11 research outputs found
Addressing inequities in medical care: A comprehensive examination of global health disparities
No full textBackground: Health disparities and inequities persist globally, significantly affecting marginalized racial and ethnic groups. Medical institutions and educators must address these issues to foster a more equitable healthcare system. Aim: This chapter aims to explore the definitions and implications of health disparities and inequities, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding in medical education to address these challenges effectively. Methods: The chapter reviews definitions from leading health organizations and examines case studies from various countries to highlight the impact of historical, structural, and social determinants of health (SDOH) on health outcomes. Methodologies for measuring these disparities, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, are discussed. Results: Health disparities often arise from systemic and institutional biases, with historical injustices like colonialism and slavery continuing to influence modern health outcomes. Case studies from the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands illustrate ongoing inequities in maternal mortality and other health outcomes. Conclusion: Addressing health disparities requires an understanding of historical contexts, structural factors, and SDOH. Medical education must evolve to incorporate these elements to equip future healthcare professionals with the skills to combat these disparities effectively
New anticoagulant therapies in atrial fibrillation: Clinical outcomes
No full textBackground: Global observational studies are revealing a lack of agreement between recommendations and actual clinical practice when it comes to the dosages of direct oral anticoagulant drugs (DOACs). Aim of Work: This review provides a concise and critical assessment of the use of Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) in real-world clinical setting. Methods: This study was conducted using the PubMed (MEDLINE) and Medscape databases for the search. Results: Analysis of data from 75 trials revealed that the majority of patients who were administered DOACs for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation were given dosages that aligned with the recommended recommendations. Nevertheless, a considerable proportion of patients were given dosages that were not approved for their specific condition (ranging from 25% to 50% in the majority of the assessed trials). Overdosing on DOACs was linked to higher rates of death from any cause and more severe bleeding episodes. Underdosing, on the other hand, was connected with higher rates of hospitalization for cardiovascular issues. Specifically, with apixaban, underdosing was linked to a nearly five times higher risk of stroke. 
Tailoring antidepressant therapy based on genetic profiles: Review
No full textBackground: Depression is a substantial public health concern that impacts millions of individuals globally. The wide range of symptoms and manifestations of depression emphasizes the need of tailoring treatment methods to each individual, which includes adapting antidepressant prescriptions accordingly. Genetic factors contribute to depression and its association with other psychiatric and non-psychiatric illnesses, highlighting the need of a thorough assessment that encompasses psychopathology, physical health, and genetic variables. Aim of Work: This research aims to highlight the significance of customized therapy in the management of depression, taking into account hereditary variables, metabolic abnormalities, and inflammatory indicators. The research also seeks to emphasize the potential use of genotyping in directing the selection of antidepressants and making dose changes for people with altered metabolism. Methods: The research entails examining previously published works on the genetic factors related to depression, the influence of inflammatory and metabolic abnormalities in its development, and the possible advantages of genotyping in the treatment of antidepressants. The research also examines the incorporation of genetic information, such as the tendency to develop cardio-metabolic illnesses due to several genes, together with non-genetic risk factors to improve treatment results. 
Pharmaceutical Compounding: Techniques and Applications
No full textPharmaceutical compounding is a vital practice in pharmacy that involves the customization of medications to meet individual patient needs. This article explores various compounding techniques and their applications across different fields of healthcare. It delves into mixing, grinding, molding, and other compounding methods used to create customized dosage forms. Furthermore, it discusses the role of compounding in specialty areas such as hormone replacement therapy, dermatology, pain management, pediatrics, geriatrics, and veterinary medicine. Additionally, it highlights the importance of quality control measures, regulatory compliance, and emerging trends such as 3D printing and personalized medicine in shaping the future of pharmaceutical compounding
Pharmaceutical compounding: Techniques and applications
No full textPharmaceutical compounding is a vital practice in pharmacy that involves the customization of medications to meet individual patient needs. This article explores various compounding techniques and their applications across different fields of healthcare. It delves into mixing, grinding, molding, and other compounding methods used to create customized dosage forms. Furthermore, it discusses the role of compounding in specialty areas such as hormone replacement therapy, dermatology, pain management, pediatrics, geriatrics, and veterinary medicine. Additionally, it highlights the importance of quality control measures, regulatory compliance, and emerging trends such as 3D printing and personalized medicine in shaping the future of pharmaceutical compounding
The role of pharmacists in healthcare delivery
No full textPharmacists play a multifaceted role in healthcare delivery, contributing significantly to patient care, medication management, and public health initiatives. This paper explores the diverse responsibilities and contributions of pharmacists within healthcare teams, highlighting their expertise in medication therapy management, preventive care, chronic disease management, and medication access and adherence. Through collaborative practice models, patient education initiatives, and innovative interventions, pharmacists play an integral role in promoting optimal health outcomes and improving the quality, safety, and effectiveness of healthcare delivery
Smart pills: the future of adherence monitoring
No full textBackground: The precise assessment and monitoring of patient medication adherence is a worldwide concern due to the lack of universally accepted methodologies for accurately measuring adherence. There has been recent focus on using technology to monitor medication adherence, since they allow for continuous surveillance of an individual's behavior in taking their prescription. Nevertheless, the existing technologies for monitoring medication adherence range in terms of their technological characteristics and techniques of data collection, resulting in variations in their individual benefits and constraints. There is a dearth of suitable criteria to guide the evaluation of medication adherence monitoring devices for optimum uptake and utilization. Aim of Work: The objective of this research is to conduct a narrative evaluation of existing technologies for monitoring medication adherence and to suggest a set of criteria for assessing these technologies, which will aid in the development and implementation of such technologies. Methods: Using the terms medication adherence, measuring technology, and monitoring technology, a literature search was carried out on PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and ProQuest Technology Collection (2010-present). The selection concentrated on research concerning the technology used to monitor medication adherence, as well as its development and use
Tailoring Antidepressant Therapy Based on Genetic Profiles: Review
No full textBackground: Depression is a substantial public health concern that impacts millions of individuals globally. The wide range of symptoms and manifestations of depression emphasizes the need of tailoring treatment methods to each individual, which includes adapting antidepressant prescriptions accordingly. Genetic factors contribute to depression and its association with other psychiatric and non-psychiatric illnesses, highlighting the need of a thorough assessment that encompasses psychopathology, physical health, and genetic variables. Aim of Work: This research aims to highlight the significance of customized therapy in the management of depression, taking into account hereditary variables, metabolic abnormalities, and inflammatory indicators. The research also seeks to emphasize the potential use of genotyping in directing the selection of antidepressants and making dose changes for people with altered metabolism. Methods: The research entails examining previously published works on the genetic factors related to depression, the influence of inflammatory and metabolic abnormalities in its development, and the possible advantages of genotyping in the treatment of antidepressants. The research also examines the incorporation of genetic information, such as the tendency to develop cardio-metabolic illnesses due to several genes, together with non-genetic risk factors to improve treatment results. 
Interdisciplinary approaches to the opioid crisis: optimizing pain management through nurse-pharmacist collaboration
No full textBackground: With disastrous effects on both individuals and communities, the opioid crisis continues to be a major public health concern. Widespread opiate abuse and overdose deaths have been exacerbated by fragmented care, inappropriate prescribing practices, and a lack of patient education. A multidisciplinary strategy that makes use of the distinct expertise of healthcare providers is necessary for effective pain management, especially in complex circumstances. A promising approach to overcoming these obstacles is nurse-pharmacist collaboration, which aims to minimize opioid-related risks while improving pain management. Aim: this essay is to examine the multidisciplinary contributions that pharmacists and nurses may make to the fight against the opioid crisis. It specifically looks into how collaborative models support responsible opioid use, increase patient safety, and improve pain management outcomes. Methods: Evidence from clinical guidelines, policy evaluations, and peer-reviewed studies was synthesized in a comprehensive assessment of the literature. The review concentrated on nurse-pharmacist collaboration treatments, their application in various healthcare environments, and their effects on patient outcomes and opioid prescriptions. Results: Through individualized treatment plans, greater patient education, and strict oversight of opioid usage, interdisciplinary collaboration improves pain management. 
Integrating Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) into emergency care: Evidence-based nursing, pharmacy, cardiologist, and telemedicine approaches
No full textBackground: Current biotechnology and medical procedures have made remarkable progress, yet the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is rapidly developing and expanding in the healthcare sector. This trend has significantly increased in contemporary civilizations, particularly in developing nations. To effectively address the health-seeking behavior of individuals, it is essential to integrate CAM practitioners into the mainstream healthcare system. Aim of Work – The aim of this initiative is to offer comprehensive training, adequate facilities, and support for referring patients, when necessary, thereby facilitating the integration of CAM into conventional healthcare. Methods: The approach involves the implementation of empirical CAM (EBCAM) treatments, which have demonstrated significant efficacy in treating various illnesses. Additionally, the integration of existing CAM systems is crucial for the exchange of evidence-based information. Results: While there is a positive combined impact from the interaction between conventional medicine and CAM, significant gaps remain in the EBCAM field that require further research. This research is essential to gather data and establish best practices for CAM. Conclusion: Enhancing people's health through the integration of CAM into mainstream healthcare necessitates ongoing research to fill the gaps in knowledge and practice. 
