THE PHUSE ISSUE 1

MARCH 2021 | ISSUE 1

The Phuse Quarterly Newsletter by KEPhSA

Articles, Poems, News, Trends, Technology & Developments in the Health and Pharma World

FEATURED ARTICLES SPORTS PHARMACY COLLEGE JITTERS BOOK REVIEW: BAD SCIENCE DIABETES: THE SUGAR DISEASE

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The Phuse | Issue 1

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EDITOR'S MESSAGE It is with great pleasure that we introduce this brand new exciting publication to add to the growing list of initiatives that the Media and Publications

docket

2020/21

is

continuously

looking to unveil.

As you read this today, in three months time, The Phuse 2 will be complete. In five months time, The Phuse 3 will be complete. In a couple of months, The PH Magazine 3 will be complete. Instead of one publication, we actually went for four. Just to make it bigger and better! Does that give you nostalgia? (pun intended).

I

am

grateful

publication.

To

to

all

the

the ExCo

contributors for

the

to

this

unwavering

support. To the MnP Special Committee for their

P.S. Manyala Media and Publications Officer Pharmacy Students Association of Kenya

dedication and efforts in proofreading and editing, I am glad to be working with you. Thank you all.

WELCOME TO THE PHUSE!

GROWING SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE KEPhSA is proud of the progress thus far with regards to digital growth and online presence as we improve member engagement and our public outreach, the latest being the LinkedIn page.

CONNECT WITH US TODAY!

@kephsa

@kephsa_kenya

@KEPhSA Kenya Page 3

THE PHUSE | ISSUE 1

THE PHUSE NEWSLETTER

INTRODUCTION This newsletter is a great space to be expressive. The Phuse is a brand new publication that adds to the list of the currently existing publication that is meant to be published regularly on quarterly basis, if all things go well and according to plan.

KEPhSA through the office of Media and Publications is cognizant of the creative writing skills among members and what relevant platform it is to showcase that ability other than increasing the number of publications.

Enjoy your read!

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CONTRIBUTORS Nickson MOTARI Claudine DELOROCE Sarah KIMAIGA Dr Odhiambo DAVID Prachi PATEL Kelvin WAWERU Chelsea ADIKA Amina NOORANY Silvanus MANYALA Dennis MBONO Pritney KARIUKI Kassim SABWA Michelle WAIRIMU Marcus KIPKORIR

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Antimicrobial Resistance

BY AMINA NOORANY USIU-A Beautifully coloured and bright like exotic flowers The inoculum appears under the microscopic power Superbugs! Nevertheless, the greatest disaster Massive destruction to all; the destitute and in clover Alexander, through luck, brought ray of hope Penicillins, as cell wall inhibitors, was the way he thought Yet again, this potent new and only drug Abuse was prevalent as it was used for every bug There set in the nightmare of every pharmacist When antimicrobial resistance was the new gist Pondering over for years in research and clinical trials A stage set: tetracyclines, macrolides, the new antimicrobials How unfortunate to see many bacteria develop resistance While we recklessly abuse them for undesired criteria Dose incompletion, no pertaining to guidelines and no compliance Some of the many ways we’d fuel the survival and evolving in bacteria Them smart bugs kill several, in thousands every year The number, rapidly increasing sinks my heart palpitating in fear No sooner will we have bacteria resistant to every antibiotic A scenario marking a massive failure to the white coats, all chaotic Antimicrobial stewardship is the way forward to prescribe A more responsible way for every pharmacist to describe Keep records clean, promote innovation and tracking Let every act be resilient to infection control backing Stop antimicrobial abuse and OTC administration Let’s join hands and stop the war of antimicrobial evolution Bear no more room for ignorance or lassitude There’s a desperate need for change of attitude Page 6

Clarity

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BY CHELSEA ADIKA JKUAT What do you see?

What do you want?

Is it blood, love?

You light my world But weigh me down instead I give you all the right pieces Show you my best places Share all my phases Blood, new moon I weep and mourn You saw me for who I am Took you for who you are Fed on my darkness Filled your emptiness Ain't it enough?!

This masterpiece is broken by design No, am not angry I just can't read minds I deserve this, says karma Cesar got his pay What else?!

This gale is making me nauseous Chains so tight, am cautious Can't breath I wanna speak your language if it kills me Dance to your tune if it breaks my legs Two left feet Two left un-fit Waltz over me, pick me up Am fragile, naked In the dark Clarity, gimme clarity Before the break of dawn

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Dream of a Medical Student

BY PRITNEY WANGARI KARIUKI JKUAT

Seated on the old dirty stool, Watching my brother come with father's favourite bull, Immediately thoughts fill my head like water in a pool And reminds me of father's death; not cool.

I wipe my tears with wool.

If only the hospital was not far, And my father was not a frequent customer t the bar, Had he not made his lungs resemble the colour of tar, Lastly, had he not in the family caused war, Mother would have taken care of him, or he was loved by her.

Mother disappeared one day, In the month of May, Father had little pay, When he was unwell; on the bed he lay, And did not even say.

Now I dream, To be in a realm, Dealing with health, To provide service to those without wealth, A dream fired by my experience.

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HIM AND HIS 300 MILLION SPERMS

BY MICHELLE WAIRIMU, KABARAK UNIVERSITY I know not what motivates you to pursue your pharmacy career with a passion, with a sort of madness.

I don't know what I would do when faced with such a situation, but my brain swears I'd kill - whichever way suits me best. Be it poisonous portion in his food, a knife to his chest, carbon monoxide would be a tricky subject (he would have heard of it of course), or oh yes! Little bits of steel wool every day in his food- I heard it works, but I can't wait that long.

My heart bleeds with her every scream, and I find that I cannot get even an ounce of sleep. I want to run out and help her, I do, but something holds me back. What if he hit me too? What do I know? The rest of the gentlemen living in the other houses have their doors tightly shut. I just moved here. Do they know better than to interfere? And I waste a wish. I wish I were a protagonist, the ones with nothing to fear. No, the ones who don't let fear get in their way. The ones that rush out to help, boldly facing the Beast head-on. Warning him that if he dares to lay another hand, a fist, a blow, it would be the end of him. That his 300 million sperms would die with him, never knowing the joy, exhilaration and high that comes with swimming to meet their destiny, the pain of losing and the success of a brother making a new, living, breathing being. Because then it would not be worthwhile.

A lone tear makes its way down my cheek. I find myself praying, selfishly asking God to not let it be me. That when the time comes (come it may) to help me choose wisely. To help and guide me to say yes to the right man. A man after Him. A man after His own heart. A man who never raises his fist.

When the subject of divorce comes up at my family table, with the phrase that God hates divorce, I always say, "I know He hates divorce, but be it that he lays his hand on me, I'm gone baby, gone." Let me remain celibate then if our marriage is bound by the Heavens and cannot be unbound"

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This- this is one of the reasons I am here in school, to get a career of my own, to make my own money so that, God forbid, if the worst comes, I will pack up my boxes, count my losses, and start a new life, a happier life, a more peaceful life. A life filled with love and laughter. Where arms are only raised in an embrace, to gently stroke the outline of our faces. Not to cause a reflex shrinking back.

I know of and have heard of so many women who stay in abusive marriages just because he provides. What would they do if they leave? What would become of their children? So they swallow the blows and the blood and choose to stay. To endure. For the children. For their greater good. For their futures.

I don't know what motivates you to pursue your pharmacy career with a passion, with a sort of madness, but for me, this is one of them, this and to be part of the nurturing of young minds - a teacher. I've always thought that a good teacher is a blessing.

I'll end here for today, pardon my bias, I know it happens to you too, but for now, allow my heart to bleed for her.

Till next time.

With all my love, M.

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Is Everything Okay?

By Kelvin Waweru, University of Nairobi A friend: Is everything okay?

Me: Pharm School...Circling me like a shark. Frenzied by the desire to see me have sleepless nights. Every exam turning into a careerthreatening quagmire. Exam results casting doubt on my once praised intelligence. And you ask, "Is everything okay?" I am buffeted by the complex structures of drugs that I'm supposed to remember till my last breath. Beside those structures is an endless list of drugs I'm supposed to recall upon demand and aptly match their uses.

Yet I, an ordinary student, I'm only equipped with a brain that can accommodate about 10% of what the lecturers try to shove inside my head. And you ask, "Is everything okay?" I've always effortlessly coloured my transcripts with A's for the better part of my years, and now I feel that A has been ripped from my grasp and it's miles away from my current grade. And you ask, "Is everything okay?"

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CURIOSITY AND CAT KILLING

by Dennis Mbono, University of Nairobi When it comes to matters of ethics and morality, I think (keyword) that rules are meant to be broken. I frequently ask myself, "What is the essence of learning antidepressants without even trying them?". The Englishmen, as they are quite referred to, said that experience is the best teacher that works for the folly.

I worked at a dispensing chemist. Sometimes I purchase a few medicines for later self trial; yes, you have read that right. The devil is always a liar, too. This time Talgentis 5 mg was all I did in expectation to have a "great time".

Talgentis to me: "Hehe, why take me without any appropriate indication? I'll just show you what I am capable of".

Me to Talgentis: "Whoa, dude. You are just but a few milligrams."

That was how I had one very long and uncomfortable day for me. The details are withheld for a later story-telling session by granny's fireplace. But 0/10 do I recommend on irrational slef-medication.

DO NOT SELF MEDICATE UNLESS INDICATED TO USE THE MEDICINES!

YOU

ARE

"Our vices are attempts to combine self-medication and enjoyment" - Mason Cooley

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WHO HEALTH ALERT ON WHATSAPP

By Silvanus Manyala, University of Nairobi

The World Health Organization recently launched a dedicated messaging service in Arabic, English, French and Spanish with partners WhatsApp and Facebook to keep people safe from coronavirus. This easy-to-use messaging service has the potential to reach 2 billion people and enables WHO to get information directly into the hands of the people that need it. From government leaders to health workers and family and friends, this messaging service provides the latest news and information on coronavirus including details on symptoms and how people can protect themselves and others. It also provides the latest situation reports and numbers in real-time to help government decision-makers protect the health of their populations.

The service can be accessed by a link that opens a conversation on WhatsApp. Users can simply type “hi”, "hola", “salut” or "‫ "ﻣﺮﺣﺒﺎ‬to +41798931892 activate the conversation, prompting a menu of options that can help answer their questions about COVID-19.

Visit the WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Hub at whatsapp.com/coronavirus, and click on the WHO link on the homepage to open up a chat with the WHO Health Alert if you have WhatsApp installed.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO said: “Digital technology gives us an unprecedented opportunity for vital health information to go viral and spread faster than the pandemic, helping us save lives and protect the vulnerable. We are proud to have partners like Facebook and WhatsApp, that are supporting us in reaching billions of people with important health information.”

The WHO Health Alert is among the latest official NGO or government helpline to become available on WhatsApp, joining the Singapore Government, The Israel Ministry of Health, the South Africa Department of Health, and KOMINFO Indonesia. WHO is actively working to launch local services with other countries as well.

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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PHARMACY

BY KASSIM SABWA, KENYA METHODIST UNIVERSITY

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of a computer or computercontrolled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with humanlevel intelligence, self-awareness, knowledge, and conscience. It’s the ability to solve problems and act rationally.

AI is the science and engineering of making intelligent machines and computer programs. The year 1956 is considered to be the year AI was invented by John McCarthy to create technology that allows computers and machines to function intelligently.

AI is hugely applied in many fields such as in healthcare e.g. pharmacy and medicine, cybersecurity, travel industry, logistics, and supply chain, education, telecommunication, banking, nuclear management, and many more.

This article is about AI application in Pharmacy which is a science of medicinal substances comprising pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacognosy, and forensics.

The job of a pharmacist, for decades, has been to ensure that the prescriptions that are received by the pharmacy are filled with the right medicine in the right amount and to also ensure that in case of multiple medications, the medicines do not show any adverse drug-drug interactions.

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With the advent of big data and AI, robots are now becoming more useful in healthcare especially in pharmacy with human supervision to carry out activities previously done by pharmacists. AI is important in pharmacy in many ways; It's pivotal in areas of drug repurposing, drug discovery, and clinical trials especially by pharmaceutical/biotech companies such as Novartis, Cyclica and Verge Genomics.

AI reduces the time that is needed for drug development and, in turn, reduces the costs that are associated with drug development, enhances the returns on investment, and may even cause a decrease in cost for the end-user. The major benefit of AI is that it is much more superior to humans in analyzing data and it can analyze a large number of data that would normally not fit into any of the conventional computers.

AI is being mostly used in research areas currently. The processing power of AI is greater than any other tools available at anyone’s disposal and in research, especially on gene mutation; it can go through piles of data and pick out the necessary information, uncovering new data sets, new and effective drugs can be made available sooner.

Examples of AI in pharmacy include the use of automated data gathering and analysis to create solutions to some of the most complex diseases known today, including ALS and Alzheimer’s, and the use of images from machine learning algorithms to predict which untested compounds might be worth exploring in more details.

Challenges to the adoption of artificial intelligence are that some pharma companies’ infrastructure is based on legacy systems that were not designed with AI in mind., they lack sufficient data storage and often interoperability.AI is still seen as relatively new technology and the future of pharma; with more information provided to the pharmacists and students, those in a position to influence organizational decisions around AI will hopefully get the ammunition they need to lead their organizations into the future.

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WATER, HEALTH AND SANITATION IN KENYA ARTICLE BY PRACHI PATEL, USIU-AFRICA

Kenya has been facing challenges with proper access to safe water and sanitation. Many Kenyans are living in rural areas (approximately 72-73%), and therefore

access

to

clean

and

safe

water

is

limited.

To

fulfil

daily

requirements, women and young girls often have to walk long distances in search of water and often collect water from unsafe sources.

Kenya

accounts

for

about

9.4

million

people

who

drink

water

from

contaminated sources, making it have the third-largest population in subSaharan Africa which consumes contaminated water from unsafe sources. This has a negative impact on public health such that it leads to undernutrition, illness, and diseases which mainly affect children under the age of five.

According to the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) joint monitoring program report by The World Health Organization and UNICEF, only 59% of Kenyans have access to basic water services and only 29% have access to sanitary services. There is a limited number of latrines in rural areas, and therefore 15% of the rural population opts for open defecation. In addition to this, most public schools lack access to water, sanitation, and hygiene due to an insufficient number of latrines. All this together leads to poor hygiene and sanitation, because the lack of latrines forces the population in rural areas to practice open defecation, which in turn causes water contamination due to poor waste management.

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Poor water quality and sanitation are closely linked to the transmission of water-borne diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid, and bilharzia. In order to avoid transmission of these diseases, it is crucial to create awareness about the diseases, and all the necessary measures which need to put in place to avoid contraction of these diseases.

In order to mitigate the challenges of poor water, hygiene, and sanitation, Kenya is working closely with UNICEF to make sure that there is improved water and sanitation available and accessible to all its citizens. UNICEF is working with the Kenyan government to achieve an Open Defecation Free (ODF) Kenya, by improving sanitation practices and therefore contributing to improved health and nutrition in children.

In addition to UNICEF, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is also working with The Government of Kenya to assist Kenyans to learn water management (i.e., how to use scarce water resources in a way that is beneficial to all). USAID also helps communities in rural areas to understand the harmful causes of open defecation, and also encourage handwashing practices with soap. These are some of the measures being taken to ensure that there is proper sanitation in Kenya.

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DIABETES: THE SUGAR DISEASE DEFINITION AND TYPES Diabetes

is

a

characterized

chronic,

by

metabolic

elevated

levels

disease

of

blood

glucose. It is the condition in which the body does not properly process food for use as energy. Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose, or sugar, for our bodies to use for energy. The uncontrolled rise in blood sugar describes the disease.

Diabetes is caused by insulin deficiency (type 1) or tissue resistance to insulin (type 2).

Insulin is the hormone that regulates blood sugar and is synthesized by the pancreas.

When you have diabetes, your body does not make enough insulin or cannot use its own insulin as well as it should. This causes sugar to build up in your blood. This is why many people refer to diabetes as "sugar disease".

Diabetes

can

lead

complications

to

including

serious heart

health disease,

blindness, kidney failure and lower-extremity amputations.

There are different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by insulin deficiency. It is also

called

juvenile

or

insulin-dependent.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by the lack of body response

to

insulin.

Gestational

diabetes

develops in the third trimester of expectant women due to the production of placental hormones

that

cause

insulin

resistance.

Secondary diabetes is medically induced with no pancreatic involvement.

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Diabetes can lead to serious health complications.

THE PHUSE | ISSUE 1 Type 2 diabetes, usually in adults, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. It is the most common type of diabetes in countries of all income levels.

This is because of the changing lifestyle patterns - lack of physical exercise, stress,

obesity,

genetic

predisposition

etc.

Elevated

blood

sugar

(hyperglycaemia) with time leads to serious damage to many organ systems, especially nerves and blood vessels.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES These are dependent on the levels of blood glucose elevation. Some individuals are asymptomatic initially as in type 2. However, others tend to experience these symptoms quickly and more severe as in type 1. People who think they might have diabetes must visit a physician for a diagnosis. They might have SOME or NONE of the following symptoms: • Frequent urination • Excessive thirst • Unexplained weight loss • Extreme hunger • Sudden vision changes • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet • Feeling very tired much of the time • Very dry skin • Sores that are slow to heal • More infections than usual MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES The goal of diabetes management is to improve the quality of life and productivity of people living with diabetes.

There are two modalities of managing diabetes: 1. Non-drug method Use of proper diet Regular physical activity 2. Medication therapy Diabetes tablets for lowering blood sugar Insulin injection Diabetes education goes hand in hand with these two approaches as the community members including people living with diabetes need to know that diabetes is a serious lifelong disease without a cure, but can be controlled.

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World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14 annually and is aimed at raising awareness around the crucial role HCWs play in supporting diabetes family. The campaign draws attention to the issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world and keeps the diabetes family in the public and political spotlight. It is a global driver to promote the importance of taking coordinated and concerted actions to confront diabetes as a critical global health concern. The theme for 2020 was "The Nurse and Diabetes" to acknowledge the role of nurses in the management of diabetes.

The Blue Circle Campaign The Blue Circle is a global symbol for diabetes awareness and the logo for World Diabetes Day. It signifies the unity of the global diabetes community in response to the metabolic disease. It was adopted in 2007 during the United Nations Resolution.

WDD awareness campaign draws attention to the issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world and keeps the diabetes family in the public and political spotlight. It is aimed at promoting advocacy efforts throughout the year and acts as a driver to educate on the importance of taking coordinated and concerted efforts to confront diabetes as a critical global issue.

Members of KEPhSA took time to participate in a social media campaign to raise awareness about diabetes as the disease is proving to be a global health concern, especially with the ever-changing lifestyle patterns.

KEPhSA SOCIAL MEDIA DIABETES AWARENESS CAMPAIGN FORMAT:

Post a picture of you and/or your friends using the hashtags #WDD2020 , #WorldDiabetesDay and #KEPhSA . You can print them on a cardboard sign.

Ensure that you wear blue clothes or pose with the blue circle.

Tag KEPhSA on Twitter/Facebook (@kephsa) and Instagram (@kephsa_kenya) for easy finding of your posts.

Alternatively, download the Blue Circle Selfie app and customize your pictures with the blue circle.

The pictures to be shared on KEPhSA social media pages and a compilation uploaded on KEPhSA YouTube channel.

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COLLEGE JITTERS Dear Freshman,

Advice from a former freshman

I’m sure it’s a great feeling to be taking one of the most highly ranked and prestigious courses in the country and globally. Gauging from all the options you had and decided to take up Pharmacy, you are up to the task and all I can say is, it’s a worthy choice.

First, you’ve most definitely heard of unemployment, unwelcoming working environments and related in practice. Some of these are true but rather than focus on these now, I’ll ask you to focus on the matter at hand which is finishing your education and graduating with a degree in Pharmacy. As you pursue your course, stay appraised on the current affairs in the practice. Be in touch with the market through professional associations such as your local chapter, KEPhSA, PSK and IPSF. This is important for you for a seamless transition into the market.

Pharmacy isn’t a walk in the pack, the course is challenging but we’ve made it to this end to be able to write to you. This is evidence enough that it’s manageable.

Give it your best. Your best doesn’t mean eating, sleeping, walking and dreaming books. Read and balance to have a life outside books. This is where clubs, societies, associations and friendships come in. Take time to unwind, play some sports and enjoy the journey. Make friends but have at the back of your mind that you’ve got to be your best friend first and always hold yourself accountable.

Reflecting on my school years and current practice, I’ll urge you to read to understand the concepts not cramming to pass an exam. It might work in the current moment but in the long term, it’s counterproductive. Fall in love with pharmacy and make it dance to your tune for it can.

I know in high school your teachers were kind of feared & hated almost in equal proportion. In the university, the difference is that you are an adult but if not, you are about to be. This means you can make sober decisions and stand up for yourself. Engage with your lecturers as mentors, friends and future colleagues who are there to help you along the journey. These are the closest mentors with a wealth of experience and insights to share which they’ll never do unless you ask for it. Engage them beyond coursework and be responsible as an adult.

Pharmacy isn’t a walk in the park, the course is challenging but we’ve made it to this end to be able to write to you.

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You are a professional in the making and you need to operate as one

You are a professional in the making and you need to operate as one. Associate with peers, professionals and lecturers as a professional by learning what pharmacy is about, what the expectations of a pharmacist are and uphold the profession at all times. You are a brand, manifest it. Lastly, I know with campus you’ve got freedom. Enjoy it in moderation. Alcohol and drugs in general are not your friends. There’s no trophy/award for alcoholism or drug use. Stay responsible if you have to use them. Having sex isn’t a taboo/crime but don’t be reckless.

I wish you well and with senior colleagues, we are doing our best to make the profession better day by day. Do your best to join us on this other side. While at it, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance when you need it because we’ll always be here for you.

Best Wishes, Dr Odhiambo David, Pharmacist & Co-founder, Ryculture Health and Social Innovation

Dr Odhiambo David is a pharmacist with a BPharm degree from JKUAT - Kenya. He served as the KEPhSA President for the 2016/17 mandate. He is also the Co-founder of Ryculture Health and Social Innovation, a forward-looking socially conscious company committed to championing for and inculcating a culture of active citizenship and social responsibility for health and general well-being. He doubles up as the Administrative Assistant for the Kenya Association of Pharmaceutical Industry (KAPI).

Email: davyodhiambo15@gmail.com

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BOOK REVIEW: BAD SCIENCE

BY SARAH KIMAIGA, MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY

If you meet someone who thinks that touching their fingers together will connect the electric circuit of their body, what will you say to them?

“Bad Science” fits the bill for lovers of satire mixed with a breath of fresh, objective science. In his book, Dr Ben Goldacre masterfully dismantles the dubious science we are constantly bombarded with in the media and gives us the tools to uncover bad science for ourselves. “You cannot reason people out of positions they didn’t reason themselves into,” he comments.

Today scientists and doctors find themselves outnumbered by vast armies of individuals who feel entitled to pass judgement on matters of evidence without troubling themselves to obtain a basic understanding of the issues.

Each chapter of the book deals with a specific aspect of bad science, often with examples that are certainly absurd- but that have all been promoted credulously in mainstream media.

Starting off with cosmetics and the “detox” industry he tells a beautifully ironic anecdote about how in a certain magazine, a lady testified of how she placed her feet in a bowl of aqua detox while her therapist poured salt drops in an ionizing unit- “ in order to encourage my body to discharge toxins,” she clarified.

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After half an hour, the aqua detox turned red and her therapist diagnosed an overloaded liver and lymph. Karen needs to drink less alcohol and more water. Such companies hypothesize that our bodies are full of toxins and that our feet are filled with special pores from which the toxins are extracted.

Using his girlfriend’s Barbie doll, Dr Ben Goldacre gently passed an electric current through the said detox water. It turned brown, due to the simple process of electrolysis. Some users of Aqua Detox admitted the water went brown without their feet in it, but not as much. I find the detox phenomenon most interesting because it represents one of the most grandiose innovations of marketers and lifestyle gurus.

Today

scientists

and

doctors

find

themselves outnumbered by vast armies of individuals who feel entitled to pass judgement

on

matters

of

evidence

without troubling themselves to obtain a basic understanding of the issues.

If you look at a metabolic flowchart, it is quite hard to pick out one thing that is the “detox system”. In Dr Goldacre’s words, how much you buy into detoxification reflects how much you enjoy ritual in your daily life.

As the book progresses, science becomes more complex and the examples more serious. He covers the more worrying part where he demonstrates how people in positions of great power, who should know better, still commit basic errors with grieve consequences.

As a young woman, the book has empowered me to become a more effective detector of misleading information.

As a young pharmacist, it has given me evidence- based language to help enlighten my patients. “Bad Science cannot be beaten,” comments one reader. You will laugh your head off then throw all those expensive health foods in the bin.” The book therefore stands out as a genuinely excellent book. Your time will not be wasted.

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SPORTS PHARMACY

BY NICKSON MOTARI, UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI

Exercise-induced asthma is common in longdistance runners and in cyclists. Salbutamol tablets and inhalers are commonly used to

Pharmacists can assist in: management of athlete injuries advising on medication selection

manage asthma in these athletes. However,

during athlete recover

salbutamol self-medication may unknowingly land an athlete in the doping hot soup. This is because excess salbutamol levels in urine beyond the stipulated limit as per World AntiDoping Agency (WADA) is presumed as doping.

dispensing and compounding formulations such as creams and pastes for athletes screening prescriptions for drug interactions, drug-nutrient

Salbutamol, a common Beta 2 agonist has been shown to have anabolic effects on increasing muscle mass.

interactions and banned or restricted substances. working as consultants to sport's governing agencies to advise on restricting or banning substances

This is where sports pharmacy comes in. It is an emerging field where pharmacists use their expertise in drug utilization to promote pharmacotherapeutic advise, management and follow up to athletes.

It is an emerging field where pharmacists use their expertise in drug utilization to promote pharmacotherapeutic advise, management and follow up to athletes.

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as well as developing drug formularies for these organizations.

THE PHUSE | ISSUE 1 Athletes

tend

supplements oxidants

to

such

and

use as

ergogenic

caffeine,

nitrates

as

antienergy

Insulin

and

diuretics

spironolactone

are

such

prohibited

as

at

all

times. Insulin promotes the synthesis of

promoters. They may tend to use herbal

proteins

products that stimulate the metabolism

catabolism

of fat and enhance muscle strength.

promotes the entry of amino acids and

With an increase in the number of

glycogen

nutritional

and

enhancing the stamina of an athlete.

product, there is a risk of adulteration

Athletes who are not diabetic should

whereby some products may contain

thereby be advised against using insulin.

supplement

brands

and

glycogen

in

muscle

into

muscle

and

inhibits

and

liver.

cells

It

thereby

traces of banned substances such as anabolic

steroids

which

are

not

indicated on the label.

Pharmacists should have knowledge of drugs that are prohibited in specific sports. Alcohol for instance is prohibited

Pharmacists

thereby

need

proper

in karate and motor-cycling while beta-

training on sports medication use among

blockers

such

as

athletes. They should also be up-to-date

Propranolol are inhibited in golf and

with the laws and regulations of the

archery.

Propranolol

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) so as

effects

which

to participate actively in counselling

nervousness hence making it easy to

athletes and advocating for anti-doping.

focus and perform as one is relaxed. All glucocorticoids

A simple nasal decongestant such as

administered

Pseudoephedrine

rectally

which

is

easily

Atenolol

and

has

anxiolytic

reduce

athlete's

are

prohibited

orally, or

when

intravenously, intramuscularly.

accessible may require a Pharmacist’s

Glucocorticoids such as Prednisone are

intervention.

pseudoephedrine

potent anti-inflammatory agents which

levels in the urine beyond the stipulated

may give an athlete a significant pain-

limit as per WADA is presumed to be

reducing

doping.

thereby violating fairness in sports.

Excess

This

pseudoephedrine

is

because

has

stimulant

advantage

against

others

properties that are claimed to enhance

Pharmacists are drug experts skilled

performance.

with knowledge in pharmacology and

"Pharmacists thereby

clinical pharmacy skills. They should be empowered with appropriate pieces of

need proper training on

training and tools which can help them

sports medication use

world to another level.

among athletes."

Page 34

move pharmaceutical care in the sports

OPINION PIECE:

PHARMACY PRACTICE

By Marcus Kipkorir Pharmacy

Practice

is

the

discipline

of

pharmacy

which involves developing the professional roles of pharmacists. pharmacists

Pharmacy in-depth

Practice

useful

offers

reviews

practising

and

research

trials and surveys of new drugs and novel therapeutic approaches.

The primary mission of the pharmacy profession is to have a positive impact on the provision of public health service by ensuring the safe and effective use of

medications.

There

are

various

facets

to

this

mission, including the preparation and distribution of medications, as well as contact with patients and other members of the healthcare team.

The practice of pharmacy involves the: Interpretation, evaluation and implementation of medical orders Dispensing of prescription drugs Participation

in

the

selection

of

drugs

and

medical devices Administration of medication Review of drug regimens Research about drugs and related topics Provision of patient counselling Compounding

and

labelling

of

drugs

and

devices Appropriate

storage

of

drugs

and

medical

devices Maintenance of medical records

Optimal

medication

promote

the

therapy

desired

requires

clinical,

a

system

humanistic

to

and

economic outcomes. Pharmacists play a key role in the provision of effective health care by managing the

medication

therapy

for

patients

to

ensure

medications are used in an appropriate manner to achieve

health

goals

more

effectively

and

with

minimization of costs. Pharmacy practice is evolving to

reflect

the

modern

health care system.

Page 35

needs

of

patients

and

the

Traditionally, focused and

on

the the

role

the

distribution

counselling

appropriate

of

of

use

pharmacist

of

medications

patients

and

on

the

administration

of

medications. However, this is changing to a more clinical role in the provision of patientcentred

health

management,

care,

disease

including

medication

prevention

and

the

overall improvement of public health.

Multidisciplinary

healthcare

teams

are

becoming an essential part of the modern healthcare

system,

which

focuses

on

adaptable care that prioritizes the patient’s best interests. In this model, the pharmacist works alongside other health professionals to provide

the

best

healthcare

by

offering

expertise about the safe and effective use of medicines.

Additionally,

as

the

mechanical

process

to

labeling and medication supply can largely be

replicated

by

technological

dispensing

systems, the attention of the pharmacist can become more focused on improving patient outcomes. In particular, the time allowed for patient

contact

and

consultations

is

increased so that patients can obtain a more comprehensive

understanding

of

their

medication regimen and health.

"Pharmacy practice is evolving to reflect the modern needs of patients and the health care system."

Page 36

THE PHUSE | ISSUE 1

PATIENTS WE ALL ARE

BY CLAUDINE DELOROCE, KABARAK UNIVERSITY

My shosh has arthritis, which one you ask? I do not know. She gets these sharp pains once in a while that render her muscles numb or is it bones? I do not know, though it's excruciatingly painful, I cry on her behalf. She's had to see doctors and get medication and something called physiotherapy which is a different subject not related to her having arthritis, she fell and twisted her arm, a long time ago.

From here, remember I mentioned my shosh, not illiterate but sometimes doctors take advantage of the fact that as much as we're literate we are not enough to object the knowledge they have harnessed in school for ten years. They can always use it against you. They deserve it. We deserve it, but my shosh doesn't, a patient doesn't especially if it involves a life and money.

Now you know what that physiotherapist did. Some suck. I hope you don't.

Page 37

I almost mentioned another family member and remembered how life does not evolve around rants but realities. But this second one was a good story, the ones with a happy ending, because here it didn't suck, someone was a bit human, looks like we work with conscience nowadays.

The moment you find yourself in a hospital set up as a patient you start praying that the conscience of the ones you are left under their care is in line with Jesus Christ's or rather your hospital bills are settled and something more...like that doctor getting his injection right on the right vein artery whatever I said is vessel. It's weird how we get here to get healing and still freak out about whether or not we made the wrong decision. Some get lucky, some don't and some are just not meant to but we still question.

It's not once that patients have been misdiagnosed, overdosed, abused, abandoned or corrupted in a hospital set up with someone who's IQ is apparently graded in accordance with the years spent in an institution of higher learning.

Some really do nothing in those ten years, I digress.

Oh, and about my shosh, she was corrupted and never treated. I think our government can do better, you say, we can do better because it's us. It starts here with you, handling that patient as your own blood, are we not from someone's lineage in the Bible or Quran? And from what I believe Buddhists have a staunch belief in humanity.

Use that to secure the life of whoever is in that hospital bed now with all the knowledge you want to use against us! None of us is healthy remember?

World health Organization has laid out procedures and measures surrounding patient safety. It's the last thing I'm mentioning so you can go read it. It's a full 20 pages document. We need this knowledge. Yes, we do.

WORLD AIDS DAY '20 Written by Silvanus Manyala

WORLD AIDS DAY is set aside for partners

HIV still remains a major global public

globally to unite, renew commitment and

health issue despite the efforts invested

show support for People Living with HIV

globally to control it’s spread and progress

and AIDS as well as remember those who

made. Like many other major health

have died from AIDS related illness. It is

issues, the current COVID-19 pandemic

observed on the December 1 every year

further poses additional challenges. HIV

worldwide.

prevention, testing, treatment and care services must be insistently provided to

The National theme in Kenya last year was

vulnerable communities in regions that are

“Komesha HIV na COVID-19: Tuwajibike”

at a greater risk of HIV infection and AIDS

derived from the 2020 World AIDS Day

related deaths.

Global theme; “Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility”. The theme underscores the

“Only

significance of individuals, countries and

responsibility

the global community uniting in taking

coronavirus, end the AIDS epidemic and

responsibility to address HIV and AIDS

guarantee the right to health for all,” says

amidst the growing list of challenges

Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of

derailing ongoing global efforts today

UNAIDS and Under-Secretary-General of

including the COVID-19 pandemic.

the United Nations.

Page 38

global

solidarity will

help

and us

shared

beat

the

According

to

Organization

the

(WHO)

World there

Health were

an

estimated 38.0 million people living with HIV

Only global

at the end of 2019. Due to gaps in HIV

solidarity and

services, 690 000 people died from HIVrelated causes in 2019 and 1.7 million

shared responsibility

people were newly infected. As a result of

will help us beat the

concerted international efforts to respond to HIV, coverage of services has been steadily increasing. In 2019, 68% of adults and 53% of children living with HIV globally were

receiving

lifelong

antiretroviral

coronavirus, end the AIDS epidemic and guarantee the right to health for all,

therapy (ART).

By June 2020, 26 million people were

Key populations include men who have sex

accessing antiretroviral therapy, marking a

with men; people who inject drugs; people

2.4% increase from an estimate of 25.4

in prisons and other closed settings; sex

million at the end of 2019. By comparison,

workers and their clients; and transgender

treatment

people. Prioritising key populations in the

coverage

increased

by

an

estimated 4.8% between January and June

HIV

response

of 2019. The number of new people starting

interventions

treatment is far below expectation due to

impact on the epidemic and reduce new

the reduction in HIV-testing and treatment

infections.

would

with have

appropriate the

biggest

initiation and ARV disruptions that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Testing and

HIV can be diagnosed through rapid

treatment rates have shown steady but

diagnostic tests that can provide same-

variable recovery towards the end of 2020.

day results. HIV self-tests are increasingly

(Source: WHO)

available and provide an effective and acceptable alternative way to increase

Interventions will need to focus on the

access to people who are not reached for

populations. WHO defines key populations

HIV testing through facility-based services.

as people in populations who are at

Rapid test and self-tests have greatly

increased HIV risk in all countries and

facilitated diagnosis and linkage with

regions.

treatment and care.

Page 39

There is no cure for HIV infection. However,

As students in the healthcare space, it is

effective

are

prudent that we be aware of our roles in

mother-to-child-

the efforts towards addressing HIV/AIDS

transmission, male and female condom

concerns in our population. We have to

use, harm reduction interventions, pre-

appreciate the fact that there is a dire

exposure

need to call for urgent action to reduce the

prevention

available:

preventing

prophylaxis,

interventions

post

exposure male

emergence of new HIV infections whilst

circumcision (VMMC) and antiretroviral

preventing deaths as challenged by the

therapy (ART) which can control the virus

global COVID-19 pandemic during this era.

and help prevent onward transmission to

Collaborative efforts and responsibility

other people.

sharing are key.

prophylaxis,

voluntary

medical

Global solidarity and shared responsibility require us to view global health responses, including the AIDS response, in a new way.

It requires the world to come together to ensure that: Healthcare is fully funded domestically and by the international community Health systems are strengthened and healthcare workers protected There is access to life-saving health commodities

including

medicines,

vaccines and diagnostics Human rights are respected to produce sustainable results for health The rights of women and girls, and gender equality, are at the centre with inclusion to decision-making processes

Page 40