Treatment of Anxiety Disorders - The Role of Pharmacists

Abstract

Anxiety disorders represent the group of the most prevalent mental diseases which may have serious negative consequences for mental and social health. Anxiety is generally treated with a combination of the psychotherapeutic treatment and pharmacotherapy. Pharmacotherapy of anxiety implies the use of antidepressants, which are used as basic drugs, and an additional therapy with anxiolytics. This therapeutic approach in the treatment of anxiety disorders is accompanied by significant limitations. Adherence of anxiety patients is often insufficient due to the late onset of the effects of antidepressants, the appearance of adverse effects, the stigmatization of psychiatric patients in society and other reasons. Certain exogenous factors, such as an excessive use of coffee, smoking of marijuana, sleep disorders and personal problems, such as family problems or financial problems, can exacerbate anxiety and make it more difficult to treat it. Prolonged use of benzodiazepines, as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of anxiety, may be accompanied by the development of psycho-physical dependence. Finally, the drugs used to treat anxiety have a serious potential for the drug-drug interactions. All of these limitations may be completely or partially overcome through the active participation of Pharmacists as equal members of collaborative medical teams for the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Pharmacist-Led Assessment of Anxiety Levels and Associated Factors: A Prospective Observational Survey

“…To address these obstacles, collaborative medical teams are needed, with pharmacists playing a significant role. Within such teams, pharmacists assume a major responsibility in enhancing patient compliance, optimizing dosage schedules, promptly identifying the onset of the illness, averting drugdrug interactions, and mitigating side effects [5].…”

“…Community Health Management refers to a targeted intervention process aimed at identifying patients and optimizing their well-being, while minimizing negative outcomes and reducing healthcare costs [5,6]. Various healthcare professionals, including clinical pharmacists, participate in community health management in different capacities.…”