23 January 2018


Upscheduling of codeine page - Resources for GPs

The RACGP has collated a repository of resources to help support GPs, practice teams and their patients with the forthcoming upscheduling of codeine, effective 1 February 2018.

The ‘Upscheduling of codeine’ page hosts a range of clinical and state resources, information for patients, GP education and a directory to state-based clinical advisory services.

Visit the RACGP website for more information.


GP18: Call for abstracts

Abstract submissions for GP18 is now open.

The GP18 Scientific Committee is calling for 15-minute, 30-minute and one-hour oral or research and poster presentations.

The call for abstracts will close at 11.59 pm, Sunday 4 March 2018 (AEST). Don’t miss the opportunity to present to your peers at the most popular event for GPs in 2018.

GP18 will take place on the Gold Coast from 11–13 October.

Visit the GP18 website for more information.


Clinical Pearl: Citrate salts for prevention of kidney stones

Kidney stones are one of the most common disorders of the urinary tract and have a high rate of recurrence. Citric salts, available over-the-counter, can used to inhibit the crystallization of the calcium salt in urine and are recommended for individuals with a history of kidney stones containing calcium.

The usual dose of potassium citrate is 6–10 g/day (typically 6–10 tablets); however, the dose of citrate salts may vary depending on the patient.

Patients with hyperkalaemia or who take citrate supplements containing potassium should not take any other medications that either contain this mineral or prevent its loss (eg potassium-sparing diuretics).

For more information, including tips and challenges, visit the RACGP’s Handbook of non-drug interventions (HANDI).


Media enquiries

Journalists and media outlets seeking comment and information from the RACGP should contact:

John Ronan

Senior Media Advisor