Dana A. Brown, PharmD, BCPS

Many patients with osteoarthritis turn to complementary and alternative medicine, either as an adjunct to prescription therapy or to avoid side effects.

When it comes to managing hot flashes, some women prefer natural treatments to prescription drugs. Pharmacists are in a unique position to counsel these patients.

Many patients with osteoarthritis (OA) turn to complementary and alternative medicine, either as an adjunct to prescription therapy or to avoid side effects associated with prescription drugs. As medication experts, pharmacists can counsel patients on the potential risks a benefits of supplements marketed for OA.

Many women are turning to dietary supplements for relief of menopausal symptoms, and pharmacists are in a prime position to advise them on their appropriate use.

Appropriate treatment, monitoring, and patient education can control asthma and its symptoms and allow patients to live fully active lives.

With the phase out of CFC-containing metered dose inhalers, pharmacists are in a pivotal position to educate patients on how to use the new devices.

Pharmacists are well-positioned to recommend screening and ensure that protocols are followed when presented with patients suspected to have hepatitis C.

In the inpatient setting, pharmacists play an important role in recognizing medications associated with headaches and making sound decisions regarding patients' medical care.