University of Malta. Department of Pharmacy & The Malta Pharmaceutical Association
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to
determine the effect of pharmacist intervention on
lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatment in
overweight and obese patients suffering from metabolic
syndrome.
METHOD: Patients were recruited from the community
setting according to the International Diabetes Federation
definition inclusion criteria for metabolic syndrome.
Anthropometric and biochemical tests were performed
at baseline (t=0). Patients were assessed for medication
compliance, occurrence of side-effects, lifestyle and risk
factors using a questionnaire. Patients were re-assessed
three months after pharmacist intervention (t=1).
KEY FINDINGS: A total of 35 patients participated
in the study. Following pharmacist intervention there was
a statistically significant improvement in compliance to
medications (p=0.005) and statistically significant reduction
in occurrence of side-effects (p=0.009), weight (p=0.005),
waist circumference (p=0.000), body mass index (p=0.005),
fasting blood glucose (p=0.015), total cholesterol (p=0.001)
and triglyceride (p=0.000) levels.
CONCLUSION: Pharmacist intervention improved
patient motivation to change their lifestyle. Pharmacists
can play an important role in the management of metabolic
syndrome.peer-reviewe
