Showing papers in "Journal of The American Pharmacists Association in 2020"

Pharmacist roles, training, and perceived barriers in naloxone dispensing: A systematic review.

Abstract: Objectives Pharmacists are well positioned to identify patients at risk of overdose, dispense naloxone, and counsel patients on appropriate use. In response to growing numbers of opioid-related deaths, many states have issued standing orders allowing pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a prescription. This systematic review examines the current state of naloxone use and dispensing regarding (1) roles for pharmacists dispensing naloxone, (2) barriers to their dispensing naloxone, and (3) pharmacist training to dispense naloxone. Data sources PubMed, Cinahl Plus, and Cochrane review databases were searched with the use of the terms "pharmacist OR pharmacy" AND "naloxone." Included for review were peer-reviewed original research studies conducted in the U.S. in the past 5 years. Study selection The preliminary search generated 155 studies, including 50 duplicate studies which were removed. From the remaining 105 studies, 33 were included that addressed pharmacist naloxone dispensing roles, barriers and facilitators to dispensing, or training for pharmacists. Data extraction Authors, publication year, study title, study objective, method, outcomes, and conclusions were extracted for all studies. Results Out of 33 studies, 14 focused on pharmacists' roles in naloxone dispensing, 9 on barriers, and 10 on training pharmacists for dispensing naloxone. The review found that most states permit major naloxone dispensing roles for pharmacists, but pharmacists are often underutilized without programs to support their roles. A key barrier to pharmacist naloxone dispensing is limited pharmacist training to identify and educate patients at risk of overdose. Conclusion Although pharmacists have the legal opportunity to educate patients and dispense naloxone, barriers have limited their addressing naloxone with patients. There is a need for more intervention studies and in-depth understanding of pharmacist perspectives on barriers, training, and professional roles to facilitate tailored approaches for increasing pharmacist confidence in naloxone dispensing and consultation.

Use of cannabidiol in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders

Abstract: Objective Cannabidiol (CBD) has a proposed novel role in the management of anxiety owing to its actions on the endocannabinoid system. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the current evidence on the safety and efficacy of CBD in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Data sources A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar, and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts from database inception through June 2019. A bibliographic search of relevant articles was also conducted. Study selection Articles published from case reports, case series, or randomized controlled trials on human subjects were included in the review if they examined the safety and efficacy of CBD therapy in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Data extraction Two reviewers independently extracted the following data from the articles: year of publication; study design; patient characteristics (sex; type of anxiety disorder; use of concomitant anxiolytic therapy); dosing strategy and route of CBD administration; and safety and efficacy outcomes. Results Eight articles were included in the review: 6 small, randomized controlled trials; 1 case series; and 1 case report. These studies examined the role of CBD in the anxiety response of healthy volunteers; in generalized anxiety disorder; in social anxiety disorder; and in the anxiety component of posttraumatic stress syndrome. No articles that evaluated CBD in panic disorder, specific phobia, separation anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder were identified. In the studies, CBD was administered orally as a capsule or as a sublingual spray and as either monotherapy or adjunctive therapy. Doses varied widely, with studies employing fixed CBD doses ranging from 6 mg to 400 mg per dose. Various anxiety assessment scales were used in the studies to assess efficacy, with CBD demonstrating improved clinical outcomes among the instruments. In general, CBD was well-tolerated and associated with minimal adverse effects, with the most commonly noted adverse effects being fatigue and sedation. Conclusion CBD has a promising role as alternative therapy in the management of anxiety disorders. However, more studies with standardized approaches to dosing and clinical outcome measurements are needed to determine the appropriate dosing strategy for CBD and its place in therapy.

The effects of cannabis, cannabinoids, and their administration routes on pain control efficacy and safety: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Abstract: Objectives To determine the effects of cannabis, cannabinoids, and their administration routes on pain and adverse euphoria events. Data sources A systematic search was performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, ClincalTrials.gov, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Embase from inception until June 2017. Study selection Randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of cannabis or cannabinoids on pain reduction. Data extraction Two reviewers extracted and assessed the quality of studies by means of Cochrane risk of bias. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated. Random-effects model was undertaken to pool the treatment effects. Results A total of 25 studies involving 2270 patients were included. We found that delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol (THC/CBD) (oromucosal route), THC (oromucosal route), and standardized dried cannabis (with THC; SCT; inhalation route) could reduce neuropathic pain score (SMD −0.41, 95% CI −0.7 to −0.1; −0.61, 95% CI −1.2 to −0.02; and −0.77, 95% CI −1.4 to −0.2; respectively). For nociceptive pain, only standardized cannabis extract (with THC; SCET) via oral route could reduce pain score (SMD −1.8, 95% C; −2.4 to −1.2). In cancer pain, THC/CBD via oromucosal route and THC via oral or oromucosal route could reduce pain score (SMD −0.7, 95% CI −1.2 to −0.2; and −2.1, 95% CI −2.8 to −1.4; respectively). No study was observed for THC/CBD via oral route or inhalation or THC via inhalation for cancer and nociceptive pain, SCET via oromucosal route or inhalation for neuropathic and cancer pain, THC via oromucosal route for nociceptive pain, and SCT via oromucosal or oral route for neuropathic, cancer, and nociceptive pain. Statistically significant increased risks of euphoria were observed in THC/CBD (oromucosal), THC (oromucosal), and SCT (inhalation). Conclusion The use of cannabis and cannabinoids via certain administration routes could reduce different types of pain. Product developers could consider our findings as part of their product design so that the effective route of cannabis and cannabinoids for pain control can be achieved.

Implementation of pre-exposure prophylaxis at a community pharmacy through a collaborative practice agreement with San Francisco Department of Public Health.

Abstract: Objective To discuss the design and implementation of a community pharmacy–initiated HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) program developed in collaboration with the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH). Setting A community pharmacy in San Francisco and the SFDPH developed a collaborative practice agreement (CPA) that allowed community pharmacists to initiate PrEP and PEP to prevent HIV acquisition and increase uptake in vulnerable populations. Practice description A community pharmacy in San Francisco's Mission District, an urban, historically Hispanic/Latino/Latinx neighborhood. The primary collaborative practice team consisted of 1 community pharmacy technician, 4 community pharmacists, and 1 designated overseeing physician at SFDPH. Practice innovation The pharmacy and the SFDPH collaborated together for 20 months from start to implementation of the CPA and the PrEP program. An interdisciplinary team of pharmacists, pharmacy personnel, public health physicians, and health department staff members worked together to design, launch, and maintain the program. Pharmacists were trained by SFDPH staff members on HIV testing and counseling and implementation of the PrEP protocol, including PEP initiation and sexually transmitted disease testing. A Department of Public Health secure portal was used to share patient information. An SFDPH physician reviewed patients' charts regularly and communicated with PrEP pharmacists as needed. Results Between April 2018 and the end of March 2019, 6 patients received PEP and 53 patients completed a PrEP initiation visit, of whom 96% (n = 51) filled their prescription. Approximately 47% (n = 24) of clients who started PrEP self-identified as Hispanic or Latino, 10% (n = 5) were black or African American, and 82% (n = 42) identified as men who have sex with men. Conclusion Implementation of a CPA between a community pharmacy and a local health department enabled the launch of pharmacist-delivered PrEP, further expanding the landscape of access points to vulnerable populations in San Francisco.

Pharmacy administration and pharmaceutical care practice in a module hospital during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Abstract: Objectives To describe the pharmacy administration and pharmaceutical care in a module hospital during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic and provide reference for domestic and foreign pharmacists participating in the epidemic prevention and control. Setting The study was performed in a Jianghan module hospital constructed at the Wuhan Convention and Exhibition Center in Wuhan, China. This is 1 of the first 3 module hospitals. Practice description One thousand eight hundred forty-eight patients were admitted to the Jianghan module hospital, and 1327 cases (71.81% of the total number) were cured and discharged. Pharmacists have successfully completed the tasks of purchase, storage, and free distribution of drugs worth ¥1.03 million (approximately $146,000), reviewed about 20,000 electronic orders, provided one-on-one online medication consultation for 484 patients, and held 5 lectures on rational drug use knowledge, which could help reduce irrational drug use and minimize the risk involved. Practice innovation The new COVID-19 "module" pharmaceutical care model is equipped with new features such as pharmacy emergency command group, organizational structure for pharmacy administration, electronic control of drug prescription, and "zero contact" pharmaceutical care relying on the new media platform "WeChat." This platform provides relevant pharmaceutical care for patients, such as ensuring drug supply, setting up critical care drug trolleys, designing specific drug packaging bags, creating a module radio station to broadcast rational drug use information to the patients, and other aspects. Evaluation With the continuous improvement of the module hospital and the progress in in-depth knowledge about COVID-19, some aspects such as patient admission criteria and variety of drugs need to be adjusted depending on the actual situation. Results The pharmacists provided pharmaceutical care for 1848 patients with mild COVID-19 disease. They not only ensured the timely supply of the drugs but also reduced the incidence of drug-induced risks through medication review and guidance, thereby improving patient compliance and helping the patients rebuild their confidence in overcoming the disease. Conclusion The new COVID-19 module pharmaceutical care model has played an important role in overcoming the epidemic situation of COVID-19 in China and thus can be implemented on a broader scale.

The impact of the pharmacist on continuity of care during transitions of care: A systematic review.

Abstract: Objectives To evaluate programs that provide pharmacy-led continuity of care services and to assess their effectiveness in improving patient outcomes. Data sources Three databases were used to conduct the article search and assess relevant articles: PubMed (Medline), Cinahl, and Web of Science. Study selection Articles that included prospective measurement with defined clinical outcomes of the impact of including a pharmacist in discharge planning and continuity of care after a hospitalization were included in the review. Articles were limited to those available in English, conducted within the United States, and including humans. Data extraction Relevant articles from the full database collections through April 2017. Results Readmission rates were the most common primary outcome evaluated. Other primary outcomes included medication adherence, medication error identification and reduction, and patient satisfaction. Although the data has shown that pharmacists play a crucial role by promoting medication adherence and providing effective medication reconciliation, this systematic review did not result in identifying any one pharmacist intervention to be the most effective in improving continuity of care. Conclusion There is both a need and an opportunity for research that supports best practices in providing continuity of care during transitions of care.

Impact of student pharmacist-led naloxone academic detailing at community pharmacies in Texas.

Abstract: Objective Each U.S. state and the District of Columbia has passed legislation expanding access to naloxone, the opioid overdose antidote. Most naloxone access laws allow for standing orders, whereby prescribers may authorize pharmacists to dispense naloxone without an outside prescription. A recent study from our group assessing naloxone accessibility via standing order identified continued access barriers. The present study assessed whether brief, in-person, student-led academic detailing of community pharmacists improved naloxone accessibility. Methods A telephone audit of all 2317 CVS, Walgreens, H-E-B, and Walmart pharmacies in Texas was conducted to determine naloxone accessibility under standing orders. Within 2 months following the initial audit, student pharmacists visited the Austin and San Antonio, Texas area pharmacies that indicated they would not dispense naloxone without a prescription, to provide brief ( Results Of the 49 pharmacies receiving education, 37 (76%) responded that they would dispense naloxone without an outside prescription appropriately. When comparing each pharmacy before and after detailing, respectively, it was observed that 51% versus 71% (P = 0.008) stocked naloxone; 43% versus 71% (P = 0.002) would dispense naloxone to a third-party customer; and 12% versus 37% (P = 0.005) would submit a claim to the insurance of a third-party customer. Conclusion Student-led academic detailing was effective in improving pharmacists’ willingness to dispense naloxone under standing orders and increasing naloxone accessibility from community pharmacies. Studies beyond Texas chain pharmacies are warranted to validate the effectiveness of this technique on a larger scale.

Mental Health First Aid training and assessment among university students: A systematic review.

Abstract: Objective To explore the literature describing the delivery and assessment of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training among university students. Data sources The databases MEDLINE, PreMEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC, and PsycINFO were searched to identify publications describing MHFA training and assessment among university students since 2000. Study selection All studies, regardless of design, that described the delivery and assessment of MHFA training among university students, at any level, were included in this systematic review. Data extraction The discipline and level of students; the version, length, and integration of MHFA training; and the constructs used to assess students post-MHFA training were extracted from each study. Results Of the initial 1662 records, 12 were included. Eight studies were conducted in Australia, 3 in the United States, and 1 in the United Kingdom. Most students were enrolled in health care or social work degree programs across all years of their program with 4 studies involving pharmacy students. Three studies described integrating compulsory MHFA training for university students. Most studies reported on the delivery of the Standard or Adult version of MHFA training; no study reported on MHFA for Tertiary Students. Post-MHFA training, students were assessed on mental health knowledge, literacy, intentions, confidence, stigma, and skills application. Only 2 studies described assessment methods involving direct observation of behaviors, whereas the rest relied on self-reported measurements. Conclusion Despite the spread of MHFA to over 25 countries and the availability of tertiary student-specific training, the studies included in this systematic review were conducted in only 3 countries and mainly involved Standard and Adult MHFA training. Most assessments relied on self-reported measures. Future studies involving different versions of MHFA training, and the exploration of novel competency-based assessment methods among a diverse range of students from different countries are warranted.

Implementation of a statewide program within community pharmacies to prevent opioid misuse and accidental overdose.

Abstract: Objective To describe the implementation of a statewide pharmacy program called ONE Rx (Opioid and Naloxone Education) within community pharmacies. Setting Thirty community pharmacies. Practice description Community pharmacies throughout the state of North Dakota were invited to participate. Pharmacists in North Dakota can legally prescribe and dispense naloxone. Practice innovation ONE Rx is a statewide program that provides pharmacists with the education and tools to screen every patient who was prescribed an opioid medication for the risk of opioid misuse and accidental overdose. The goal of ONE Rx is to prevent opioid misuse and accidental overdose through patient screening and individualized education and intervention within the community pharmacy. Evaluation Outcomes to measure the implementation of ONE Rx included the number of pharmacists and technicians who participated in the training, the number of pharmacies who chose to implement ONE Rx, and the number of patients screened for the risk of opioid misuse and accidental overdose. Results The ONE Rx training was completed by 240 pharmacists and 41 registered pharmacy technicians. Thirty community pharmacies implemented the program between October 2018 and May 2019, and more than 1700 patients were screened for the risk of opioid misuse and accidental overdose. Conclusion A statewide program to screen for opioid misuse and accidental overdose was successfully implemented.

Systemic racism: Pharmacists' role and responsibility.

Abstract: Systemic racism is a public health emergency and disproportionately impacts communities of color, specifically black Americans. Pharmacists took an oath to protect the welfare of humanity and protect our patients. As such, to practice truly patient-centered care, pharmacists must recognize racism as a root cause of social determinants of health and use their privilege to educate themselves and their colleagues around dismantling structural racism.

Naloxone availability and dispensing in Indiana pharmacies 2 years after the implementation of a statewide standing order.

Abstract: Objectives This study examined changes in rates of pharmacy naloxone stocking and dispensing in Indiana between 2016 and 2018 and explored supplemental variables and factors that may have affected observed differences. Methods Researchers used data from 2 existing datasets that were collected from managing pharmacists who responded to statewide pharmacy censuses in 2016 and 2018. After identifying all cases in which a pharmacy's managing pharmacist responded in both 2016 and 2018 censuses, researchers conducted a nonparametric statistical comparison of naloxone stocking and dispensing rates in 107 Indiana pharmacies. Additional descriptive data regarding naloxone-related pharmacy policies and educational programs during those years were collected in 2019 from pharmacy corporations operating food stores or chain pharmacies in Indiana and from the Indiana Pharmacists Association. Results Pharmacy stocking and dispensing in Indiana increased from 2016 to 2018. In 2016, 57% of pharmacies reported stocking naloxone compared with 92.5% in 2018 (P Conclusion Pharmacy naloxone stocking and dispensing increased in the 2 years after the statewide standing order was issued. The effect of the order itself was likely moderated or mediated by corporate responses to the law. Research examining the impact of naloxone-availability policies on pharmacy practice and patient incomes should longitudinally examine data after policy implementation and with covariates that include type of pharmacy (e.g., chain or independent), location, and opioid overdose–associated mortality rates.

Evaluation of pharmacist interventions as part of a multidisciplinary cancer pain management team in a Chinese academic medical center.

Abstract: Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate pharmacist interventions in the cancer pain management of hospitalized patients, focusing on a clinically meaningful change in drug-related problems and pain score. Methods A retrospective data analysis was performed at a single academic comprehensive cancer center. Hospitalized patients with moderate to severe pain who had already received analgesic medication for at least 3 consecutive days were included. For patients who met the criteria for admission, a pharmacist followed up daily during hospitalization and evaluated the patient during pre- (first) and postintervention (second, third, and fourth) visits. Medication problems, medication changes, and changes in pain scores were assessed. Results A total of 195 patients were included in the study. The pharmacist identified 12 types of pharmacotherapeutic drug–related problems. The top 3 problems were nonadherence or missed doses (27.69%), inappropriate opioid selection (22.56%), and inappropriate dosage (16.41%). After the intervention of pharmacists, these drug-related problems decreased by 74.54% on average. Across all visits, the changes in pain scores (mean ± SD: 2.80 ± 1.92 vs. 1.90 ± 1.58, P Conclusion Participation by the pharmacist in the CPMMT led to a marked reduction in most of the drug-related problems and a statistically significant change in pain score during the 4 visits, indicating that pharmacists play an active role in CPMMT.

A pharmacist-led pilot program to facilitate deprescribing in a primary care clinic.

Abstract: Objective To develop and pilot-test a model in which a community-based clinical pharmacist was incorporated as part of a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) to make deprescribing recommendations targeted at potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in seniors. Setting A family medicine patient-centered medical home (PCMH) clinic in Buffalo, NY. Practice description Implementation and evaluation of a pilot program incorporating a pharmacist-provided medication review targeting PIMs in seniors as part of a Medicare AWV. Practice innovation A community pharmacy–based clinical pharmacist provided face-to-face medication reviews for patients older than 65 years as part of their AWV with a focus on deprescribing PIMs. No clinical pharmacy service existed at the practice when this program was implemented. Evaluation Identified PIMs, pharmacist recommendations, recommendation acceptance rate, time spent on intervention, health care utilization at 6 months postvisit, and barriers to implementation. Results Of the 21 patients enrolled, 13 unique patients received a total of 20 deprescribing recommendations from the pharmacist. The overall acceptance rate for pharmacist recommendations was 20%. The pharmacist spent a mean (± SD) of 34 (± 6) minutes per patient encounter. One patient in the intervention group was hospitalized, and 1 was seen in the emergency department (ED) during the 6-month follow-up period compared with 1 patient in the control group who had an ED visit. We identified multiple logistical and organizational barriers to the implementation of the intervention. Conclusion In this prospective pilot study, a workflow to include a pharmacist medication review to facilitate deprescribing in the primary care setting was tested. We encountered several barriers to integrating the pharmacist into the AWV workflow to deliver the intervention. Future pragmatic clinical trials are warranted to improve provider awareness and comfort with deprescribing PIMs in seniors.

Access to naloxone at community pharmacies under the Massachusetts statewide standing order.

Abstract: Objective This study aimed to evaluate access to, and barriers to accessing, naloxone at community pharmacies throughout Massachusetts following implementation of new legislation that requires all community pharmacies to maintain a sufficient supply for dispensing under a statewide standing order. Design From September 2018 through January 2019, we conducted a cross-sectional telephone-based survey of Massachusetts pharmacies by having an interviewer pose as a customer seeking naloxone. Setting and participants Community pharmacies were identified from a list of all actively licensed pharmacies provided by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and one-half were randomly selected for inclusion. Pharmacies that were permanently closed, duplicated on the list, or closed to the general public were excluded from analysis. Outcome measures Rates of stocked naloxone, perceived need for identification or prescription, and pricing. Results Of the 524 pharmacies surveyed, 97.7% (n = 512) reported routinely stocking naloxone. Of those, 90.4% (n = 463) had naloxone in stock on the day of contact. Most pharmacies with naloxone in stock did not require a prescription (96.1%; n = 445); at these pharmacies, personal identification was required by 38.9% (n = 180). The average out-of-pocket naloxone nasal spray price was $128.34 ± $40.75. Conclusion Nearly all Massachusetts community pharmacies routinely stock naloxone as required by state law; however, barriers remain regarding perceived need for identification and high out-of-pocket costs.

Pharmacists and the future of cannabis medicine

Abstract: Objectives To summarize the history and evolution of cannabis use and policies and to review current therapeutic uses, safety, and the central role pharmacists can play. Summary Cannabis regulation and use have evolved over the centuries and are becoming more widely accepted, with over two-thirds of states in the United States having an approved cannabis program. However, changing policy and a paucity of controlled clinical trials has led to questions on the safety and effectiveness of cannabinoid therapies. Although there are conditions for which cannabinoids may be helpful, potential contraindications, adverse effects, and drug-drug interactions should be taken into account. Conclusion Pharmacists are in a unique position based on their accessibility, knowledge, and skills to guide product selection, dosing, and discuss drug interactions and adverse effects to educate patients on safe cannabis use, whether it be delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, or a combination thereof. Pharmacists and pharmacy organizations, moreover, should advocate for an integral role in the medical cannabis movement to ensure patient safety and evaluate cannabinoid pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, drug-drug interactions, safety, and efficacy through rigorous investigations.

Pharmacist and student pharmacist views of professional and personal well-being and resilience.

Abstract: Objectives To describe the views of pharmacists and student pharmacists regarding (1) aspects of life and experiences that provide professional and personal satisfaction and fulfillment, (2) causes of stress, and (3) needs related to maintaining satisfaction and fulfillment. Design A generic qualitative research design was used for collecting data from 380 pharmacists and 332 student pharmacists who wrote responses to an online survey hosted by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) from November 17 to December 2, 2018, using standard data collection procedures applied by that organization. APhA uses its member and affiliate data files as its sampling frame and limits the number of contacts per year for each person in those files. De-identified responses from those who volunteered to write comments were sent to the research team for analysis. A conventional content analysis approach was applied for analysis of the text. Analysts convened to discuss emergent themes and develop operational descriptions. Key segments of text that best represented each theme were identified. Personal presuppositions were disclosed and were useful for developing group consensus for theme identification and description. Rigor was supported through assessment of credibility, confirmability, intercoder checking, transferability, inductive thematic saturation, and authenticity. Setting and participants Participants are in the design since data already collected. Outcome measures Not applicable. Results Findings showed that pharmacists and student pharmacists are able to recognize and pursue achievement, recognition, responsibility, advancement, relationship, esteem, self-actualization, meaning, and accomplishment in both their professional and personal lives. However, external factors such as “workism” and individual factors such as “moral distress” were identified as areas of improvement that are needed for well-being and resilience. Conclusion Pharmacists’ basic human needs are being met, but to improve well-being and resilience for pharmacists in both their professional and personal lives, there is a need for addressing both the external factors and individual factors that they encounter.

Evaluation of naloxone access, pricing, and barriers to dispensing in Tennessee retail community pharmacies

Abstract: Objectives Tennessee has one of the highest rates of opioid prescribing in the United States; therefore, the objectives of this study were to examine availability, pricing, and pharmacist-initiated recommendations of naloxone in retail community pharmacies in Eastern and Western Tennessee; to identify the most common barriers to naloxone dispensing and strategies to improve access; and to determine regional differences in access to naloxone. Design A cross-sectional survey conducted via telephone. Setting and participants All retail community pharmacies located in the most populous counties in the eastern and western regions of Tennessee were eligible for inclusion, as were all retail community pharmacies in the 5 counties in each region that had the highest rates of opioid prescriptions (316 pharmacies identified in 12 counties). Outcome measures Outcome measures included availability, price, and pharmacist-initiated recommendations of naloxone products, barriers to dispensing, and suggestions to improve naloxone access. Survey responses were summarized as descriptive statistics. Chi-square, independent samples t test, and inductive content analysis were conducted. Results Response rate was 56.3%. Most participants (92.7%) reported that naloxone (Narcan) was available from their pharmacies at a mean cash price of $132.49, with no statistically significant differences between regions. The most commonly reported barrier was cost (70.2%). When queried about recommendations to various groups at a high risk of overdose, as advised by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 42.1% to 69.1% of pharmacies reported recommending naloxone to at least 50% of high-risk patients. Suggestions to increase naloxone access included lowering the cost and improving naloxone-related education for patients, pharmacists, and other providers. Conclusion Although Narcan was widely available, cost was a frequently cited barrier to dispensing. Pharmacist-initiated recommendations for coprescribing and dispensing naloxone to patients at a high risk of overdose were limited. Addressing cost issues in addition to increasing patient and pharmacist education concerning the use and benefit of naloxone were suggested to improve naloxone access.

Assessment of naloxone availability in Georgia community pharmacies

Abstract: Objectives To examine the availability of naloxone in community pharmacies and examine differences in naloxone availability across pharmacy location, pharmacy type, and areas of greater opioid overdose mortality. Methods A cross-sectional design was used to conduct a telephone survey of community pharmacists. A list of community pharmacies was obtained from the Georgia Board of Pharmacy; 25% were randomly selected, stratified across the National Center for Health Statistics rural-urban codes. The primary outcome was pharmacist-reported naloxone stock status. Predictor variables included urban and rural location, pharmacy type, and opioid related mortality rates. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were performed using StataCorp. 2017 Stata Statistical Software: Release 15. Results Of the 600 pharmacies randomly selected, 166 pharmacies were not called because they were not open to the public or had known corporate policy prohibiting the release of stock information, or because of undisclosed reasons. Of the 434 called, 330 (76%) answered and agreed to participate and were included in the analysis. The majority were metropolitan (66%) and chain pharmacies with 4 or more locations (62%). Only 31% reported that naloxone was available for same-day purchase, 65% did not carry naloxone and 3% indicated that it was out of stock. Chain community pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, etc.), were more likely than independent pharmacies to have naloxone for same-day purchase (45% vs 24%; OR = 2.106, 95% CI 1.124–3.943), and areas with high opioid mortality rates were more likely to have naloxone than areas with low mortality rates (38% vs. 24%; odds ratio 1.866 [95% CI 1.059–3.290]). Conclusion Patients in Georgia face barriers accessing the potentially life-saving medication naloxone. Most community pharmacies (69%) did not have naloxone stocked. Naloxone was less likely to be available from independent pharmacies and in areas of lower than average opioid mortality rates. Additional strategies are needed to increase access to naloxone in an effort to combat the opioid epidemic.

Trends in gender composition on editorial boards in leading medicine, nursing, and pharmacy journals.

Abstract: Objective To investigate the proportions and trends in gender ratios of journal editorial boards in medicine, nursing, and pharmacy from 1995 to 2016. Design This was a pooled cross-sectional evaluation of 21 high-impact medical, nursing, and pharmacy journals. Setting and participants The gender composition of editorial boards for each discipline was obtained. Gender expression was based on the person's name or other information available on the Internet. Outcome measures The proportion of all editorial board member positions, including editorial leadership positions, occupied by the underrepresented gender, and trends over time were measured. Results A total of 5309 editorial board members and 312 editorial leadership positions were identified. From 1995 to 2016, women remained underrepresented across medicine and pharmacy journal editorial boards, whereas men remained underrepresented across nursing journal editorial boards. However, there were statistically significant increases in the representation of the underrepresented gender on editorial boards across all disciplines. Medicine was the only discipline to experience a statistically significant increase in the underrepresented gender of the editorial board being appointed to a leadership position; the proportion of women increased from 3% in 1995 to 35% in 2016. Conclusion The gender gap in medicine and pharmacy journals appears to be narrowing. Although men continue to lag behind women in nursing journals, they are and have been overrepresented when considering the proportion of men practicing in the field. Overall, continued efforts are needed to resolve gender inequities in academic health sciences.

The impact of community pharmacist involvement on transitions of care: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: Objectives To evaluate the impact of community pharmacist involvement on transitions of care, specifically on 30-day hospital readmissions. Data Sources We searched the following databases from inception to August 2018: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, ProQuest Health and Medical Collection, ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Database, and Web of Science. We also searched clinical trials registries and personal files to identify additional studies. Study Selection Studies were eligible if the intervention included community pharmacists and patients were being discharged from the hospital to home. We included reports of randomized controlled trials, nonrandomized controlled trials, controlled before-and-after studies, and interrupted time series published in English. Data Extraction We extracted intervention characteristics from each study and 30-day readmissions when present. Results From 744 abstracts that met our inclusion criteria, we included 39 articles describing 36 unique studies, 10 which contributed to the primary outcome of 30-day readmissions. Overall, community pharmacist involvement in transitions of care was associated with a non–statistically significant 28% reduction in 30-day readmissions (relative risk [RR], 0.72; 95% CI 0.50-1.02; I2 = 82%). When using per protocol data, community pharmacist involvement in transitions of care was associated with a statistically significant 40% reduction in 30-day readmissions (RR, 0.60; 95% CI 0.41-0.88; I2 = 77%). Studies with more active involvement of community pharmacists had a greater effect on 30-day readmissions (RR, 0.55; 95% CI 0.32-0.95; I2 = 88%) than those with less active involvement did (RR, 1.02; 95% CI 0.80-1.31; I2 = 0%). Conclusion Our review shows that community pharmacists can have a beneficial effect on patients’ transitions of care; however, the body of evidence is limited by the heterogeneity and imprecision. Future studies should test interventions in which community pharmacists play an integral part and ensure that interventions are completed with fidelity.

The role and impact of the pharmacist in long-term care settings: A systematic review.

Abstract: Objective Older adults in long-term care (LTC) are often frail and comorbid and have multiple medications. Although medication review by pharmacists has been integrated into LTC practice in many countries through policy and reimbursement models, the impact is variable in the literature. The purpose of our study was to review the literature regarding the impact of the pharmacist in LTC. Data sources Four databases were searched from inception to September 2017, including Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews (Cochrane Library), and Ovid International Pharmaceutical Abstracts. Study selection Studies in any language were included if they met the following criteria: (1) pharmacist involved in care, (2) quasi-experimental or experimental design, and (3) conducted in LTC. Data extraction Two reviewers independently reviewed the titles, abstracts, and full-text articles to determine if they met inclusion criteria, with a third researcher resolving discrepancies. Data of included studies were independently abstracted by 2 reviewers and confirmed by a third researcher. Results Twenty-six studies (total N = 20,228, median study duration = 12 months) met the inclusion criteria. Medication review was the most common intervention, evaluated in 24 studies (92%). Eleven studies (42%) reported on the total number of medications per patient, with 7 studies finding a statistically significant reduction in medication usage. Six studies focused on psychotropic medications, with 4 of those leading to a reduction in medication. Explicit medication appropriateness criteria showed improvement in 5 studies. Medication and health care costs were evaluated in 14 studies (54%), with 4 reporting a statistically significant reduction. Studies reporting hospitalizations (10, 38%) were moderately heterogeneous (I2 = 59%) and failed to demonstrate an impact. Studies reporting mortality (8, 31%) were less heterogeneous (I2 = 0%), but they also failed to show a change. Conclusion There is evidence to support pharmacist intervention, primarily through medication review, to improve measures in medication appropriateness.

Assessing pharmacy-based naloxone access using an innovative purchase trial methodology

Abstract: Objectives Massachusetts was among the first states to allow standing orders to facilitate pharmacy-based naloxone purchases and reduce opioid overdose deaths. We conducted a unique purchase trial to establish a valid measure of standing order naloxone in Massachusetts, using purchasers from 2 high priority populations to determine whether naloxone is less accessible to those who use illicit opioids than other potential purchasers. Design Purchase trial. Setting and participants The study used a stratified random sample of 200 chain and independent retail pharmacies across Massachusetts. Each pharmacy underwent 2 purchase attempts—1 by a person who used illicit opioids (PWUIO) and 1 by a potential bystander who did not use illicit opioids but had a relationship with someone at risk of opioid overdose. Outcome measure Successful or unsuccessful naloxone purchase attempt. Results Overall, 322 of 397 purchase attempts (81%) were successful, with no statistically significant difference between PWUIO and bystanders (P = 0.221). Most purchases (93%) resulted in the acquisition of single-step nasal naloxone (Narcan; median cost $133.38). Forty percent of the purchases included state-mandated verbal counseling, and PWUIO were significantly less likely to receive counseling than bystanders (30% vs. 51%, P $150 (25%), and requiring a prescription (15%). Chain pharmacies were significantly more likely to sell naloxone than independent pharmacies (86% vs. 53%, P Conclusion We documented high levels of naloxone access for both PWUIO and bystanders, suggesting Massachusetts could serve as a model for states seeking to improve pharmacy-based naloxone access. Additional implementation efforts should focus on expanding availability at independent pharmacies and supporting pharmacies in proactively offering naloxone to PWUIO and other high-risk individuals.

Implementing outpatient antimicrobial stewardship in a primary care office through ambulatory care pharmacist-led audit and feedback.

Abstract: Objectives This study aimed to determine the impact of a pharmacist-led antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) intervention on outpatient antibiotic prescribing for upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs) in a primary care office. The primary outcome of this study was to characterize antibiotic prescribing over time. Secondary outcomes included describing ambulatory care pharmacist (ACP) workload and types of feedback given. Methods A retrospective pilot study was conducted within a primary care office. The office included a 0.6 full-time equivalent ACP and is part of a health system supported by a pharmacist and a physician co-led ASP. Education and guidelines were provided by the ACP and ASP leads before the intervention period August 2017–February 2018. The ACP provided bi-weekly audit of all URI and UTI prescriptions and written feedback to prescribers. Results During the 7-month intervention period, 1107 prescriptions were audited by the ACP, 825 URI and 282 UTI. The most common reasons for feedback included inappropriate agent (26.3%) or prolonged duration of therapy (24.3%). Guideline-concordant agent prescribed for a UTI increased from 20% at baseline to a median of 69.2%, whereas duration increased from 55% to 70.4%. Guideline-concordant agent prescribed for a URI increased from 43.3% to 86.8%, whereas the median duration of therapy decreased from 10 to 7 days. Conclusion An ACP-led ASP intervention within a primary care office incorporating audit and feedback improved antibiotic prescribing for URIs and UTIs, including prescribing antibiotics when indicated, guideline-concordant antibiotic selection, and duration of therapy. Pharmacists practicing in ambulatory care settings may serve a vital role in leading successful outpatient ASP interventions.

The clinical impact of pharmacist services on mental health collaborative teams: A systematic review.

Abstract: Objective To evaluate the clinical impact of mental health collaborative teams that include pharmacists Data sources PubMed, PsychInfo, Clinialtrialsgov , International Pharmaceutical Abstracts Study selections Studies in which pharmacists were part of a mental health collaborative team (defined as 2 or more health care providers working together to provide enhanced mental health care services to patients), mental health clinical outcomes were measured with a validated tool, and the articles were written in English were included Articles were searched from database inception to July 2019 and were excluded if a quantifiable comparison of mental health clinical outcomes was not included or collaboration was not described Data extraction Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts for relevance Full-text articles that potentially met inclusion criteria were retrieved, read, and evaluated for inclusion using the eligibility criteria Results All 9 included studies reported improvements in mental health clinical outcomes when using collaborative teams that included pharmacists Depression (n = 8) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (n = 1) were the mental health conditions included in the studies Overall, 5 of 7 of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) had statistically significant improvement in mental health clinical outcomes between the intervention groups, which included the collaborative teams and a “usual care” groups, which did not Four of the 5 studies were set in Veterans Affairs (VA) clinics The 2 non-RCT pre-post studies showed improvements in clinical outcomes but did not achieve statistical significance Conclusion Evidence shows that collaborative teams that include pharmacists are effective at improving mental health outcomes in patients with depression and PTSD Future studies should include non-VA settings and other mental health conditions to understand pharmacists’ impact more broadly in mental health collaborative teams Clarifying and understanding the overlapping roles and responsibilities of members of the team may be the next step to continue improving mental health clinical outcomes

Indiana community pharmacist preceptors' knowledge and perceptions of medication-assisted treatment.

Abstract: Objectives The study aim was to characterize the Indiana community-based pharmacist preceptors’ knowledge and perceptions of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD). The secondary objectives were to explore the desired resources, dispensing concerns, and preceptors’ involvement in precepting students. Design A 38-item survey was used to collect respondent demographics, knowledge, and perceptions of MAT for OUD. Perception questions were developed using the social cognitive theory and were adapted from previously published surveys with investigators’ permission. Setting Community-based Indiana pharmacist preceptors were eligible to complete an electronic survey in February and March 2019. Outcome measures Descriptive statistics were used to characterize preceptor knowledge and perceptions of MAT for OUD. Desired MAT resources, dispensing concerns, and level of involvement in precepting students were collected. Respondent demographics were collected to characterize the study sample. Results Of the 116 survey responses, 104 were eligible, and 79 community-based pharmacist preceptors completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 76.0%. For knowledge questions, the overall correct score was 56.2%. Respondents had high correct scores on questions related to medication access. However, respondents either self-identified or performed poorly on the following knowledge items: Food and Drug Administration–approved MAT products for OUD, the need to provide an opioid-free interval before initiating treatment with buprenorphine and naltrexone, pregnancy recommendations, and treatment of severe OUD. Respondents reported positive perceptions on MAT for OUD, but identified concerns regarding diversion and misuse of MAT. Most respondents reported a desire for additional education on different aspects of MAT for OUD. Dispensing concerns and preceptors’ involvement with students in MAT ranged from no concern and lack of involvement to many different concerns and full student involvement. Conclusion Opportunities exist to fill identified gaps in knowledge, enhance perceptions, and provide desired continuing education for community-based pharmacist preceptors on MAT for OUD.

Lofexidine versus clonidine for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms: A systematic review.

Abstract: Objectives The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved lofexidine, an α-2-adrenergic agonist, as the first non-opioid medication for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms. Clonidine, an α-2-adrenergic agonist, historically was used off-label for this indication. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of lofexidine versus clonidine for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms and to discuss the current role of lofexidine in the management of patients at risk of experiencing opioid withdrawal. Data sources MEDLINE/PubMed, EBSCO, and CENTRAL were searched using the terms "lofexidine," "clonidine," and "opioid withdrawal." Study selection The literature search included English-language studies involving administration and prescription of lofexidine and clonidine for the management of opioid withdrawal symptoms in adults. Data sources were searched to include articles published between October 1993 and May 2019. Data extraction Three independent reviewers analyzed the title and abstract of studies to identify studies involving comparisons of lofexidine with clonidine for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms. Reviewers were initially blinded to the individual determinations. Results were then unblinded and discussed among reviewers. Results Of the 110 citations screened, 5 articles were included. One study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in opioid withdrawal symptom severity with lofexidine compared with clonidine, whereas the other 4 studies showed no significant difference. Three studies reported the completion of opioid detoxification treatment, with no significant differences seen. In 1 study that compared lofexidine with placebo, lofexidine caused significant hypotension, bradycardia, and pupillary constriction. Three studies showed significant adverse effects of hypotension and symptoms of feeling unwell with clonidine compared with lofexidine. Conclusion Lofexidine appears equivalent in efficacy to clonidine, with fewer adverse effects, and it may have a limited role in the management of opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, cost, detoxification venue, and value of other preferred treatment modalities may affect the comparative efficacy of lofexidine to other agents.

Revisiting pharmacy-based naloxone with pharmacists and naloxone consumers in 2 states: 2017 perspectives and evolving approaches.

Abstract: Objectives Pharmacies provide accessible sources of naloxone to caregivers, patients taking opioids, and individuals using drugs. While laws permit expanded pharmacy naloxone access, prior work identified barriers like concerns about stigma of addiction and time constraints that inhibit scale-up. We sought to examine similarities and differences in experiences obtaining naloxone at the pharmacy over a 1-year period in 2 states, and to explore reactions from people with opioid use disorder, patients taking opioids for chronic pain, caregivers of opioid users, and pharmacists to communication tools and patient outreach materials designed to improve naloxone uptake. Design Eight focus groups (FGs) held December 2016 to April 2017 in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Setting and participants Participants were recruited from pharmacies, health clinics, and community organizations; pharmacists were recruited from professional organizations and pharmacy colleges. Outcome measures The FGs were led by trained qualitative researchers using a topic guide and prototypes designed for input. Five analysts applied a coding scheme to transcripts. Thematic analysis involved synthesis of coded data and connections between themes, with comparisons across groups and to first-year findings. Results A total of 56 individuals participated: patients taking opioids for chronic pain (n = 13), people with opioid use disorders (n = 15), caregivers (n = 13), and pharmacists (n = 16). Fear of future consequences and stigma in the pharmacy was a prominent theme from the previous year. Four new themes emerged: experience providing pharmacy naloxone, clinician-pharmacist–partnered approaches, naloxone coprescription, and fentanyl as motivator for pharmacy naloxone. Prototypes for prompting consumers about naloxone availability, materials facilitating naloxone conversations, and posters designed to address stigma were well received. Conclusions Experiences dispensing naloxone are quickly evolving, and a greater diversity of patients are obtaining pharmacy naloxone. Persistent stigma-related concerns underscore the need for tools to help pharmacists offer naloxone, facilitate patient requests, and provide reassurance when getting naloxone.

Rethinking pharmacy regulation: Core elements of Idaho's transition to a "Standard of Care" approach.

Abstract: The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy recently established a task force to explore the feasibility of developing regulations based on “standards of care” rather than “prescriptive rule-based regulation.” The Board sought to update its professional practice standards by transitioning from prescriptive regulations to a “standard of care” model that harmonizes pharmacists education and training with their legal scope of practice. In doing so, the Board expanded practice authority to include prescription adaptation services and independent prescribing of certain drug classes. As the Board approached how to update its facility standards, it pursued 2 primary goals: (1) Make the regulations practice- and technology-agnostic; and (2) Enable decentralization of pharmacy functions to offsite locations. The Board achieved its goal of reducing overall word count and restrictions in its laws. The Board also created a more permissive professional practice standard rooted in a “standard of care” approach that is more closely aligned with the regulatory model employed by the medical and nursing professions.

Pharmacy-based pre-exposure prophylaxis support among pharmacists and men who have sex with men

Abstract: Objective To understand the perceptions and support for pharmacy-based pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery among pharmacists and men who have sex with men (MSM). Design A qualitative study from April 2017 to December 2018. Setting and participants The researchers used purposive sampling to identify MSM participants and AIDSVu to identify pharmacists in high–human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) zip codes in the metropolitan Atlanta area. Eight MSM and 6 pharmacists consented to participate in the study. Outcome measures Perceptions and support for PrEP delivery in pharmacies. Results Both MSM and pharmacists expressed strong support for in-pharmacy PrEP screening and dissemination. MSM reported that pharmacies were more convenient and accessible compared with physician's offices. However, they also noted that privacy and training of pharmacy staff were important for them to consider being screened for PrEP in a pharmacy. Pharmacists also believed training was important and felt comfortable counseling on HIV prevention for their current patients. Conclusion These data support early evidence that pharmacies are a promising venue to improve PrEP access for MSM. To implement PrEP screening in pharmacies, proper training of pharmacy staff and a designated space to ensure privacy are critical. Future studies should test the feasibility of screening for PrEP in pharmacies for black MSM.

Respiratory depression following an accidental overdose of a CBD-labeled product: A pediatric case report

Abstract: Objective To report a case of accidental cannabidiol (CBD) oil overdose in a pediatric patient. Background CBD is one of over 100 pharmacologically active compounds in the marijuana plant (Cannabis sativa). Its absence of psychoactive effects and the abundance of anecdotal claims of effectiveness across a wide variety of conditions in both mainstream and social media have created an incredible amount of public interest in CBD oil in recent years. Such interest has led to increased consumer availability. Despite this increased access, such sales remain illegal at the federal level. While sales of CBD products not approved by the Food and Drug Administration continue to rise, purity, potency, labeling, and delivery devices remain inconsistent. This may lead to an increased risk of adverse events. The following report describes a case of accidental CBD overdose in a pediatric patient leading to a stay in the pediatric intensive care unit. Case summary The patient initially presented to the urgent care and was quickly transferred to the emergency department after being found unresponsive after administration of a dose of CBD oil earlier in the day. After arrival, his mental status and respiratory drive continued to deteriorate, and he was ultimately intubated. He was eventually extubated and transferred out of the pediatric intensive care unit after 48 hours and discharged after 72 hours. This patient was found to have a urine 9-carboxy-11-nor-Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of 123 ng/mL, suggestive of consumption of a substantial amount of tetrahydrocannabinol. However, samples from the same batch ingested by the patient were tested by both the manufacturer and U.S. Food and Drug Administration and contained only trace amounts of THC. Practice implications As CBD oil use continues to rise, health care professionals should have an adequate understanding of current clinical evidence and state and federal legislation to counsel patients on CBD use in a practical and compassionate manner.