Page 55 - Retail Pharmacy Assistants - October 2020

BONES AND JOINTS 53 have occurred in a short space of time through the use of telehealth has made it far more acceptable, in that it’s removed the barrier of unfamiliarity.” Also, of great help to RA sufferers is establishment of a patient-support MyRA website myra.org.au by Arthritis Australia in partnership with the Australian Rheumatology Association. The website provides “information indexed to a patient’s point in the disease and the drug support they need at that point” because with early diagnosis and the right treatment, most people with RA can lead full and active lives, Ms Marine says. “It’s a world-first, inclusive and trustworthy website designed to accommodate people right along the journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis, in that it provides customised information to help patients become proactive participants in their management and journey with the disease,” she said. The development of the website, based on a whole-of-health-sector approach including people living with RA, clinicians, health workers, companies and affiliated state and territory arthritis organisations, as well as support from multiple countries, was funded from educational grants from sponsors. Ms Marine points to other programs that pharmaceutical companies run, but which are usually linked to drugs associated with the company. “The MyRA website isn’t associated with any drug,” she said. “Rather it caters to the fact that medication will probably change over time, which can be a tricky business, and which requires independent information.” Arthritis Australia CEO Andrew Mills says that with some RA patients just beginning to contend with the disease NEW and others having lived with it for many years, it became clear through feedback that what was required was a support website designed to meet each patient at an individual level. The MyRA site offers relevant, tailored and evidence-based information on RA, keeping in mind that many people with the condition haven’t had access to patient support programs. The site links through to the national Arthritis Infoline and state and territory arthritis organisations, to provide a holistic, patient-support system. It covers topics such as symptoms, risks, treatment options, diet, exercise, day- to-day tips, support services and how to manage pain, mental health and fatigue. It also looks at how to build good relationships with healthcare teams and provides updates about Covid-19. The website also uses algorithms to get to know participants over time, routinely checking in with how they’re feeling. Rheumatologist Professor Susanna Proudman says the holistic approach is a game-changer for people with RA. “It’s a world-first, inclusive and trustworthy website designed to accommodate people right along the journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis.” Inflamax Liquid Caps 25 is the newest product to join the expanding Inflamax muscle pain relief range and is now available to pharmacies alongside the unique Inflamax Spray, 4% w/w diclofenac spray AVAILABLE NOW VIA ALL MAJOR WHOLESALERS To order or find out more, contact your Arrow or Apotex Sales Representative directly or call 1300 927 769 www.inflamax.com.au INFLAMAX SPRAY: ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. INFLAMAX LIQUID CAPS 25: ASK YOUR PHARMACIST – THEY MUST DECIDE IF THIS PRODUCT IS RIGHT FOR YOU. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. Arrow Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd. 15-17 Chapel Street Cremorne Victoria 3121. Ph 1300 927 769. ABN 33 605 909 911. Copyright © 2020. All rights reserved. www.arrowpharma.com.au Diclofenac potassium 25mg 30 soft capsules RETAIL PHARMACY ASSISTANTS • OCT 2020