The prevalence of adherence to insulin therapy in patients with diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Adherence to insulin therapy is crucial to achieving good glycemic control for patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D). A comprehensive estimation of adherence to insulin therapy in patients with diabetes is currently lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the prevalence of adherence to insulin therapy in patients with both T1D and T2D.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed using the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ProQuest Dissertation and Theses from the inception of each database to August 2023. Cross-sectional studies were included if they met the following criteria: (1) conducted in patients with T1D or T2D; (2) reported adherence to insulin therapy. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist for studies reporting prevalence data was used to assess the quality of included studies. Pooled estimates of the prevalence of adherence to insulin were calculated as a percentage together with a 95 % confidence interval (95%CI) using a random-effect model. All analyses were conducted using STATA 15 (College Station, Texas, United States); PROSPERO (CRD42022322323).

RESULTS

Search results yielded 14,914 articles, of these 57 studies with a total of 125,241 patients met the inclusion criteria. The overall estimated prevalence of adherence to insulin therapy in both types of diabetes was 55.37 % (95%CI: 48.55 %-62.19 %). The adherence for T1D was 52.63 % (95 % CI: 37.37 %-67.87 %), whereas the adherence for T2D was 52.55 % (95 % CI: 43.08 %-62.01 %). The prevalence of adherence in lower middle-income countries was 56.79 % (95 % CI: 27.85 %-85.74 %).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall prevalence of adherence to insulin therapy was remarkably low. This requires attention from healthcare practitioners and policymakers to implement appropriate strategic approaches to improve adherence to insulin therapy.

The prevalence of glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the overall prevalence of glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with insulin.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ProQuest Dissertation and Theses from 2000 to January 2022. Cross-sectional studies were included if they were conducted on more than 292 patients with T2D and reported the number of insulin-treated patients who were justified as achieving glycemic control. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Pooled estimates of the prevalence of glycemic control were calculated and reported with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) using a random-effects model. All analyses were conducted using RStudio Version 2022.02.0, Build 443 (meta package).

RESULTS

A total of 42 studies (234,345 patients) met the inclusion criteria and were classified as having a low risk of bias. The overall estimated prevalence of glycemic control to insulin therapy among patients with T2D was 26.02% (95% CI: 23.17, 29.08). A subgroup of 34 studies that set the target HbA1c <7% showed that 23.75% (95% CI: 21.47, 26.18) of patients with T2D treated with insulin were justified as achieving good glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided summative evidence that glycemic control among patients with T2D treated with insulin was suboptimal and should be appropriately addressed.

Comparative effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in adults with harmful use of alcohol: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Psychosocial approaches are the hallmark of treatment for harmful alcohol use. However, the most effective psychosocial intervention has not been identified. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of psychosocial therapy for harmful alcohol use using a network meta-analysis approach.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses from inception to January 2022. Randomized controlled trials in adults age >18 years with harmful alcohol use were included. Psychosocial interventions were classified using the Theme, Intensity, and Provider/Platform (TIP) framework. The mean differences (MD) of the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) score were estimated in the primary analysis using a random-effects model. Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) methods were used to rank different interventions. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) approach. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022328972).

RESULTS

4,225 records were retrieved from searching; 19 trials (n=7,149) met the inclusion criteria. The most common TIP combination was brief interventions delivered once via face-to-face sessions (6 studies) and 11 TIP features were included in the network meta-analysis. A significant difference in AUDIT score was evident among 16 out of 55 treatment comparisons, with the highest effect size observed when motivational interviewing plus cognitive behavioral therapy in multiple sessions via face-to-face (MI-CBT/Mult/F2F) was compared with usual care (MD: -4.98; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -7.04, -2.91). This finding was consistent with SUCRA, which suggested that MI-CBT/Mult/F2F is most likely to be better than other interventions (SUCRA=91.3). MI-CBT/Mult/F2F remained the highest-ranking intervention in our sensitivity analyses (SUCRA=64.9, 80.8). However, the certainty of evidence for most treatment comparisons was low.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined psychosocial intervention with more intensive approach may provide greater effect in reducing harmful alcohol consumption behavior.

Effects of Anticholinergics on Death Rattle: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

Background: Anticholinergics have been used to treat death rattle (DR) in dying patients with palliative care. However, the effect of anticholinergics is still controversial. No quantitative summary of their effects is reported. Objective: This study aimed to systematically review and quantitatively synthesize the effect of anticholinergics on DR treatment and prophylaxis. Design: A systematic search was performed in the electronic databases (PubMed, Embase^®, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL]) from inception to October 2021. Studies conducted to determine the effect of anticholinergics compared with other anticholinergics or placebo on noise reduction score in dying patients were included. A network meta-analysis was performed for DR treatment. The effect of anticholinergics at four hours was assessed. A pairwise meta-analysis was performed for DR prophylaxis. Results: A total of nine studies were included with 1103 patients. Six studies were randomized controlled trials, and three studies were cohort studies. Seven studies were conducted for DR treatment, while two studies were conducted for DR prophylaxis. For DR treatment, no statistically significant difference was observed between each anticholinergic (hyoscine hydrobromide, hyoscine butyl bromide, atropine, and glycopyrrolate) and placebo and among any anticholinergics. However, the surface under cumulative ranking curve indicated that hyoscine butyl bromide had the highest surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) with 71.3%. For DR prophylaxis, the relative risk of DR occurrence for hyoscine butyl bromide was 0.23 (0.04, 1.18; I² = 84.5%) compared with no treatment. Conclusion: This study showed no strong evidence of the regular use of anticholinergics for DR treatment. In addition, hyoscine butyl bromide appears to have a high potential for DR prophylaxis.

Characterizing health services interventions for evidence syntheses by using the theme, intensity, provider/platform (TIP) framework

Health services interventions comprise a range of elements and procedures that contribute to their effects. However, there is currently limited guidance to systematically classify different features of health services interventions. We propose an approach to aid in classifying health services interventions using three potential elements: theme, intensity, and provider/platform (TIP). We designed the TIP framework to be analogous to three elements of a medication intervention that contribute to its pharmaceutical effects: 1) active ingredient, 2) dose, and 3) dosage form or route of administration. Health services interventions encompass similar elements: 1) "theme", which corresponds to the active ingredient and specifies the main element of the intervention; 2) "intensity", which corresponds to the dose regimen; and 3) "provider" or "platform", which corresponds to the dosage form or route of administration and indicates how the main element is delivered. Each health services intervention can be classified into a set of unique TIP features, which can then be compared with others using either a qualitative or qualitative approach. The TIP framework is not suitable for multicomponent health services interventions, in which a singular main theme or active component cannot be identified. The TIP framework enables researchers to systematically characterize health services interventions according to their unique features that contribute to its effects. It also helps to generate evidence to determine not only what service is more effective, but also how to best deliver such service.

Comparative effects of music interventions on depression in older adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effect of different music interventions on depression in older adults is varied. We aimed to explore the comparative effect of different music intervention features on depression in older adults.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and ProQuest Dissertations&Theses from inception to October 2021 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of music interventions in participants aged ≥60 years. Music interventions were classified based on the TIP (theme, intensity, and provider/platform) framework. The theme was divided into: 1) active music therapy (ACT); 2) receptive music therapy (Recep); and 3) music medicine (MM). The intensity was classified as high (>60 minutes/week), and low (≤60 minutes/week). The provider was classified as a music therapist (MT) or a non-music therapist (NonMT). Summary standardized mean differences (SMD) of level of depression with 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using a frequentist framework with a random-effects model. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) approach. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021247165).

FINDINGS

Fifteen RCTs involving 1,144 older adults (mean age 67.9-86.6 years) were included. When compared with usual care, the most effective music intervention was active music therapy >60 minutes/week by music therapist (Act/High/MT) (SMD -3.00; 95%CI, -3.64,-2.35), followed by music medicine >60 minutes/week by non-music therapist (MM/High/NonMT) (SMD -2.06; 95%CI, -2.78,-1.35) with moderate and high certainty of evidence, respectively. Depression scores in older adults treated with ACT/High/MT was also significantly lower than all other interventions, except MM/High/NonMT. Low intensity music interventions other than Act/Low/MT had no impact on depression.

INTERPRETATION

Although active music therapy >60 minutes/week by music therapist is the most effective intervention to alleviate depression in older adults, music medicine by listening to music of older adult's own preference >60 minutes/week is an alternative approach in settings with limited resources.

FUNDING

None.

Development of Community Pharmacy Competencies

Objective

This study aimed to develop a consensus statement of competencies for community pharmacists in Thailand.

Methods

A 2-round modified Delphi process was used to develop consensus among a panel of community pharmacy experts. A total of 18 experts from 6 stakeholders represented a panel of each pharmacy organization in Thailand. In the first experts were asked to rate their degree of agreement on whether a competency was essential using a 7-point Likert scale (1 = "not essential competency" to 7 = "the most essential competency"). Also, in the second round, they were asked to rate the competencies from a scale of "must be included" to "must be excluded." Competencies considered "must be excluded" by a consensus of 80% or more of experts were removed from the community pharmacy competency list.

Results

Nearly half the experts had experience in their position for more than 10 years. The expert panels were typically committee members of the Community Pharmacy Association (Thailand) and community pharmacy clerkship preceptors (29.4% and 23.5%, respectively). The number of community pharmacy competencies on the initial list was 55 competencies. None of them was eliminated after the first round. Of 55 competencies, 11 were eliminated after the second round. The final list of competency statements was 44 competencies divided into 4 domains: personal competencies, pharmacy professional competencies, patient care competencies, and management competencies.

Conclusion

Community pharmacy competencies include having a positive attitude and being accountable for individual patient care, providing disease prevention and health promotion, and addressing morality and ethics in business.

Clinical Outcomes of Different Warfarin Self-Care Strategies: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

AIM

To compare the effects of different strategies for warfarin self-care.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, and OpenGrey were searched from inception to August 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of warfarin self-care, either patient self-testing (PST) or patient self-management (PSM), were included. Self-care approaches were classified based on the TIP framework (theme, intensity, provider): (1) PST ≥1/week via e-Health (PST/High/e-Health); (2) PST ≥1/week by health care practitioner (PST/High/HCP); (3) PST <1/week via e-Health (PST/Low/e-Health); (4) PSM ≥1/week by e-Health (PSM/High/e-Health); (5) PSM ≥1/week by patient (PSM/High/Pt); (6) PSM <1/week by patient (PSM/Low/Pt); and (7) PSM with flexible frequency by patient (PSM/Flex/Pt). Mean differences (MDs) and risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using frequentist network meta-analyses with a random-effects model. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using CINeMA (Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis).

RESULTS

Sixteen RCTs involving 5,895 participants were included. When compared with usual care, time in therapeutic range was higher in PSM/High/Pt and PST/High/e-Health with MD [95% CI] of 7.67% [0.26-15.08] and 5.65% [0.04-11.26], respectively. The certainty of evidence was rated as moderate for these findings. The risk of thromboembolic events was lower in the PSM/Flex/Pt group when compared with PST/High/e-Health (RR: 0.39 [0.20-0.77]) and usual care (RR: 0.38 [0.17-0.88]) with low and very low level of evidence, respectively. There was no significant difference in the proportion of international normalized ratio (INR) values in range, major bleeding, and all-cause mortality among different self-care features.

CONCLUSION

Patient self-care (either PST or PSM) by measuring INR values at least once weekly is more effective in controlling the INR level.

Comparative Efficacy of Strategies to Support Self-Management in Patients with Asthma: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

There is limited evidence about which composite feature of asthma self-management strategies is the best and should be adopted into practice.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of different strategies to support self-management, based on the newly developed framework, in patients with asthma.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and PsycInfo from 1993 to December 2019. We identified randomized controlled trials that explored effects of strategies to support self-management in adult patients with asthma. We conducted network meta-analyses using a random effects model with usual care as the common comparator. Surface under the cumulative ranking curve methods were used to rank different support strategies.

RESULTS

Thirty-five trials (5195 patients) were included and classified on the basis of our newly created TIP framework: Theme, Intensity, and Provider/Platform. We identified 6 features from the included trials, each represented by 1 element of the TIP framework: (1) behavioral support more than once a month by e-Health; (2) behavioral support more than once a month by health care personnel (HCP); (3) behavioral support less often than or equal to once a month by HCP; (4) education support less often than or equal to once a month by e-Health; (5) education support less often than or equal to once a month by HCP; and (6) psychosocial support less often than or equal to once a month by HCP. Behavioral support more than once a month by e-Health showed significant improvement in asthma control when compared with the other 2 support strategies, which was confirmed by the highest surface under the cumulative ranking of 97.6%. However, the surface under the cumulative ranking for behavioral support less often than or equal to once a month by HCP suggested that it has the potential to be the best intervention to reduce the risk of hospitalization (89.1%) and emergency department visit (84.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Different features of asthma self-management support strategies work best on unique outcomes.

Impact of Medication Reviews Delivered by Community Pharmacist to Elderly Patients on Polypharmacy: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of medication reviews delivered by community pharmacists to elderly patients on polypharmacy.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed in four bibliographic databases/search engine (PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, and IPA) and three gray literature sources (OpenGrey, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Digital Access to Research Theses - Europe) from inception to January 2018. Randomized controlled trials were selected if they met the following criteria: (a) studied in patients 65 years or older who were taking four or more prescribed medications; (b) the "test" interventions were delivered by community pharmacists; and (c) measured one of these following outcomes: hospitalization, emergency department (ED) visit, quality of life, or adherence. Quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care Group risk of bias tool. Random-effects model meta-analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 3634 articles screened, four studies with a total of 4633 participants were included. The intervention provided in all included studies was clinical medication review. Three studies were at low risk of bias, and the remaining study had unclear risk of bias. When compared with usual care, medication reviews provided by community pharmacist significantly reduced risk of ED visits (risk ratio = 0.68; 95% confidence interval = 0.48-0.96). There was also a tendency that pharmacist interventions decreased risk of hospitalizations (risk ratio = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.78-1.00), although no statistical significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The current evidence demonstrates that clinical medication reviews for older people with polypharmacy reduces the risk of ED visits. Medication reviews can be considered as another area where community pharmacists can contribute to improve patient safety.

Efficacy and Safety of Ginger regarding Human Milk Volume and Related Clinical Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Ginger has been used as a galactagogue in Southeast Asian countries. However, limited evidence of its effect has been reported. This systematic review summarizes the efficacy and safety of ginger regarding human milk volume.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which studied the effect of ginger on human milk volume were included. The primary outcome was 24-h human milk volume.

RESULTS

We found five RCTs. Two studies reported ginger as a single intervention, while three studies reported ginger in a combination with other herbs. We found that ginger could enhance human milk volume in mothers with vaginal births. It failed to improve human milk volume in mothers with cesarian section (C-section). Ginger in several combination products has been shown to be effective in enhancing human milk volume, including ginger with pandan, with turmeric and fenugreek, and with Xiong-gui-tiao-xue-yin. No adverse effect directly related to ginger was reported.

DISCUSSION

Ginger could be used to enhance human milk volume in mothers with vaginal births, but not in mothers with C-section. Combined ginger products could also be considered to improve human milk volume. These findings could guide healthcare providers or mothers to consider using ginger to increase human milk production.

Clinical and economic burden of postsurgical complications of high-risk surgeries: a cohort study in Thailand

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to understand the clinical and economic burden associated with postsurgical complications in high-risk surgeries in Thailand.

METHODS

A cost and outcome study was conducted using a retrospective cohort database from four tertiary hospitals. All patients with high-risk surgeries visiting the hospitals from 2011 to 2017 were included. Outcomes included major postsurgical complications, length of stay (LOS), in-hospital death, and total healthcare costs. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors of postsurgical outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 14,930 patients were identified with an average age of 57.7 ± 17.0 years and 34.9% being male. Gastrointestinal (GI) procedures were the most common high-risk procedures, accounting for 54.9% of the patients, followed by cardiovascular (CV) procedures (25.2%). Approximately 27.2% of the patients experienced major postsurgical complications. The top three complications were respiratory failure (14.0%), renal failure (3.5%), and myocardial infarction (3.4%). In-hospital death was 10.0%. The median LOS was 9 days. The median total costs of all included patients were 2,592 US$(IQR: 1,399-6,168 US$). The patients, who received high-risk GI surgeries and experienced major complications, had significantly increased risk of in-hospital death (OR: 4.53; 95%CI: 3.81-5.38), longer LOS (6.53 days; 95%CI: 2.60-10.46 days) and higher median total costs (2,465 US$; 95%CI: 1,945-2,984 US$), compared to those without major complications. Besides, the patients, who underwent high-risk CV surgeries and developed major complications, resulted in significantly elevated risk of in-hospital death (OR: 2.22; 95%CI: 1.74-2.84) and increased median total costs (2,719 US$; 95%CI: 2,129-3,310 US$), compared to those without major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Postsurgical complications are a serious problem in Thailand, as they are associated with worsening mortality risk, LOS, and healthcare costs. Clinicians should develop interventions to prevent or effectively treat postsurgical complications to mitigate such burdens.

Clinical burden associated with postsurgical complications in major cardiac surgeries in Asia-Oceania countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Evidence on the burden of postsurgical complications is mainly from studies in western countries, and little is highlighted in the Asia-Oceania region. This study aimed to identify and compare the burden of postsurgical complications in major cardiac surgeries in Asia-Oceania countries.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL between January 2000 and July 2018. Inclusion criteria were: (a) observational studies or randomized control trials; (b) studied in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and/or heart valve procedures; (c) measured postsurgical clinical outcomes; and (d) conducted in Asia-Oceania countries. Pooled effects were calculated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Of the 6032 articles screened, 472 studies with a total of 614 161 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled incidences (95% confidence interval) of hospital mortality and 30-day mortality were similar at 2.38% (2.16%-2.59%) and 2.33% (2.16%-2.50%), respectively. Length of stay (LOS) was 14.07 days (13.44-14.71 days). The incidence for atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke/cerebrovascular accident (CVA) was 17.49% (15.99%-18.99%) and 1.64% (1.51%-1.78%), respectively. Below outcomes tended to be better in studies on CABG compared to heart valve procedures, including the incidence of hospital mortality (1.97%[1.75%-2.18%] vs 3.97% [3.29%-4.65%]), AF (16.47% [14.85%-18.10%] vs 21.98% [17.41%-26.54%]), stoke/CVA (1.51% [1n 37%-1.65%] vs 2.55% [2.07%-3.04%]), and mean LOS (days) (13.08 [12.51-13.65] vs 19.58 [16.72-22.45]). Similarly, all postsurgical complications tended to be higher in studies involving high-risk patients vs non-high-risk patients.

CONCLUSIONS

There are opportunities to improve clinical outcomes of patients with high surgical risks and those undertaking heart valve procedures, as they tend to have poorer survival and higher risk in developing postsurgical complications.

Comparative effects of telemedicine and face-to-face warfarin management: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the comparative effects of different types of telemedicine on anticoagulation control and adverse outcomes in patients taking warfarin.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, the Cochrane library, EMBASE, CINAHL, OpenGrey, and DART-Europe from inception to September 2019.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental and cohort studies were included if they evaluated the effect of telemedicine in patients using warfarin for 3 months or more.

METHODS

Two reviewers extracted and assessed the quality of studies by means of the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care Group. Network meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model. Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) methods were used to rank different telemedicine types.

RESULTS

Of the 14,673 articles retrieved, 12 studies involving 11,478 patients met the inclusion criteria. The 5 types of telemedicine categorized were 1) laboratory draw with individual telephonic follow-up by health care (HC) providers (Lab/Tel/HC); 2) laboratory draw with individual telephonic follow-up with periodic, routine routine face-to-face (F2F) visit (Lab/Tel+F2F/HC); 3) laboratory draw with individual and group follow-up via online access (Lab/Online/HC); 4) patient self-test (PST) with telephonic or Web-based follow-up by automated management system (PST/Tel-Online/Auto); and 5) PST with telephonic follow-up by HC provider (PST/Tel/HC). PST/Tel-Online/Auto appears to be superior to F2F for TTR (mean difference 8.78%; 95% CI 0.06%-17.50%) and Lab/Online/HC for in-range INR (odds ratio 2.59; 95% CI 1.04-6.46). The SUCRAs suggested that PST/Tel-Online/Auto was preferred for both TTR and INR, at 84.2% and 93.9%, respectively, whereas Lab/Tel/HC was preferred to prevent major bleeding (74.1%) or thromboembolic event (70.7%).

CONCLUSION

According to the current evidence of uncertain quality, the best effects on anticoagulation control and adverse outcomes were achieved from different types of telemedicine. Variations in the effects of telemedicine on diverse outcomes should be considered before implementing telemedicine interventions in patients taking warfarin.

Clinical Outcomes of Telephone Service for Patients on Warfarin: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: To evaluate clinical outcomes of telephone-based service for patients on warfarin. Methods: Five bibliographic databases and gray literature were searched for articles that reported the effects of telephone interventions provided to patients using warfarin compared with those receiving usual clinic-based care. Mean difference (MD) and relative risk (RR) were used to calculate the effects of telephone intervention on time in therapeutic range (TTR) and visit in range (VIR), respectively. Adverse events (AEs) were pooled and reported as incidence rate ratios. Results: A total of 1,840 articles were examined. Eight articles involving 8,087 subjects were included in the quantitative synthesis. The pooled estimates from seven studies showed no difference on TTR between the telephone service group and the usual care group (MD 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] -3.56 to 8.16). In addition, VIR in the telephone service group was not different from the usual care group (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.87-1.71). Moreover, patients in telephone service groups appeared to have a lower incidence of AEs compared with usual care groups. Discussion: Telephone-based service could be considered as an alternative anticoagulant management. However, owing to a lack of evidence from well-designed studies, further high-quality randomized control trials are warranted.

The effectiveness of medication reconciliation to prevent medication error: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The impact of medication reconciliation (MR) in low-middle-income countries, including Thailand, may differ from other developed countries.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of medication reconciliation (MR) on the reduction of medication error in Thailand.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Scopus, Thai Journals Online, Thai index Medicus, Thai Medical Index, and Health Science Journal in Thailand from inception to January 2018. Studies that evaluated the effect of MR compared to usual care within hospitals in Thailand and reported the occurrence of medication error were included. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects model.

RESULTS

Of the 107 articles retrieved, 7 articles involving 1581 patients were included in quantitative synthesis. Three of the included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCT). Overall, the risk of medication error in patients who received MR in all transitions of care was 75% lower than those receiving usual care (RR 0.25; 95%CI 0.15-0.43). The effect on the reduction of medication error appeared higher when MR was provided to ambulatory patients (RR 0.17 [95%CI 0.04-0.80] compared with hospitalized patients during admission (RR 0.37 [95%CI 0.20-0.65]) and discharge (RR 0.27 [95%CI 0.17-0.43]). Effects on reducing medication error was greater when MR was provided in secondary care hospitals compared with primary care hospitals both during admission (RR 0.49 [95%CI, 0.34-0.69] vs RR 0.25 [95%CI, 0.05-1.26]), and discharge transition (RR 0.19 [95%CI, 0.09-0.39] vs RR 0.30 [95%CI, 0.12-0.79]).

CONCLUSION

Overall, current evidence indicates that the provision of MR in Thailand is effective in reducing medication errors in all transitions of care. However, to promote patient safety, appropriate strategies should be developed to support MR in specific transition of care and hospital setting so patients can benefit most from this service.

Effects of an Asthma Self-Management Support Service Provided by Community Pharmacists: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Current evidence of the effects of pharmacy services on asthma outcomes are not conclusive, since most pharmacy services comprise a variety of interventions.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of a service containing self-management support delivered by community pharmacists to patients with asthma.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in the following databases from inception to January 2017: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library's Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) Plus, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and PsycInfo. Original studies were selected if they met the following criteria: (a) provided by community pharmacists; (b) the intervention service included the essential components of asthma self-management; (c) included a usual care group; and (d) measured control/severity of asthma symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), or medication adherence.

RESULTS

Of the 639 articles screened, 12 studies involving 2,121 asthma patients were included. Six studies were randomized trials, and the other 6 were nonrandomized trials. Patients with asthma who received a self-management support service by community pharmacists had better symptom control/lower severity compared with those receiving usual care (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.09-0.82) with high heterogeneity (I2=82.6%; P = 0.000). The overall improvement in HRQOL and medication adherence among patients in the asthma self-management support group was greater than for those in the usual care group with SMD of 0.23 (95% CI = 0.12-0.34) and 0.44 (95% CI = 0.27-0.61), respectively. Evidence of heterogeneity was not observed in these 2 outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-management support service provided by community pharmacists can help improve symptom control, quality of life, and medication adherence in patients with asthma.

DISCLOSURES

This study received financial support from Naresuan University's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Fund. Two authors, Saini and Krass, have studies that were included in this review. However, they were not involved in the processes that could bias outcomes of the present study, that is, quality assessment and meta-analysis. The remaining authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

Clinical Outcomes of Telemonitoring for Patients on Warfarin after Discharge from Hospital

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of telephone follow-up service on clinical outcomes in patients on warfarin when discharged from hospital.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial was conducted at a general hospital in Thailand. Patients aged ≥20 years who were prescribed warfarin when discharged were eligible to participate in this study. They were randomly allocated, using a computer generated random number, to receive either telephone follow-up intervention or usual care. Participants in the intervention group received telephone follow-up by hospital pharmacists for three months. During each telephone call, pharmacists performed medicine use reviews and addressed any problems identified.

KEY FINDINGS

A total of 50 patients participated in this study. The proportion of international normalized ratio (INR) values in the target range for the telephone follow-up group (36/79, 45.6%) was higher than that in the usual care group (19/79, 24.1%), p=0.005. The mean time in the therapeutic range (TTR) in the telephone follow-up group was also higher than that in the usual care group (49.8±34.3 versus 28.0±27.5, p=0.017). All patients in the usual care group experienced one or more out-of-range INR values (25/25, 100%) compared to 21 out of 25 (84%) in the telephone follow-up group, p=0.037. There was no difference between the two groups in the incidence of complications or adverse events associated with warfarin.

CONCLUSIONS

The telephone follow-up service in recently discharged patients helps them achieve and maintain their INR target. This anticoagulant supportive service should be promoted to patients receiving warfarin therapy after discharge. This trial is registered with TCTR20180614006 (Thai Clinical Trials Registry).

The Effects of Telemedicine on Asthma Control and Patients' Quality of Life in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Telemedicine is increasingly used to improve health outcomes in asthma. However, it is still inconclusive which telemedicine works effectively.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects of telemedicine on asthma control and the quality of life in adults.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed from the inception to March 2018 on the following databases: Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus. Randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of telemedicine in adults with asthma were included in this analysis, and the outcomes of interest were levels of asthma control and quality of life. Random-effects model meta-analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 22 studies (10,281 participants) were included. Each of 11 studies investigated the effects of single-telemedicine and combined-telemedicine (combinations of telemedicine approaches), and the meta-analyses showed that combined tele-case management could significantly improve asthma control compared with usual care (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56, 1.01). Combined tele-case management and tele-consultation (SMD = 0.52 [95% CI: 0.13, 0.91]) and combined tele-consultation (SMD = 0.28 [95% CI: 0.13, 0.44]) also significantly improved asthma outcomes, but to a lesser degree. In addition, combined tele-case management (SMD = 0.59 [95% CI: 0.31, 0.88]) was the most effective telemedicine for improving quality of life, followed by combined tele-case management and tele-consultation (SMD = 0.31 [95% CI: 0.03, 0.59]), tele-case management (SMD = 0.30 [95% CI: 0.05, 0.55]), and combined tele-consultation (SMD = 0.27 [95% CI: 0.11, 0.43]), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined-telemedicine involving tele-case management or tele-consultation appear to be effective telemedicine interventions to improve asthma control and quality of life in adults. Our findings are expected to provide health care professionals with current evidence of the effects of telemedicine on asthma control and patients' quality of life.

Efficacy and safety of Pueraria candollei var. mirifica (Airy Shaw & Suvat.) Niyomdham for menopausal women: A systematic review of clinical trials and the way forward

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pueraria candollei var. mirifica (Airy Shaw & Suvat.) Niyomdham (commonly termed P. mirifica, PM) growing in upland Thailand has a long history as a postmenopausal rejuvenant therapy for indigenants. Its amelioration of menopause symptoms in clinical trials was assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

International and Thai databases were searched from inception to February 2017. Clinical trials investigating effects of PM menopausal or postmenopausal women were included. Outcomes were self-reported menopausal symptoms, serum reproductive hormones, urino-genital tract function, and bone surrogates. Methodological quality was assessed by Cochrane risk-of-bias v2.0, and a 22-parameter quality score based on the CONSORT checklist for herbal medicines.

RESULTS

Eight studies (9 articles) used data from 309 menopausal patients. Five-studies demonstrated that PM was associated with climacteric scores reduced by ~50% compared to baseline. Other PM studies using limited numbers of placebo participants suggested improved vaginal and other urogenital tract symptoms. Bone alkaline phosphatase halved (suggesting lowered bone turnover). Variable serum reproductive hormone levels suggested menopausal status differed between studies. PM active ingredients and sources were not defined. Adverse event rates (mastodynia, vaginal spotting, dizziness) were similar in all groups (PM, conjugated equine estrogen, and placebos) but serum C-reactive protein doubled. These studies had design and reporting deficiencies, high risks of biases, and low quality scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of PM on menopausal symptoms remains inconclusive because of methodological short-comings especially placebo effects inherent in self-assessment/recall questionnaires and no PM standardization. PM efficacy and safety need a fundamental re-appraisal by: (i) cohort (retro- and prospective) studies on current users to define its traditional use for rejuvenation; (ii) tightly coupling long-term efficacy to safety of well-defined PM and multiple end-points; (iii) using study design related to current understanding of menopause progression and estrogen pharmacology (iv) robust pharmacovigilance.

Coronary intervention door-to-balloon time and outcomes in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine the relationship between door-to-balloon delay in primary percutaneous coronary intervention and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (MI) outcomes and examine for potential effect modifiers.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective observational studies that have investigated the relationship of door-to-balloon delay and clinical outcomes. The main outcomes include mortality and heart failure.

RESULTS

32 studies involving 299 320 patients contained adequate data for quantitative reporting. Patients with ST-elevation MI who experienced longer (>90 min) door-to-balloon delay had a higher risk of short-term mortality (pooled OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.40 to 1.65) and medium-term to long-term mortality (pooled OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.06). A non-linear time-risk relation was observed (P=0.004 for non-linearity). The association between longer door-to-balloon delay and short-term mortality differed between those presented early and late after symptom onset (Cochran's Q 3.88, P value 0.049) with a stronger relationship among those with shorter prehospital delays.

CONCLUSION

Longer door-to-balloon delay in primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation MI is related to higher risk of adverse outcomes. Prehospital delays modified this effect. The non-linearity of the time-risk relation might explain the lack of population effect despite an improved door-to-balloon time in the USA.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42015026069).

Clinical effects of Zingiber cassumunar (Plai): A systematic review

Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. known locally as "Plai" in Thai, has been used for treating bruise, sprain and musculoskeletal pain. Several pre-clinical studies demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effect of Plai. However, current evidence of clinical effects of Plai is still unclear. This study aimed to determine the clinical efficacy and safety of Plai among all identified indications. Of the 808 articles identified by a systematic review, six studies were included. Four studies were randomized controlled trials, while two studies were quasi-experimental studies involving 178 patients in intervention group and 177 patients in control group. Duration of treatment ranged from 7days to 2 months. Our findings showed that 14% Plai cream had a strong trend of benefits in pain reduction for muscle pain and ankle sprain. However, evidence supporting the effects of Plai on acne vulgaris treatment and anti-histamine effect are still unclear.

Patient opinions on medicine-use review: exploring an expanding role of community pharmacists

BACKGROUND

Current evidence supports the benefit of medicine-use review (MUR) for the safe and effective use of medicines. However, little is known about opinions of consumers regarding their preference for undertaking MUR, especially in the developing world, eg, in some Asian countries. We aimed to explore patients' opinions about potential MUR and other enhanced services provided by community pharmacists.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A qualitative study using focus groups was conducted at Naresuan University's community pharmacy, Phitsanulok, Thailand. MUR-naïve patients were recruited from two pharmacies in Phitsanulok. All focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty participants attended four focus groups. The following themes were identified: 1) requirement and need for the service, 2) accessibility and convenience of receiving the service, 3) pharmacist attributes needed in delivering the service, and 4) how to promote the use of MUR successfully. The majority of participants had poor understanding about their medicines and were interested in receiving a MUR service. Regarding accessibility, convenience and close proximity of pharmacies to homes were deemed to be supportive of participants to use the service. However, several potential barriers to uptake were identified: perceived difficulty on the part of recipients in making time to receive the service and the inconvenience of having to provide medicines/records of medicines to pharmacists. The following domains of pharmacists' characteristics were viewed as supportive determinants: personality (friendliness and confidence in giving information) and attitude (willingness to provide the service and not commercially oriented). The participants suggested that promoting the services using a mix of strategies would increase an awareness of MUR service.

CONCLUSION

Recognizing the unmet needs of patients for information on their medicines provides a good opportunity for community pharmacists to offer an MUR service to ensure quality use of medicines in the community.

Assessing evidence of inequalities in access to medication for diabetic populations in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review

Background

Inequalities in access to medications among people diagnosed with diabetes inlow- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is a public health concern since untreated diabetes can lead to severe complications and premature death.

Objective

To assess evidence of inequalities in access to medication for diabetes in adult populations of people with diagnosed diabetes in LMICs.

Design

We conducted a systematic review of the literature using the PRISMA-Equity guidelines. A search of five databases – PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and EMBASE – was conducted from inception to November 2015. Using deductive content analysis, information extracted from the selected articles was analysed according to the PRISMA-Equity guidelines, based on exposure variables (place of residence, race/ethnicity, occupation, gender, religion, education, socio-economic status, social capital, and others).

Results

Fifteen articles (seven quantitative and eight qualitative studies) are included in this review. There were inconsistent findings between studies conducted in different countries and regions although financial and geographic barriers generally contributed to inequalities in access to diabetes medications. The poor, those with relatively low education, and people living in remote areas had less access to diabetes medications. Furthermore, we found that the level of government political commitment through primary health care and in the provision of essential medicines was an important factor in promoting access to medications.

Conclusions

The review indicates that inequalities exist in accessing medication among diabetic populations, although this was not evident in all LMICs. Further research is needed to assess the social determinants of health and medication access for people with diabetes in LMICs.

Clinical Effects of Krachaidum ( Kaempferia parviflora): A Systematic Review

Kaempferia parviflora (Krachaidum) is a medicinal plant in the family Zingiberaceae. Its rhizome has been used as folk medicine for many centuries. A number of pharmacological studies of Krachaidum had claimed benefits for various ailments. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically search and summarize the clinical evidences of Krachaidum in all identified indications. Of 683 records identified, 7 studies were included. From current clinical trials, Krachaidum showed positive benefits but remained inconclusive since small studies were included. Even though results found that Krachaidum significantly increased hand grip strength and enhanced sexual erotic stimuli, these were based on only 2 studies and 1 study, respectively. With regard to harmful effects, we found no adverse events reported even when Krachaidum 1.35 g/day was used. Therefore, future studies of Krachaidum are needed with regards to both safety and efficacy outcomes.

Medication-taking behaviour in New South Wales patients with type 2 diabetes: an observational study

This study aimed to (1) determine adherence to diabetes medication in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients; (2) describe respondents' attitudes and beliefs about medications, and barriers to adherence; and (3) to model predictors of non-adherence. Data were collected using online and postal surveys. Diabetes patients aged 18 years who were members of the Australian Diabetes Council were invited to participate. Main outcome measures were adherence to diabetes medication using 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Score (MMAS-8) and beliefs about medication using the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire. A total of 543 T2D patients responded to the survey. The median (interquartile range) MMAS-8 score was 6.8 (5.0-7.0). The prevalence of adherence (MMAS-8 score 6) was 64.6%. The proportion of respondents who expressed concern about taking medications was 53.6%. Potential predictors of adherence included age (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.19-2.82), concern about medication (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.87-0.96), knowledge of diabetes (OR, 0.85, 95% CI, 0.73-0.99), having difficulty in paying for medication (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.33-0.79), having more than one regular pharmacy (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.36-0.95), and using insulin (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30-0.81). Adherence to taking diabetes medication in a sample of the Australian T2D patient population was suboptimal. An understanding of medication-taking behaviour will assist health-care professionals to deliver appropriate and effective interventions to enhance adherence and optimise diabetes control in T2D patients.

Pharmacovigilance activities in ASEAN countries

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the current landscape and identify challenges of pharmacovigilance (PV) among Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey collected data from May 2014 to December 2015. Questionnaires seeking to collect information on resources, processes, roles and responsibility, and functions of PV systems were sent to relevant persons in the ASEAN countries. Functions of PV centers were measured using the minimum World Health Organization requirements for a functional national PV system. Performances of PV centers were measured by the following: (1) the indicators related to the average number of individual case safety reports (ICSR); (2) presence of signal detection activities and subsequent action; and (3) contribution to the global vigilance database.

RESULTS

Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam completed the survey. PV systems in four surveyed countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand) achieved all aspects of the World Health Organization minimum requirement for a functional national PV system; the remaining countries were deemed to have unclear communication strategies and/or no official advisory committee. Average numbers of recent ICSR national returns ranged from 7 to 3817 reports/year/million population; three countries (Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand) demonstrated good performance in reporting system and reported signal detection activities and subsequent actions. All participating countries had submitted ICSRs to the Uppsala Monitoring Center during the survey period (2013-2015).

CONCLUSIONS

Four participating countries had functional PV systems. PV capacity, functionality, and legislative framework varied depending on local healthcare ecosystem networks. Implementing effective communication strategies and/or technical assistance from the advisory committee are needed to strengthen PV in ASEAN. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Comparison of Health Care Utilization and Costs for Patients with Asthma by Severity and Health Insurance in Thailand

BACKGROUND

To compare health care utilization and cost by asthma severity and type of health insurance in Thailand.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study using an electronic database was conducted in patients with asthma. Patients who were diagnosed with asthma from 2009 to 2011, had at least two subsequent health care encounters for asthma during the first six months after the first asthma diagnosis, and had at least 90 days of follow-up were included. The primary outcome was direct health care costs of inpatient and outpatient care. We compared outcomes between groups on the basis of a proxy of severity (mild/moderate severe asthma vs. high severe asthma) and type of health insurance using a multivariable generalized linear model. Covariates such as Patients' demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and concurrent medications were included in the model.

RESULTS

Among 1982 patients included, the average age was 40.3 ± 24.0 years, with 60.7% being males. A total of 1936 patients had mild/moderate severe asthma, whereas 46 patients had high severe asthma. There were 1293 patients under the Universal Coverage Scheme, 264 patients under Social Security Insurance, and 626 patients under the Civil Servant Medical Benefit Scheme (CSMBS). The average annual cost per patient was $598 ± $871. In adjusted analyses, the health care cost of patients with high severe asthma was $71 higher than that of patients with mild/moderate severe asthma (95% confidence interval $-131 to $274). The cost of patients under the CSMBS was $110 (95% confidence interval $29-$191) higher than that of patients under Universal Coverage Scheme.

CONCLUSIONS

Health care costs of patients with asthma were substantial and were higher in patients with high severe asthma and patients under the CSMBS.

Expanding access to high-cost medicines through the E2 access program in Thailand: effects on utilisation, health outcomes and cost using an interrupted time-series analysis

OBJECTIVE

In 2008, the Thai government introduced the 'high-cost medicines E2 access program' as a part of the National List of Essential Medicines to increase patient access to medicines, improve clinical outcomes and make medicines more affordable. Our objective was to examine whether the 'high-cost medicines E2 access program' achieved its goals.

DESIGN

Interrupted time-series design study.

SETTING

3 tertiary hospitals in different regions of Thailand, January 2006 to December 2012.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with target acute and chronic disease diagnoses who newly met E2 program criteria for selected study medicines.

INTERVENTION

High-cost medicines E2 access program.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

Level and trend changes over time in the proportions of eligible patients who received the indicated E2 medicines and who improved clinically, as well as in costs of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 2024 patients were included in utilisation analyses and 1375 patients with selected acute diseases contributed to analyses of clinical outcome. After 1 year of the E2 program implementation, the percentage of eligible patients receiving the indicated E2 program medicines increased significantly (relative change 12.7% (95% CI 4.4% to 21.0%), especially among those insured by the government's universal coverage scheme (relative change 19.9% (95% CI 9.5% to 30.5%)). The increase in the proportion of clinically improved patients with acute conditions was not significant (relative change 6.2% (95% CI -1.9% to 15.1%)). Quarterly healthcare costs per patient dropped significantly (relative change -13.5% (95% CI -26.9% to -1.7%)).

CONCLUSIONS

In the study hospitals, the E2 access program seems to have facilitated patient access to specialty medicines, may have contributed to improved health outcomes, and decreased treatment costs. Routine monitoring is needed to assess effects of expanding the programme, including effects on quality of care and financial sustainability.

Corrigendum to: Medication-taking behaviour in New South Wales patients with type 2 diabetes: an observational study

This study aimed to (1) determine adherence to diabetes medication in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients; (2) describe respondents' attitudes and beliefs about medications, and barriers to adherence; and (3) to model predictors of non-adherence. Data were collected using online and postal surveys. Diabetes patients aged ?18 years who were members of the Australian Diabetes Council were invited to participate. Main outcome measures were adherence to diabetes medication using 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Score (MMAS-8) and beliefs about medication using the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire. A total of 543 T2D patients responded to the survey. The median (interquartile range) MMAS-8 score was 6.8 (5.0-7.0). The prevalence of adherence (MMAS-8 score ?6) was 64.6%. The proportion of respondents who expressed concern about taking medications was 53.6%. Potential predictors of adherence included age (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.19-2.82), concern about medication (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.87-0.96), knowledge of diabetes (OR, 0.85, 95% CI, 0.73-0.99), having difficulty in paying for medication (OR, 0.51; 95% CI ,0.33-0.79), having more than one regular pharmacy (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.36-0.95), and using insulin (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30-0.81). Adherence to taking diabetes medication in a sample of the Australian T2D patient population was suboptimal. An understanding of medication-taking behaviour will assist health-care professionals to deliver appropriate and effective interventions to enhance adherence and optimise diabetes control in T2D patients.

Adherence to diabetes medication: a systematic review

AIMS

To investigate the extent of and factors associated with adherence to Type 2 diabetes medication.

METHODS

The CINAHL, Embase, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Medline, PubMed and PsychINFO databases were searched for the period January 2004 to July 2013. Papers were included in the present review if they reported the prevalence of adherence (the percentage of the study population that is classified as adherent) to Type 2 diabetes medication and used validated adherence measures with a defined cut-off point to indicate adherence. Reported factors were classified as potential predictors if the studies that examined that particular variable reported consistent findings.

RESULTS

Of the 27 studies included in the present review, the prevalence of adherence ranged from 38.5 to 93.1%. Only six out of 27 studies (22.2%) reported prevalence of adherence of ≥ 80% among their study population. Depression and medication cost were found to be consistent and potentially modifiable predictors for diabetes medication-taking behaviour. The associations between adherence and other factors were inconsistent among the reviewed studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence to diabetes medication remains an ongoing problem. This review has highlighted the urgent need to develop consensus about what constitutes good adherence in diabetes. Further research is needed to clarify modifiable factors, in addition to depression and medication cost, that influence adherence and may provide a focus for targeted interventions to promote adherence, optimize diabetes control and limit the progression of diabetes.

Clinical effects of thai herbal compress: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective. To determine the clinical effects of Thai herbal compress. Methods. International and Thai databases were searched from inception through September 2014. Comparative clinical studies investigating herbal compress for any indications were included. Outcomes of interest included level of pain, difficulties in performing activities, and time from delivery to milk secretion. Mean changes of the outcomes from baseline were compared between herbal compress and comparators by calculating mean difference. Results. A total of 13 studies which involved 778 patients were selected from 369 articles identified. The overall effects of Thai herbal compress on reducing osteoarthritis (OA) and muscle pain were not different from those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, knee exercise, and hot compress. However, the reduction of OA pain in the herbal compress group tended to be higher than that of any comparators (weighted mean difference 0.419; 95% CI -0.004, 0.842) with moderate heterogeneity (I (2) = 58.3%, P = 0.048). When compared with usual care, herbal compress provided significantly less time from delivery to milk secretion in postpartum mothers (mean difference -394.425 minutes; 95% CI -620.084, -168.766). Conclusion. Thai herbal compress may be considered as an alternative for osteoarthritis and muscle pain and could also be used as a treatment of choice to induce lactation.

Supporting self-management of type 2 diabetes: is there a role for the community pharmacist?

BACKGROUND

Evidence supports the efficacy of pharmacy services in type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, little is known about consumer perspectives on the role of community pharmacists in diabetes care. The objectives of this study were to identify potential unmet needs and explore preferences for pharmacist-delivered support for T2D.

METHODS

A qualitative study using focus groups was conducted in Sydney, Australia. Patients with T2D who were members of the Australian Diabetes Council in Sydney, Australia, were recruited through a survey on medication use in T2D. Five focus groups with a total of 32 consumers with T2D were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

The key themes were 1) the experiences of diabetes services received, 2) the potential to deliver self-management services, and 3) the suggested role of pharmacist in supporting diabetes management. Gaps in understanding and some degree of nonadherence to self-management signaled a potential for self-management support delivered by pharmacists. However, consumers still perceive that the main role of pharmacists in diabetes care centers on drug management services, with some enhancements to support adherence and continuity of supply. Barriers to diabetes care services included time constraints and a perceived lack of interest by pharmacists.

CONCLUSION

Given the unmet needs in diabetes self-management, opportunities exist for pharmacists to be involved in diabetes care. The challenge is for pharmacists to upgrade their diabetes knowledge and skills, organize their workflow, and become proactive in delivering diabetes care support.

How diabetes risk assessment tools are implemented in practice: a systematic review

This review aimed to explore the extent of the use of diabetes risk assessment tools and to determine influential variables associated with the implementation of these tools. CINAHL, Google Scholar, ISI Citation Indexes, PubMed, and Scopus were searched from inception to January 2013. Studies that reported the use of diabetes risk assessment tools to identify individuals at risk of diabetes were included. Of the 1719 articles identified, 24 were included. Follow-up of high risk individuals for diagnosis of diabetes was conducted in 5 studies. Barriers to the uptake of diabetes risk assessment tools by healthcare practitioners included (1) attitudes toward the tools; (2) impracticality of using the tools and (3) lack of reimbursement and regulatory support. Individuals were reluctant to undertake self-assessment of diabetes risk due to (1) lack of perceived severity of type 2 diabetes; (2) impracticality of the tools; and (3) concerns related to finding out the results. The current use of non-invasive diabetes risk assessment scores as screening tools appears to be limited. Practical follow up systems as well as strategies to address other barriers to the implementation of diabetes risk assessment tools are essential and need to be developed.

Intervention to promote patients' adherence to antimalarial medication: a systematic review

Non-adherence as a major contributor to poor treatment outcomes. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of existing interventions promoting adherence to antimalarial drugs by systematic review. The following databases were used to identify potential articles: MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane CENTRAL, and CINAHL (through March 2013). From 1,813 potential papers identified, 16 studies met the selection criteria comprising 9,247 patients. Interventions were classified as packaging aids, visual media, combined visual media and verbal information, community education, medication supervision, and convenient regimen. These interventions were shown to increase adherence to antimalarial drugs (median relative risk = 1.4, interquartile range 1.2-2.0). Although a most effective intervention did not emerge, community education and visual media/verbal information combinations may well have most potential to improve adherence to antimalarial medication. These interventions should be implemented in combination to optimize their beneficial effects. The current understanding on improved adherence would facilitate to contain outbreaks of malaria cost effectively.

Opportunistic screening and health promotion for type 2 diabetes: an expanding public health role for the community pharmacist

BACKGROUND

Early detection to identify people at risk of diabetes is an important approach to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to implement the Diabetes Prevention Program in community pharmacy using a diabetes risk prediction tool.

METHODS

The program was conducted in seven pharmacies in Bangkok, Thailand. Participants were the pharmacy's clients aged ≥ 35 years without the history of diabetes. A validated risk prediction tool was used to assess individuals' diabetes risk. Educational information was offered to all participants. Those with a high risk score (≥ 9 out of 17) were offered a self-check of fasting capillary blood glucose (CBG). A referral was made for those with CBG ≥ 126 mg/dl.

RESULTS

During a 3-month service, 397 individuals participated in the program. Nearly half of the participants (49.4%) were at a high risk of diabetes (risk score: ≥ 9). Ninety five (48.5%) of these high risk individuals undertook fasting CBG. Elevated fasting CBG (≥ 126 mg/dl) was found in 12 persons (12.7%). Overall, two patients with diabetes were identified during the provision of the program.

CONCLUSIONS

The Diabetes Prevention Program in community pharmacies uncovered half of the clients who were at risk of diabetes and provided an opportunity for participants to learn more about the prevention of diabetes.

Safety of nortriptyline at equivalent therapeutic doses for smoking cessation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The limited use of nortriptyline for smoking cessation is likely due to concerns about its serious adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the safety of nortriptyline at doses equivalent to those used in aiding smoking cessation.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search of relevant articles in MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, PsychINFO, WHO publications and the Clinical Trials database (through November 2008).

STUDY SELECTION

All studies of nortriptyline at doses between 75 and 100 mg in any indication were reviewed.

DATA EXTRACTION

The quality of included studies was assessed based on the Jadad score. Data were extracted using a data extraction form.

DATA SYNTHESIS

From 442 potentially relevant articles identified, 17 studies met our selection criteria and were included for data analysis. Indications for nortriptyline in these studies were smoking cessation (eight studies), depression (five studies), neuropathic pain (three studies) and schizophrenia (one study). 2885 individuals participated in these studies, with exposure time ranging between 4 and 12 weeks. The major comparator used in these trials was placebo. Overall, no life-threatening events occurred in these studies. Orthostatic hypotension was significantly higher in nortriptyline users than in comparator groups (relative risk 2.8; 95% CI 1.4, 5.3). Other adverse events significantly associated with nortriptyline were anticholinergic-related effects including drowsiness, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbance and dysgeusia.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that nortriptyline, at doses between 75 and 100 mg, is not significantly associated with serious adverse events when administered in patients without underlying cardiovascular disease.

Statins utilisation pattern: a retrospective evaluation in a tertiary care hospital in Thailand

OBJECTIVES

To determine statin usage pattern and evaluate whether new generation statins are actually needed by the patients receiving them.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort included patients receiving first-time statins at a tertiary care hospital in Thailand. Using electronic medical records from 2005, its indication was determined based on history of coronary heart disease (CHD) and CHD-risk equivalents. The lipid profiles tested within 30 days prior to the first date of statins prescription were analysed. Each patient was assessed as to whether statin was needed based on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction capacity and lipid goals.

RESULTS

A total of 2479 first-time statin users was included. Ninety percent of the users received simvastatin, while 8% and 2% received atorvastatin and pravastatin respectively. More than half (58.0%) used statins for primary prevention, although all usage of atorvastatin was considered not needed. Considering the use of statin for secondary prevention to achieve the LDL-C goal of <130mg/dl (3.37mmol/l), more than 80% of atorvastatin users could be switched to simvastatin. Only 8% of simvastatin usage would not be able to achieve this target. When the LDL-C goal was <70mg/dl (1.81mmol/l), 40.2% simvastatin users was considered appropriate, while 58.6% needed atorvastatin to be prescribed.

CONCLUSION

A substantial proportion of patients did not need statins therapy, particularly for primary prevention. In addition, atorvastatin use is mostly not needed except in patients requiring statins for secondary prevention to achieve the LDL-C goal of <70mg/dl (1.81mmol/l). The findings should prompt hospital policy makers to develop measures to ensure the proper use of statins in their clinical settings.

Compliance of drugstores with a national smoke-free law: a pilot survey

OBJECTIVES

To examine the outcome of the recent implementation of a smoke-free policy in drugstores in Thailand, comparing participants and non-participants of the 100% smoke-free drugstore campaign promoted by the Thai Pharmacy Network for Tobacco Control (TPNTC).

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey of 3600 drugstores in Thailand.

METHOD

Smoking prevalence on the premises, the number of stores displaying no-smoking signs, and the number of stores selling cigarettes were examined.

RESULTS

In total, 1001 questionnaires were returned (27.8% response rate). Smoking prevalences inside and outside drugstores in the past month were 26.4% and 84.7%, respectively. Seven percent of drugstores had at least one staff member who smoked tobacco. Overall, 63.3% of drugstores displayed no-smoking signs, as required by law. Compared with non-participating drugstores, those which participated in the TPNTC smoke-free campaign more frequently reported that they had asked smokers to stop smoking/leave the premises, in addition to possessing and displaying no-smoking signs.

CONCLUSION

Approximately one-third of drugstores in this survey did not meet the terms of the recent smoke-free regulation. The TPNTC campaign improved the compliance of drugstores with the law in various aspects. This study was considered a pilot study, and despite the low response rate, the findings suggest a need for further action to ensure that all drugstores comply with the law and are 100% smoke-free.

Impact of the reduction of the prescription charge in Wales on the prescribing of non-sedating antihistamines in primary care

OBJECTIVE

Determine the impact of the phased reduction of the prescription charge in Wales on prescriptions for non-sedating antihistamines.

METHOD

Prescription items for non-sedating antihistamines dispensed in 22 Local Health Boards (LHBs) in Wales and 15 Primary Care Trusts in the South East of England were analysed between October 2001 and September 2006.

RESULTS

There was an increase in percent change (median (interquartile range [IQR])) in prescription items for non-sedating antihistamines dispensed in Wales in the 24 months after the first reduction of the prescription charge in October 2004 compared to the 24 months prior to this (13.7 [10.9-17.1] vs. 7.3 [5.0-10.7], p<0.001). In the South East of England there was no change over the same periods (4.4 [3.4-7.5] vs. 4.5 [0.8-7.9], p=0.73). In the five least deprived LHBs the percent change in prescriptions for non-sedating antihistamines increased in the 24 months after the reduction of the prescription charge compared to the previous 24 months (14.3 [11.5-19.4] vs. 9.0 [9.1-13.5], p=0.04). In contrast there was no change over the two periods in the five most deprived LHBs (13.1 [10.9-17.5] vs. 9.5 [2.9-10.4], p=0.08].

CONCLUSIONS

The phased reduction of the prescription charge in Wales coincided with an increase in the number of non-sedating antihistamines dispensed in Wales. This was only evident in the least deprived LHBs.

Impact of the reclassification of omeprazole on the prescribing and sales of ulcer healing drugs

OBJECTIVES

To investigate if the reclassification of omeprazole from a prescription only medicine to pharmacy sale status had an impact on the prescribing and sales of ulcer-healing drugs and whether deprivation had any influence on this.

SETTING

Primary care, Wales, UK.

METHOD

Retrospective analysis (March 2002 to February 2005) of prescription data and pharmacy sales data.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Number of items per 1,000 population.

RESULTS

The number of prescription items for ulcer-healing drugs across Wales increased in each year of the study. The number of items per 1,000 population for proton pump inhibitors increased by 12.4% (473.3 to 531.8 items) in 2003/04 and 13.8% (531.8 to 605.1 items) in 2004/05, whereas the number of items per 1,000 population for H2 antagonists fell by 6.2% (149.1 to 139.9 items), and 5.7% (139.9 to 131.9 items) during 2003/04 and 2004/05, respectively. The sale of items per 1,000 population of H(2) antagonists increased by 34.3% (19.8 to 26.6 items) in 2003/04, but fell by 8.6% (26.6 to 24.3 items) in 2004/05. In February 2005, 12 months after reclassification, omeprazole accounted for 7.6% (2.0 items per 1,000 population) of the total sales (26.3 items per 1,000 population) of ulcer-healing drugs from pharmacies in Wales. Areas with high multiple deprivation and unemployment were significantly associated with the prescribing of ulcer-healing drugs, H2 antagonists and proton pump inhibitors. Multiple deprivation, unemployment and low income explained 21% of the variation in prescribing of ulcer-healing drugs. The sale of omeprazole through pharmacies was not related to these deprivation characteristics.

CONCLUSION

Twelve months after the reclassification of omeprazole the market growth of H2 antagonists sold from pharmacies was halted although there was no apparent impact on the prescription of ulcer-healing drugs. As a consequence there was no saving to the health service drug budget associated with the reclassification of omeprazole.