When must a pharmacist conduct a medication therapy review?

Conducting a medication therapy review during each patient encounter with a new medication is essential for several reasons. Primarily, this practice allows pharmacists to evaluate the new medication's efficacy, safety, potential interactions with the patient's existing medications, and adherence to the prescribed regimen.

Pharmacists play a critical role in assessing the overall medication management of a patient, and introducing a new medication necessitates a comprehensive review to ensure that it is appropriate for the patient's health condition and therapeutic goals. This proactive approach helps to identify any issues early on, preventing complications and enhancing the overall quality of care.

While medication therapy reviews can be requested by patients, and are certainly beneficial for those with chronic conditions, the consistent practice of reviewing medications with each new prescription helps ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes for all patients, regardless of their medical history. This comprehensive evaluation during every new medication encounter promotes safe prescribing practices and supports patient safety and well-being.