Contents
A Comprehensive Review of “Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics – 6th Edition”
Today, we’re diving deep into the world of clinical pharmacy and pharmacotherapy. Our focus is on a well-renowned text – the 6th edition of “Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics”, edited by esteemed professionals Cate Whittlesea and Karen Hodson. This textbook is celebrated among both students and practitioners, serving as a reliable source for pharmacotherapy courses or the development of pharmacy practices12.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Clinical Pharmacy
“Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics” presents an integrated view of disease processes, clinical pharmacology, and the optimization of drug regimes. The authors, consisting of clinicians, pharmacists, and nurses, offer an interdisciplinary approach to these subjects. While the perspective is pharmacy-centric, the authors hope it would also benefit individuals from other disciplines. The book aims to address multiple issues related to drug usage, which is the most frequent intervention in both primary and secondary healthcare3.
Content Structure
The textbook is divided into four main sections: General, Life stages, Therapeutics, and Appendices. These cover a diverse set of topics, ranging from the clinical pharmacy process, prescribing, practical pharmacokinetics, drug interactions, adverse drug reactions, to specific diseases and conditions. This extensive range makes it an all-encompassing guide for anyone in the pharmacotherapy field1.
Prescribing and Patient-centered Approach
The book underlines the importance of safe, suitable, and cost-effective prescribing, encouraging patient choice and adherence. It acknowledges the complexities and demands of drug selection and prescribing, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required among various healthcare professionals. However, the authors advise readers to utilize this text critically and with caution due to the rapid advancements in therapeutics knowledge and frequent changes in dose regimens, licensed indications, and safety concerns of established drugs3.
A unique aspect of this edition is its extensive coverage of the prescribing process. The authors note that prescribing involves more than just providing medicine—it encompasses the decision-making process that precedes prescription writing. The book further discusses the historical perspective on prescribing rights, which have now extended to other healthcare professionals like pharmacists, nurses, optometrists, physiotherapists, podiatrists, and therapeutic radiographers. It encourages a rational approach to prescribing that considers evidence, sets outcome goals, and evaluates alternatives in conjunction with the patient3.
About the Editors
The editors, Cate Whittlesea and Karen Hodson, are respected figures in the field. Whittlesea is a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and Associate Director Clinical Examination at UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London. In contrast, Hodson is the Director of MSc in Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacist Independent Prescribing Programmes at the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University. Their substantial expertise and experience in pharmacy practice add significant credibility to the book1.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 6th edition of “Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics” is an essential and comprehensive resource for anyone working in the field of pharmacotherapy. Its focus on integrating disease processes, clinical pharmacology, and optimal drug regimes, make it an excellent guide for students and practitioners alike. With an emphasis on a patient-centered approach in clinical pharmacy practice and prescribing, it is indeed a vital tool in our ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
References:
1 Cate Whittlesea and Karen Hodson, eds. Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 6th ed. (TBD, TBD).
2 TBD
3 TBD
