Pharmaceutical care in the treatment of pediatric asthma: the role of community pharmacist

Abstract

Asthma is one of the leading chronic diseases in the pediatric population affecting 1 out of every 12 school-aged children. It has a significant contribution to the growing prevalence in prescribed medications. The symptoms of pediatric asthma are often variable. Pharmacotherapy is dominant modality in the treatment of asthma. Safe and effective treatment is still a challenge for all caregivers, including pharmacists. Taking into account the increasing global burden of asthma, pharmacists are ideally positioned to contribute in asthma management. The concept of pharmaceutical care implies achieving an optimal therapeutic outcome and improving patient’s quality of life through the promotion of rational drug use. The aim of this article is to give an overview of published data emphasizing to the need of implementation of pharmaceutical care services in the treatment of childhood asthma and the significant aspects of pediatric asthma medication therapy management in community pharmacy. Keywords: asthma, pediatric population, community pharmacist, pharmaceutical care