PHARMACEUTICAL CARE FOR PATIENTS ON HERCEPTIN® (TRANSTUZUMAB): CASE REPORT

Abstract

Pharmaceutical care can contribute to the patient’s well‑being throughout the therapy and for medication adherence. This practice is based on the theoretical framework of Pharmaceutical Care that proposes a patient‑centered approach focused on the prevention, identification and resolution of drug therapy problems to promote positive results in people’s health. The present study aims to report the pharmaceutical care to patients treated with Herceptin® (trastuzumab) at an oncology clinic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Four patients were followed during four months in 2016. The main drug‑related problem identified was adverse drug reactions. Pharmaceutical interventions were performed with patients and prescribers. The most frequent interventions were education about the disease and the treatment. Educational interventions have helped to improve patients’ understanding of the disease and treatment, contributing to pharmacotherapy adherence. The present study highlights the importance of pharmaceutical care and supports to improve the quality of life of patients followed.