A clinical ly relevant but not statistically significant reduction in triglycerides was found .
No impact on HDL-C levels was found .
Patients ' adherence to pharmacotherapeutic regimens and quality of life were considered possibly not sensitive and possibly sensitive to pharmacist interventions , respectively .
Total cholesterol is sensitive to pharmacist interventions , while LDL-C and triglyceride levels are possibly sensitive to those interventions .
BACKGROUND Hyperlipidemia increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases , and control is pivotal for preventing disease complications .
Multidisciplinary interventions , including those performed by pharmacists , are important for improving patients ' outcomes .
OBJECTIVE To quantify the impact of pharmacist interventions in enhancing patients ' outcomes .
A randomized trial of the effect of community pharmacist intervention on cholesterol risk management: the Study of Cardiovascular Risk Intervention by Pharmacists (SCRIP).
BACKGROUND Despite clear evidence for the efficacy of lowering cholesterol levels , there is a deficiency in its real-world application . There is a need to explore alternative strategies to address this important public health problem . This study aim ed to determine the effect of a program of community pharmacist intervention on the process of cholesterol risk management in patients at high risk for cardiovascular events . METHODS A r and omized controlled trial conducted in 54 community pharmacies ( 1998 - 2000 ) included patients at high risk for cardiovascular events ( with atherosclerotic disease or diabetes mellitus with another risk factor ) . Patients r and omized to pharmacist intervention received education and a brochure on risk factors , point-of-care cholesterol measurement , referral to their physician , and regular follow-up for 16 weeks . Pharmacists faxed a simple form to the primary care physician identifying risk factors and any suggestions . Usual care patients received the same brochure and general advice only , with minimal follow-up . The primary end point was a composite of performance of a fasting cholesterol panel by the physician or addition or increase in dose of cholesterol-lowering medication . RESULTS The external monitoring committee recommended early study termination owing to benefit . Of the 675 patients enrolled , approximately 40 % were women , and the average age was 64 years . The primary end point was reached in 57 % of intervention patients vs 31 % in usual care ( odds ratio , 3.0 ; 95 % confidence interval , 2.2 - 4.1 ; P<.001 ) . CONCLUSIONS A community-based intervention program improved the process of cholesterol management in high-risk patients . This program demonstrates the value of community pharmacists working in collaboration with patients and physicians
A clinical ly relevant but not statistically significant reduction in triglycerides was found .
No impact on HDL-C levels was found .
Patients ' adherence to pharmacotherapeutic regimens and quality of life were considered possibly not sensitive and possibly sensitive to pharmacist interventions , respectively .
Total cholesterol is sensitive to pharmacist interventions , while LDL-C and triglyceride levels are possibly sensitive to those interventions .
BACKGROUND Hyperlipidemia increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases , and control is pivotal for preventing disease complications .
Multidisciplinary interventions , including those performed by pharmacists , are important for improving patients ' outcomes .
OBJECTIVE To quantify the impact of pharmacist interventions in enhancing patients ' outcomes .