Multiple sclerosis as a part of everyday pharmacy practice

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease that takes multidisciplinary approach. With joined forces different types of healthcare professionals, pharmacists included, can have significant impact in alleviating symptoms, improving clinical outcomes and quality of life. Community pharmacy pharmacists play a key role in assisting patients with MS to improve outcomes by supporting adherence through counselling about disease modifying therapy, appropriate injection technique, possible adverse effects and ways to minimize, monitor and manage these adverse effects. Pharmacists play important role in educating patients in managing symptoms of MS, including nonpharmacological management strategies, helping with self-medication, counselling regarding dietary supplements, preventing the usage of potentially harmful dietary supplements and preventing clinically significant drug interactions. Pharmacists are obligated to screen for and report any adverse effects of disease modifying therapy, as well as other medications used by MS patients.

Keywords

• multiple sclerosis
• the role of pharmacists
• patient counselling
• adherence
• community pharmacy practice