing statistics of packs dispensed per second — speeding dispensing up and reducing waiting times thereby resulting in an incremental return in prescription items and
pharmacy teams are working harder than ever to ensure they continue to operate safe, efficient and profitable pharmacies.
pharmacy services. Quantifying in real world terms, in a specific pharmacy, how many tasks and how much time back would be generated by the robot was completed; and
4. Retention of staff and resilience to unpredicted resourcing changes, for example, unplanned absence: Retention and attraction of both pharmacist and pharmacy support roles within community pharmacy is an ongoing
To overcome these challenges, we raised a question and explored a solution; how do we manage the existing workload for our pharmacies and pharmacists so they can continue to evolve as healthcare professionals and enhance the patient offering in our pharmacies? How do we minimise the tedious and repetitive tasks to create space for more rewarding, fulfilling and enjoyable activities for our
dispense more efficiently, factors such as its impact and integration with other core daily activities are important considerations. Another question in any decision for investment in this technology is how does automation through use of a dispensing robot add value to your business and when and how will the business see a return on this investment.
challenge across the sector. Staff turnover, vacancies and unplanned absence can impact the daily operations of a pharmacy. Automation of stock management tasks and a faster dispensing process to reduce the pharmacy team’s dependency on the dispensary skilled resource would minimise the impact of absence or unpredictable workload, reduce the need to complete repetitive tasks and minimise the risk of human error.
Key measures when selecting a dispensing robot
As an output from process mapping operational activity
Obtaining real world insights
Having identified a robot that satisfied the above criteria, a site visit was made to a pharmacy that had installed a similar robot. This was of huge benefit, providing an opportunity to ask questions based on practice and understand first-hand what the day-to-day experience was like. The site visit was invaluable, providing insight on the implications on workstations, workflow and what layout changes would be
the backbone of a wellrun dispensary but relies on time-consuming use of resource. Use of livestock, whilst a game changer in optimum stock management, requires a manual process of stock counting, date checking and managing high cost, unused and slow moving stock. A poorly managed stock-file results in a mismatch of stock to patient need. Identifying and optimising how many of these medicine stock management tasks would be automated by
4. Retention of staff and resilience to unpredicted resourcing changes, for example, unplanned absence: Retention and attraction of both pharmacist and pharmacy support roles within community pharmacy is an ongoing challenge across the sector. Staff turnover, vacancies and unplanned absence can impact the daily operations of a pharmacy. Automation of stock management tasks and a faster dispensing process to
required to optimise the use of the robot and necessary dispensary refurbishment to be undertaken to create the infrastructure to host the robot.
Change management project
Successful change management projects require clear communication, strong leadership support, employee involvement and a phased approach to implementation. The pharmacy team who would be working with the robot were central to
lens that dispensing robots were researched. Selection of a dispensing robot should
tasks and how much time back would be generated by the robot
huge benefit, providing an opportunity to ask questions based on practice and
44 CPD: Robotics
the communications plan. This included assessing staff readiness, provision of a comprehensive training plan, creating opportunities to address their fears and concerns and communicating the benefits of the technology. The team were understandably cautious. In a busy pharmacy, room for malfunction, delay or unnecessary complexity. A clear timeline with each required activity mapped against the week was hugely beneficial to coordinate the project. This included preparation activity, creation of temporary infrastructure to support continued operations of the pharmacy and patient engagement activities to reassure patients throughout the process.
Metrics of success
Following installation and initial testing once the project went ‘live’, metrics were identified to monitor the success of the project. These metrics centred on volumes of both patient facing and nonpatient facing activities as well as patient satisfaction. This was then traced over a period of two years to measure the true impact of the dispensing robot.
A less quantifiable but equally important measure for us is the sentiment of our dispensary team post-installation. While change and new technology can be there is no daunting and automation evokes fear, the experience has been positive. Team members now say they couldn’t imagine life in the dispensary without the robot and they enjoy greater time to support and care for patients. A review based on this has demonstrated that the installation of a dispensing robot has delivered a faster dispensing process, automated stock management and a reduced error rate. The time saved resulted in improved patient experience for prescription customers, a reduced more tightly controlled stock-file and more time for pharmacy colleagues to focus on patient facing activities to support growth of their pharmacy business and improve pharmacist and support staff job satisfaction. This dispensing automation project has delivered successfully in line with the Boots Ireland ambition to streamline pharmacy operations, deliver clear efficiencies and simplify processes for our pharmacy teams.
This article first appeared in the IPU Review March 2024
Robotics and Automation in Community Pharmacies: A Sector Overview
The adoption of robotics and automation technologies in community pharmacy is no longer a futuristic concept — it is fast becoming an essential component of modern pharmacy practice. As community pharmacists are increasingly called upon to take on expanded clinical roles, the need to streamline operational tasks like dispensing and stock management has never been greater. Automation offers a powerful solution, helping to relieve pressures on the workforce, improve safety, and enhance service delivery.
Drivers of Automation in Pharmacy
Several factors are pushing automation forward in the community pharmacy sector:
• Workforce Pressures: Pharmacist shortages, high staff turnover, and increasing demands on pharmacy teams have prompted the need for more efficient processes.
• Patient Expectations: With patients seeking quicker service and more personalised care, pharmacies must balance speed with quality.
• Clinical Role Expansion: As healthcare systems shift towards integrated care models, pharmacists are expected to deliver more clinical services, from medication reviews to health screenings — leaving less time for manual dispensing tasks.
• Error Reduction and Compliance: Manual dispensing carries the risk of human error. Robotics not only improves accuracy but also supports audit trails and inventory compliance.
What Does Pharmacy Automation Look Like?
Automation in pharmacy is most commonly seen in the form of dispensing robots. These are often installed in the dispensary to automate the selection, labelling, and storage of medicines. They range from compact systems suitable for smaller premises to large, multi-arm units capable of managing thousands of packs per day.
Key automation technologies in use today include:
• Dispensing Robots: These systems pick and label medication, often integrated with pharmacy management software.
• Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS): Designed to optimise shelf space and track inventory levels in real time.
• Blister Pack Robots: Used to prepare multi-dose packaging, particularly useful in managing medications for patients in care homes or on complex regimens.
• Digital Workflow Management: Software platforms that automate task assignment and monitor operational performance across the team.
Benefits Observed Across the Sector
Evidence from both published studies and real-world pharmacy projects has shown consistent benefits of automation in community pharmacy settings:
• Improved Efficiency: Robotic systems can prepare prescriptions faster than manual methods, significantly reducing wait times.
• Reduced Dispensing Errors: Automation eliminates common manual errors such as incorrect selection or labelling.
• Increased Capacity for Clinical Services: By freeing up pharmacists from repetitive tasks, automation supports the shift towards more patientfacing roles.
• Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: Reduced queues and more faceto-face time with pharmacists can lead to better patient experience and outcomes.
Challenges and Considerations
While the benefits are well recognised, implementation of robotic systems does not come without challenges:
• Initial Investment: The upfront costs can be significant, including the robot itself, dispensary refurbishment, and system integration.
• Workflow Redesign: Pharmacies may need to change their physical layout and re-engineer processes to fully realise the benefits of automation.
• Staff Buy-In and Training: Successful projects depend on effective change management, team engagement, and thorough training.
• System Integration: Seamless connection with existing dispensing software is crucial to avoid duplication or inefficiency.
Despite these challenges, many pharmacy operators view automation as a longterm investment — one that not only delivers operational efficiencies but also improves staff satisfaction and supports business sustainability.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, we can expect automation to become more sophisticated and more widely adopted. As technology advances, robots will likely become more compact, affordable, and adaptable to different pharmacy settings. Integration with electronic health records and other digital tools will also support a more holistic approach to patient care.
Additionally, the use of AI-driven analytics to forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimise workflows is on the horizon, promising further gains in efficiency and service quality.
Conclusion
Automation and robotics are no longer optional extras for community pharmacies — they are fast becoming essential enablers of future pharmacy practice. As pharmacists expand their clinical remit, technologies that streamline dispensing and administrative functions will play a key role in sustaining and enhancing the sector.
By reducing workload, improving safety, and freeing up time for patient-facing care, automation is helping community pharmacies to not only survive — but to thrive in an evolving healthcare landscape.
GOLLMANN Pharamcy Robots –the top notch solution for the Irish market
GOLLMANN Pharamcy Robots –the top notch solution for the Irish market
GOLLMANN: Precision Engineered Automation
„The transition to automation has maximised efficiencies, optimised stock management, and enhanced patient safety by eradicating picking errors.
„The transition to automation has maximised efficiencies, optimised stock management, and enhanced patient safety by eradicating picking errors.
Additionally, the robot has generated staff time savings that can be re-invested into clinical services and allowed for greater human interaction and patient care.
Additionally, the robot has generated staff time savings that can be re-invested into clinical services and allowed for greater human interaction and patient care.
Gollmann has now helped solve the all-too-familiar conundrum of managing split-packs. This integration saves our pharmacy time - in manual labour, spacein recovered storage areas, and money - in reducing medicinal waste.“ Glenn
Ryan MPSI, McCabes Rathbeale, Dublin
Gollmann has now helped solve the all-too-familiar conundrum of managing split-packs. This integration saves our pharmacy time - in manual labour, spacein recovered storage areas, and money - in reducing medicinal waste.“
Glenn Ryan
MPSI, McCabes Rathbeale, Dublin
How It Works: Loading, Dispensing & Control Features
How It Works: Loading, Dispensing & Control Features
Manual and Automatic Loading
The system supports both manual fast loading–where staff can load over a hundred compartments and up to 350 packs per hour with instant availability–and fully automatic loading, including camera based expiry date detection, which reduces human intervention.
Manual and Automatic Loading
The system supports both manual fast loading–where staff can load over a hundred compartments and up to 350 packs per hour with instant availability–and fully automatic loading, including camera based expiry date detection, which reduces human intervention.
Dispensing Outputs
Dispensing Outputs
Multiple back office dispensing outputs keep pharmacists working efficiently behind the scenes, while dispensing points–via spiral chutes, conveyor belts, or lifts–can be installed wherever you need them in the pharmacy
Tailored for Irish Pharmacies
GOLLMANN: Precision Engineered Automation
Patented Rolling Cabinets: More Storage, Less Floor Space
Since its foundation in Germany in 2006, GOLLMANN Kommissioniersysteme has quietly become a global leader in pharmacy automation. With over 3,500 robotic installations worldwide–serving community pharmacies and hospitals alike–GOLLMANN brings precision
Tailored for Irish Pharmacies
Since its foundation in Germany in 2006, GOLLMANN Kommissioniersysteme has quietly become a global leader in pharmacy automation. With over 3,500 robotic installations worldwide–serving community pharmacies and hospitals alike–GOLLMANN brings precision
engineering and customisation to the fore. In Ireland, GOLLMANN Ireland, based in Dublin, supports local pharmacies with Irish-based implementation and service, backed by German “Made in Germany” engineering.
engineering and customisation to the fore. In Ireland, GOLLMANN Ireland, based in Dublin, supports local pharmacies with Irish-based implementation and service, backed by German “Made in Germany” engineering.
Patented Rolling Cabinets: More Storage, Less Floor Space
At the heart of every GOLLMANN robot is its patented rolling cabinet technology. Rather than fixed racks with inactive dead zones, individual racks slide on runners, allowing grippers to reach only where needed–resulting in up to 50 % more storage in 30 % less floor space compared to conventional dispensing robots. This efficiency is a game changer for urban pharmacies where every square metre counts.
At the heart of every GOLLMANN robot is its patented rolling cabinet technology. Rather than fixed racks with inactive dead zones, individual racks slide on runners, allowing grippers to reach only where needed–resulting in up to 50 % more storage in 30 % less floor space compared to conventional dispensing robots. This efficiency is a game changer for urban pharmacies where every square metre counts.
Flexibility That Fits Your Pharmacy, Not the Other Way Around
Flexibility That Fits Your Pharmacy, Not the Other Way Around
What really sets GOLLMANN apart is its custom, modular design. Whether your pharmacy needs a unit that‘s tall or short, long or narrow, with single , double or triple side integration–or even installation across basement, ground or upper floors–GOLLMANN can engineer it. You choose from over 200 colours, patterns, and finishes to match your store’s look and feel.
What really sets GOLLMANN apart is its custom, modular design. Whether your pharmacy needs a unit that‘s tall or short, long or narrow, with single , double or triple side integration–or even installation across basement, ground or upper floors–GOLLMANN can engineer it. You choose from over 200 colours, patterns, and finishes to match your store’s look and feel.
“Our dispensing robot has become indispensable to the team”
“Our dispensing robot has become indispensable to the team”
Extendable and Future Proof
Multiple back office dispensing outputs keep pharmacists working efficiently behind the scenes, while dispensing points–via spiral chutes, conveyor belts, or lifts–can be installed wherever you need them in the pharmacy
Extendable and Future Proof
With GOLLMANN’s modular system, you can retrofit additional cabinets or modules later–such as a cooling module or the RAPID high frequency dispensing add on–ensuring your system can grow as your business does.
With GOLLMANN’s modular system, you can retrofit additional cabinets or modules later–such as a cooling module or the RAPID high frequency dispensing add on–ensuring your system can grow as your business does.
Handling Complexity: Split Packs, Batch Control & Expiry Management
Handling Complexity: Split Packs, Batch Control & Expiry Management
A technology often missing in pharmacy robotics is split pack support–handling partial boxes or individual blister cards. GOLLMANN’s system can manage split packs, tracking batch and expiry data down to the individual unit. Each pack is scanned on entry, key information logged, and the unit stored intelligently. This precision avoids misuse of out of date stock, minimises waste and enhances compliance with Irish regulatory standards.
A technology often missing in pharmacy robotics is split pack support–handling partial boxes or individual blister cards. GOLLMANN’s system can manage split packs, tracking batch and expiry data down to the individual unit. Each pack is scanned on entry, key information logged, and the unit stored intelligently. This precision avoids misuse of out of date stock, minimises waste and enhances compliance with Irish regulatory standards.
„Since Gollmann introduced split-pack handling, there is truly nothing more we could ask for in our day-to-day operations with their robot. The system has proven to be the perfect solution for automated warehousing and dispensing in an Irish pharmacy setting. We‘ve seen noticeable gains in efficiency, accuracy, space saving and workflow consistency across the dispensary. It has streamlined our processes, reduced manual handling, and allowed our team to focus more on patient care. Gollmann’s technology has become an integral part of how we operate at Healthwise Pharmacy Ballyraine”
Why GOLLMANN Matters to Irish Pharmacies
Efficiency Meets Safety
With Ireland’s growing workload for pharmacists, GOLLMANN supports safer and faster dispensing,
enabling staff to spend less time sorting stock and more time with patients. The pharmacy team can trust the system’s high accuracy and expiry controls, which aid regulatory compliance.
Space Optimisation
Irish retail and community pharmacies often operate in older premises with tight layouts. GOLLMANN’s space saving design lets you reclaim valuable working or counselling space.
Tailored to Your Business
Unlike off the shelf robotic systems, GOLLMANN solutions are custom tailored down to dimensions, colour, configuration, and future expandability–giving pharmacies the autonomy to develop their environment over time.
Irish Support, German Engineering
With a Dublin based GOLLMANN Ireland operations team, pharmacies get local service and support with rapid response times, backed by German engineering standards of durability and reliability.
In Summary: A Robo Partner, Not a One Size Fits All Machine
For Irish pharmacy owners, adopting GOLLMANN means investing in a partner system: highly efficient, configurable, and intelligent. It stores significantly more, takes up less space, handles complexities like split packs and batch expiry, and can evolve over two decades alongside your business. The voice of existing users underscores its ease of use and operational benefits, not just as
a robot–but as an integrated part of daily pharmacy life.
Final Thought & Invitation
In a time when pharmacies are seeking smarter, safer, and more flexible solutions to serve communities, GOLLMANN delivers a compelling mix of engineering excellence, space saving productivity, and practical adaptability.
And with local support based in Dublin, the promise becomes tangible. If you‘re considering automation for your pharmacy–or are simply curious about how robotic storage could transform your workflow–GOLLMANN Ireland would welcome the opportunity to show you a tailored solution.
With minimal disruption and high flexibility, it’s a future proof step into smarter pharmacy practice.
Interested in learning how GOLLMANN can work for your premises?
Reach out to the GOLLMANN Ireland team today for a conversation about your needs, an overview of options, or an on site demonstration tailored to your pharmacy.
GOLLMANN ZWICK LTD
Mobile: +353 (87) 340 7640
Email: Info.ie@gollmann-zwick.com
Website: www.gollmann.ie
Combat your cough & cold symptoms
BENYLIN DAY & NIGHT TABLETS: Composition: Each white (day) tablet contains Paracetamol 500 mg, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride 60 mg. Each blue (night) tablet contains Paracetamol 500 mg, Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride 25 mg. Pharmaceutical Form: Day Tablet: Tablet; Night Tablet: Film coated tablet. Indications: For the short-term symptomatic treatment of nasal and sinus congestion associated with daytime symptoms of cold and flu such as pain, headache and/or fever when in combination with bedtime symptoms which are causing difficulty in getting to sleep. Benylin Day & Night is indicated in adult and adolescents aged 15 to 17 years. Dosage: Adults and Adolescents over 15 years: Four tablets should be taken daily. One white tablet (paracetamol and pseudoephedrine) to be taken every 4 to 6 hours during the day (one tablet in the morning, at midday and in the afternoon). Do not take more than 3 white day-time tablets in 24 hours. One blue tablet (paracetamol and diphenhydramine) to be taken at night. Do not take the night-time tablets during the day. Patients should consult their doctor or pharmacist if symptoms persist for more than 3 days or worsen. Not recommended for children and adolescents under 15 years. Elderly: Experience has indicated that normal adult dosage is usually appropriate. However, in frail, immobile, elderly subjects or in elderly patients with renal or hepatic impairment, a reduction in the amount or frequency of dosing may be appropriate. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 60mg/kg/day (up to a maximum of 2g paracetamol per day) in the following situations, unless directed by a physician: Weight less than 50kg, Chronic alcoholism, Dehydration, Chronic malnutrition. Hepatic impairment: In patients with hepatic impairment or Gilbert’s Syndrome, the dose should be reduced or the dosing interval prolonged. The daily dose should not exceed 2g paracetamol/day unless directed by a physician. Renal impairment: Caution should be exercised when administering Benylin Day & Night to patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. It is recommended, when giving paracetamol to patients with renal impairment, to reduce the dose and to increase the minimum interval between each administration to at least 6 hours unless directed otherwise by a physician. See SPC for full details: Contraindications: BENYLIN Day & Night is contraindicated in patients with: hypersensitivity to paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, diphenhydramine or any of the excipients listed in section 6.1. Concomitant use of other sympathomimetic decongestants, beta-blockers or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping MAOI treatment (see section 4.5). The concomitant use of MAOIs may cause a rise in blood pressure and/or hypertensive crisis. Cardiovascular disease including hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, Phaeocromocytoma, Hyperthyroidism, Closed angle glaucoma, Severe acute or chronic kidney disease /renal failure, Urinary retention in patients at risk of developing respiratory failure. Special warnings and precautions for use: Paracetamol should be administered with caution under the following circumstances: Hepatic impairment, Chronic alcoholism, Renal impairment (GFR ≤ 50ml/min), Gilberts syndrome (familial non-haemolytic jaundice), Concomitant treatment with medicinal products affecting hepatic function, Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, Haemolytic anaemia, Glutathione deficiency, Dehydration, Chronic malnutrition, Weight less than 50kg, Elderly patients. Hepatotoxicity at therapeutic dose of paracetamol. Cases of paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity, including fatal cases, have been reported in patients taking paracetamol at doses within the therapeutic range. These cases were reported in patients with one or more risk factors for hepatotoxicity including low body weight (<50 Kg), renal and hepatic impairment, chronic alcoholism, concomitant intake of hepatotoxic drugs and in acute and chronic malnutrition (low reserves of hepatic glutathione). Paracetamol should be administered with caution to patients with these risk factors. Caution is also advised in patients on concomitant treatment with drugs that induce hepatic enzymes and in conditions which may predispose to glutathione deficiency (see sections 4.2 and 4.9). Doses of paracetamol should be reviewed at clinically appropriate intervals and patients should be monitored for emergence of new risk factors for hepatotoxicity which may warrant dosage adjustment. Prolonged or frequent use is discouraged. Paracetamol overdose warning: Taking more than the recommended dose (overdose) may result in severe liver damage. In case of overdose, medical help should be sought immediately. Urgent medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms. Patients should be advised not to take other paracetamol-containing products concurrently. Taking multiple daily doses in one administration can severely damage the liver. In such cases, medical assistance should be sought immediately. Caution should be exercised when using the product in the presence of severe hepatic impairment or moderate to severe renal impairment (particularly if accompanied by cardiovascular disease). The hazards of overdose are greater in those with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver disease. Patients with hepatic disease should consult a doctor before use. In general, medicinal products contains paracetamol should be taken for only a few days without the advice of a physician or dentist and not at high doses.If high fever or signs of secondary infection occur or if symptoms persist for longer than 3 days, a physician should be consulted. Hypersensitivity reactions, including skin rashes, angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported very rarely with paracetamol. Serious skin reactions such as acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), have been reported very rarely in patients receiving paracetamol. Patients should be informed about the signs of serious skin reactions and use of the drug should be discontinued at the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. Ischaemic colitis: Some cases of ischaemic colitis have been reported with pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine should be discontinued and medical advice sought if sudden abdominal pain, rectal bleeding or other symptoms of ischaemic colitis develop. Severe skin reactions such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) may occur with pseudoephedrine-containing products. This acute pustular eruption may occur within the first 2 days of treatment, with fever, and numerous, small, mostly non-follicular pustules arising on a widespread oedematous erythema and mainly localized on the skin folds, trunk, and upper extremities. Patients should be carefully monitored. If signs and symptoms such as pyrexia, erythema, or many small pustules are observed, administration of this medicine should be discontinued and appropriate measures taken if needed. Ischaemic optic neuropathy Cases of ischaemic optic neuropathy have been reported with pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine should be discontinued if sudden loss of vision or decreased visual acuity such as scotoma occurs. Although pseudoephedrine has virtually no pressor effects in normotensive patients, this medicine should be used with caution in patients taking antihypertensive agents, tricyclic antidepressants or other sympathomimetic agents (such as appetite suppressants and amphetamine-like psychostimulants). The effects of a single dose on the blood pressure of these patients should be observed before recommending repeated or unsupervised treatment. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS): Cases of PRES and RCVS have been reported with the use of pseudoephedrine containing products (see section 4.8). The risk is increased in patients with severe or uncontrolled hypertension, or with severe acute or chronic kidney disease/renal failure. Pseudoephedrine should be discontinued and immediate medical assistance sought if the following symptoms occur: sudden severe headache or thunderclap headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures and/or visual disturbances. Most reported cases of PRES and RCVS resolved following discontinuation and appropriate treatment.This product is contraindicated for use in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, particularly those with coronary heart disease and hypertension This product is contraindicated for use in patients with thyroid disease, diabetes, glaucoma and, severe renal impairment. Patients with difficulty in urination and/or enlargement of the prostate, should be advised to consult a physician before using pseudoephedrine. This product may act as a cerebral stimulant giving rise to hyperpyrexia, tremor and epileptiform convulsions. Care should be taken when used in epileptic patients. If any of the following occur, this product should be stopped: Hallucinations, Restlessness, Sleep disturbances. Use with caution in occlusive vascular disease. Pseudoephedrine may induce positive results in certain anti-doping tests. Risks of abuse: Pseudoephedrine carries the risk of abuse. Increased doses may ultimately produce toxicity. Continuous use can lead to tolerance resulting in an increased risk of overdosing. The recommended maximum dose and treatment duration should not be exceeded. Diphenhydramine may enhance the sedative effects of central nervous system depressants. While taking this product, avoid alcoholic beverages and consult a healthcare professional prior to taking with central nervous system depressants. Patients with the following conditions should be advised to consult a physician before using diphenhydramine: a respiratory condition such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or acute or chronic bronchial asthma; prostate hyperplasia with urinary retention. Concomitant use of other products containing paracetamol or decongestants with Benylin Day & Night could lead to overdosage and should, therefore, be avoided. Night time tablets only: May cause drowsiness. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery if affected. Alcoholic drink should be avoided. Night time tablets only: Patients should be advised not to use with any other product containing Diphenhydramine. The stated dose should not be exceeded. Use in patients with congenital long QT-syndrome should be avoided. Cases of high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA) due to pyroglutamic acidosis have been reported in patients with severe illness such as severe renal impairment and, sepsis, or in patients with malnutrition or other sources of glutathione deficiency (e.g. chronic alcoholism) who were treated with paracetamol at therapeutic dose for a prolonged period or combination of paracetamol and flucloxacillin. If HAGMA due to pyroglutamic acidosis is suspected, prompt discontinuation of paracetamol and close monitoring is recommended. The measurement of urinary 5-oxoproline may be useful to identify pyroglutamic acidosis as underlying cause of HAGMA in patients with multiple risk factors. The concurrent use of medicinal products, which also prolong the QT interval or result in hypokalemia should be avoided. Immediate medical advice should be sought in an event of an overdose, even if you feel well. Do not take with any other paracetamol containing products. Do not use with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on skin. If symptoms persist or get worse, or if new symptoms occur, patients should stop use and consult a physician. Use when only clearly necessary.
This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per dose, that is to say essentially ‘sodium-free’. Undesirable effects: Immune system disorders: Not known Anaphylactic reaction, hypersensitivity. Investigations: Not known Blood pressure increased; transaminases increased.
Psychiatric disorders: Not known Anxiety, confusional state, euphoric mood, hallucination, irritability. Nervous system disorders: Not known: Agitation, coordination abnormal, convulsion, headache, paraesthesia, psychomotor hyperactivity, sedation, sleep disturbances, tremor, somnolence, Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome, Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome. Eye disorders: Not known Blurred vision, Ischaemic optic neuropathy. Ear and labyrinth disorders: Not known Tinnitus. Cardiac disorders: Not known Palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmia. Vascular disorders: Not known Hypotension. Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Not known Chest discomfort, dry throat, nasal dryness, dyspnoea. Gastrointestinal disorders: Not known Abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, vomiting Ischaemic colitis. Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Not known Rash, pruritus, rash pruritic, urticaria, Angiodema, Serios skin reactions, including acute geralised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP). Renal and urinary disorders: Not known Urinary retention, dysuria. Blood and the lymphatic system disorders: Not known Blood disorders, blood dyscrasias such as thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis have been reported following paracetamol use, but were not necessarily causally related to the drug. Hepato-biliary disorders: Not known Liver dysfunction. Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Not known High anion gap metabolic acidosis. MAH: JNTL Consumer Health I (Ireland) Ltd. Block 5, High Street, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland. MA Number: PA 23490/006/001. Date of revision of text: March 2025. Product not subject to medical prescription. Supply through pharmacies only. Full prescribing information available upon request BENYLIN NON-DROWSY FOR CHESTY COUGHS SYRUP: Composition: Each 5 mls contains 100 mg guaifenesin and 1.1 mg levomenthol Clear red syrup having a characteristic odour. Indications: The symptomatic relief of productive cough. Dosage: Adults and children
Category Report: VMS
VMS: It’s Crucial Role in the OTC Market
The Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements (VMS) category continues to play a crucial role in Ireland’s Overthe-Counter (OTC) pharmacy landscape, reflecting a broader consumer shift toward proactive health management and preventative care. Valued within the broader OTC sector at part of the €451 million attributed to the top five OTC categories, the VMS segment experienced a 1.4% growth in value from May 2024 to April 2025, according to IQVIA data.
This moderate yet consistent growth highlights the resilience of the category, underpinned by increasing consumer awareness of immune health, nutritional deficiencies, and general wellness. Vitamin D, in particular, remains a standout product within the segment. As of 2022, 48% of Irish consumers reported taking food supplements, with Vitamin D leading the usage trends due to its role in supporting immunity and bone health. This trend has not only continued but strengthened, especially in light of seasonal health awareness and postpandemic health behaviours.
The VMS category has also been boosted by a wider generational
shift toward holistic wellness. Millennials and Gen Z are key drivers of this movement, with younger consumers seeking out supplements as part of broader lifestyle choices that include healthy eating, fitness, and mindfulness. These cohorts place a high value on authenticity, sustainability, and digital engagement, influencing how VMS products are marketed and distributed.
In response to evolving preferences, brands are increasingly focusing on personalisation and sustainability. For instance, new entrants like Nourished have introduced 3D-printed, personalised
gummy vitamins, allowing consumers to customise supplements to their health goals. This blend of convenience, tech innovation, and clean-label appeal has resonated particularly well with health-conscious and digitally savvy audiences.
Environmental responsibility is another emerging priority within the VMS space. Many brands are adopting sustainable packaging, ethically sourced ingredients, and refillable systems.
Older adults also continue to be an important demographic for the VMS market, particularly for supplements aimed at healthy ageing, mobility, and bone support. At the same time, parents are
increasingly purchasing VMS products—especially Vitamin D— for their children, driven by rising awareness of nutritional needs during growth and development. Ultimately, the VMS category stands at the intersection of preventative health, personalisation, and sustainability—three major pillars shaping the future of OTC healthcare in Ireland. While growth in 2025 was more modest compared to faster-expanding segments like Digestive Health or Habit Treatment, VMS remains a core contributor to pharmacy revenue, bolstered by sustained consumer trust in supplements and the expanding role of pharmacists in wellness support.
Category Report: Beauty
Edible Beauty – The Rise of Beauty from Within
Once a niche interest for wellness enthusiasts, edible beauty has now entered the mainstream. With Irish pharmacies facing increasing competition from online platforms, health food stores, and grocers expanding into wellness zones, edible beauty presents a high-margin, future-focused growth opportunity where pharmacy is uniquely placed to lead.
The concept is simple: beauty starts from the inside. Consumers are embracing ingestible beauty products like collagen powders, beauty-focused supplements, probiotics, and functional drinks to improve skin, hair, nails, and overall vitality. In doing so, they’re not just investing in their appearance; they’re investing in a lifestyle of self-care, prevention, and performance.
Is the Category Growing, Declining, or Emerging?
The category is not only growing— it’s evolving. Globally, the beauty supplements market is projected to exceed $10 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 9–12%. While previously limited to collagen powders or biotin gummies, the Irish and EU markets now see edible beauty as a maturing segment integrated into the everyday routines of consumers spanning Gen Z to Gen X.
Pharmacies, in particular, are seeing increased listings. Brands like Revive Active, with its Beauty Complex, Perfectil and Viviscal, have long been pioneers. Now, a new generation of Irish offerings— Annutri (targeting both topical and supplement solutions), and Visage Nutra (blending active turmeric with collagen peptides) is entering the market with a distinct focus on efficacy, clean ingredients, and beauty-science crossover. International brands like Kourtney Kardashian’s Lemme are creating an appetite for edible beauty from younger beauty lovers.
Consumer Behaviour and Buying Habits
Today’s beauty consumer is wellness-conscious, ingredientsavvy, and routine-driven. Edible beauty is no longer a quick fix: it's a daily ritual:
• Multi-functional products are in demand. Consumers want skin health, immunity support, gut health, and stress relief in one formula.
• Repeat purchases are strong—subscription models and loyalty schemes are becoming standard.
• Clean-label ingredients are expected. Consumers scrutinise labels for artificial fillers, sweeteners, and allergens.
• TikTok trends influence discovery—especially among younger consumers who are quick to try what they see recommended by creators they trust.
Women still dominate the category, but men are increasingly entering the space—particularly in areas like hair loss, skin clarity, and overall vitality.
Technological Changes and Innovations
The edible beauty landscape is undergoing a transformation thanks to breakthroughs in food science, biotechnology, and formulation:
• Marine collagen peptides with higher bioavailability have replaced less effective versions.
• Beauty-focused probiotics now target the gut-skin axis, helping reduce inflammation and acne.
• Adaptogens and nootropics such as ashwagandha and L-theanine—are entering beauty drinks to support sleep, stress and mood-related skin issues.
• Personalised nutrition is emerging, with DNA-based recommendations and microbiome testing gaining popularity.
Flavour and texture improvements also mean previously gritty or bitter products are now pleasant to consume—improving compliance and repeat purchases.
Shopper Trends and Pharmacy Opportunity
Consumers are more informed and proactive than ever:
• Hybrid formats like collagen coffee, beauty chocolates and sachet-based skincare boosters are flying off the shelves.
• Stacking rituals—combining topical products, supplements and devices—are becoming the norm.
Written by Jackie Kelly, Business Development Director, Uniphar Brand Partners
• Convenience rules, and beauty on-the-go formats like gummies, powders, and drinkable shots are in high demand.
• Pharmacies remain a trusted destination, but many consumers discover brands online through influencers, dermatologists, and skincare communities.
Irish pharmacies can take back ground lost to D2C and grocery by owning this category—with trusted advice, curated product ranges, and personalised service.
Category Value, Price Pressures & Cost Challenges
Edible beauty products often fall in the ¤25–¤60 price bracket, and command strong loyalty and repeat purchases when results are visible. That said, the category is not immune to cost headwinds:
• Raw material inflation particularly for marine collagen and fermented probiotics—is pushing prices upward.
• EU regulatory compliance adds cost and complexity to claims, packaging, and testing.
• Sustainable packaging expected by consumers—raises production costs.
Despite this, consumers remain willing to pay for performance, and brands with clinical data, strong storytelling, and expert-backed positioning see higher retention rates.
Barriers, Risks and Strategic Opportunities
Barriers:
• Regulatory compliance makes launching and marketing new products complex.
• Skepticism remains consumers demand proof and are wary of overhyped beauty claims.
• Market saturation—the influx of undifferentiated products can confuse shoppers.
• Digestive sensitivities—some consumers react poorly to certain formulations.
Opportunities:
• In-pharmacy education: Pharmacists can lead the conversation with qualified, science-based advice.
• Life-stage innovation: Products tailored to menopausal skin, teen acne, or postnatal recovery offer natural segmentation and loyalty.
• Men’s skincare supplements: A largely untapped segment with huge growth potential.
• Beauty-retail crossover: Bringing ingestibles into the beauty aisle (not just VMS) could boost visibility and reposition them as essentials.
Key Influencers Driving Category Growth
1. Digital Content Creators – Especially on TikTok and Instagram, where real-time transformations and testimonials generate major traffic.
2. Healthcare Professionals –Pharmacists, dermatologists and nutritionists lend crucial credibility to new launches.
3. Parents & Caregivers –Seeking safe, effective solutions for teens (acne, stress) and postpartum recovery.
4. Celebrities & Wellness Gurus – Goop, JSHealth and Lemme
Category Report: Beauty
have legitimised the category by blurring the line between beauty and wellness.
Strategies to Drive Pharmacy Growth
To capture this growing category, pharmacies should:
1. Upgrade merchandising –Segment products by benefit (e.g., Glow, Gut Health, Hair Vitality) and cross-merchandise with skincare.
2. Offer trial sizes and sachets – Encourage first-time users to test before committing.
3. Train pharmacy and beauty advisors – Equip staff to confidently recommend ingestible beauty based on skin and hair concerns.
4. Collaborate with content creators – Education-led campaigns with local influencers build trust and credibility.
5. Segment by life stage – Bundle or position products for key milestones: teens, pregnancy, perimenopause, etc.
6. Invest in clinical storytelling – Use expert-led Q&As, video testimonials, and data-backed content to educate.
Conclusion: A Category Built for Pharmacy
Edible beauty isn’t just a trend— it’s a transformation in how consumers view skincare, health, and wellbeing. As trusted advisors, pharmacy teams are in the perfect position to lead this category and help demystify it for shoppers. With rising consumer interest, ongoing innovation, and growing channel competition, there is a real opportunity for pharmacies to reclaim their lead in beauty and wellness. By combining expertise, education, and a curated product range, pharmacies can deliver on the full promise of beauty from within.
Market Snapshot
Global Edible Beauty Market 2020–2027
• Estimated Global market value $3.7 billion in 2022.
• Projected CAGR: 9–12%
• Skin health is the largest segment, followed by hair and anti-aging.
Consumer Priorities
• Natural ingredients – 82%
• Clinically backed – 68%
• Taste/flavour – 59%
• Eco packaging – 41%
Channel Split in Ireland (2024)
• Pharmacy: 48%
• D2C/Online: 27%
• Grocery/Health stores: 15%
• Clinics/Salons: 10%
The following pages highlight a selection of OTC products featured within the Top 25 of our published 2025 Top 100 OTC Products list. These products represent some of the most widely used and bestperforming brands in Ireland’s retail pharmacy, based on their audited sales value into the sector.
This content is drawn directly from the 2025 Top 100 Over the Counter (OTC) Market Report, which is compiled using IQVIA’s audited OTC data— the benchmark used across the industry to measure brand and category performance. This trusted data reflects the total wholesale sales value of OTC products into retail pharmacy outlets, covering the 12-month period from May 2024 to April 2025. The methodology used is consistent with previous years, ensuring reliable year-on-year comparisons.
The report offers a comprehensive view of the UK’s OTC landscape, encompassing all five key categories: pain relief, cough, cold and respiratory products, vitamins and minerals, digestive health, and habit treatment.
As such, the products featured across the next pages not only demonstrate commercial success but also reflect broader consumer health trends and seasonal shifts. Whether you’re a brand owner, pharmacist, or stakeholder in the OTC sector, this snapshot of the Top 25 products offers valuable insight into what’s resonating most with today’s consumers—and what’s setting the benchmark for OTC success in 2025.
No2
Quitting smoking is one of the most incredible things you can do for your health. But it’s also one of the most challenging. NRT products like Nicorette® work by providing you with a low level of nicotine to help you manage your withdrawal symptoms. That’s why Nicorette® offers a range of products, information, and advice to give you the support and motivation you need to help maintain your quit momentum. You can double your chances of quitting, v willpower alone, by using Nicorette® as part of your quit journey.
Nicorette® products are clinically proven to help you quit smoking and with our wide range of products, across Mouth spray, Patch, Lozenge and Gum, you will be able to find the right craving relief for your journey.
Nicorette® QuickMist is our fastest acting format as it starts to relieve cravings in just 30 seconds (based on 2 x 1mg dose).
MAH: JNTL Consumer Health I (Ireland) Ltd. Block 5, Hight Street, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland. Products not subject to medical prescription. Supply through non-pharmacy outlets and pharmacies. Full prescribing information available upon request.
CALPOL® 120mg/5ml Sugar Free Oral Suspension
CALPOL® Infant Suspension provides soothing relief from pain and fever for your children, when they need it most. It starts to work on fever in just 15 minutes but is still gentle on delicate tummies. Trusted by parents for over 50 years, CALPOL® Infant Suspension is gentle enough to use from 2 months. Contains Paracetamol
Winner of the Best Eyecare Product 2022-2024, HYLO FORTE® offers long-lasting Dry Eye relief, leaving severe and persistently dry eyes feeling hydrated and soothed.
Each eye drop contains 0.2% naturally occurring Long-chain, High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid which has been proven to offer superior hydration, instant relief, and long-lasting comfort.
The trusted, reliable, and unique COMOD* bottle allows for accurate and consistent dosing (225 drops per bottle) and is sterile for 6 months after opening, which helps reduce wastage.
Expert Recommended
Preservative and Phosphate Free Compatible with Contact Lenses
*Continuous Mono-Dose
Sudafed® Non-Drowsy Decongestant Tablets
MAH: JNTL Consumer Health I (Ireland) Ltd. Block 5, Hight Street, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland. Products not subject to medical prescription. Supply through pharmacy outlets only. Full prescribing information available upon request. No20
Non-Drowsy Sudafed Decongestant Tablets are a medicine used to provide relief from cold, flu and allergy symptoms such as blocked sinuses, stuffy nose and catarrh. The tablets contain pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, which is a decongestant that relieves nasal and sinus congestion.
For a clearer head, choose Sudafed®
This medicine is for use by adults and children aged 12 years and over.
Canesten® Combi Soft Vaginal Capsule & Cream, a complete treatment designed to address both the internal cause and external symptoms of thrush.
Canesten® Combi treatment includes a vaginal soft gel capsule (500mg clotrimazole), designed to be more comfortable to insert and a double-strength external cream† (2% w/w clotrimazole) to calm the six main symptoms* of thrush: itching, burning, unusual discharge, swelling, redness and soreness for complete treatment.
†Compared to Canesten® 1% Cream
*Jack D Sobel. Genital Candidiasis. Medicine. Vol 42, Issue 7, July 2013, p364-368.
Sustainability in Pharma
A new micro-credential course to encourage sustainability in the medtech, pharma and public sector in Ireland has been launched at University of Galway.
The Green Labs initiative has been spearheaded since 2019 by Dr Una FitzGerald, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering in the School of Engineering and a Principal Investigator within CÚRAM, the Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices.
The new 10-week microcredential programme is aimed at Ireland’s extensive laboratory industry, including medtech and pharma,
healthcare and science and the research sector and builds on the success and impact of the Green Labs initiative, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of laboratory practices.
Dr Una FitzGerald said, “Once I took on board the considerable contribution that sustainable lab practices can make to global efforts to reduce GHGs and different kinds of waste, I felt
Dr Una FitzGerald, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering in University of Galway’s School of Engineering and a Principal Investigator within CÚRAM, the Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices. Credit: Martina Regan
compelled to act, because I supervise and teach many different cohorts of students. I feel I have a duty to do all possible to mitigate the climate and biodiversity crisis and feel fortunate that I am in a position to help.
“As Ireland’s medtech and pharma sectors continue to grow, so too does the responsibility to operate in an environmentally sustainable fashion. Laboratory testing is
One Step Ahead in your Oral Health
Care for the health of your smile and keep it protected before oral health problems start with our clinically proven Colgate Total Active Prevention toothpaste range. It’s been created with a new patented² formula, scientifically designed for active prevention and fights the root causes* of many oral health problems¹ to keep your smile as healthy tomorrow as it is today.
24h antibacterial protection5
With clinically proven 24h antibacterial protection5 and a unique2 system that stabilises our active prevention ingredient,
our toothpaste is designed for superior5 performance.
15X more effective at fighting a root cause in just 1 week3
Use our Colgate Total Active Prevention toothpaste together with Colgate Total Mouthwash and a Colgate Total Toothbrush for 15x more effectiveness at fighting a root cause in just 1 week3!
Powerful, patented2, preventative technology
It’s clear why our Colgate Total Active Prevention toothpaste is different from others! It looks after your smile with its patented2
a crucial part of operations in these organisations, as well as for hospital and environmental testing - just think of how many lab tests are require to diagnose disease or to prove that the water you are drinking is safe. Medical device manufacturers also need lab tests to prove that implantable devices are sterile, and pharma companies use labs characterise the properties of drugs.”
The green labs journey commenced in 2019 with CÚRAM becoming the first laboratory in Europe certified as ‘Green’ by American non-profit, My Green Lab. Meeting this standard required raising awareness of the impact of lab work on the environment and prompted efforts to reduce plastic waste, energy and water usage and adopt green principles of synthetic and analytic chemistry.
In 2020, Dr FitzGerald developed a course module for postgraduates on green lab principles and practice, which more than 170 students have taken to date, including online at universities in England, Scotland, Germany and Denmark.
technology that’s powerful and preventative. There are also more than 150 patents under the Colgate Total brand4 and it's the No. 1 recommended brand by dentists in the UK for gum problems and plaque control*!
References
*Plaque reduction before problems occur; helps protect enamel against enamel erosion.
1Bacterial plaque reduction, with 3 months continued use.
2US patented.
3Bacterial plaque reduction vs. non-antibacterial fluoride toothpaste and regular brush, with 1 week continued use.
4For stannous and zinc technologies used in Colgate Total globally (historic and current).
5With 2x daily brushing after 4 weeks continued use.
Scientifically designed for active prevention Fights the root causes*
Corporate Profile
Shaping the Future of Self-Care through Trust, Innovation, and Partnership
Perrigo Ireland stands at the forefront of the self-care movement, driven by a clear purpose: to make lives better through trusted health and wellness solutions, accessible to all. Guided by its core values - We Care Deeply, We Do the Right Thing, and We Play to Win - Perrigo is more than a healthcare company; it is a valuesdriven organisation committed to improving individual well-being while fostering a culture of integrity, innovation, and excellence .
These principles are not just statements on a wall—they are the foundation of how Perrigo operates, collaborates, and grows across every level of its business. From product development to pharmacy partnerships, every decision reflects a commitment to improving lives while upholding the highest standards of trust and transparency.
This commitment is clearly reflected in a standout achievement: five Perrigo brands ranked among the top 25 in the IQVIA Top 100, including the #1 OTC brand overall in Ireland. This success is not just a market metric; it’s a validation of the confidence that consumers and pharmacy professionals place in Perrigo’s product portfolio. It underscores the company’s ability to consistently deliver value in a highly competitive and evolving OTC healthcare environment.
A Legacy of Leadership in Irish Self-Care
Perrigo’s presence in Ireland is built on decades of heritage and a deep understanding of the local market. Over time, the company has evolved from a product supplier to a category leader and trusted strategic partner. In doing so, Perrigo has helped shape a national conversation around preventative care, accessibility, and health ownership, aligning its efforts with the growing global movement toward more proactive, empowered healthcare choices
Operating in Ireland’s OTC market presents both unique challenges and high-impact opportunities. As a pharmacy-led market, Ireland requires a strategic and relationship-focused approach. The relatively small size of the market means product
launches must be highly targeted and relevant, while also driving broad consumer education to build long-term value.
This is where Perrigo’s strong pharmacy partnerships are critical. Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for healthcare queries in Ireland, and their role in product recommendation is vital. Perrigo’s continued investment in CPD programs, TYT training modules, media campaigns, and Field Sales Force (FSF) in-store education ensures that pharmacy teams are well-equipped to guide informed self-care decisions.
Innovation Grounded in Consumer Insight
As consumer expectations evolve, so too does Perrigo’s strategy. The company is deeply invested in consumer-led innovation, exploring new formats, formulations, and delivery systems to meet emerging needs across pain relief, digestive health, dermatology, women’s health, and beyond.
This innovation is not limited to product alone. Perrigo is also actively expanding its retail and digital channels, broadening access to its products and ensuring seamless engagement across in-store and online experiences. The goal is simple: meet consumers where they are and empower them to manage their health on their own terms
Looking ahead, Perrigo anticipates a surge in self-care awareness and greater integration between brands, healthcare professionals,
and technology platforms. Consumers are increasingly seeking holistic, connected solutions—and Perrigo is uniquely positioned to deliver on that promise.
Leading with Purpose
In a market where trust, education, and innovation are paramount, Perrigo Ireland continues to set the standard. Its presence in the IQVIA Top 100 is not just a milestone— it’s a signal of momentum, leadership, and future potential
As self-care becomes central to modern healthcare, Perrigo’s values-led approach, deep pharmacy integration, and relentless focus on innovation place it in a prime position to lead the next chapter of health and wellness in Ireland and beyond.
Niall Faul - Market Lead Ireland
GETS TO WORK 2x FASTER*
GETS TO WORK 2X FASTER
*
FROM PHARMACY
*Based on absorption data when compared to standard paracetamol tablets. To verify contact: verify@perrigo.com
THANPARACETAMOLALONE
Solpa-Extra 500mg/65mg Soluble Tablets contains paracetamol and caffeine. For the treatment of mild to moderate pain. Adults and adolescents over 16 years: 1-2 tablets dissolved in water every 4-6 hours. Max 8 tablets a day. Adolescents aged 12-15 years: 1 tablet dissolved in water every 4-6 hours. Max 4 tablets a day. Not suitable for children under 12 years. Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the ingredients. Precautions: Particular caution needed under certain circumstances and medical advice sought for renal or hepatic impairment, Gilbert’s Syndrome, chronic alcoholism, glucose-6-phosphatedehydrogenase deficiency, haemolytic anaemia, glutathione deficiency, malnutrition or dehydration, the elderly, patients weighing less than 50kg. Precautions needed in asthmatic patients sensitive to acetylsalicylic acid, patients on a controlled sodium diet and with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance. Patients should be advised not to take other paracetamol containing products concurrently. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of overdose even if the patient feels well because the risk of irreversible liver damage. Excessive intake of caffeine should be avoided while taking this product. Interactions: warfarin and other coumarin, other medicines following the same metabolic pathway, cholestyramine, probenecid, chloramphenicol, metoclopramide, domperidone, sedatives, tranquilizers, flucloxacillin and some decongestants. Pregnancy and lactation: Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Side effects: Rare: allergies. Very rare: thrombocytopenia, anaphylaxis, bronchospasm, hepatic dysfunction, cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions, very serious skin reactions, TEN, drug-induced dermatitis, SJS, AGEP, sterile pyuria. Unknown: nervousness, dizziness, neutropenia, leukopenia. Further information is available in the SmPC. Product not subject to medical prescription. PA 1186/017/001. MAH: Chefaro Ireland DAC, The Sharp Building, Hogan Place, Dublin 2, Ireland. Date of preparation: Feb 2023. SPC: https://www.medicines.ie/medicines/solpa-extra-soluble-tablets-33783/spc
Corporate Profile
From Family Pharmacy to Market Leader
Scope is delighted that its core products are being recognised in the Pharmacy space in Ireland. HYLO DUAL INTENSE® recently won the coveted prize of Best Eyecare Product in the OTC Product & Retail Awards, and HYLO FORTE® is now sitting in 14th position in the Top 100 products sold in Independent Pharmacy (IQVIA) and we are very proud of this achievement. These are lovely accolades that we could not achieve without the support of our pharmacy partners, so a huge thank you to everyone that has supported us.
Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a multifactorial condition that affects millions globally and has become increasingly recognised as a public health concern. Traditionally underdiagnosed and often mismanaged, DED is now more prominently understood as a chronic condition that significantly impacts quality of life — from discomfort and visual disturbances to productivity loss and sleep disruption.
Focusing on People
Scope, an Irish-based company, was founded in 2009 by brothers John and Tom Freyne. However, the family story dates back to 1935 when their grandfather, Jack Freyne, opened a pharmacy in Clondalkin which is still flourishing and in the family name today. Tom fondly remembers working in the pharmacy, serving customers and getting to know the healthcare space.
Today, 17 years on, Scope employs 210 people across Ireland, UK and more recently in the US. The company headquarters are in Dublin area and there is a real focus on the people, the community and the culture at the company as it grows. Tom Freyne, CEO, explains that it’s the company’s vision to become a leading eyecare company in these markets. The investment in R&D has been very significant in recent years and Scope are excited to continue to bring innovative products for patients suffering with eyecare conditions.
In Ireland, where pharmacists play a central role in primary care delivery, access to effective, pharmacist-recommended dry eye treatments can make a real difference. Scope’s HYLO® and OPTASE® brands are designed not just for symptom relief, but also to support long-term management. HYLO DUAL INTENSE®, for instance, is specifically formulated to provide intensive relief for more persistent symptoms of dry eye and inflammation. Meanwhile, HYLO FORTE® offers longlasting hydration for those with severe or chronic dry eye, and its preservative-free formulation supports safe, prolonged use — a key differentiator in the pharmacy market.
According to research firm, Maximize Market Research, the global dry eye disease market size was approx. $6.11 billion in 2024 and that number is estimated to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.09% to reach $7.46 billion by 2029 in the forecast period.1 Evaporative Dry Eye is currently the most lucrative type segment registering the fastest growth during the forecast period.
Increasing Awareness
For the Irish market, this market is growing significantly as well, driven by an increase in awareness, a rising aging population, and the increasing use of digital devices, and it is great to see the results and the popularity of our HYLO® and OPTASE® brands here. We see dry eye as a market for pharmacy
Scope Founder Tom Freyne
“As a dry eye expert partner, we are always talking about dry eye, how to diagnose it, how to manage it effectively, and looking at other conditions as well”
to invest in as this category expands in size and patient profile as well with more and more young people being affected by dry eye disease. According to the latest research from DEWS III dry eye is now importantly being referred to as a disease. This affords Scope huge opportunities for growth by offering effective and innovative products, educating on the disease and management thereof, and playing more in the consumer space to raise awareness of the brands Scope has to offer eg. HYLO® and OPTASE®. Education is crucial for patients and for our pharmacy partners and their teams. We are very proud of our partner teams and the resources the company has built to support that education. One platform we launched this year is called Scope Connect that is an ecosystem of content and materials that support your pharmacy in all things eyecare.
Scope’s commitment to innovation is evident in its growing R&D pipeline. With a team of experts in ophthalmology, formulation science, and medical education, the company continues to develop advanced delivery systems and clinically-backed solutions.
This includes efforts to address associated conditions such as blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction — conditions that often accompany or exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
In addition to its product innovations, Scope continues to invest heavily in pharmacist education and public awareness. The launch of Scope Connect marks a major step forward in building a community of informed pharmacy professionals who can confidently counsel patients on eyecare. The platform provides access to training materials, digital tools, and patient-facing resources that help translate complex medical information into practical, everyday guidance.
The challenge of combating Dry Eye in a holistic way requires a strong partnership between suppliers like Scope and the Healthcare Professionals and Pharmacy Assistants who regularly deal with people who suffer from Dry Eye Disease. Scope’s portfolio of products lends itself to recommending a routine that can help with the management of dry eye and the company spends a lot of time educating HCPs about dry eye and other eye-related conditions. Tom says ‘We have a whole medical team and offer CPD modules each year as well as systems like Scope Connect that I mentioned. As a dry eye expert partner, we are always talking about dry eye, how to diagnose it, how to manage it effectively, and looking at other conditions as well. This is so that those pharmacists can confidently educate their patients about the condition and how to manage it.
Tom and the team at Scope are excited about the future and look forward to partnering with key customers on combatting Dry Eye Disease.
1 Dry Eye Disease Market: Industry Analysis and Forecast (2023-2029). Maximize Market Research. Accessed June 18, 2024. https://www. maximizemarketresearch.com/ market-report/dry-eye-diseasemarket/36619/
Corporate Profile
Leading with Purpose: A Conversation with Dave Shanahan, CEO of Athena Pharma
In a healthcare landscape increasingly defined by innovation, rising costs, and consumer empowerment, Athena Pharma is carving out a distinct path. We sat down with Dave Shanahan, CEO of Athena Pharma, to discuss the company’s mission, the unique challenges of operating in Ireland’s OTC market, and what the future holds for self-care and pharmacy-led health solutions.
“Our mission is rooted in supporting healthcare professionals. We admire the work they do, and we aim to back them up with smart, responsible innovation that addresses illness in families and our communities”
What drives Athena’s work at its core?
“At Athena, we're deeply motivated by the impact that medicines can have when they're used optimally—both in preventing illness and treating it. Our mission is rooted in supporting healthcare professionals. We admire the work they do, and we aim to back them up with smart, responsible innovation that addresses illness in families and our communities. For us, it’s not just about selling
Dave Shanahan, CEO of Athena Pharma
medicine—it’s about creating better outcomes.”
Ireland's OTC market is quite distinct. What are the biggest challenges and opportunities that Dave sees?
He adds, “Ireland is a relatively small market compared to the broader European landscape, and that comes with significant cost pressures. We don’t have the scale advantages that bigger markets enjoy, so we have to be very strategic. That said, one of the great opportunities lies in community pharmacy. There's a growing role for pharmacists in managing minor conditions— especially with treatments that are proven safe through years of clinical experience. That’s a space we’re very excited about.”
How is Athena supporting and educating pharmacy customers and patients?
“Education is central to what we do,” he says. “We recently completed a major consumer awareness campaign on Fragility Fractures, aimed at encouraging people to preserve their "bone bank" through proper diet and lifestyle choices. We've also developed an online patient portal called mediqRx. It’s a practical tool that helps people understand the importance of lifestyle changes and exercise in managing everyday conditions. It also includes features like medicine reminders to support adherence. It's all about making health more accessible and actionable.”
When it comes to growth and expansion, Dave highlights his plans.
“We don’t view growth purely through a commercial lens. Instead, we're focused on communities. If we can ensure that the medicines we support are being used optimally—by the people who need them—then the market growth will follow naturally. It’s about building trust, delivering value, and staying close to where care actually happens.”
Sustainability is a big topic in healthcare. What’s Athena’s approach to environmental responsibility?
“We take sustainability seriously, both in production and packaging. Our manufacturing is entirely Europe-based, which significantly reduces our carbon footprint compared to products imported from much farther away. We also use recyclable packaging and paper wherever possible. It’s not just about regulatory compliance— it’s about doing the right thing for the planet and the people who live on it.”
Looking ahead, what does Dave see as the next major shift in the OTC space?
“Artificial Intelligence is going to be a game-changer—far more disruptive than Google ever was in terms of healthcare access. Patients can already use AI to get diagnostic suggestions and selftreatment advice. In many cases, the guidance will be clinically sound. Add in wearables and real-time health monitoring, and you're looking at a transformation in personal empowerment. People will take more responsibility for their health, seek out trusted supplements, and rely more on pharmacies for support with minor ailments. The era of passive healthcare is ending.”
Dave Shanahan’s vision for Athena Pharma blends innovation with empathy, education with empowerment. In an evolving OTC landscape, Athena is not only rising to the challenge—it’s setting a new standard for what it means to care for communities, sustainably and responsibly.
Corporate Profile
Ocean Healthcare: Building Brands, Supporting Pharmacies, and Powering Irish Consumer Health
Since its founding in 2003, Ocean Healthcare has grown from a small start-up into one of Ireland’s leading players in the consumer healthcare sector.
Headquartered in Sandyford, Dublin, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality products, market insight, and genuine partnership to pharmacies across the country.
At its core, Ocean Healthcare is a brand-building company with a clear mission: to be the go-to partner in consumer healthcare in Ireland. With a dedicated, strategic approach, the company operates across Prescription (RX), Over-the-Counter (OTC), and Front-of-Shop (FOS) categories—bringing trusted international names to Irish consumers while helping new brands find their footing.
The company’s values— openness, collaboration, energy, accountability, and nimbleness—
guide its daily operations and long-term decisions. These principles don’t just hang on the office wall; they define Ocean’s relationships, drive its culture, and are embedded in how the business delivers results for partners and customers alike.
From Start-Up to Market Leader
Ocean Healthcare was established in a time when the Irish pharmacy market was undergoing significant change. The early 2000s saw a shift toward increased regulation and a growing role for pharmacies as community health hubs.
pharmacist for first-line advice on minor ailments, skincare, nutritional supplements, and wellness products.
Founder and CEO Graham Stafford recognised a gap in the market for a company that could do more than just distribute products—one that could actively manage, grow, and position brands for long-term success.
With that vision, Ocean Healthcare began with a modest offering and a small team. But through a combination of strategic foresight, strong relationships, and an unwavering focus on brand success, the company quickly gained traction. Its ability to identify niche opportunities— such as in fertility supplements or dental care—has helped it expand steadily while remaining agile in a dynamic market.
Today, the company’s portfolio includes Proceive, E45, TePe, Bio-Oil, Lamisil, and Foster Grant, among others. Each brand is supported with bespoke marketing campaigns, extensive in-store education, and tailored sales strategies designed to boost sell-through and brand loyalty at the pharmacy level.
Ireland’s Community Pharmacy Sector: A Unique Advantage
One of the unique aspects of Ocean Healthcare’s success lies in its deep understanding of Ireland’s community pharmacy landscape. Unlike many other European countries, Ireland’s pharmacies often serve as trusted local health advisors, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Consumers frequently turn to their
This trust creates a valuable platform for OTC and FOS brands—and Ocean Healthcare is ideally positioned to leverage it. Through a network of territory managers who visit 70% of Irish pharmacies every eight weeks, the company ensures strong connections on the ground. These visits focus not just on orders and displays, but on product education, training, and supporting pharmacists in making confident, informed recommendations.
“We see our pharmacy customers as true partners,” says Stafford. “Their trust in our brands is built on consistency, quality, and support— not just pricing or promotions.”
Brand-Building,
Not Just Distribution
What makes Ocean Healthcare different is its laser-sharp focus on brand development. Unlike many distributors that offer a wide but shallow range of products, Ocean works with a carefully selected portfolio—ensuring each brand receives tailored attention.
This includes:
• 360° brand support spanning trade marketing, consumer awareness, and HCP engagement
• Category leadership positioning based on market research and trend analysis
• Local market expertise, helping international brands adapt their messaging for Irish consumers
Graham Stafford, CEO Ocean Healthcare
A standout example is the development of Proceive, Ireland’s leading preconception supplement. When Ocean identified a gap in the fertility supplement market, its sister company Affirm Health undertook several years of R&D to develop a comprehensive range designed for both men and women. Today, Proceive has become the go-to product in its category, thanks in large part to Ocean’s brand-building framework.
Future-Forward: E-Commerce, Preventative Health, and Expansion
Looking ahead, Ocean Healthcare is preparing for the next wave of transformation in the pharmacy and consumer health space. Two major shifts are already underway:
1. A growing focus on preventative health –Consumers are becoming more invested in long-term wellness, driving demand for vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and immune-support products.
2. The rise of digital health retail – While still nascent in Ireland, online pharmacy channels are expected to gain traction rapidly. Ocean is actively planning for this evolution, investing in omnichannel support strategies and digital marketing to stay ahead of the curve.
The company is also expanding its footprint. With the business and
team continuing to grow, Ocean moved into a larger headquarters in 2021—and is already preparing for another move in 2026 to accommodate further expansion.
Leading with Sustainability and Responsibility
Ocean Healthcare also recognises its role in addressing environmental challenges in the healthcare sector. The company prioritises recyclable
and biodegradable packaging, partners with sustainable manufacturers, and reduces emissions through responsible supply chains.
TePe, one of Ocean’s key partners, exemplifies this approach. Their production facility in Malmö, Sweden, has run on 100% renewable electricity since 2016 and maintains a rigorous emissions reduction roadmap. Ocean proudly aligns with such environmentally focused brands to ensure its impact extends beyond commercial success.
A Culture That Empowers People Culture is another cornerstone of Ocean Healthcare’s success. With an emphasis on collaboration, continuous learning, and shared purpose, the company fosters an environment where people can thrive professionally and personally.
Team development is more than a perk—it’s a priority. From tailored training to company-wide strategy days, Ocean invests in its people as much as it does in its brands. Employees regularly attend specialist courses, such as the Mini MBA in Marketing by Mark Ritson, while team-building events create a close-knit and motivated workforce.
“We’re growing as a business because we’re growing as a team,” says Stafford. “Our people are our greatest asset—and we’re building something meaningful together.”
The Ocean Healthcare Sales and Marketing Team
Ocean Healthcare’s journey is far from over. With a proven model, strong values, and a clear vision, the company is not just participating in the Irish healthcare market—it’s helping to shape its future.
The Ocean Healthcare Sales Team
Increasing Healthcare Efficiency
Projects on improving access to vaccinations against shingles, preparing older patients for kidney transplants and the avoidance of inappropriate cell testing in laboratory settings have been announced as the winners of the inaugural High Potential Innovation Awards by the Graduate School of Healthcare Management at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, in partnership with the HSE Spark Innovation Programme.
The awards are a new initiative that supports and advances transformative solutions for healthcare delivery and patient care. The winning projects were chosen from ideas developed by participants of RCSI’s MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare. Each of the winners will receive funding and support to progress their idea with their associated organisation. The winning projects are:
• Sarah Gleeson – Breaking Barriers: A Nurse-Led Vaccination Model Eliminating Financial Obstacles to Essential Shingles Protection for Ireland's Most Vulnerable IBD Patients
• Dr John Holland – OK POP: Older Kidney Patient Optimisation Pre-transplant
• Isabelle Delachapelle – Could the Introduction of a Demand Management System Reduce Inappropriate Testing in our Inmmunophenotyping Service?
“The participants in RCSI’s online MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare are practising clinicians, doctors, nurses, interdisciplinary health and social care professionals, healthcare managers and administrators,” said Dr Gloria Kirwan, Programme Director and Senior Lecturer, RCSI School of Graduate Healthcare Management.
“The High Potential Innovation Awards provide an ideal environment for developing and testing new ideas and initiatives from a broad range of perspectives. Sarah Gleeson’s
Pictured (L-R): Caitriona Heffernan, National Clinical Innovation Lead, HSE Spark Innovation Programme; Dr Gloria Kirwan, Senior Lecturer, RCSI School of Graduate Healthcare Management; Dr Colm Foster, Director of Academic Programmes, RCSI Graduate School of Management; Sara McDonnell, Executive Director, RCSI Graduate School of Management and RCSI Online
project has the potential to broaden the delivery of vaccination for patients with irritable bowel disease, and Dr John Holland has developed an assessment pathway for treating older adults with kidney failure awaiting transplant. Both are worthy recipients of RCSI bursaries, and alongside HSE Spark Innovation Programme bursary recipient Isabelle Delachapelle’s work on laboratory efficiency, they demonstrate programme participants’ widespread appetite and capability for improving healthcare systems and patient outcomes.”
Caitriona Heffernan, National Clinical Innovation Lead, HSE Spark said: “HSE Spark enables healthcare workers to develop solutions to improve our health service, and when we announced our involvement in the High Potential Innovation Awards we asked for a pipeline of creative and staff-led ideas, solutions and practices.
“Isabelle Delachapelle’s project answers this call perfectly as she takes a real-world, everyday problem – avoiding inappropriate testing in laboratory settings – and
New product launch for Pinewood
Zirpine 1mg/ml Cetirizine Oral Solution is a non-drowsy antihistamine used for the relief of the symptoms of hayfever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) and allergies such as dust or pet allergies (perennial allergic rhinitis)and rashes associated with hives and itching (chronic idiopathic urticaria).
Symptoms relieved can include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, red or watery eyes and red, itchy skin. 10ml (equals to 2 measuring spoons ) contains 10 mg of cetirizine dihydrochloride.
Zirpine 1mg/ml Oral Solution is available in 2 pack sizes available (100ml & 200ml) with the 100ml available on GMS.
offers a potential solution that aims to increase efficiency and reduce the unnecessary use of resources. We aim to nurture the leadership capability of people like Isabelle and other individuals and teams working across the health service to deliver safer, better healthcare, and this is a significant step in the process of health service improvement.”
Sara McDonnell, Executive Director, RCSI Graduate School of Management and RCSI Online said: “The RCSI Graduate School of Healthcare Management offers practical, actionable solutions for healthcare professionals and their organisations. These awards show once again that our students and graduates are leading change and delivering immediate, real-world improvements in healthcare.
“Congratulations to Sarah, John and Isabelle, who have stepped forward with developments in the fields of vaccine accessibility, kidney treatment and laboratory efficiency and met our request for a ‘substantial enhancement of current service delivery’. This mission is shared across our prospectus of 23 programmes, all of which are delivered online and globally, and have a core objective of increasing efficiency and improving patient outcomes.”
Each of the winners will receive bursaries of ¤3,000, two of which are funded by RCSI and open to all students of the University’s MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare. The third bursary is funded by HSE Spark for employees of the HSE or a Section 38 organisation in Ireland.
From Belarus to Mallow: How Life
Pharmacy Became Artur Zhukavetz’s Home Away from Home
From a one-month visit to a lifelong connection, Artur Zhukavetz’s journey from Belarus to Mallow is a heartwarming story of resilience, community, and finding home in the most unexpected of places. What began with a childhood trip through the Chernobyl Children’s programme has since grown into a life deeply rooted in Ireland — with Life Pharmacy at the centre of it all.
“At first, I thought Ireland was Holland… or maybe Iceland.”
Artur Zhukavetz recalls, thinking back to the summer of 2003. “I had to look it up on a map.”
He was just 12 years old when he and his younger brother left Belarus for the first time, travelling to Ireland as part of the Chernobyl Children’s programme run by Adi Roche. It was meant to be a one-month stay – fresh air, rest, and kindness in a
country they knew nothing about. What neither of them expected was that it would change Artur’s life forever.
After landing in Shannon, the boys were taken to Mallow Community Centre to meet their host families. They waited nervously until Betty and Eamon Murphy from Kanturk walked through the doors.
“They were so warm, so welcoming. That moment changed everything.”
What started as a brief summer escape turned into an annual visit, and eventually, a new life. Now in his 30s and living in Mallow full time, Artur has called Ireland home for over 11 years. And at the heart of his journey? Life Pharmacy Mallow, where he’s become not just a valued team member, but a much-loved presence in the community.
“I never imagined I’d work in pharmacy. I had no background in it. I walked into
Life Pharmacy not knowing anything about pharmacy,” Artur says. “But they didn’t just give me a job, they gave me a chance.”
Artur first began working in pharmacy under the store’s previous ownership with the late John Mulcahy. It was John who gave him his start, and the two developed a close personal connection, something Artur remembers with great respect and gratitude.
Originally trained in law and close to becoming a barrister in Belarus, Artur never imagined a future in healthcare. “They were incredibly patient with me. I was adjusting, learning a completely new profession. They supported me through every step, emotionally and professionally.”
The team at Life Pharmacy took a peoplefirst approach, giving Artur simple tasks to start with, helping him settle in at his own pace. It wasn’t long before he was thriving, learning fast, connecting with customers, and becoming a cornerstone of the Mallow store.
“This isn’t just a workplace. It’s a family.
My colleagues have stood by me through some of the hardest times of my life. We laugh, we help each other, we look out for every person who walks through that door.”
Even the steep learning curve of Irish pharmacy didn’t deter him. “Back home, you can buy antibiotics over the counter. Here, everything is regulated. It was like learning a new language, but I was willing, and they were willing to teach me.”
My colleagues have stood by me through some of the hardest times of my life. We laugh, we help each other, we look out for every person who walks through that door.”
Even the steep learning curve of Irish pharmacy didn’t deter him. “Back home, you can buy antibiotics over the counter. Here, everything is regulated. It was like learning a new language, but I was willing, and they were willing to teach me.”
Now, Artur can’t walk down the street in Mallow without stopping to greet someone. “Even if I haven’t served you at the counter, I probably know you. The pharmacy is at the centre of the community, and I feel like I’m part of something real.”
Now, Artur can’t walk down the street in Mallow without stopping to greet someone. “Even if I haven’t served you at the counter, I probably know you. The pharmacy is at the centre of the community, and I feel like I’m part of something real.”
“There’s nowhere in the world like Ireland,” he says. “I’ve travelled, but this is home. And Life
“There’s nowhere in the world like Ireland,” he says. “I’ve travelled, but this is home. And Life
Pharmacy is a huge part of that. They gave me purpose, belonging, and the chance to rebuild my life.”
Pharmacy is a huge part of that. They gave me purpose, belonging, and the chance to rebuild my life.”
He’s also deeply grateful for the Irish values of openness and quiet strength. “In Ireland, people made space for me to grow. They didn’t expect me to be perfect; they expected me to try. And I did.”
He’s also deeply grateful for the Irish values of openness and quiet strength. “In Ireland, people made space for me to grow. They didn’t expect me to be perfect; they expected me to try. And I did.”
Becoming an Irish citizen in 2024 was a proud moment. But for Artur, real belonging comes in everyday things, shared jokes with colleagues, warm chats with regular customers, the sense that he’s known and valued.
Becoming an Irish citizen in 2024 was a proud moment. But for Artur, real belonging comes in everyday things, shared jokes with colleagues, warm chats with regular customers, the sense that he’s known and valued.
When asked about his dreams for the future, Artur doesn’t ask for much, just more time with his loved ones. With travel from Belarus now made difficult due to political circumstances, his biggest wish is to one day welcome his family for regular visits.
When asked about his dreams for the future, Artur doesn’t ask for much, just more time with his loved ones. With travel from Belarus now made difficult due to political circumstances, his biggest wish is to one day welcome his family for regular visits.
“That would be my golden dream,” he says. “To have them here, even just for a few weeks.”
“That would be my golden dream,” he says. “To have them here, even just for a few weeks.”
Artur’s journey from Belarus to
is one of
Artur’s journey from Belarus to Mallow is one of
quiet courage and deeprooted connection. It’s also a powerful reminder of what makes Life Pharmacy more than a pharmacy: it’s a place of belonging.
quiet courage and deeprooted connection. It’s also a powerful reminder of what makes Life Pharmacy more than a pharmacy: it’s a place of belonging.
Join Life Pharmacy
Life Pharmacy is always looking to expand its community of independent pharmacists. To learn more about joining, contact Laura Garrett at lgarrett@uniphar.ie or speak to any Life Pharmacy board member.
Pharmacy is always looking to expand its community of independent pharmacists. To learn more about joining, contact Laura Garrett at lgarrett@uniphar.ie or speak to any Life Pharmacy board member.
Mallow
Tonstix Pops- The Smart Choice for Soothing Children’s Throats, Coughs
& Tummies
Pharmacy staff know better than anyone when parents walk through your doors with a child battling a sore throat, nagging cough, or travel tummy jitters, they’re looking for real solutions. This is why Tonstix Pops are quickly becoming an essential recommendation for frontline pharmacy teams across Ireland.
Developed using natural ingredients and backed by science, Tonstix Throat Pops and Tonstix Travel Pops are designed specifically for children aged 2+, providing relief that parents can trust and pharmacists can stand behind.
Tonstix Throat Pops – Naturally Soothing for Sore Throats and Coughs
popping travel T Pops & VITAMIN
Tonstix Throat Pops are a practical, child-friendly delivery system for sore throat and cough relief. Each individually wrapped pop is formulated with a powerful trio of natural honey, zinc, and vitamin C, ingredients known for their immune-supportive, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
This isn’t just anecdotal. A study conducted by the Centre of Applied Bioscience Research has helped to scientifically demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and throat-soothing effects of our unique formulation on human throat cells, giving healthcare professionals confidence in recommending Tonstix as part of a symptom management plan.
The individually wrapped format also makes them incredibly easy for parents to deliver, no spills, no syringes, and no sticky hands. Tonstix Throat Pops are the perfect choice for on-the-go
families needing effective symptom support without the mess. Available in Apple and Strawberry flavours with a fun sticker sheet included in each pack.
Backed by Research
No Mess, No Fuss
Trusted Natural Ingredients
Tonstix Travel Pops – Helping to Ease Upset Tummies and Take the Pressure Off Flying.
Travel can be tough on little ones. That is why we developed Tonstix Travel Pops, a jelly-format pop
Esmé Simington, Head of Healthcare, Valeo Foods, Sinead Crowther, CEO, Tonstix, Denise Lauaki, COO, Tonstix, Marie Amond, Customer Business Manager, Valeo Healthcare
that’s gentle, effective, and smartly formulated to help ease common travel discomforts.
Made with the same natural honey and vitamin C base for immune support, the addition of ginger, a time-honoured remedy to help settle upset tummies makes these pops a go-to solution for parents tackling travel sickness in the car, on a ferry, train or plane or whether it's a long haul flight or quick drive down the motorway.
The soft jelly pop is particularly ideal for flights, where encouraging a sucking action can help reduce ear popping during takeoff and landing. Safe, tasty, and easy to carry, Tonstix Travel Pops are the kind of practical travel companion parents will thank you for recommending. Available in orange flavour, with a fun sticker sheet and cute passport included in each pack.
Helps Ease Travel Sickness
Supports Ears During Flights
Natural Ginger for Tummy Support
The Role of the Pharmacy: Why Your Recommendation Matters
Parents rely heavily on pharmacy staff to suggest what actually works. Tonstix Pops are not novelty lollipops, they are evidence-supported, carefully developed, and highly convenient tools in pediatric symptom relief.
From the research-led throatsoothing action of Tonstix Throat Pops to the thoughtful travelfocused benefits of Tonstix Travel Pops, these products deliver comfort, and care in every pack.
The next time a parent walks in looking for sore throat relief or something to help make travel easier for their child, you can confidently recommend Tonstix Pops, not just because they have been approved by children, but because they are pharmacyrecommended.
Tonstix and Valeo Healthcare are delighted to announce their new partnership, with Valeo now the exclusive distributor of Tonstix Pops in Ireland. For all product enquiries, please contact Valeo Healthcare directly.
Tonstix Pops – Tried by Thousands of Parents. Trusted by Pharmacies.
B . When compared to a known anti-inflammatory agent, Tonstix Jelly Pop sample reduced the production of the inflammatory marker IL-6, which is linked to antiinflammatory activity.
MANAGER :
travel sickness Pops VITAMIN
Why early oral care matters ahead of Back to School time
Founded in 2016 by sisters and dentists Dr. Lisa and Dr. Vanessa Creaven, Spotlight Oral Care’s goal is to create the best clean, clinically proven, effective, and earth-kind oral care products possible, while educating and promoting oral health awareness amongst patients and customers. Before the routines begin again for kids as they start back to school, Dr Vanessa Creaven shares with us the top tips to make brushing less of a chore and more fun for kids.
Establishing a solid brushing routine during childhood is about more than fresh breath and clean teeth. It sets the foundation for lifelong dental health. Baby teeth play a critical role in helping children chew, speak, and maintain space for adult teeth. If those teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can lead to pain, infection, and longterm dental complications.
“By helping a child build healthy habits early, you're setting them up for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles”, says Dr Vanessa.
How to get your children to brush their teeth
1. Make it a routine
Consistency is key. Brushing should happen at the same time each day, ideally before breakfast and before bed. When it becomes a non-negotiable part of the routine (like putting on pyjamas), children are less likely to resist.
2. Turn brushing into a game
Children are more likely to engage with tasks that feel like play.
Whether you count how many “sugar bugs” they can brush away, challenge them to reach every tooth before the timer runs out, or use a brushing app with animated characters, making it interactive can turn resistance into enthusiasm.
3. Use a timer or the tooth brush song
We recommend brushing for two full minutes, but for kids that can feel like an eternity. A visual timer or a two-minute song can help
your child stay on track without constant prompting.
4. Brush together
Children learn best by example. Brushing your teeth alongside your child not only shows them how to do it correctly, but also turns brushing into a shared activity, rather than a solo task. It's a great opportunity to model good technique and reinforce the importance of oral care.
5. Reward consistency using a sticker chart
For younger children, visual motivation can be a powerful tool. Try using a sticker chart where they can mark off each brushing session. After a week of consistent brushing, they can earn a small reward, like choosing the bedtime story or an extra five minutes of playtime.
6. Let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste
Giving kids the opportunity to choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste can increase their willingness to brush. A toothbrush featuring a fun character or a toothpaste with a fruity, childfriendly flavour can make the experience more enjoyable for them. When kids feel involved in the decision, they’re more likely to engage with the routine consistently. As dentists, Dr. Lisa and Dr. Vanessa have a unique insight into the needs and concerns of their dental patients, which informs everything they create at the company. Passionate about oral health, and on a mission to make oral care not only effective and clean but sustainable too, Spotlight Oral Care is bridging the gap between oral health and beauty. Whether you’re ready for a whiter, brighter smile or want to say bye, bye to Sensitive Teeth for good, Spotlight Oral Care is on a mission to help the whole family uncover their greatest smile yet.
For more information on Spotlight Oral Care visit eu.spotlightoralcare. com or contact your Spotlight Oral Care Sales Rep today.
Founders of Spotlight Oral Care, Dr. Vanessa and Dr. Lisa Creaven
The Nature of Things: A Breath of Fresh Air for Irish Pharmacies
Official launch of new room spray range introduces pharmacy customers to a new kind of wellbeing experience
Already popular among wellness-savvy consumers, The Nature of Things offers pharmacies an opportunity to expand their natural product offering with a range that’s beautifully packaged and easy to recommend. Made in Ireland and grounded in quality, sustainability, and efficacy, their essential oils, roll ons and sprays meet rising customer demand, while enhancing everyday wellbeing and enriching your retail experience.
This September marks the official launch of a beautifully crafted range of room sprays, harnessing the natural power of aromatherapy.
Three Unique Scents. One Shared Purpose.
The Nature of Things room sprays combine function and fragrance in a compact, elegant 50ML format, priced at ¤16 RRP. Designed for everyday use at home or in the workplace, each blend brings a unique aromatic profile and moodboosting benefit.
Purity offers a fresh, citrusy, and earthy aroma, a dynamic blend of ten essential oils including Bergamot, Mandarin, Patchouli, and Lavender. It’s ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas that benefit from an invigorating scent lift.
Cosy Winter is a warm, spicy, and woody spray designed to evoke the comfort of long evenings indoors. A perfect companion to autumn and winter, it works beautifully in family living rooms, bedrooms, or retail spaces.
Think Positive is all about creating an uplifting environment. With its citrus notes, sweet geranium and hint of spices, it’s designed to lift the
mood, promote self-esteem, and infuse any space with a renewed sense of optimism.
All three sprays are alcoholbased and made with a blend of pure essential oils, no synthetic fragrances, no harmful additives, and no compromise on quality.
Blended and bottled in Dublin, they are proudly made in Ireland with transparency, sustainability, and aromatherapeutic intention at their core.
Meet the Maker: Benoit Nicol
The Nature of Things was founded in 2018 by Benoit Nicol, a Frenchborn essential oil expert with over 20 years’ experience working with some of the world’s best distillers and master perfumers. A long-time believer in the power of natural scent, Benoit brought his vision to life in Dublin’s creative hub, The Chocolate Factory, on King’s Inns Street.
“Trees, flowers, and aromatic plants have evolved to produce some of the most beautiful scents in nature,” Benoit says. “Using only natural ingredients is my way of honouring that beauty. I believe humans respond differently, more deeply, to scents that come from nature rather than those made in a lab.”
Benoit Nicol
This philosophy is embedded in every product he makes. From sustainably sourced raw materials to low-waste, beautifully designed recyclable packaging, The Nature of Things is more than a brand, it’s a way of being in harmony with nature.
Why Stock The Nature of Things?
As pharmacies continue to expand their wellness offerings and lifestyle categories, The Nature of Things provides a clear point of difference.
Irish-Made & Ethically Produced: Products are made in small batches in Dublin using high-grade, ethically sourced ingredients. The brand is a member of the Irish Organic Association and prioritises organic and fair-trade sources whenever possible.
Trusted by Wellness Experts: With a loyal following among wellness professionals and essential oil users, The Nature of Things has built a reputation for quality and integrity.
Shelf-Ready Products with Broad Appeal: Whether it’s a customer looking to create a relaxing space, reduce stress, or simply enjoy a more natural lifestyle, the room sprays cater to a wide range of needs. Their elegant packaging and
¤16 RRP make them ideal as gifts, impulse purchases, or daily essentials.
In addition to the new room sprays, The Nature of Things offers a comprehensive range of wellness products including pure essential oils, popular blends such as Sleep Well, Wake-Up, and Don’t Stress, eco-conscious diffusers, roll-ons, mists, and a large collection of gift sets, all thoughtfully crafted to support holistic wellbeing with a clean, modern aesthetic.
A Growing Brand with a Clear Vision
With its growing product line and increased presence in pharmacies and lifestyle stores around Ireland, The Nature of Things is fast becoming a favourite among customers looking for authenticity, efficacy, and a little luxury in their self-care routines.
This autumn is an ideal time for pharmacies to stock the full room spray collection, just in time for seasonal resets, back-to-school routines, and pre-Christmas gifting.
To learn more, request samples, or become a stockist, visit www. thenatureofthings.ie or contact hello@thenatureofthings.ie
The Nature of Things offers beautifully crafted natural wellness products to use at home, the office, or wherever life takes you. Every product is made with care in Ireland and designed to boost your mood.
Explore our collections : Essential oils and Blends, Body oils, Roll Ons, Mists, Room Sprays as well as a lovely assortment of Gift Sets.
To request a price list or become a stockist email us at hello@thenatureofthings.ie or scan this QR code and fill out our wholesale form.
The Nature of Things, 26 King’s Inns Street, Dublin | www.thenatureofthings.ie
Topic Team Training – First Aid
A community pharmacy environment that fosters teamwork ensured high levels of consumer satisfaction. This series of articles is designed for you to use as guide to assist your team in focusing on meeting ongoing CPD targets and to identify any training needs in order to keep the knowledge and skills of you and your team up to date.
The below information, considerations and checklist provides support to enable you to run a team training session and identify opportunities for learning within the topic of First Aid.
Children of school age, particularly those involved in sports, outdoor play, and group activities are prone to a wide variety of minor injuries. As accessible healthcare providers, community pharmacists and their teams play a vital role in recognising, advising on, and managing these injuries appropriately.
Cuts, Grazes & Scratches
These are common during play or sport. Elbows, knees, and hands are frequent trouble spots.
• Recommend antiseptic wipes, sprays, and creams.
• Offer a variety of dressings— flexible, waterproof, or hypoallergenic.
• Advise on signs of infection (e.g. redness, swelling, pus) and when to seek medical attention.
Bruises & Bumps
Usually harmless but can be painful.
• Suggest cold packs or gel compresses (wrapped in a towel).
• Recommend age-appropriate pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Consider:
• Reassure parents but flag serious signs: confusion, vomiting, or excessive swelling.
3. Sprains & Strains
Ankles and wrists are most affected.
• Teach the R.I.C.E. approach: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.
• Stock crepe and tubular bandages.
• Offer topical anti-inflammatories for older children (check age restrictions).
• Refer if a fracture is suspected (e.g., severe swelling, inability to bear weight).
Blisters
Often from new shoes or sports.
• Recommend hydrocolloid blister plasters.
• Advise against popping blisters; if broken, clean and cover to avoid infection.
• Refer if there are signs of allergy or facial swelling.
Age-appropriate recommendations before suggesting medications or topical treatments
Clear advice to be ready to explain when a minor injury requires medical attention
Product familiarity, staying up to date with the first aid products you stock
Any follow-up actions or referral that may be required
Head Bumps
Often from falls or rough play.
• Advise cold compresses and symptom monitoring for 24–48 hours.
• Refer for concerning signs: vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.
OTC Considerations
Understanding which treatments are most suitable for children, along with proper usage guidance, age restrictions, and safety precautions, is vital to ensuring good outcomes and customer trust.
Age-Appropriate Pain Relief
Children experiencing pain from bruises, sprains, or minor cuts may benefit from analgesics.
Paracetamol and Ibuprofen:
• Both are commonly used and well-tolerated in children, but dosing must be based on age and weight.
• Always ask about existing medical conditions (e.g., asthma, gastrointestinal issues) or other medications to check for interactions.
• Offer liquid formulations for younger children and chewable or meltable tablets for older ones.
• Encourage parents to use a measuring syringe or spoon for accurate dosing.
What Every Home First Aid Kit Should Include
Pharmacists should guide parents in preparing a well-stocked, familyfriendly kit. Suggest including:
• Alcohol-based hand gel
• Disposable gloves
Key Points:
Check your pharmacy team are aware and understand the following key points:
Are able to effectively respond to emergencies and provide basic first aid care
Are aware of common first aid conditions
Be aware of the OTC treatment options available
Know when to refer and spot red flags
• Sterile gauze swabs and absorbent pads
• Antiseptic wipes and cream
• A variety of adhesive plasters
• Crepe bandages and tubular bandages
• Triangular bandages (for slings and arm support)
• Medical scissors and tweezers
• Instant cold packs
By offering practical advice, personal product recommendations, and helping customers build confidence in basic first aid, community pharmacies strengthen their essential role in family health. Training the whole team to confidently discuss minor injury management ensures that every member of staff can provide trusted, consistent care.
Always remind carers—when in doubt, seek advice from a healthcare professional or call emergency services.
Actions:
Educate staff on how to recognise common minor injuries (e.g. cuts, grazes, bruises, sprains, insect bites) and their typical presentations in children and adults.
Ensure the team understands current recommendations for first aid and OTC treatments, including age-appropriate products and safe use.
Train staff to confidently advise customers on proper use of first aid items, such as dressings, antiseptics, cold packs, and pain relief for minor injuries.
Support the team in explaining management options and when medical attention may be needed, including potential complications like infection or improper wound healing.
Be familiar with red flags or scenarios where first aid is not suitable for self-care and should be escalated (e.g., deep wounds, head injuries, signs of allergic reaction).
Summer Burn Care Essentials
Burns happen. Relief should be easy.
Medicare Burn Care Range features dressings, plasters, gels and now spray provide instant relief from burns, scalds and sunburn. The sterile dressing and cooling hydrogel helps protects against infection, minimises trauma and skin damage. Our Burn Spray, with cooling hydrogel is enriched with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and calendula.
The Asthma Society of Ireland is urging the Government to address the growing affordability crisis facing asthma patients in Budget 2026. A new survey of 104 healthcare professionals and 627 asthma patients (or their parents) has revealed widespread concern over cost-related non-adherence, with many healthcare professionals reporting that patients are regularly forced to skip or ration their medication.
Over 90% of surveyed healthcare professionals reported that, in their clinical experience, patients delay or avoid purchasing prescribed asthma medication due to cost - while 85% observed patients have modifying their medication usage patterns, such as skipping doses or reducing frequency, due to cost concerns. 64% of healthcare professionals surveyed support full subsidisation of asthma medication in Budget 2026. Over three quarters (75.9%) of healthcare professionals surveyed observed a correlation between poor housing and asthma exacerbations in their patients.
The Society’s pre-budget submission, Backing Every Breath, Building Better Care, calls for phased subsidisation of asthma medications that prioritises combination inhalers, increased
capacity in the healthcare system, and free home energy upgrades for low-income households.
On the issue of increased healthcare system capacity, the Asthma Society is calling for the Government to ensure that every Severe Asthma Clinic in the country is resourced with at least one fully qualified Advanced Nurse Practitioner, and that funding is ringfenced to reopen and fill previously unfilled Respiratory Physiologist posts.
Professor Marcus Butler, Medical Director of the Asthma Society and consultant respiratory physician at St Vincent’s University Hospital responded to the survey findings saying, “When people with asthma face financial hardship, many are forced to choose between the treatment that they need and other household priorities,
Prof. Marcus Butler, Medical Director, Asthma Society of Ireland
such as paying the mortgage. My colleagues and I see it in our clinical practice regularly. Combination inhalers are considered the gold standard in asthma treatment for most asthma patients. They are proven to be extremely effective in controlling asthma and reducing symptoms which, of course, has a positive knock-on effect for the patient and the healthcare system. Combination inhalers, however, are expensive which can be prohibitive to patients, as our survey suggests.
Professor Butler continued, “The most recent CSO figures available to us show that 87 people died from asthma in 2022, with provisional figures indicating this trend has continued into 2023 and 2024. The majority of these deaths are preventable. As a priority, the Government must ensure that asthma medication is accessible to everyone who needs it. We recognise that this cannot happen overnight, which is why we’re calling for a phased approach towards universal subsidisation, starting with the most effective maintenance inhalers.”
Eilís Ní Chaithnía, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said the political will to act is now urgently needed.
“The survey finding that so many people with asthma are having it difficult to make ends meet is, unfortunately, a surprise to no one in the asthma community. Asthma imposes a heavy financial burden, with some medications costing up to ¤80 a month. With a combination of targeted investment and taxation measures, we can bring asthma under control, reduce exacerbations, hospitalisations and preventable deaths, and improve quality of life for hundreds of thousands of people in Ireland. But it will also require political will.”
Key survey results
(Asthma Society of Ireland survey of 104 healthcare professionals, May–June 2025)
• Delayed or avoided purchasing medication due to cost:
Call for Judges: OTC & Retail Pharmacy Product Awards 2026
As a judge for the OTC & Retail Pharmacy Product Awards 2026, you will play a crucial role in evaluating and selecting the most outstanding Over-the-Counter Pharmacy Products in Ireland. Your expertise and insights will help us identify products that have made significant contributions to the field, whether through technological advancements, patient care improvements, or other remarkable achievements.
Here are some key details about the judging process and requirements:
Judging Process:
• The judging process will be conducted remotely.
• Finalists’ Products will be posted to each judge giving you the opportunity to try, test and evaluate.
• Each judge will be assigned specific product categories.
• Judges will review product submissions, provide scores, and offer constructive feedback.
Requirements:
• Pharmacists, Buyers and Owners.
• A commitment to fairness, impartiality, and confidentiality.
• Availability to review and evaluate product submissions during the judging period.
If you are interested in becoming a judge for the OTC & Retail Pharmacy Product Awards 2026, please email with your name, contact information to robynmaginnis@ipn.ie
80 Clinical Profiles
NEW HSE CORPORATE PLAN SETS OUT HEALTH SERVICE AMBITIONS FOR NEXT THREE YEARS AND BEYOND
The HSE Board has launched HSE Corporate Plan 2025-2027, ‘Your Health, Our Mission: Shaping Care Together’. While building on the work and progress made, the Plan sets out the HSE’s priorities to address:
1. issues of access, especially for those most in need
2. stronger partnerships on the wider social factors that contribute to health, and
3. ensuring a more accountable, value-based health and social care service
Ciarán Devane, HSE Board Chairperson, said, “Our vision for a healthier Ireland is underpinned by our mission to ensure every patient is supported by high quality health and social care services. Access to safe, compassionate and quality care should be available for people when and where they need it. The new Plan serves as a roadmap towards this priority, through collective action and delivery through the recently established Health Regions.
“The Plan is also intended to set the foundation for a more resilient, modernised and responsive health
and social care system for the future. The digitisation of the health services, under the programme for government, is currently underway and forms a core part of the HSE's Corporate Plan. Digital Health is key to transforming the delivery of integrated health and social care services, improving health outcomes for all our population and the experience for our patients and service users.
The Plan reiterates the HSE’s commitment to being active partners with patients and service users, voluntary organisations, our staff and government colleagues. Together, we will work to ensure excellent service delivery and a person-centred experience for all.”
The five priorities for our health and social care services are expressed as commitments to patients and service users across their lifetime, and to our staff and teams. They include:
1. Healthy Communities: Together, we will create supportive environments for people to live healthier and for longer
2. Right Care: You will experience high-quality, safe and coordinated care
3. Right Place: You will receive care in the setting most appropriate for your needs
4. Right Time: You will be able to access services when you need them
5. Strong Foundations: We will invest in our people, the right capabilities and technology enables us to support a culture where teams are empowered to innovate and deliver excellent care
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said, “Irish people are living longer and that is a testament to how we are investing in our health and social care system and to the efforts of our excellent and dedicated staff.
"However, with a growing and aging population comes increased demands, and an increase in frailty and chronic diseases. The establishment of Health Regions heralds a time of opportunity, to fully embrace integrated care, champion effective decisionmaking, and promote a strong local focus with the patient at the centre.
“I very much welcome the commitment in the HSE Corporate Plan 2025-2027 to creating supportive environments for people to live healthier lives for longer and the strong focus on workforce strengthening and digital transformation. Its focus on increased access to services and improved efficiency and productivity, including through
the provision of more services with longer operating hours on a 7 day a week basis, will help to bring us closer to our vision of providing everyone in Ireland with high quality, safe, coordinated care where and when it is needed.”
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, said, “I welcome today’s publication of the HSE Corporate Plan. While the timeline of the Plan is for three years, our aspirations are grounded in a longer term commitment to supporting children and adults with disabilities. The best outcomes for people are achieved when all services work together in a coordinated and integrated way. This integrated approach underpins every commitment in the Plan, and seeks to improve and enhance supports and services for children and adults with disabilities at every stage of life.”
Anne Lawlor, Co-Chair, HSE Patient and Service User Forum, said, “I welcome the new Plan, which reflects the shared experiences and aspirations of patients, service users, and partners gathered through ongoing engagement and collaboration. The Plan sets out how to address the current needs of patients, while also setting the conditions for longer term change that will have lasting benefits for future
generations. Central to this is the strengthening of partnerships; partnerships with staff, patients and service users, communities, voluntary organisations and with Government. The collective efforts to fulfil the commitments within this Plan will make a real difference for people and their communities.”
The Plan seeks to maximise the unique opportunity and organisational reset that has been created by the establishment of the six Health Regions and 20 Integrated Health Areas, as envisaged in Sláintecare. It sets the conditions for a modern, value-based health and social care system, capable of delivering on the vision of Sláintecare where everyone has equitable access to the services they need.
Eleven more detailed objectives and 45 actions are outlined alongside 20 key measures, reflecting the overarching aim to improve how patients, service users and staff experience our health and social care services, as a result of this Plan being delivered.
The HSE Corporate Plan is available at hse.ie/corporateplan
IRISH INNOVATORS EALTRA SET TO REVOLUTIONISE CHEMOTHERAPY CARE
New clinical research demonstrates that Irish company eAltra is redefining prechemotherapy assessments using cutting-edge conversational AI technology, proven through a pilot study with Health Innovation Hub Ireland. Originally developed as a research initiative in TCD’s ADAPT Centre and now an Enterprise Ireland HPSU-funded company, the pioneering eAltra results were achieved through a collaborative innovation study led by Health Innovation Hub Ireland (HIHI) with Tallaght University Hospital (TUH). eAltra’s AI platform allows patients to complete chemotherapy toxicity assessments remotely, streamlining patient care and saving vital healthcare resources. The results of a six month HIHI study with TUH haematology department revealed:
• For patients: eAltra’s pre-appointment remote assessment, completed in under six minutes, reduces unnecessary travel and optimises appointment scheduling - timed chemo production ensures treatment is ready when a patient arrives, eliminating wait times by up to two hours. Patients overwhelmingly agreed that the tool was easy to use and clearly explained the process, improving engagement and experience.
• For care teams: Implementation of eAltra generates a minimum productivity gain of 3.5 hours per treatment day, saving 20 minutes per patient. Critically, 98% agreement was achieved between the chatbot and current gold-standard nurse-led assessments, ensuring quality care delivery.
• For budget holders: In a typical hospital setting treating 200 patients annually, efficiency gains per nurse amount to ¤27,300 annually, doubling to ¤55,000 with two clinical nurse specialists - a major cost saving for departments managing systemic anti-cancer therapy. Additionally, the potential for cost savings on paper printing annually is substantial.
• Interoperability: Designed for seamless integration, eAltra adheres to HL7 protocols and is fully interoperable with national health IT systems including the National Cancer Information System, Cerner/Oracle Health, and EPIC platforms.
• Sustainability: By offering remote care, eAltra reduces patient travel and supports a lower carbon footprint for healthcare services. With 5% of all travel globally attributed to healthcare, digital platforms can reduce this through remote engagement, reducing emissions. The transition to digital documentation also reduces paper use and waste, delivering clear environmental benefits.
Cancer remains a critical public health challenge in Ireland, with 42,000 new diagnoses each year. Pre-treatment assessments are standard, but the traditional in-person model often leads to unnecessary patient travel, costs and rescheduling. eAltra offers a conversational AI solution that enhances patient communication, reduces administrative burden, supports remote care delivery and enables data-driven quality improvement. eAltra represents a major step forward in delivering patient-centred, efficient, and sustainable oncology care.
Eimear Galvin, HIHI Dublin Manager said, “We know that AI is reshaping healthcare. These study results show that eAltra improves patient care, provides cost savings and increases productivity by streamlining processes and minimising delays in systemic anti-cancer therapy, in this case chemotherapy. By enabling remote assessments just 24 hours pre-appointment, unnecessary travel and associated costs are eliminated, ensuring timely rescheduling when required. Timed chemotherapy production
aligns drug preparation with patient arrival, reducing wait times by up to two hours and optimising pharmacy workflows.”
BOOTS PARTNERS WITH SPOTLIGHT
ORAL
CARE TO TACKLE HYGIENE POVERTY THIS BACK-TO-SCHOOL SEASON
Boots is partnering with Irish oral care brand, Spotlight Oral Care, in support of its charitable partner, Hygiene Hub, for their vital Backto-School campaign. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial pressure on families struggling with rising back-to-school costs by addressing hygiene poverty, particularly focusing on children's oral health.
From July 14th to August 8th, for every Spotlight Oral Care product purchased in any of Boots 94 stores across Ireland, Spotlight Oral Care will donate a bamboo toothbrush to Hygiene Hub. This commitment, expected to result in approximately 7,000 donated toothbrushes, will directly support Hygiene Hub’s nationwide efforts to provide essential hygiene products to families in need.
Back-to-school is a notoriously expensive time for parents, and essential hygiene products can often be overlooked when families are struggling to meet basic needs. This campaign highlights the critical link between hygiene and health, particularly for children.
"We are incredibly proud to deepen our commitment to Hygiene Hub through this meaningful partnership with Spotlight Oral Care," said Maeve McNamara, ESG Manager at Boots. "Hygiene poverty is a silent struggle for many families, and ensuring children have access to basic hygiene essentials, including toothbrushes, is fundamental to their health, dignity, and ability to thrive in school. This initiative
ESG manager at Boots, Maeve McNamara with founder of Spotlight Oral Care, Dr Vanessa Creaven and Ciára Dalton, co-founder of Hygiene Hub
offers our customers a simple way to make a significant difference."
Dr. Vanessa Creaven, Founder of Spotlight Oral Care, emphasised the importance of oral hygiene in childhood development. "Dental caries, or tooth decay, remains the single most common chronic disease of childhood in the Republic of Ireland. By donating a bamboo toothbrush for every Spotlight Oral Care product purchased, we are directly contributing to the fight against hygiene poverty and helping to protect the oral health of children who might otherwise go without. We are delighted to partner with Boots and Hygiene Hub on this crucial campaign."
Ciára Dalton, Co-Founder of Hygiene Hub, added, "The support from Boots and Spotlight Oral Care for our Back-to-School campaign is invaluable. Access to hygiene products is not a luxury; it's a basic human right. This partnership will help us reach more families and ensure children have the hygiene essentials they need to start the school year with confidence and good health."
To date, the Boots and Hygiene Hub partnership has led to the donation of over 3,229kg of hygiene products in Boots Ireland stores. These essential items have supported an estimated 1,076 families with a full set of hygiene basics, marking a significant milestone, with over 1,000 families now supported through our partnership.
VERTEX ANNOUNCES EUROPEAN COMMISSION APPROVAL OF ALYFTREK®, A NEW ONCE-DAILY CFTR MODULATOR FOR THE TREATMENT OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (Nasdaq: VRTX) today announced that the European Commission has granted approval for ALYFTREK® (deutivacaftor/ tezacaftor/vanzacaftor) for the treatment of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) ages 6 years and older who have at least one non-class I mutation in the cystic fibrosis
82 Clinical Profiles
transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene.
“Thousands of people with CF across the EU may now benefit from this new, once-daily medicine, which has demonstrated further improvement in CFTR protein function versus KAFTRIO®,” said Reshma Kewalramani, M.D., Chief Executive Officer and President of Vertex. “With this approval, we are one step closer to our ultimate goal of restoring normal levels of CFTR function in people living with CF.”
In two head-to-head pivotal clinical trials, deutivacaftor/tezacaftor/ vanzacaftor was non-inferior to KAFTRIO® (ivacaftor/tezacaftor/ elexacaftor) in combination with ivacaftor on ppFEV1 and superior at reducing sweat chloride, demonstrating greater improvement in CFTR function.
“It is great news that we now have a new treatment option to better address the multi-systemic disease that is CF. The results seen in the two deutivacaftor/ tezacaftor/vanzacaftor Phase 3 clinical trials showed similar (noninferiority) changes in ppFEV1 and superior improvement of sweat chloride levels compared to ivacaftor/tezacaftor/elexacaftor in combination with ivacaftor,” said Professor Edward McKone, MD, Consultant Respiratory Physician, St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin. “Achieving closer to normal levels of CFTR function could lead to greater benefits for people with CF and I am delighted that this newly approved medicine will soon be available for Irish CF patients.” In line with the reimbursement agreement in Ireland, Vertex is working with the Health Service Executive (HSE) to ensure all eligible patients will have access as quickly as possible.
MATER PRIVATE NETWORK ANNOUNCES ¤5.6 MILLION INVESTMENT IN INNOVATIVE CANCER CARE TECHNOLOGY
Mater Private Network has announced a ¤5.6 million investment in Ireland’s first TrueBeam LINACs with HyperSight– an advanced radiotherapy system that uses high-quality imaging to deliver faster, more precise cancer treatment. The new system, now available at its Dublin hospital and soon to be available in its Limerick Radiation Oncology Centre, enables clinicians to target tumours with greater accuracy, improving outcomes, reducing side effects and reducing treatment times for patients.
This announcement builds on a series of strategic investments by Mater Private Network, which has invested ¤20 million over the last five years to enhance cancer
services across its network. This latest upgrade reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation, clinical excellence, and faster access to care.
Hugh Healy, Director of Cancer, Mater Private Network, said: “Today marks a major milestone for cancer care in Ireland and builds on our ongoing investment in oncology services. This is the first time this technology is available in the country. The TrueBeam LINAC with HyperSight is capable of producing high quality scans in just six seconds, enhancing the precision of tumour targeting while making treatment times quicker for patients. Within our network, we will be able to offer best-in-class stereotacticcapable machines incorporating Varian HyperSight and Brainlab Exactrac Dynamic in both the east and west of the country, as part of the newest fleet of LINAC machines and planning CTs. We’re proud to be the first healthcare network in Ireland to introduce this treatment technology, reaffirming our commitment to ensuring that patients have access to the most advanced treatments available.”
Radiation oncology at Mater Private Network is led by a team of seven sub-specialty radiation oncologists, dedicated to delivering personalised, patient-centred care. Working closely with the Medical Oncology Department, and the multidisciplinary team at The Mater Hospitals and UCD Cancer Centre and University Hospital Limerick, the team works to optimise individualised treatment pathways and patient outcomes. Thanks to improved workflows and more efficient technology, patients referred to Mater Private Network for radiotherapy, including for prostate, brain, lung, and other site-specific cancers, can typically be seen within one week and begin treatment within one month of referral, ensuring expedited access to potentially life-saving care.
BOOTS NIGHT WALK WITH MAIA DUNPHY SUPPORTS THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY
Boots has proudly partnered with Maia Dunphy to launch this year’s Boots Night Walk in aid of the Irish Cancer Society Night Nursing Service. This service provides end-of-life care for cancer patients, enabling them to spend their final days at home surrounded by family and loved ones. It also offers much-needed respite for their caregivers. This invaluable service is provided free of charge to those who avail of it.
Boots has been a dedicated partner of the Irish Cancer Society since 2012. Through the incredible support of team members, patients, and customers, they have collectively raised over ¤4 million for the service to date. This equates to approximately 10,350 nights of vital care.
Boots is calling upon the public to sign up and walk 3.5km together this autumn in support of the Irish Cancer Society Night Nurses. The flagship walk will take place on Tuesday, 9th September at Dublin’s Phoenix Park. Visit www.bootsnightwalk.com to sign up* or make a donation to help raise money for this truly impactful cause.
Alongside the walk, Honour Tags are now available for purchase in Boots stores nationwide for ¤3, raising additional funds for the Irish Cancer Society Night Nursing Service. Customers can purchase a tag in honour of someone who has survived or passed away from cancer, with space on the front to write the name of the individual being honoured.
All funds raised from the Boots Night Walk will directly support the Irish Cancer Society Night Nursing Service, providing crucial comfort and assistance to cancer patients and their families during their most challenging times. Ambassador Maia Dunphy will be participating in the walk this year in honour of her late mum, Helen, who passed away due to pancreatic cancer in 2022.
Stephen Watkins, Managing Director at Boots Ireland, commented, “For 14 years, the Boots Night Walk has been a powerful reflection of our long-standing commitment to the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nursing Service. I’m proud of the dedication our colleagues show year after year in supporting such vital care. Together with our generous customers, we’re helping to make a real difference for families across Ireland.”
Boots Night Walk campaign ambassador Maia Dunphy and Night Nurse Christopher Horgan launch the 2025 Boots Night Walk in aid of the Irish Cancer Society Night Nursing Service. You can support by signing up to complete the walk or making a donation via www.bootsnightwalk.com. You can also purchase an Honour Tag in any Boots store nationwide
