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.
The career opportunities that come from going bush
Breaking barriers and broadening horizons: how rural internships have been the gateway to diverse practice for these four pharmacists.
Life as a locum pharmacist
Tara Hehir MPS works as a locum pharmacist and an International Pharmacy Federation representative. This means different roles, such as IVF dosing and aged...
Distinguished pharmacists receive Australia Day awards
The 2021 Australia Day Honours List included several high profile pharmacists and educators in the profession.
Medicines used for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF)
Pharmacists are able to support patients who are undergoing fertility treatment by providing advice on the medicines used in IVF, including the role of each medicine in the treatment cycle, how to use associated injectable devices and the possible adverse effects.
Pharmacists recognised in King’s Birthday honours
From aviation, to education and entrepreneurship, these three pharmacists from different walks of life have received King’s Birthday honours.
Battling social media misinformation around sunscreen
Sunscreen myths are thriving on social media. An expert explains the evidence-based recommendations to help pharmacists combat misinformation.
