engleski

Integrating natural health products in primary health care: A pharmacy perspective

As new approaches are needed to provide safe and effective pharmacotherapy to patients with polypharmacy, using prescription and over-the-counter medications, in January 2018 Comprehensive Medication Management (CMM) services were introduced as a pilot project in the Health Centre Zagreb – Centre (Croatia). Aim of this research was to describe the drug therapy problems (DTP) and the factors associated with their occurrence. A prospective, observational study was conducted with patients followed-up for 14 months. Identified DTPs were classified according to the Pharmacotherapy Workup method proposed by Cipolle et al [1]. Overall, 86 patients were included in the study. At least one DTP was identified in 81 (96.2%) patients, of which 30.2% had 4 or more DTPs. The most prevalent DTPs were “Needs additional therapy” (26.1%) and “Dosage too low” (24.5%). Polymedicated patients and patients with type 2 diabetes (p = 0.011) were more likely to have higher number of DTPs. In seven patients (8.1%) DTP was associated with herbal drugs and dietary supplements. The results indicate an important role of a pharmacist in ensuring the appropriate use of natural health products.

medication management, pharmaceutical care, natural health products

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