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Physician and pharmacist care of varenicline users in a real-world setting
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 15:59 authored by Mai FrandsenMai Frandsen, Stuart FergusonStuart FergusonSince its launch as a smoking cessation aid, varenicline use has been linked to a number of serious adverse events, notably the exacerbation of pre-existing psychiatric illness, depressed mood and suicidal ideation. Regulators’ fears have been somewhat allayed by varenicline’s status as a prescription only medication. The purpose of this study was to examine the care provided by physicians – or general practitioners – and pharmacists to varenicline users under real-world conditions. Participants were 141 patients who had filled a prescription for varenicline at a participating pharmacy within the previous six-months. Identified patients were mailed a survey to complete that included items on interactions with their physician and pharmacy staff, and knowledge of treatment side-effects. Most participants reported that their physician encouraged them to set a quit date (82.5%) and provided additional cessation materials (57.2%). While most (79.0%) physicians discussed whether varenicline was appropriate for the patient, fewer asked about psychiatric illness (40.1%), or asked to be informed about mood or behaviour change during treatment (48.1%). Participants (78.4%) reported that their physician had discussed a follow-up consultation, but only 59.4% of patients who had finished treatment at the time of the survey reported having one. Most reported discussing potential drug side-effects with their physician (71.0%) and or pharmacist (52.9%); when probed, knowledge was variable. These results suggest that many patients do not receive the level of support that physicians and pharmacists are assumed to provide.
History
Publication title
Journal of Smoking CessationVolume
8Pagination
11-16ISSN
1834-2612Department/School
School of Pharmacy and PharmacologyPublisher
Cambridge University PressPlace of publication
United KingdomRights statement
Copyright 2013 The AuthorsRepository Status
- Restricted