Abstract

INTRODUCTION: COPD remains an incurable global health challenge. Enhancing care through medical and supportive strategies is crucial for improving quality of life and reducing severe episodes. A team-based approach involving doctors, nurses and pharmacists is increasingly recognized as effective for comprehensive COPD management. This review explores the impact of pharmacist-led interventions on health outcomes for patients with COPD, identifying the nature of these interventions and evaluating their success.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science, targeting RCTs up to November 2023 focused on pharmacist-led interventions for COPD patients. Studies were reviewed for bias risk and evidence quality, followed by a narrative summary of the outcomes.

RESULTS: Nine RCTs with 2094 participants were included, focusing on educational interventions to promote awareness, medication adherence, quality of life and effective use of inhaler techniques. Significant health improvements were noted in the intervention groups in eight out of nine studies compared to control groups, though concerns about high bias risk and lack of blinding were noted. The GRADE evaluation showed evidence quality ranged from "low" to "very low."

CONCLUSION: The studies reviewed highlight the notable benefits of pharmacist-led interventions, underscoring the potential contribution of pharmacists in managing COPD within the healthcare setting. Despite encouraging outcomes, the prevailing low quality of evidence calls for additional high-quality research to confirm efficacy and adaptability in broader COPD patient care. The findings indicate pharmacist-led interventions hold promise, but stronger evidence is needed to fully leverage their capabilities in managing COPD.