Abstract: Bell, John; Panwar, Catherine Four out of five Australians will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. Inadequate management of an episode of acute non-specific low back pain can increase a patient's risk for recurrent episodes and development of chronic symptoms, which can be severe and disabling.
Abstract: Doyle, Janet The stress of COVID has seen a spike in people seeking help with mental health issues while calls to the Pharmacists' Support Service (PSS) reveal anxiety levels among pharmacists themselves have been higher than normal too.
Abstract: Comper, Jo Upper gastrointestinal symptoms are common complaints discussed and treated in pharmacy. Pharmacists are well placed to identify potential medicine related causes and make recommendations to remove or reduce the risk.
Abstract: Dispensing errors are the most common source of reports to PDL, so what steps can pharmacists take to try to minimise the risk of such an error'
Abstract: Roller, Louis; Gowan, Jenny As medicines experts, pharmacists have the opportunity to improve medication adherence and health outcomes of patients with bipolar disorder.
Abstract: MacFarlane, Brett; Falkland, Morna Topical antifungal preparations are used to treat a variety of fungal skin infections such as tinea and napkin dermatitis. Combination corticosteroid/antifungal creams can be useful to relieve inflamed or itchy fungal rashes and are safe when used according to directions. The diagnosis and treatment advice given to people with fungal skin infections is an important service provided by pharmacists.
Abstract: Ryan, Marissa This article focuses on the considerations for the care of immunocompromised individuals during COVID-19 and includes practical advice for pharmacists to provide to these people and their carers.
Abstract: Pache, David From June 2021, pharmacists will have another option for the non-prescription management of sleep disorder in the target population, melatonin. This second of two articles by pharmacist David Pache focuses on what pharmacists should know about melatonin. It discusses the role of melatonin within the context of community pharmacy, issues that pharmacists need to consider when a patient presents with a request for melatonin, and explains why "homeopathic" melatonin is a misnomer and should be avoided.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne Managing sports injuries correctly, using the proper protocols and appropriate dressing, can enhance wound healing and support a speedy recovery.
Abstract: Ryan, Marissa By encouraging their patients to have regular skin checks and counselling them on the safe and effective use of medicines prescribed to treat melanoma skin cancer, pharmacists can make a significant contribution to both its prevention and management.
Abstract: Annabel, Bruce; Scrymgeour, Mal What steps can pharmacy owners take to help prevent their business from succumbing to the external forces that threaten disaster'
Abstract: Brooker, Chris; Philpott, Leanne Pharmacists have a crucial role to play in helping expectant mothers through their pregnancy, but they have to engage with these patients regularly and in depth.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne Make no bones about it; pharmacists play an important role in reducing people's risk of falls and bone fractures through targeted advice and interventions.
Abstract: Gowan, Jenny; Roller, Louis Urinary tract infection is one of the most common infections in older adults, accounting for around 25% of all infections in this age group. This article identifies the common causes, signs and symptoms of UTIs, and medicines commonly used to treat and prevent them.
Abstract: Wilson, Nick Managing diabetes with insulin requires a multidisciplinary approach to care, and that includes essential counselling from pharmacists. This article outlines the ideal properties of insulin and its place in diabetes therapy, and provides an update on the latest insulins available in Australia, including the first biosimilar insulin.
Abstract: Shanmugalingam, Renuka; Hennessy, Annemarie; Makris, Angela Inconsistent messaging and advice from healthcare providers has been found to negatively impact women's adherence with aspirin in pregnancy. All healthcare providers, including pharmacists, play an important role in accurately counselling and educating women on the use of aspirin in pregnancy.
Abstract: Darroch, Chandrika A reminder to pharmacy proprietors of their key responsibilities, by Chandrika Darroch, special counsel at Meridian Lawyers.
Abstract: Pache, David The recent TGA decision to down-schedule melatonin in modified release tablets containing 2mg or less of melatonin for the short-term treatment of primary insomnia, and approval for it to be advertised, means pharmacists are likely to receive more inquiries about it from their patients. In this first of two articles, pharmacist David Pache explains the role of melatonin, how medications can interfere with melatonin synthesis and metabolism, and how it can affect circadian rhythm physiology.
Abstract: Bosnic-Anticevich, Sinthia; Smith, Pete Emerging evidence suggests that allergic rhinitis can have a major impact on children's daily activities and academic performance. A better understanding of the full impact of allergic rhinitis on children will assist pharmacists to provide appropriate counselling and advice to parents and carers on how to best treat and manage the condition.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne Pharmacists play a vital role in assisting women with their healthcare needs throughout all stages of life. In this second installment of our two-part women's health series we look at factors more common in mature females.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne The concept of how we manage allergic rhinitis in the community is shifting, thanks to a growing understanding of patients' perceptions and behaviour regarding treatment.
Abstract: Doyle, Janet Pharmacists have a key role in promoting skin health, especially reinforcing the importance of sun protection given research indicates many people still seek a tan.
Abstract: Roller, Louis; Gowan, Jenny This article addresses the many issues pertaining to fibromyalgia, a condition (or conditions) often misdiagnosed or dismissed by doctors, leaving the patient in pain. It is important that pharmacists are aware that this is a real condition, despite no available indicative pathology results. Victims of fibromyalgia are suffering real pain and many other symptoms. It is not just in their heads.
Abstract: Rigby, Debbie Frail older people are vulnerable to minimal stress that can lead to functional impairment and adverse health outcomes. Pharmacists conducting medication reviews need to screen for frailty and consider the impact in patient consultations and recommendations to medical practitioners.
Abstract: Tapping, Ralph Ralph Tapping examines the history of a Tasmanian pharmacy institution, in which an innovative pharmacist and other medical professionals have played a crucial role.
Abstract: PDL's professional officers often see incident reports or regulatory notifications involving high-risk medications such as S8 items and benzodiazepines. So what can pharmacists do to avoid errors involving these medications'
Abstract: Annabel, Bruce; Scrymgeour, Mal Wearing different varieties of beige may have worked for a former Australian cricket captain, but having a beige pharmacy won't help your business survive and prosper.
Abstract: Batagol, Ron We are approaching the 80th anniversary of the formation of the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) - in June 2021. In the first of a two-part series, Ron Batagol summarises the development and evolution of hospital pharmacy practice in Australia from the early years, through to the beginnings of clinical/ward pharmacy practice in the hospital setting in the 1970s.
Abstract: Brooker, Chris There's widespread community panic, restrictions and quarantines are in place, medicines are in short supply, false information is spreading, pharmacy staff are getting sick and people are refusing to wear masks. Welcome to pharmacy circa 1919 and 1920.
Abstract: McSwan, Joyce Pain is not a 'one-size fits all' problem to diagnose and treat: what works for one type of pain may not be effective for another.
Abstract: Haggan, Megan Regional Australia is feeling the strain on health services due to the pandemic, and the situation is especially acute-and tense- in areas close to state borders. Megan Haggan investigates how pharmacists are coping with the unprecedented situation.
Abstract: Errors can occur when the 5mg and 25mg strengths are mixed up or if the directions are incorrectly transcribed from prescription to label. This can result in under treatment or overdose.
Abstract: Annabel, Bruce; Scrymgeour, Mal Successful discounters have a model for success. If you want to compete and thrive you need to have your own well-formulated strategy.
Abstract: Doyle, Janet; Brooker, Chris Pharmacists have the opportunity to make a significant difference to women's health in a number of different areas. In the first of a two-part series, we look at heart disease and menopause- just two of the conditions where pharmacy can play a role.
Abstract: Mutie, Moses As the prevalence of furry animals in homes has increased over the years, so has the incidence of allergic diseases. Pharmacists can play an important role in educating their customers about what causes pet dander allergy in order to help minimise and prevent allergic diseases.
Abstract: Greenwood, Suzanne Pharmacy Guild national executive director Suzanne Greenwood has urged female pharmacy owners to consider running for Guild office, as the organisation gets ready for its elections this year.
Abstract: Prices quoted in a series of News Corp articles slamming community pharmacy were wrong, says the owner of one of the pharmacies targeted, as Chemist Warehouse slams the location rules.
Abstract: News reports have emerged that the anti-mask campaigner whose videos of arguments with Bunnings and Australia Post staff have gone viral, has also directed her ire at a Victorian pharmacy.
Abstract: A survey in late July showed that Australian healthcare workers were "increasingly alarmed" about exposure to infection-with more than one in seven considering leaving their profession.
Abstract: Pharmacists and pharmacy staff should receive paid pandemic leave in the scenario where they become infected or are required to self-isolate during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a poll run by the AJP that received more than 700 votes.
Abstract: Paola, Sheshtyn; Brooker, Chris The last couple of months have seen a resurgence of the coronavirus in Australia, with Victoria forced into a lockdown of unprecendented severity. What impact have recent developments had on pharmacies' In this second of two articles, Sheshtyn Paola and Chris Brooker investigate what difference COVID-19 has made to the business outlook.
Abstract: Prior to the 1980s, attempting to treat a hernia was a painful and difficult process, and pharmacy was actually a supplier of the devices, writes Ralph Tapping.
Abstract: 'Pseudo-patient' researchers have found that advice preventing harm was provided by less than a fifth of pharmacists, and by only 11% of pharmacy assistants.
Abstract: Uber Eats has teamed up with petrol company Ampol, formerly Caltex Australia, to deliver over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals from its petrol stations.
Abstract: UK: The UK's Health and Safety watchdog has received six reports of staff at community pharmacies contracting COVID-19 in their workplace, reports the Pharmaceutical Journal. The Health and Safety Executive revealed in a written answer to Parliament, responding to a question from the House of Lords, that "six notifications of COVID-19 disease (non-fatal) ... between 10 April and 25 July 2020" occurred due to disease reporting requirements.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne Weight loss and muscle atrophy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are linked with increased morbidity and mortality. Yet malnutrition remains under-diagnosed and undertreated.
Abstract: MacFarlane, Brett In this article, Dr Brett MacFarlane explores the role of the lung microbiome, the gut-lung axis, and the current evidence relating to the use of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of respiratory tract related infections.
Abstract: de Vries, Kevin This article discusses the availability of medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) in Australia, and the training required for pharmacists to become a registered dispenser of the drugs used to perform MTOP.
Abstract: Gowan, Jenny; Roller, Louis Early detection and adherence to treatment are vital to slow glaucoma progression. Pharmacists have a vital role to play in counselling patients to have regular eye checks and, for those with glaucoma, ensuring adherence to their prescribed medications and regular review.
Abstract: Bosnic-Anticevich, Sinthia; Smith, Pete This article discusses the importance of understanding environmental triggers as part of a shared decision-making approach to allergic rhinitis management in the pharmacy.
Abstract: Winkle, Ann As antibiotics are often managed sub-optimally and overused, it is important for pharmacists to keep up-to-date with Australian guidelines on management of RTIs, especially in children, and to provide reassurance, support and advice on symptomatic management to children and their families.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne Typically, people with cardiovascular disease have one or more comorbid conditions, which challenges treatment and can greatly impact the burden of disease.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne While the tightening of opioid rules might bring pain and panic, for patients and healthcare professionals alike, there's hope for a positive outcome.
Abstract: Rawlins, Matthew; Murray, Ronan With the world in the grip of a pandemic due to a novel coronavirus, this article will focus on the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in protecting healthcare workers (HCWs) and their patients from infection.
Abstract: Roller, Louis; Gowan, Jenny Panic attacks are surprisingly common and, depending on how frequently they occur, can result in panic disorder. This article describes both conditions and the relationship between them, and how panic disorder can be most appropriately treated.
Abstract: Annabel, Bruce; Scrymgeour, Mal Is the 7CPA merely a case of community pharmacy retaining the 'status quo'' Or does it offer the opportunity for a broader future'
Abstract: Morrison, Rachel Pharmacists can assist women in the preconception period by screening for medication issues, optimising chronic disease management and counselling on nutritional supplementation.
Abstract: Rigby, Debbie Patients with complex medication regimens show poor adherence to therapy so it stands to reason that reducing medicines complexity has been shown to improve adherence. Simplification of complex medication regimens for patients is an important part of pharmacist-led comprehensive medication reviews.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne While pharmacists can assist with contraception management, they can also play a role in discussing the factors that can impact fertility.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne Medicines are intended to prevent and treat disease and illness. Yet, in many cases, particularly those involving older Australians, medicines may be doing more harm than good.
Abstract: Philpott, Leanne When it comes to forecasting the severity of this year's flu season, all bets are off. However, one thing remains certain; the single most effective safeguard against influenza and its complications is vaccination.
Abstract: Gowan, Jenny; Roller, Louis This article explores some of the common possible causes of nausea and vomiting such as infections, cancer, pregnancy and the adverse effects of many drugs. It also discusses drug choices and treatment of specific causes of nausea and vomiting.
Abstract: MacFarlane, Brett This third and final instalment of the Immunity and Immune Health series provides an overview of the key steps to consider when a customer presents in the pharmacy with a sore throat, including advice about symptom duration and management, relevant messaging around appropriate prescribing of antimicrobials, and when to seek further medical advice.
Abstract: McGuire, Treasure The evolving evidence for the role of nutrition in epigenetic programming and its impact on the first 1000 days of life means that it is no longer good enough to simply recommend a 'healthy diet' to women planning a pregnancy.
Abstract: Falkland, Morna This article looks at the different types of infectious rashes that most commonly present in childhood and describes their distinguishing features to assist with diagnosis.
Abstract: Rigby, Debbie Medication reconciliation is a critical activity to identify any unintended medication discrepancies at transitions of care and optimise patient medication safety.