Today's Perspective
Kristin Wiisanen, PharmD, FAPhA, FCCP, Pharmacy Today editor in chief
While we continually strive to bring you the most up to date and practical treatment information in each issue of Pharmacy Today, in my opinion, this month’s Today is especially packed full of clinical pearls. As Christina DeRemer, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, FASHP, said in an interview about new guidance on the pharmacist’s role in achieving performance and quality measures for hypertension, “I like seeing this in print—this is the stuff we should be doing.” From the new American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology recommendations that advocate for team-based care that she was referencing (page 20), to practical advice for patients on diet and nutrition (page 18), DeRemer hit the nail on the head.
This month’s cover story will resonate with pharmacists who need clear and tangible guidance about cannabis and CBD (page 22). With varied state laws on regulation and availability, new forms and sources popping up almost daily, and a limited evidence base for treatment recommendations, pharmacists are being inundated with questions from patients and clinicians. The article also provides information on the FDA-approved Epidiolex; reviews practical tips on cannabis terminology, availability, and pharmacists’ legal risks; and answers commonly asked patient questions.
In this issue of Today, you’ll also find a roundup of newly approved drugs and generics (page 10), recommendations for calcium supplementation (page 15), an overview of self-care treatment of cough (page 16), updates on potential changes to drug importation rules for pharmacies (page 34), and this month’s CPE article on cultivating resilience in the health professions (page 41).
We have progressed to an era in which our daily (or is it hourly?) dosage of drug information is delivered primarily through mobile notifications, e-mails, social media, podcasts, and other sources—check out PharmacyToday.org, and sign up for the Pharmacy Today Daily newsletter if you haven’t already. Although I have to admit that I, too, really like seeing this stuff in print, I will also say that I’m excited to read up-to-date info on new ways pharmacists can help improve patient outcomes any way I can get it.
Have a great Today!