Community pharmacists are important in helping older adults reduce their risk of stroke by prescribing the right medicine. A study published on July 24 in JAMA Network Open shows this.
Dr. Roopinder K. Sandhu from the University of Calgary in Canada led the study. The research looked at how pharmacists can improve stroke prevention in older adults with a heart condition called atrial fibrillation (AF). This condition increases the risk of stroke. The study involved 70 people, aged 65 and older, who were identified at 27 community pharmacies.
In the study, 92.3% of people in the early pharmacist intervention group received the correct oral anticoagulation therapy (OAC) after three months. In contrast, only 56.1% in the usual care group received the correct therapy. This shows a 34% increase in the proper use of stroke prevention therapy when pharmacists were involved. Additionally, some primary care providers reached out to pharmacists for advice on prescribing OAC.
“This study shows that involving pharmacists can effectively close gaps in stroke prevention for people with AF,” the authors wrote. “However, larger trials are needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of this approach.”
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a common heart condition that causes irregular and often rapid heartbeats. It can lead to blood clots in the heart, increasing the risk of stroke and heart failure. Causes include high blood pressure, heart disease, and lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of AF may include palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, some people may not have any symptoms.
Treatment and Management of AF often involve medications like oral anticoagulants (OAC) to prevent blood clots, and lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors. Complementary treatments like yoga and acupuncture can also help manage symptoms.
Key Insights:
- Pharmacists can significantly improve the use of stroke prevention therapies in older adults with AF.
- Early pharmacist intervention resulted in a 34% higher use of proper medication compared to usual care.
- Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and ensure safety.
Source: JAMA Network Open