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Volume 13
Issue 3
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Pharmacy, Volume 13, Issue 3 (June 2025) – 9 articles

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12 pages, 210 KiB  
Opinion
The Preceptors’ Toolkit for Working with Struggling Pharmacy Students
by Christina L. Mnatzaganian, Caitlin M. Gibson, Lisa Kipper, Charlene R. Williams and Tram B. Cat
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030066 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 254
Abstract
Pharmacy preceptors often feel unprepared to support and manage underperforming student pharmacists in experiential education settings. Further, there is little guidance on how preceptors can best support struggling student pharmacists with mental health concerns or those requiring disability accommodations. Further, recent literature has [...] Read more.
Pharmacy preceptors often feel unprepared to support and manage underperforming student pharmacists in experiential education settings. Further, there is little guidance on how preceptors can best support struggling student pharmacists with mental health concerns or those requiring disability accommodations. Further, recent literature has demonstrated elevated rates of preceptor burnout when working with difficult students. Resources to address challenging experiential student pharmacist situations were gathered through a literature review and from several offices of experiential education. This toolkit aims to provide strategies and resources to support preceptors working with struggling student pharmacists, particularly those facing mental health challenges and/or those requiring accommodations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Experiential Learning in Pharmacy)
14 pages, 593 KiB  
Article
Ketoprofen Lysine Salt Versus Corticosteroids in Early Outpatient Management of Mild and Moderate COVID-19: A Retrospective Study
by Domenica Francesca Mariniello, Raffaella Pagliaro, Vito D’Agnano, Angela Schiattarella, Fabio Perrotta and Andrea Bianco
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030065 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 92
Abstract
Background: Accelerating recovery and preventing the progression to more severe outcomes for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is of paramount importance. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) have been widely adopted in the international recommendations for non-severe COVID-19 management. Among NSAIDs, evidence about the [...] Read more.
Background: Accelerating recovery and preventing the progression to more severe outcomes for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is of paramount importance. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) have been widely adopted in the international recommendations for non-severe COVID-19 management. Among NSAIDs, evidence about the efficacy of ketoprofen lysin salt (KLS) in the treatment of non-severe COVID-19 has not been reported. Methods: This retrospective study compared the outcomes of 120 patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 treated at home with KLS between March 2021 and May 2023 compared with the outcomes of 165 patients who received corticosteroids. The outcomes included hospitalization, the need for oxygen supplementation, clinical recovery from acute COVID-19, and time to negative swabs. Results: Symptoms persisted in a lower percentage of patients in the KLS group compared to the corticosteroids group (p < 0.0001) and for a shorter period (p = 0.046). We found 6 patients (5%) in the KLS group were hospitalized compared to 45 (27%) in the corticosteroids group (p < 0.001). A higher percentage of patients in the corticosteroids group require oxygen administration (p < 0.001). In addition, patients taking corticosteroids showed a longer viral shedding period compared to those taking KLS (p = 0.004). A final multivariate analysis suggests that KLS might reduce hospitalization risk, the need for oxygen supplementation, and the persistence of post-COVID-19 symptoms when compared to an oral corticosteroid after adjusting for significant co-variables. Conclusions: KLS might have a positive effect on clinical recovery in non-severe COVID-19 patients. A comparison with other NSAIDs in terms of difference in efficacy and safety should be investigated in further trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection New Insights into Pharmacy Teaching and Learning during COVID-19)
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10 pages, 561 KiB  
Case Report
The Power of Active Listening to Address Medication Non-Adherence During Care Transition: A Case Report of a Polypharmacy Patient with Type 2 Diabetes
by Léa Solh Dost, Giacomo Gastaldi and Marie P. Schneider
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030064 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 212
Abstract
This case report explores the experience of a newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patient transitioning from passive non-adherence to active adherence over a two-month period following hospital discharge. During this two-month period, he participated in four exploratory, non-interventional research interviews investigating his [...] Read more.
This case report explores the experience of a newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patient transitioning from passive non-adherence to active adherence over a two-month period following hospital discharge. During this two-month period, he participated in four exploratory, non-interventional research interviews investigating his medication adherence, beliefs, and self-management strategies. His feedback on these research interviews highlighted the role of key communication strategies—such as patient partnership, non-judgmental communication, and interprofessional active listening—in fostering self-reflection and behavioural change. While these techniques are well-documented, there remains an urgent need to translate them into routine practice by integrating behavioural science and interprofessional collaboration into healthcare pregraduate and postgraduate education in order to increase awareness and skills in clinical environments. Full article
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10 pages, 1096 KiB  
Opinion
Heat Therapy for Musculoskeletal Pain Conditions: Actionable Suggestions for Pharmacists from a Panel of Experts
by Flavia Nossa, Massimiliano Franco, Alberto Magni, Emanuela Raimondo, Giuseppe Ventriglia and Fabrizio Gervasoni
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030063 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 254
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders represent one of the most pervasive health concerns that drive frequent medical consultations and pharmacy encounters. Community pharmacies are well placed to help address this demand as they are accessible settings for healthcare advice and support for patients with musculoskeletal disorders [...] Read more.
Musculoskeletal disorders represent one of the most pervasive health concerns that drive frequent medical consultations and pharmacy encounters. Community pharmacies are well placed to help address this demand as they are accessible settings for healthcare advice and support for patients with musculoskeletal disorders complaining of pain. Heat therapy stands as a valuable component of a multimodal approach to the management of musculoskeletal pain by virtue of multiple effects: pain relief, reduction of muscle spasms and stiffness, and enhanced muscle flexibility and range of motion. However, there is limited guidance on heat therapy use in routine practice, particularly on indications and contraindications, mode of application, and precautions. Such an educational gap has been documented among pharmacists. Therefore, it is paramount that pharmacists gain knowledge about when and how to effectively integrate superficial heat therapy with both pharmacological and physical therapy, to provide patients with a comprehensive, multimodal approach to alleviating musculoskeletal pain. A multidisciplinary panel of experts gathered to develop practical guidance on heat therapy-appropriate application in patients with musculoskeletal pain. In this work, we provide actionable suggestions to build pharmacists’ competency in managing musculoskeletal pain and empower them in effectively using heat therapy as a single therapeutic option or in combination with over-the-counter analgesics. Full article
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13 pages, 344 KiB  
Article
Influential Factors on Postgraduates’ Satisfaction with the Quality of Pharmacy Education: Evidence from a University in Vietnam
by Do Xuan Thang, Nguyen Viet Hung, Vu Tran Anh, Vu Thi Quynh Mai, Le Thu Thuy, Cuc Thi Thu Nguyen, Trung Nguyen Duc and Dang Viet Hung
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030062 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 172
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the determinants of pharmacy postgraduates’ satisfaction to suggest essential recommendations to enhance educational quality at Hanoi University of Pharmacy in Vietnam. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 202 postgraduates using structured questionnaires, with 31 multidimensional questions and 1 [...] Read more.
The study aimed to investigate the determinants of pharmacy postgraduates’ satisfaction to suggest essential recommendations to enhance educational quality at Hanoi University of Pharmacy in Vietnam. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 202 postgraduates using structured questionnaires, with 31 multidimensional questions and 1 question addressing overall satisfaction. Cronbach’s alpha was used to evaluate the questionnaire’s internal consistency, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) identified key factors, and multiple linear regression analysis was applied to assess the impact of these factors. Overall satisfaction had a high mean score of 4.49 out of 5 (SD = 0.602). The final 29 questions were retained and divided into four main factors affecting satisfaction after rotating EFA. The dimension of “Support and Evaluation” was the most influential factor (β = 0.475), followed by “Training Organization”, “Facilities and Library”, and “Lecturers and Curriculum”. The variables with the lowest scores needed much more attention, including digital systems (4.2, SD = 0.852), information technology support (4.32, SD = 0.772), activities boosting lifelong learning skills (4.48, SD = 0.624), and the reasonability of the education program’s structure (4.48, SD = 0.608) and the studying program’s schedule (4.45, SD = 0.607). The findings indicate the issues that should be addressed, and have highlighted that improvements in electronic library accessibility and updated curricula are also recommended to further optimize the educational experience of postgraduate students. Full article
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15 pages, 986 KiB  
Article
Exploring Complementary Medicine Usage, Consumer Perceptions, and Impact of Label Warnings: A Cross-Sectional Study in Melbourne, Australia
by Kaveh Naseri, Thilini Thrimawithana, Ayman Allahham, Vivek Nooney, Barbora de Courten and Wejdan Shahin
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030061 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 177
Abstract
Complementary medicines (CMs) are widely used worldwide, with usage rates ranging from 24% to 71.3%. Despite their popularity, many CMs lack robust scientific support and can potentially lead to adverse health effects. Limited research exists on CMs-related adverse events and the role of [...] Read more.
Complementary medicines (CMs) are widely used worldwide, with usage rates ranging from 24% to 71.3%. Despite their popularity, many CMs lack robust scientific support and can potentially lead to adverse health effects. Limited research exists on CMs-related adverse events and the role of CMs’ labels in conveying crucial information to consumers. This cross-sectional study investigated the usage, consumer perspectives, and influence of labels specifically on product-based CMs, including nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and herbal medicines. Practitioner-led therapies and mind-body practices were outside the scope of this research. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. The study enrolled 125 participants who were current CMs users. Pharmacies and supermarkets were the primary sources for CMs procurement. Participants’ perceptions of CMs effectiveness and safety were positively correlated. Label warnings prompted participants to seek additional information, but consultation with healthcare professionals was infrequent. Adverse reactions were reported by 18.5% of participants, with self-management approaches being common. Label warnings play a significant role in prompting consumers to seek more information about CMs. However, the limited engagement of healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, suggests an opportunity for improved consumer education and pharmacist involvement in CMs-related discussions. Addressing these aspects can lead to safer CMs practices and informed decision-making among consumers. Full article
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14 pages, 252 KiB  
Article
A Clinical Pharmacy Service to Prevent Drug–Drug Interactions and Potentially Inappropriate Medication: A Consecutive Intervention Study in Older Intermediate Care Patients of a Regional Hospital
by Alexander Kilian Ullmann, Oliver Bach, Kathrin Mosch and Thilo Bertsche
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030060 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
Background: In intermediate care, older patients with polypharmacy are vulnerable to drug–drug interactions (DDI) and potentially inappropriate medication (PIM). Aims: To perform a consecutive intervention study to evaluate DDI/PIM. Methods: Clinically-relevant DDI/PIM were identified using AMeLI (electronic medication list) and PRISCUS 2.0 (PIM [...] Read more.
Background: In intermediate care, older patients with polypharmacy are vulnerable to drug–drug interactions (DDI) and potentially inappropriate medication (PIM). Aims: To perform a consecutive intervention study to evaluate DDI/PIM. Methods: Clinically-relevant DDI/PIM were identified using AMeLI (electronic medication list) and PRISCUS 2.0 (PIM list). Consecutive patients (standard care group) were screened for DDI/PIM after admission (t0) and again before discharge (t1). In an interim period, physicians received general education about DDI/PIM. Then, consecutive patients (independent clinical pharmacy group) were screened for DDI/PIM after admission (t2). Physicians were then provided with patient-individualized recommendations by a clinical pharmacist to prevent DDI/PIM. The patients were then screened again for DDI/PIM before discharge (t3). Results: In each group, 100 patients were included with data available for evaluation from 97 (standard care group, median age: 78 years [Q25/Q75: 69/84]) and 89 (clinical pharmacy group, 76 years [67/84]). In the standard care group, DDI were identified in 55 (57%) patients after admission (t0) and 54 (56%) before discharge (t1, ARR[t0/t1] = 0.01, NNT[t0/t1] = 100, n.s.). In the clinical pharmacy group, DDI were identified in 32 (36%) after admission (t2; ARR[t0/t2] = 0.21/NNT[t0/t2] = 5, p < 0.01) and 26 (29%) before discharge (t3; ARR[t2/t3] = 0.07/NNT[t2/t3] = 15, n.s.; ARR[t1/t3] = 0.27/NNT[t1/t3] = 4, p < 0.001). PIM were identified in patients at t0: 34 (35%), t1: 35 (36%, ARR[t0/t1] = −0.01/NNH[t0/t1] = 100, n.s.), t2: 25 (26%, ARR[t0/t2] = 0.09/NNT[t0/t2] = 12, n.s.), t3: 23 (24%, ARR[t2/t3] = 0.11/NNT[t2/t3] = 10, n.s.; ARR[t1/t3] = 0.12/NNT[t1/t3] = 9, n.s.). Conclusions: In the standard care group, after admission, many DDI/PIM were identified in older intermediate care patients. Before discharge, their number was hardly influenced at all. General education for physicians led to DDI prevention after admission. In addition, the DDI frequency decreased by providing physicians with patient-individualized recommendations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacy Practice and Practice-Based Research)
16 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
Exploring Doping Awareness: Medical Experts’ Perspectives and Their Commitment to Doping Prevention
by Vanya Rangelov Kozhuharov, Radiana Staynova, Kalin Ivanov, Hristo Manev and Stanislava Ivanova
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030059 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 258
Abstract
Humanity has used and explored various performance-enhancing remedies since ancient times. To protect clean sport, athletes’ health, and to provide fair and transparent competitions, different anti-doping policies were implemented. Nowadays, the anti-doping policies are evolving every year and are governed by the World [...] Read more.
Humanity has used and explored various performance-enhancing remedies since ancient times. To protect clean sport, athletes’ health, and to provide fair and transparent competitions, different anti-doping policies were implemented. Nowadays, the anti-doping policies are evolving every year and are governed by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The use of doping in sports is regarded as a persistent problem across various athletic disciplines; at the same time, the topic of whether doping is preventable is highly discussed. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of medical specialists about doping compounds and to analyze their willingness and preparedness to participate in doping prevention programs. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted between March 2024 and May 2024. Study participants included medical and pharmacy students, pharmacists, and medical doctors. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 24.0. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and independent-samples t-test were applied to analyze different variables. The results from the study suggested that healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists, could be successfully engaged in doping prevention. Additionally, community pharmacies could also be involved in doping-prevention strategies since they are recognized as easily accessible healthcare locations. The relationship between medical specialists and professional athletes is essential for raising awareness, receiving trustworthy information, and developing decision-making capability to prevent not only the intentional but also the unintentional anti-doping rule violations. Full article
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11 pages, 448 KiB  
Article
Training the Next Generation of Pharmacist Educators (NextGenRxEd): Outcomes from a Longitudinal 4-Year Teaching and Research Program
by Candis M. Morello, Mark Bounthavong and Jan D. Hirsch
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030058 - 22 Apr 2025
Viewed by 211
Abstract
To combine didactic education with clinical and research experiences that would empower student pharmacists to consider postgraduate training and a career in pharmacy education or academics, in 2009, the Next Generation of Pharmacist Educators (NextGenRxEd) program, a four-year longitudinal education program, was implemented [...] Read more.
To combine didactic education with clinical and research experiences that would empower student pharmacists to consider postgraduate training and a career in pharmacy education or academics, in 2009, the Next Generation of Pharmacist Educators (NextGenRxEd) program, a four-year longitudinal education program, was implemented at the University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Directed by two pharmacist faculty, a clinician and researcher, student pharmacists were exposed to hands-on experience with clinical management, patient care, and research processes. A post-graduation survey was created and administered in Fall 2024 to evaluate outcomes for all student pharmacists who completed the program. Key performance indicators included the number of pharmacy students proceeding to postgraduate training, research practices, and pharmacist positions involving education and academics. During 2009–2024, 34 student pharmacists completed the NextGenRxEd program; 71% achieved postgraduate education (22 PGY1 residencies and two fellowships). Following quality improvement implementation, this percentage increased from 50% to 89%, for Classes 2009–2015 and 2016–2024, respectively. Overall, the PGY1 match rate was 92%, and 19 abstracts/posters and 10 manuscripts were published, respectively. The post-graduation survey response rate was 85%, with 93% of respondents reporting that they precepted PharmD students; 14% became faculty members, and 66% participated in research. The NextGenRxEd program provides a model whereby student pharmacists are equipped to obtain post-graduate education and pursue a career with a significant role in pharmacy education or academic pharmacy. This program has the potential to be implemented at other pharmacy schools/colleges to benefit faculty and student participants. Full article
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