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.
More vaccinations now available in NSW pharmacies
Whooping cough and measles vaccinations can now be performed by pharmacists in New South Wales (NSW), after approval by the state government.
The initiative, which...
New healthcare rights charter focuses on patient partnership
The new Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights has a strong focus on the partnership between healthcare professionals and patients to improve health outcomes. With...
Three aspects of pharmacy practice addressed
Experts address the pharmacy practice questions that arise in relation to ECP salary negotiation, GP working relationships and commencing a RMMR service.
Q: I’m an...
Why pharmacists should be embedded in healthcare teams
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA) Pharmacists in 2023 report found that the inclusion of pharmacists in healthcare teams will ensure that medicines are used...
Pharmacists: seize opportunities, don’t fear failure
Dimitra Hoppe MPS juggles community pharmacy with four other job roles while studying for a doctorate in public health.
How to advocate for your practice
Whether pitching collaboration ideas, PHN tenders or talking to politicians, all pharmacists must master the art of advocating for their own practice.
