Journal of the American Pharmacists Association : JAPhA
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J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · May 2012
Review Meta AnalysisOTC polyethylene glycol 3350 and pharmacists' role in managing constipation.
To define constipation, assess the pharmacist's role in identifying and treating constipation, and review clinical evidence for the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 (MiraLAX-Merck Consumer Care), an osmotic laxative now available over the counter (OTC), across a variety of patient populations routinely encountered in pharmacy settings. ⋯ Pharmacists can play an important role in managing constipation with OTC agents. Compared with other available OTC agents, PEG 3350 can be recommended to patients suffering from constipation on the basis of a large body of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety, as well as the high patient acceptance shown for its palatability and once-daily dosing.
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J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · May 2012
Low-income women's access to contraception after health care reform in Massachusetts.
To determine the experiences of low-income women who were eligible for government-subsidized health insurance and seeking contraception in community pharmacies following health care reform (HCR) in Massachusetts, to investigate the transitions experienced by family planning providers following HCR, and to evaluate the availability and ease of navigation of information on the Commonwealth Care plans websites regarding prescription benefits, including contraceptive formularies and copays. ⋯ HCR in Massachusetts changed how low-income women access contraception, presenting new opportunities and challenges for women, family planning providers, and pharmacists. The results of this project provide valuable lessons for pharmacists around the country as national HCR is implemented.
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J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · May 2012
Community pharmacist and technician communication with Spanish-speaking patients: needs assessment.
To estimate the prevalence of community pharmacists and technicians who are capable of communicating with patients in Spanish and to estimate the need for Spanish language education initiatives for student pharmacists and pharmacists. ⋯ Currently, a low proportion of community Spanish-speaking pharmacists and technicians are available to meet the needs of the Spanish-speaking limited English proficiency population in the United States. Pharmacy schools should offer resources to support Spanish language education initiatives. Community pharmacy administrators should provide resources to promote effective communication between pharmacists and their clientele.