The Community Pharmacist—A Vital Link in Caring for the Asthma Patient

Pharmacists in a variety of settings are in a pivotal position to contribute to effective management of asthma patients. As part of the health care team, pharmacists can identify patients with poorly controlled asthma and educate patients on asthma medications, appropriate administration technique, and how to monitor therapy. By assisting with the management of the asthma patient, pharmacists can help optimize the care asthma patients receive, while decreasing overall health care expenditures.

Pharmacotherapy of Asthma

The approach to asthma therapy has changed from an emphasis on bronchodilation to an emphasis on anti-inflammatory medications. New guidelines from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Expert Panel II were released in February 1997 and emphasize that inhaled corticosteroids are the cornerstone of pharmacotherapy. New inhaled corticosteroids and new delivery methods have been introduced which have significant advantages over older products. Pharmacological innovations such as the leukotriene modifiers represent continued research to influence the inflammatory response. Agents or therapies which can decrease the daily dose of systemic corticosteroids continue to be investigated in continued efforts to reduce the side effects and adverse reactions associated with systemic corticosteroid therapy.