Pharmacists Are Trusted Partners in Safe Obesity Medication Use

In an interview with Pharmacy Times®, Donna Ryan, MD, professor emerita from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, underscored the vital role pharmacists play in supporting patients prescribed medications for obesity management. Ryan shared that she personally consults her pharmacists regularly and values their expertise in medication safety and patient education. According to Ryan, pharmacists are often the most accessible members of the health care team and can provide guidance on proper use, answer medication-related questions, and help ensure treatment safety. She encouraged patients and providers alike not to overlook pharmacists as key partners in obesity care.

This transcript has been edited for grammar and clarity using artificial intelligence.

Pharmacy Times: How do you view the role of pharmacists in supporting patients who are prescribed medications for obesity management?

Donna Ryan, MD: You know, I think the way I use my pharmacist is I ask a lot of questions of her. Believe it or not, I’m on a first-name basis with two of the pharmacists at my local drugstore. They are very knowledgeable about these medications in particular, and they can answer a lot of your questions. They can also make sure you’re taking these drugs safely. So they’re a go-to resource—do not overlook them.