The consultation of patients in choosing phytopreparations and food supplements

Abstract

Introduction: The trends for healthy lifestyles and the seeking of opportunities to amplify the main medical therapy for chronic diseases make physicians, pharmacists and patients confront numerous difficulties when using phytotherapy. The question how and who should provide the information about the rational use of phytopreparations and food supplements has to be clarified because of the chronic polymorbidity, the need of complex approach in pharmaceutical care and the potential health risks. Aim: To investigate the need of consulting the patient in choosing phytopreparations and food supplements. Material and methods: Exploring the accessible literature sources in database Google scholar about the difficulties patients face while using phytopreparations and food supplements. Results and discussion: The leading place in making the final choice of phytopreparation is taken by the pharmacist but he also encounters obstacles to individualize the therapeutic approach, as going into the clinical scope. Here comes the need of establishing a narrow collaboration with broad doctor specialty physician to improve the patient’s quality of life. Conclusion: The establishment of multidisciplinary team including the patient and his family, pharmacist and a physician create a favourable environment for effective consultation about choosing a suitable phytopreparation and the achievement of patient satisfaction.