Kristin Wiisanen, PharmD, FAPhA, FCCP, Pharmacy Today editor in chief
There is a growing need for pharmacists to provide care for transgender patients. Gender-affirming care and appropriate hormonal treatment are essential steps for individuals who are transitioning to align their appearance with their gender identity. Pharmacists play an important part in helping patients to safely navigate this pathway.
This month’s Pharmacy Today cover story highlights the role of pharmacists on multidisciplinary teams caring for transgender patients. The need for and the value of pharmacists makes sense in both short- and long-term care for these individuals. Many patients who are transitioning will be on lifelong drug therapy. In the short term, pharmacists can educate patients about their medications and help them gain access to gender-affirming hormonal therapies that may not be covered by insurance.
Patients who are established on a drug therapy regimen continue to rely on their pharmacists. As shown by the authors of a recent article published in JAPhA, pharmacists are needed to help manage comorbid conditions that can develop or worsen with long-term hormonal treatment, such as hyperlipidemia or diabetes, and to monitor patients for potential adverse effects.
In this issue of Today, you will also find recent new drug approvals, get tips for OTC treatment of muscle pain, and get the latest on prebiotics and their potential benefits. Learn what to watch for as COVID-19 drug therapies transition to the commercial market, and catch up on your CPE credit with this month’s article on new therapeutic agents marketed in 2023.
Most transgender patients encounter significant life challenges that extend beyond the scope of medication access and management. Help support your patients who are making this journey by creating a safe and welcoming environment in your pharmacy and affirming their gender identity. For example, using a patient’s preferred name and pronouns, and helping your staff to do the same, is an important part of establishing trust and communicating to patients that you respect and value their gender identity.
Have a great Today! ■