Drug Information Bulletin : issue 2

Abstract

Over the past sixty years the focus of pharmacist practitioners changed; from compounding and distribution of medicinal products to new activities and responsibilities that highlight the rational, safe and cost-effective use of drugs. The ultimate goal is always the well-being of the patient. Improvements in technology such as dispensing machines aid the pharmacist in the dispensing and distribution process thus enhancing the pharmacist’s clinical role. Improvements in drug therapy require health professionals to filter and assimilate to update their practice. Being an expert in medicines, the patient looks at the pharmacist as an accessible and trusted source of advice and treatment. This involves a life-long commitment to keep abreast with the current innovations in treatment and also in the growth and changes in the profession.