Role of pharmacists in the management of patients with epilepsy

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this article is to highlight the roles that pharmacists currently have in the management of patients with epilepsy and the opportunities and challenges associated with these roles. Key findings There are many opportunities for pharmacists in the management of patients with epilepsy owing to the accessibility and extensive knowledge of drug therapy. The role of pharmacists extends beyond dispensing medications. The pharmacists have a significant role in the education of patients about the disease and therapy, encouraging adherence and explaining side effects and providing information on potential drug-drug interactions, resulting in improved clinical outcomes and decreased costs. Physicians prefer pharmacists as information sources for medication profile and drug interaction screening for patients with epilepsy. However, there are certain challenges which the pharmacists should overcome if effective medication therapy management services are to be provided on a routine basis. Educational interventions are required to improve the knowledge and skills of pharmacists. The gap between patients' and pharmacists' views of the pharmacist's role has to be narrowed to ensure enhanced role of the pharmacists in this patient group. Conclusions There are a lot of opportunities and challenges for pharmacists to provide medication therapy management services for patients with epilepsy. Evidence in the literature provides justification for such services. However more research is required to provide foundation for routine provision of such services in all healthcare facilities. © 2011 The Author. IJPP © 2011 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.