Pharmaceutical care in the treatment of menstrual cycle disorders among women of reproductive age: rational choice and use of drugs

Abstract

In the structure of gynecological diseases, menstrual cycle disorders are for up to 60% and are the most common problem among women of reproductive age. Disorders of menstrual function can be caused by hormonal imbalance, endocrine system diseases, stress, hypovitaminosis, and excessive physical exertion. Changing of the menstrual cycle phases in the future may prevent normal fertilization, therefore it is necessary to receive appropriate pharmacotherapy in a timely manner, which is aimed to correct the main and accompanying pathological conditions for normalizing the reproductive function of women. The aim of the work – justification of the feasibility of developing pharmaceutical care for menstrual cycle disorders among women of reproductive age. The pharmacotherapy courses of 133 women aged 18 to 40 who were consulted by gynecologist at the «Kyiv City Maternity Hospital No. 5» and had menstrual cycle disorders were analyzed. Then, a questionnaire was carried out, in which 115 women took part. It was established that the pharmacotherapy courses that included more than 5 drugs and contained hormonal agents had high risks of interaction. In addition, herbal remedies, biologically active supplements, and vitamins are often used to treat menstrual disorders. According to the results of a sociological study, a high frequency of menstrual cycle disorders was found among women of reproductive age, the manifestations of which were delayed menstruation (66.6%), the appearance or intensification of a pain syndrome (52.2%), a change in menstruation (27.8%), etc. It has been established that more than 40% of women apply to self-prescription and self-treatment of menstrual cycle disorders. While 12% do not use the drugs for the normalization of menstrual function that was recommended by the doctor. In addition, 20 women who received treatment noted the appearance of side effects, such as headache, fatigue, irritability, changes in body weight, and swelling. The interaction between the gynecologist-pharmacist-patient is important to ensure rational and safe pharmacotherapy in the treatment of menstrual cycle disorders among women. The pharmacist, through the provision of pharmaceutical care, implements special knowledge of clinical pharmacology regarding the peculiarities of the interaction of drugs, the regimen of taking medicine, and the prevention of adverse reactions that may increase the effectiveness of the treatment of menstrual disorders among women.