5 Minutes with…a Haematology Pharmacist
Let’s Talk Blood Cancer: The Patients Podcast, brings you 5 minutes with… host Adam Joyce sits down with, Nick Duncan, Consultant Haematology Pharmacist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.
For blood cancer patients, taking medication can feel overwhelming, particularly when needing to manage several different medicines every day. Nick Duncan, a consultant haematology pharmacist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital shares his ‘Top Tips’ to help patients take their treatment safely and consistently.
Keep Your Pharmacist Informed
It is important for patients to tell their pharmacist about all the medicines they take, including those prescribed by their GP and any bought over the counter. This helps pharmacists identify potential drug interactions and ensure patients receive the right advice about their treatment.
Understanding Side Effects
Common side effects of some haematology medicines include nausea, diarrhoea, indigestion and fatigue. However, more serious side effects can be linked to changes in blood counts. For example, patients with low platelet counts may be at greater risk of bruising or bleeding.
The Importance of Taking Medication Consistently
One common misconception is that patients who have been taking treatment for a long time can occasionally miss a dose without it having an impact. However, taking medication as prescribed is essential, and regularly missing doses can affect how well some treatments work.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
Simple reminders, such as setting an alarm on a phone or creating a medication chart for the fridge, can help patients build a routine that works for them. These small steps can make managing multiple medications feel more manageable and help patients stay on track with their treatment.
Watch 5 Minutes with Nick here: