This month's consult reviews a rarer drug.
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1. Pictured Counselling Cue Card: a free sample of our counselling reference
2. Patient Consultation: exactly what a pharmacist may say to a patient picking up this medication, with formatting to show where the information is coming from on the cue card
Clearly, there are nuances that may not be captured in this format. The goal here is to provide you with an example of how a pharmacist may counsel a patient. Basic counselling tactics (e.g. showing the patient the labeled medication as you read it, having the patient repeat the information in their own words, double checking allergies, and so on) may not be depicted in the interest of keeping the content concise.
RPh: Hi! Is this medication new for you?
Patient: Yes.
RPh: Ok. What has (prescriber) told you?
Patient: They said it would prevent my seizures.
RPh: Ok. This medication is called PRIMIDONE, and you'll use it (as directed). It's in the family of what's called anticonvulsants or antiepileptic drugs, but basically it will help prevent seizures. You should take it with food to minimize upset stomach. Side effects are a bit more common compared to others in the same family, and may include drowsiness (so take it at bedtime), rash, and decreased libido; please let us or your (prescriber) know if these become bothersome. When using this medication, it's a good idea to take a multivitamin, as it can decrease levels of certain vitamins in your system. This medication may not be right for you or adjustments may be recommended if you have porphyria, if you are taking birth control, or if you are taking other common anticonvulsants like carbamazepine and valproate. Store it at room temperature.
RPh: Did you have any questions?
Patient: I have bad kidneys. Does this make a difference with this medication?
RPh: Yes, unfortunately we will likely need to adjust the dose for you. Let me sort that out now.
Patient: Thank you!
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