World Pharmacist Day, observed annually on September 25th, holds immense significance in our lives. It gives us a dedicated moment to acknowledge and appreciate pharmacists as healthcare professionals whose role is more than dispensing medicines. In this article, we will talk about some of the lesser-known yet critical roles of a pharmacist. Let’s have a look:
1. Preventing Harmful Drug Interactions
Pharmacists are like investigators when it comes to our medications. They investigate whether the new medicine we are prescribed might not get along well with other medicines we are already taking. This is essential because some medicines can pose health risks when combined. Pharmacists play a vital role in preventing these potentially dangerous interactions (2).
2. Teaching How To Use Medicines
Pharmacists are great educators. They instruct us on the proper administration of our medications. This is of paramount importance because adhering to the correct dosage and schedule guarantees their optimal effectiveness. They clarify the timing and method of administration, ensuring we have a thorough understanding of how to take our medicines correctly (3).
3. Guiding About Side Effects
Pharmacists also let us know about any potential side effects our medication might have. They give us detailed information about what we might experience and patiently answer any questions we have. This knowledge helps us prepare for possible side effects and reminds us why it’s important to follow our medication instructions.
4. Other Risks
They also look out for our well-being by considering our medical history, allergies, and overall health. This helps them make sure that the medicine prescribed is safe for us. This careful assessment minimizes the chances of us having a bad reaction to the medication (3).
Conclusion
As we celebrate World Pharmacists Day, let’s remember the vital role pharmacists play in keeping us safe and healthy. They check our medication dosages, prevent harmful drug interactions, protect us from adverse reactions, and educate us on how to use our medicines correctly. Their dedication to our well-being is invaluable, and we should appreciate their tireless efforts. Let us continue to support and honor pharmacists for their vital contributions to our health and wellness. They truly are the guardians of our health, making our world a healthier and safer place.
(The article is reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Senior Health Content Editor)
References:
1. Sinha HK. Role of pharmacists in retailing of drugs. J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2014;5(3), Available from: https://doi.org/10.4103/2231-4040.137383
2. Fitzgerald RJ. Medication errors: the importance of an accurate drug history. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2009;67(6):671-675. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2009.03424.x
3. Tariq RA, Vashisht R, Sinha A, Scherbak Y. Medication Dispensing Errors and Prevention. [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519065/