Pharmacist Focus: Baby, It's Cold Outside
by Kristi Fritch, PharmD/MBA Candidate, Belmont University College of Pharmacy
Cold weather is here which often brings the flu virus and other infectious diseases. In fact, National Handwashing Awareness Week & National Influenza Vaccination Week is observed from December 1st thru 7th. Through encouraging patients to wash their hands and receive the flu vaccination, we cannot only prevent infections, but we can also reduce antibiotic resistance and improve patient outcomes. Awareness of antibiotic resistance is steadily increasing, and therefore, antibiotic stewardship has become even more of a priority in our healthcare system. Unfortunately, antibiotics are overused and administered for the treatment of viral infections, which further exacerbates this issue. Prevention measures, such as handwashing and vaccines, are critical to eliminate infectious diseases.
Interventions and prevention are key to reducing the need for medication, but know that we are working to source those medications that are most needed for your patients. Currently the Dispensary of Hope has access to the following anti-infective agents:
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Drug Name
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Strength
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Acyclovir Topical Ointment
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5 %
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Doxycycline
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100 mg
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Doxycycline Hyclate
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50 mg, 100 mg
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|
Fluconazole
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100 mg
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Nitrofurantoin Macrocrystalline
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50 mg, 100 mg
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Valacyclovir
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500 mg, 1000 mg
|
|
Amoxicillin Powder for Suspension
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400 mg/5 mL
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Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium Powder for Suspension
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600 mg/42.9 mg/5 mL
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For references and the full article, click here!
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