Asthma is increasingly recognised as a heterogeneous disease, with several phenotypes defined by clinical and inflammatory characteristics. Common phenotypes include allergic (eosinophilic, IgE-mediated), non-allergic (often neutrophilic or paucigranulocytic), late-onset adult asthma, obesity-associated asthma, and asthma with persistent airflow limitation.14 Identifying phenotypes supports individualised treatment strategies, particularly in those with severe asthma, and better long-term outcomes.
Steps 2 and 3: Maintenance and reliever therapy (MART)
Comorbid conditions can complicate asthma management. Assess for and help address factors such as allergic rhinitis, which affects up to 80% of people with asthma,24 as well as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), anxiety, depression, obstructive sleep apnoea and smoking.
Major update to asthma management guidelines
The National Asthma Council Australia announced a significant update to the Australian Asthma Handbook earlier this month. Known as Handbook version 2.0, it will...
Medicine safety – opportunities for practice, policy and research
Medicine safety will be improved through empowering consumers and a combination of practice, policy and research initiatives.
Pharmacists recognised for service to diabetes patients
Award-winning diabetes educators explain why pharmacists are central to helping patients optimise their medicines and manage their condition.
The credentialed collaborator
The ACT Pharmacist of the Year Kirstin Turner MPS has forged a non-traditional, speciality role that is ideal for her life.
Bigger role for pharmacists in mental health treatment
Supporting pharmacists to deliver mental health care in Australia will lead to earlier intervention, improved treatment outcomes and a reduction in medication harms.
Push for pharmacist prescribing trial in NSW
The Pharmacy Board of Australia announced new work on pharmacist prescribing as NSW moves to initiate a UTI pharmacy prescribing pilot.
