Pharmacist’s Letter: January 2017; Vol: 33, No. 1
Having too many things to read but too little time? Looking for a resource that gives timely updates on important topics relevant to pharmacists minus the wordiness? Then look no further! Pharmacist’s Letter is created by pharmacists for pharmacists. Unlike other medical resources out there, Pharmacist’s Letter focuses on drug therapy. Adding Pharmacist’s Letter to your routine source of drug knowledge will arm you and get you ready for your daily practice!
Topic of the month: Use of NSAIDs in patients with high cardiovascular risk
Contrary to what is widely known, results of a large study (PRECISION trial) comparing chronic NSAIDs use in high cardiovascular risk patients suggest that celecoxib, naproxen, and ibuprofen all have a similar risk of heart attack and stroke. However, is this really the case? Are these NSAIDs really “more safe” in patients with high cardiovascular risk? Listen to PL VOICES to find out more about NSAIDs safety from the lead author of the new study.
Clinical updates:
- Management of opioid dependence
Learn how to identify patients with opioid dependence using various screening tools. Between buprenorphine, naloxone and methadone, which is better for the management of opioid dependence? What is the recommended duration of treatment for such patient? How should acute pain be managed in such patients? Read up on CHART: Management of Opioid Dependence to find out more!
- Role of fluoroquinolones in children
Fluoroquinolones are generally avoided in children due to concerns about cartilage damage, tendon rupture and fluoroquinolone resistance. Despite these, children with severe penicillin allergy or children with no other alternatives, may still be prescribed with fluoroquinolones as a last resort. Listen to PL VOICES and see the CHART: Quinolone Use in Kids for more details.
Frequently asked questions at the community pharmacy:
- Am I using my inhalers correctly?
Only one in three patients who are prescribed inhalers may be using them correctly. Correct inhaler technique is key to effective delivery of medication. Find out how to counsel patients on the correct inhaler technique using the video resources and charts on Correct Use of Inhalers.
- Are all calcium supplements safe? How much should I take?
Some wonder if they have sufficient calcium intake while others worry about getting kidney stones from calcium supplements.
Address your patients’ concerns by referring to the FAQs on Calcium in Adults.
