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.
How pharmacists can prepare for thunderstorm asthma season
The National Asthma Council Australia has released a new guideline to upskill pharmacists in thunderstorm asthma management.
Weight management
Obesity is a chronic and complex health condition, with obese people being at significantly higher risk of morbidity and mortality.
Learning objectives
After reading this...
Fluoxetine: can it decrease weight in obese and overweight patients?
This evidence summary presents the best available evidence on the effectiveness of fluoxetine in decreasing weight.
Money Matters: Superannuation
I don’t feel like I can live off less money per month but I have heard of the importance of making additional super payments...
Kiama becomes Australia’s first branded Health Destination
Kiama – on the NSW South Coast – has welcomed Australia’s first fully-branded Health Destination Pharmacy.
Servicing a population of around 22,000 people, the Kiama...
Insight is leading change
University lecturer, community pharmacist and PSA NSW Branch Vice-President Dr Sarah Dineen-Griffin MPS has packed a lot into her 16 years in pharmacy – and she shows no sign of slowing down.
