42nd MDG highlights pharmacists during October Published Oct. 16, 2009 By Capt. Daniel J. Efraim 42nd Pharmacy Flight MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The average person typically sees their pharmacist three to four times per year after regular visits with their physicians. In most cases, pharmacists are the most accessible members of your health care team. Getting to know your pharmacist develops a valuable relationship that can help you get the most out of your prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal supplements and vitamins you may take. Pharmacists are trained professionals who understand the composition of drugs, including their chemical, biological, and physical properties. They work closely with you and your physician to make sure your medications are working safely and effectively. They can provide you with a lot of useful information like what to do if you miss a dose, possible allergies, drug interactions, and side effects. They can also provide special instructions and counseling for patients taking medications while pregnant or breast-feeding. Tell your pharmacist if you are having problems with side effects, or if your medical problem is not getting better. They may be able to provide you with information to discuss with your doctor on alternatives that may work better for you. You your doctor, and your pharmacist are a powerful team, working together to make sure you get the best results from your treatment plan. October is American Pharmacists Month. For Air Force pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, it is a time to celebrate the work that we do at home on American soil and abroad in support of our Overseas Contingency Operations. We cannot recognize our pharmacists without also paying tribute to our pharmacy technicians who are the backbone of Air Force pharmacy practice. At home, our mission is to provide the finest pharmaceutical care to our active-duty, dependent and retiree population. While deployed however, pharmacy personnel will also perform many tasks outside their traditional pharmacy roles which may include assisting with triaging patients and starting IV lines, or even providing additional security or patient transport. The 42nd Pharmacy Flight at Maxwell will have a "brown bag" day at the Base Exchange on Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pharmacy personnel will be available for personal consultations to answer any questions you may have about your medications. You are encouraged to gather any medications that you are taking and bring them in for review. Blood pressure screenings will also be available for those interested. Remember, we are always available at our pharmacy locations at Maxwell and Gunter Annex to advise you about your medications. Also remember to "educate before you medicate." Knowledge is the best medicine. Talk with your pharmacy staff. The more you know, the better you will feel!