Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) May, June and July 2011

http://dtb.bmj.com

Do sunscreens have a role in preventing skin cancer?

Solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is largely responsible for the harmful effects of sun exposure, notably sunburn, photosensitivity and skin cancer. For example, UV radiation is implicated in malignant melanoma, the incidence of which has risen in the UK over the past 30 years. This article assesses whether the sunscreen products commonly used to prevent sunburn have a place in the prevention of skin cancer.

Management of acute infective conjunctivitis

Traditionally, topical antibacterials have been prescribed for people with acute infective conjunctivitis. There is evidence that the use of chloramphenicol for this indication has increased since chloramphenicol eye drops became available over …