@article {295, title = {Nuclear Pharmacy Practice: New Initiatives in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {10}, year = {2021}, month = {September 2021}, pages = {47-50}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {47}, abstract = {

Objectives: To declare the nuclear pharmacy services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods: It is a new initiative project derived through the international nuclear pharmacy services guidelines. The project has been formulated from the global business model and pharmacy project guidelines of a new project. Various project management tools write the new project. It consists of the initial and planning phases, the execution phase, and the monitoring and controlling phase. Results: The project presents nuclear pharmacy services with a defined vision, mission, and goals. The nuclear pharmacy services showed various benefits, including clinical and economic benefits to the patient. The risk management model description assured the continuation of the project. Moreover, the monitoring and controlling of the services were explored. Finally, the transition to operation project through the closing project stage is explored in the analysis. Conclusion: The nuclear pharmacy services is a new initiative project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It includes a pharmacy strategy in Saudi Vision 2030. The nuclear pharmacy services required the pharmacy workforces, all requirements of basic nuclear pharmacy services foundations. Therefore, the implementation of nuclear clinical pharmacy services is highly suggested in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Initiative, Nuclear, Pharmacy, Practice, Saudi Arabia, Services}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2021.10.8}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Rehab Sultan Najmi and Abeer Hussin Almasoudi} } @article {262, title = {National Mass Gathering Pharmaceutical Care Program at Healthcare Institution in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {9}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {1-4}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Objective: To explore the pharmaceutical care services during mass gathering (MG) Hajj at the healthcare organizations in Saudi Arabia (SA). Methods: It is a descriptive analysis of a newly established program at the MOH in SA called MG pharmaceutical care program during Hajj and Umra Seasons, which was analyzed within the Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2012-2020 and update the plan with new Saudi vision 2030. Results: MG pharmaceutical care program is a new program established by the healthcare organizations in the last four years, which amongst to provide pharmaceutical care services in various fields. Conclusion: The mass gathering of pharmaceutical care services is a new initiative, part of the mass gathering medicine. The program should expand after the foundation stage with performance indication monitoring and follow up. Further assessment of the new project is required to validate the clinical and economic outcomes to research the high level of quality and professionalism in the future.

}, keywords = {Healthcare, Institution, Mass Gathering, National, Pharmaceutical Care, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2020.9.1}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Nouf Hameed AL-Muwallad and Nezar Adnan Yahya Khayat and Yasir Abdulraheem Bamagaus and Taha Mohamd Rafuden Bakhsh and Nojoud Adnan Khayat and Ahmad M. AlKharoby and Wael H. Motair} } @article {220, title = {National Antidote of Poisoning Distribution System: New Initiatives in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {September 2019}, pages = {141-155}, type = {Review Article }, chapter = {141}, abstract = {

Objective: To declare the national antidote of poisoning distribution system as new initiatives in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods: It is a new initiative project, the national antidote of poisoning distribution system. The project drove the antidote of poisoning distribution guidelines and the international business model, pharmacy project guidelines project management institution guidelines of a new project. The initiative project is written through project management professionals and consisted of several parts, including the initial phase, the planning phase, the execution phase and the monitoring and controlling phase. Results: The antidote of poisoning distribution system with a defined vision, mission and goals was initiated. The services had various advantages with clinical and economic impacts on patients and healthcare services as illustrated in the review. The extension of the project was assured by risk management elements description. Furthermore, the monitoring and controlling of the services was demonstrated. The conversion to operation project though closing project stage was revealed in the analysis. Conclusion: The national antidote of poisoning distribution system is new initiative project and is considered as a part of the management of poisoning. There are multiple locations of antidote distribution services suggested and it is highly required in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Antidote, Distribution, National, Poisoning, Saudi Arabia, System}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.24}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Amal Hassan Al-Najjar and Saeed Jamaan Alghamdi and Radi Abdullah Alattyh} } @article {221, title = {National Medication Utilization Evaluation Program in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {September 2019}, pages = {156-157}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {156}, abstract = {

The national Medication Utilization Evaluation Program at the Ministry of health in Saudi Arabia with complimentary of physician order techniques is new system founded in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The programming part of pharmacy strategic planning and national pharmacy practice at health care services at the Ministry of health. The Medication Utilization Evaluation program started with evidence-based medicine guidelines. The new project of Medication Utilization Evaluation physician order was one the outcome of the program. The program steps development through central committee by Pharmacy department at the most prominent hospital crossover regions in Saudi Arabia. The project is complementary of pharmaceutical concept and alerting system of misuse of medications and subsequences medication-related problems and avoids the unnecessary economic burden on the healthcare system. The new national Medication Utilization Evaluation project is new in Saudi Arabia, Gulf, and Middle East counties.

}, keywords = {Evaluation, Medication, Ministry of Health, Ministry of health in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabia, Utilization}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.25}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Abeer Hussin Almasoudi} } @article {66, title = {National Pharmacists On-the-Job Training program at the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {June 2019}, pages = {94-98}, type = {Review Article }, chapter = {94}, abstract = {

Objective: To explore the pharmacists on the job training at the Ministry of Health hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods: It is a descriptive analysis of pharmacists on the job training at the Ministry of Health hospitals. It was within the pharmacy strategic plan 2012-2020. The study used the changed pharmacy business model system and Project Management Procedure. Results: The pharmacists on job training system reputable with a defined vision, mission and goals. The system had some properties including human or economic and other defined in the review. The continuation of the system guaranteed by risk management model explanation. Also, the monitoring and controlling of the system as exemplified. The convention to operation project though closing project stage established in the examination. Conclusion: The pharmacists on job training system well-known within the healthcare system and pharmacy regulations. The pharmacists on the job training system are regularly refining consequently at all Ministry of Health hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Job, Ministry of Health, Pharmacists, Saudi Arabia, Training}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.16}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Saeed Jamaan Alghamdi and Radi Abdullah Alatty2} } @article {46, title = {National Pharmacy Inventory Management System at the Ministry of Health Institutions in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {January 2019}, pages = {02-10}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {02}, abstract = {

The National Pharmacy Inventory Management system is a new initiative program at the Ministry of Health hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The system designed by expert pharmacists and clinical pharmacist from different region cross Saudi Arabia. The system drove from national and International regulation and guidelines of pharmaceutical societies around the world. The system was starting from procurement phase through storage, dispensing and storage system at the logistic warehouse of the Ministry of Health. The system guides the end user how to request medications by group tender or direct purchase, medications inventory management, and close follow up procedures. The system had a vision, mission, and goals. The review discussed the full detail policy and procedures of the pharmacy inventory system. The topic addressed the risk management of the program, and key performance indicators to measure the impact of the program. The new initiative system was the first project at Ministry of Health hospital implemented to improve management availability and prevent over or under the stock of medications and subsequently the avoidance of additional economic burden on health care system at Ministry of Health in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Inventory, Management, Ministry of Health, Pharmacy, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.2}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Saeed Jamaan Alghamdi and Radi Abdullah Alattyh} } @article {229, title = {National Survey of Pharmacokinetic Services in Saudi Arabia: Perceptions and Barriers of Service Implementations}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {September 2019}, pages = {194-198}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {194}, abstract = {

Objectives: To explore the pharmacokinetic services at the Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia with an emphasis on perceptions and barriers of service implementation. Methods: This is a 2-month cross-sectional national survey of pharmacokinetic services with a focus on pharmacy management and resources at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The study consisted of two parts: the first part collected demographic information and the second part consisted of 43 questions divided into three domains. The questions were derived from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) guidelines and from the literature. We used 5-point Likert response scale system with close-ended questions to obtain responses. An electronic questionnaire was distributed to the coordinators of the clinical pharmacy services or drug information centers at MOH hospitals and it analyzed the perceptions and barriers of pharmacokinetic service implementations section through the Survey Monkey system. Results: A total of 43 hospital pharmacies responded to the questionnaire, with the response rate of 86\%. The majority of pharmacokinetic services were provided to the adult patients (37 (86.05\%)) followed by the pediatric and geriatric patients (19 (44.19\%) and 13 (30.23\%), respectively) with most of the responding hospitals having less than 20 beds (23 (53.5\%)). The categories with most of the barriers of pharmacokinetic service implementation were lack of knowledge (20 (64.52\%)), lack of pharmacokinetic education (16 (51.61\%)) and lack of an expert pharmacist in pharmacokinetic services (16 (51.61\%)). Most of the responders agreed that clinical pharmacokinetic services were necessary for hospitals (23 (53.5\%)). The responders agreed that the clinical pharmacist through pharmacokinetic services had a positive financial impact and cost avoidance on healthcare system (23 (53.5\%)). Most of the responders stated that pharmacokinetic services improve the safety and efficacy of patient care (33 (89.2\%)). Most of the responders agreed that the pharmacokinetic services improved patients{\textquoteright} clinical outcome (33 (89.2\%)) and prevented drug-related problems (33 (89.2\%)), whereas few of the pharmacokinetic services were provided only 10 (29.4\%) over 24 hr per day. Conclusion: Despite the positive attitude of hospital management toward pharmacokinetic services, there was a lack of education and training regarding the same at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Revision of strategic planning of pharmacokinetic services with regard to their improvement and implementation are required at all MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Barriers Ministry of Health, Perceptions, Pharmacokinetics, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.33}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Ban Abdullah Aldosary and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy} } @article {237, title = {National Survey of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee in Saudi Arabia: Formulary Management System}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {December 2019}, pages = {227-231}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {227}, abstract = {

Objective: Formulary management is an integrated patient care process which enables physicians, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to work together to promote clinically sound cost-effective medication therapy and positive therapeutic outcomes. Effective use of healthcare resources can minimize overall medical costs, improve patient access to more affordable care and provide an improved quality of life. A formulary not only includes a list of medications and medication-associated products but also includes medication-use policies, important ancillary drug information, decision support tools and organizational guidelines. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to provide the guiding principles for the Formulary Management System at Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a 4-month cross-sectional national survey of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The survey consisted of two parts: the first part collected demographic information and the second part contained 93 questions divided into four domains. The scope, structure and responsibilities, the formulary management system, the evaluation of drug formulary and decision-making and the committee meetings organization and management. The electronic survey was distributed to 50 drug information centers at MOH hospitals. It analyzed the formulary management system at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia through Survey Monkey system. Results: A total of 50 drug information centers responded to our questionnaire. The statement with highest score was related to the committee formulary system of medications usage through ensuring the safety of prescribing, distribution, administration and monitoring of medications (3.8); the process for managing drug product shortages (3.76); and the medications are requested for the addition or deletion from the drug formulary (3.68). Most of the hospitals had an open drug formulary (30 (60\%)), with remaining responders having closed drug formulary (20 (40\%)) with the total number of medications in the drug formulary (300{\textendash}899) at 32 (64\%) of the responded hospitals. The average score of type of method related to drug usage evaluation statements was 3.36, with the statement with high average score was review of medication error report (3.94) and review of medication sentinel incident reports (3.48), whereas the statement with lowest score was an investigational drug therapy approved (2.88). Conclusion: Two-thirds of the hospitals had open drug formulary. Drug utilization evaluation system should review for the majority of the hospital. update the formulary management system required with close monitoring for all MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Formulary Management System, Ministry of Health, National Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.50}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Sultan Mohammed Al-Jarallah and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy and Faiz A Bahadig Rph} } @article {235, title = {National Survey of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee in Saudi Arabia: Evaluation of Drug Formulary and Decision-Making}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {December 2019}, pages = {232-236}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {232}, abstract = {

Objective: Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia should develop, organize and administer a formulary system that follows the principles to optimize patient care by ensuring access to clinically appropriate, safe and cost-effective medications. This can be achieved through the Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee{\textquoteright}s (PTC) role in the evaluation of hospital{\textquoteright}s drug formulary and decision-making. The primary purposes of the PTC are policy development, communication and education and formulary management. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore the hospital drug formulary evaluation and decision-making at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a 4-month cross-sectional national survey of PTC at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The survey consisted of two parts: the first part collected demographic information and the second part consisted on 93 questions divided into four domains. An electronic survey was distributed to all drug information centers at MOH hospitals and analyzed the evaluation of drug formulary and decision-making through the Survey Monkey system. Results: A total of 50 drug information centers responded to the questionnaire (100\%). Restricted drug usage (3.88), new drug entities (3.74), new dosage form (3.6) and new strength (3.6) were the majority of the requests for inclusion in the formulary. A total of 1-3 medications were evaluated monthly by the PTC at 41 (82\%) hospitals. Most of the healthcare providers were allowed to request for the addition or deletion of medications: PTC members 38 (76\%), attending medical staff 35 (70\%), pharmacy staff 10 (20\%) and formulary subcommittees 10 (20\%). The formal economic analysis of the drug formulary revision was rarely or never conducted at 26 (42\%) hospitals. The responsible person for the economic evaluation was drug information pharmacist (21 (42\%)), pharmacy department (nonspecific) (17 (34\%)) and the pharmacy and medical department (14 (28\%)). Conclusion: Evaluation of hospital{\textquoteright}s drug formulary and decision-making was not adequate at the majority of the hospitals. Education and training about drug evaluation with an emphasis on cost analysis and impact are mandatory. An electronic addition new medications with close formulary is required with close monitoring for all MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Decision-Making, Drug Formulary, Evaluation, Ministry of Health, National Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.51}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Sultan Mohammed Al-Jarallah and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy and Faiz A Bahadig Rph} } @article {236, title = {National Survey of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee in Saudi Arabia: Meetings, Organization, and Management}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {December 2019}, pages = {237-241}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {237}, abstract = {

Objective: Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee (PTC) is required for the effective running of a hospital. In the beginning, there was no such concept of drug committee, but with the advent of time, the need for an effective PTC started increasing. In the PTC, the pharmacist, physicians and nurses play an important role, in addition to the presence of an administrative. This study aims to explore the importance of having effective meetings organization and management of PTC at Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The purpose of this study was to explore the meetings organization and management of PTC at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a 4-month cross-sectional national survey of PTC at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The survey consisted of two parts: the first part collected demographic information and the second part consisted of 93 questions divided into four domains: Domain 1: the scope, structure and responsibilities; domain 2: the formulary management system; domain 3: evaluation of drug formulary and decision-making; and domain 4: organization and management of committee meetings. This questionnaire was prepared in an electronic format and was distributed all drug information centers at MOH hospitals. It analyzed organization and management of committee meetings through Survey Monkey system. Results: A total of 50 drug information centers responded to the questionnaire (100\% response rate). The person leads the discussion in PTC was a Chairman of the Committee (29 (58\%)), Chief of Pharmacy (13 (26\%)) and Director of Drug Information (3 (6\%)). The number of scheduled meetings per year (1{\textendash}4) was 18 (36\%) per hospital with a duration (1-2 hrs) at 48 (96\%). Most of discussions were related to medications of infectious diseases (26 (52\%)) and cardiovascular diseases (21 (42\%)). Most of the challenging recommendations that needed implementation was a lack of resources (37 (74\%)), lack of hospital administrator support (23 (46\%)) and lack of pharmacist role (18 (36\%)). Conclusion: The PTC is a demanding scientific resource and administrative support. Total quality management system, workload analysis, positive outcomes of PTC were lacking. Special education and training needs to be provided to all the healthcare providers with hospital administrator{\textquoteright}s support.

}, keywords = {Meetings, Ministry of Health, National Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee, Organization and Management, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.52}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Sultan Mohammed Al-Jarallah and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy and Faiz A Bahadig Rph} } @article {215, title = {National Survey of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committees in Saudi Arabia: Scope, Structure and Responsibilities}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {December 2019}, pages = {222-226}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {222}, abstract = {

Objectives: The Pharmacy and Therapeutics (PTC) committee, sometimes aptly named the Formulary Committee. PTC is charged with determining the hospital formulary, decisions are made about the inclusion or exclusion of new pharmacotherapeutic and diagnostic agents for inpatients and outpatients. This committee is typically composed of a multidisciplinary team of pharmacy, physician, nursing and hospital clinical and administrative leadership. The aim of the study was to explore the Therapeutic Committee at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia: scope, structure and responsibilities. Methods: It is a 4-month cross-sectional survey of National Survey of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The survey consisted of 93 questions divided in two parts: the first part collects the demographic information, the second part contains questions on 4 domains: (1) scope, structure and responsibilities, that is including questions about the pharmacy and therapeutic committee membership, clear mission, vision and values of the pharmacy and therapeutic committee, the responsibilities of the PTC committee and the Sub-committees of Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee, (2) formulary management system, (3) evaluation of drug formulary and decision-making, (4) committee meetings organization and management. The survey was distributed to the fifty-drug information centers at Ministry of Health hospitals. The survey was in an electronic format with analyzed scope, structure and responsibilities through the survey monkey system. Results: The total number responders were fifty drug information centers. Of those, 48 (96\%) was Saudi and 2 (4\%) was non-Saudi. There were 16 (32\%) females and 34 (68\%) were males. Most of the PTC committee members consisted of a chief of pharmacy department 45 (90\%), medical director 41 (82\%), physician medical 40 (80\%) and head of drug information center 32 (64\%). The highest score statements related to committee were the functions of PTC (3.78), objectives (3.61), mission (3.57), with least one was a vision (3.56) and values (3.5). The most responsibility scoring statement was distributed the addition and deletion (4.08), all the departments receive the copy of the revised formulary (4.04), drug evaluation and selection for the hospital was (3.9), drug policy development was (3.9), while the lowest scores were Holds educational programs within the hospital (3.25) and drug monitoring system was (3.57). Most of the subcommittee existed antibiotic committee 38 (76\%), medication safety committee 38 (76\%), followed by drug utilization committee 9 (18\%) and therapeutic guidelines committee 9 (18\%). Conclusion: One-third of hospital missed drug information center pharmacist as the member of PTC committee and the pharmacy qualifications of committee members need to improve. Update the committee system and close monitoring required for all MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Ministry of Health, National, Responsibilities, Saudi Arabia, Scope, Structure}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.49}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Sultan Mohammed Al-Jarallah and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy and Faiz A Bahadig Rph} } @article {39, title = {National Survey of the Pharmacokinetics Services at the Ministry of Health Hospitals in Saudi Arabia: Prescribing and Dispensing Medication}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {January 2019}, pages = {11-16}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {11}, abstract = {

Objectives: To explore the pharmacokinetics services at the Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia with an emphasis on prescribing and dispensing medication. Methods: This is a 2-month crosssectional national survey of pharmacokinetics services. The study consisted of two parts: the first part captures demographic information and the second part is a questionnaire with 43 questions divided into three domains. The questions are derived from the guidelines of the American Society of Health- System Pharmacists (ASHP) and from the literature. We used the 5-point Likert response scale system to obtain responses of the participants; there were close-ended questions. The electronic questionnaire was distributed to all the coordinators of the clinical pharmacy services or to the drug information centers at MOH hospitals, The data were collected through the Survey Monkey system. Results: A total of 43 hospital pharmacies responded to the survey; the response rate was found to be 86\%. The pharmacists and nurses had privileges of prescribing medication as per pharmacokinetics services in nearly 18 (46.15\%) and 16 (41.03\%) hospitals respectively. At 14 (37.84\%) hospitals, pharmacists have the privilege to request an estimation of patient{\textquoteright}s drug levels and at 12 (30.77\%) hospitals, they have the privilege to change drug sampling time. At 15 (38.46\%) hospitals, nurses have the privilege to request an estimation of patient{\textquoteright}s drug level and at 12 (31.58\%) hospitals, they have the privilege to change drug sampling time. The commonly prescribed medications via pharmacokinetics consultation were gentamicin (23 (71.88\%)), phenytoin (23 (71.88\%)), carbamazepine (22 (70.97\%)), sodium valproate (22 (70.97\%)) and warfarin (22 (70.97\%)). The pharmacokinetics altering system during an electronic prescription was found in 9 (26.5\%) hospital pharmacies and the pharmacist was found to participate in pharmacokinetics research in 8 (23.5\%) hospitals. Conclusion: Healthcare providers including the pharmacists and nurses have a significant role in providing pharmacokinetics services to the patients. Expanding these services with standard guidelines and the electronic prescription is required in order to prevent drug- Pharmacokinetics related problems, improve the clinical outcome of the patient and reduce the economic burden.

}, keywords = {Dispensing, Medication, Ministry of Health, Pharmacokinetics, Prescribing, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.3}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy} } @article {61, title = {National Survey of the Pharmacokinetics Services at the Ministry of Health Hospitals in Saudi Arabia: Drug Therapy Monitoring and Healthcare Professional Education}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {June 2019}, pages = {99-104}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {99}, abstract = {

Objectives: A clinical pharmacist offers vital support in the expansion of a final prescription with improved patient management and enhanced safety. The aim of the current study to explore the Pharmacokinetics services at Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia with an emphasis on drug therapy monitoring and patient{\textquoteright}s education. Methods: This is a 2-months cross-sectional national survey related to the Pharmacokinetics services with a focus on drug therapy monitoring and education of pharmacist at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The study consisted of two parts; the first part captures demographic information and the second part contained 43 questions designed by the authors. It was derived from American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) guidelines and from the literature. We used the 5-point Likert response scale system to obtain responses of the participants; there were close-ended questions. The electronic questionnaire was distributed to all the coordinators of the clinical pharmacy services or to the drug information centers at MOH hospitals. All analysis was done through survey monkey system. Results: A total of 43 hospital pharmacies returned the survey, for a response rate of 86\%. The most clinical pharmacokinetics services documented were drug quality reporting 34 (87.18\%), drug information inquiries 35 (83.33\%), adverse drug reaction 35 (81.40\%) and medication error 35 (81.40\%). Highest clinical impact and cost avoidance of clinical Pharmacokinetics services were drug information inquiries 25 (60.98\%), the drug quality reporting system 21 (53.85\%) and pharmacist intervention 21 (52.5\%). Analysis of monthly workload for clinical Pharmacokinetics services were a number of drug information inquiries 28 (70\%) and the number of prescriptions needs 25 (64.1\%). The clinical Pharmacokinetics services education and training for pharmacists were found at average 7.8 (20.89\%) hospitals with high percentages type of educations was short education course 1-5 days [15 (39.47\%)] and long training course 4-5 weeks [8 (21.05\%)]. While Pharmacokinetics services education and training for healthcare provider were found at main 6 (15.66\%) hospitals only with high percentages type of educations was short education course 1-5 days [8 (20.00\%)] and Pharmacokinetics competencies 7 (18.92\%). Conclusion: Pharmacokinetics services on drug therapy monitoring was not competent at half MOH hospital, while only few of the hospitals had pharmacokinetics education and training to offer. Implementing the MOH pharmacokinetics services strategy with an emphasis on the drug therapy monitoring with education and training is required at all MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Education, Healthcare, Ministry of Health, Monitoring, Pharmacokinetics Services, Saudi Arabia, Therapy}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.17}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy and Sultan Mohammed Al-Jarallah} } @article {211, title = {Neonates and Pediatrics Electrolyte Replacement Therapy Order: New Initiative and Implementation System in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {8}, year = {2019}, month = {December 2019}, pages = {211-212}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {211}, abstract = {

The national medications safety program founded in 2013 at the Ministry of Health hospitals and primary care centers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The program focused on adults, pediatrics and neonatal populations. The program was part of the pharmacy strategic plan. The electrolyte replacement therapy preparation and administration for neonates and pediatrics published and distributed as required of the medication safety program. The new initiatives as complementary project was a standardized concentration of electrolyte replacement therapy for neonates and pediatrics implemented at specific hospitals of the Ministry of health. The new project as regular physician{\textquoteright}s order form and coveted to computerized physician order entry. The new project prevents neonates and pediatrics medication errors of electrolyte replacement therapy. The project is a new initiative at Ministry of Health hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi, Gulf and Middle East countries.

}, keywords = {Electrolyte, Ministry of Health, Neonates, Pediatrics, Saudi Arabia, Standardized Concentration}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2019.8.47}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Fatimah Al-Doughan and Yasir Ahmed Ibrahim and Hussam Saad Almalki and Nouf Alaza and Malika Alshamari} } @article {28, title = {National Survey of Drug Information Centers{\textquoteright} Practice: Evidence-Based Medicine-Therapeutics Guidelines (EBM-TG) System at Ministry of Health Hospitals in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {7}, year = {2018}, month = {November 2018}, pages = {26-30}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {26}, abstract = {

Objective: To explore the practice at the National Survey of Drug Information Centers in Saudi Arabia with an emphasis on Evidence-Based Medicine-Therapeutics Guidelines (EBM-TGs) System at Ministry of Health hospitals. Methods: This is a 4-month crosssectional national survey of the Drug Information Services at MOH. The survey contains 10 domains with a total of 181 questions designed by the authors. The questions were derived from the International Pharmaceutical Federation, American Society of Health- System Pharmacists best practice guidelines. The survey was distributed to 40 hospital pharmacies that run drug information services. In this study, the domain Medication- Use Evaluation System was explored and analyzed. It consisted of seven questions about the written policies and procedures and application methods for EBM-TG in the drug information centers. The data were analyzed through the Survey Monkey system. Results: The response rate was found to be around 88.88\%. According to the results, written policies and procedures for EBM-TGs existed only in 18 (45\%) hospitals and approximately 25{\textendash}100\% of the elements implementations. EBM-TG monitoring system is available live in only 17 (42.5\%) hospitals applying approximately 25{\textendash}100\% of the elements. According to our results, in only 18 (45\%) hospitals, the patients receive appropriate care due to EBM-TGs. There is evidence that the EBM-TG Indicators existed in only 19 (45.5\%) hospitals applying approximately 25{\textendash}100\% of the elements. Process for improving EBM-TG system exists in 20 (50\%) hospitals applying approximately 25{\textendash}100\% of the elements. Conclusion: There a poor application of EBM-TGs in the practice of drug information centers. Implementation of EBM-TG system improves patient outcomes which avoids unnecessary additional costs in the healthcare system.

}, keywords = {Drug Information Centers, Evidence-Based Medicine, Saudi Arabia, Therapeutics Guidelines}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2018.7.6}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Saeed Jamaan Alghamdi and Radi Abdullah Alattyh} } @article {24, title = {National Survey of the Pharmacokinetics Services at Ministry of Health Hospitals in Saudi Arabia: Pharmacy Management Practice}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {7}, year = {2018}, month = {November 2018}, pages = {4-10}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {4}, abstract = {

Objectives: To explore the pharmacokinetics services at Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals in Saudi Arabia with an emphasis on pharmacy management practice. Methods: This is a 2-month cross-sectional national survey related to the pharmacokinetics services with a focus on pharmacy management and resources at MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The study consisted of two parts: the first part gathers demographic information and the second part contained 43 questions divided into four domains that were derived from the guidelines of the American Society of Health- System Pharmacists and from the literature. We used the 5-point Likert response scale system to obtain the responses of the participants, which consisted of closeended questions. An electronic questionnaire was distributed to the coordinators of all the clinical pharmacy services or drug information centers at MOH hospitals; it captures the data regarding education and training through a Survey Monkey system. Results: There were 43 total responders from hospital pharmacies; the response rate was found to be 86\%. The majority of pharmacokinetics services were provided to the adult patients (37 (86.05\%)) followed by the pediatric and geriatric patients (19 (44.19\%) and 13 (30.23\%) respectively, with most of the hospitals covering less than 20 beds (23 (53.5\%)). Most of the pharmacokinetics services were provided through inpatient pharmacy (27 (62.79\%), outpatient pharmacy and through discharge (9 (20.93\%)). Most of the administration and management sections of the pharmacokinetics services were with the mission of pharmacokinetics services (68.8\%) followed by the total quality management (67.6\%) and policy and procedures (64.8\%), whereas the least of the administration of pharmacokinetics services was found in the annual pharmacokinetics plan (60\%), the pharmacokinetics strategic plan and pharmacokinetics technician competency (62.6\%). Conclusion: Although there is a daily demand for the pharmacokinetics services, only one-third of the hospitals had pharmacokinetics services to offer. Implementing the MOH pharmacokinetics services strategy is required at all MOH hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Management, Ministry of Health, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacy resources, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2018.7.3}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawy} } @article {27, title = {National Workload Analysis of Network of Drug Information Centers at Ministry of Health Hospitals in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {7}, year = {2018}, month = {November 2018}, pages = {17-25}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {17}, abstract = {

Objectives: To analyze the workload of the network of drug information centers at the Ministry of Health institutions, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a 2-month cross-sectional survey of all drug information centers at MOH hospitals. Any drug information center that has been recently opened or has provided services to the healthcare professionals and the public participated in the survey. The national, regional, and local drug information centers at healthcare institutions were included in the survey. In addition, hospitals or primary care centers (e.g., public, pediatric, maternity, and psychiatry) were also included in the survey. The survey consisted of two parts: demographics data and workload of drug information centers. The clinical activities were driven by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy model. Results: The questionnaire was distributed to around 60 drug information centers. A total of 46 centers responded to the questionnaire, with a response rate of around 76.66\%. Most hospitals (11 (23.9\%)) had 100{\textendash}199 beds and others (11 (23.9\%)) had 200{\textendash}299 beds. A total of 1022.5; 22,495; and 269,940 drug information queries were received daily, monthly, and annually, respectively. The greatest demand for a full-time employee (FTE) to preform drug information activities was at the central drug information activities (20.95 FTE) followed by the administration-related drug information activities (17.98 FTE) and patient-specific drug information activities (8.41 FTE). Among the central drug information activities, the highest amount of activity was observed for in-service training (10.95 FTE), whereas among the administration-related drug information activities, the highest amount of activity was observed for attending lectures/courses/symposium/training (2.46 FTE). Among the patient-specific drug information activities, the highest amount of activity was observed for patient counseling services (3.43 FTE). Conclusion: The workload of drug information centers was found to be very high. The services were needed to be revised within basic and advanced requirements of drug information centers at the Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia.

}, keywords = {Drug Information Centers, Ministry of Health, Network, Saudi Arabia, Workload}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2018.7.5}, author = {Yousef Ahmed Alomi and Saeed Jamaan Alghamdi and Radi Abdullah Alattyh} } @article {34, title = {New Journal with New Vision}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {7}, year = {2018}, month = {November 2018}, pages = {1}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

In the past several years, I was nominated from Saudi Pharmaceutical Society to be head of society twice in my life. During that{\textquoteright}s period I was responsible of SPJ publication with collaboration with pharmacy faculties colleagues to facilitate all related issues for the journal. Now a days once best pharmacy journal published in Saudi Arabia and indexed in the famous indexing database stating from google scholar to pubmed indexes. The journal remained specialized in the pharmacy based only. With new Saudi vision of 2030 and though healthcare and pharmacy strategic planning to work altogether with healthcare providers to best high quality innovative health services to our citizens, Middle East and rest of world populations. Read More ...

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = {10.5530/ijpcs.2018.7.1}, author = {Abdlatif A. Alghaiheb} } @article {186, title = {A Novel Treatment for Type2 Diabetes Mellitus: Canagliflozin}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {2}, year = {2013}, month = {December 2013}, pages = {129-134}, type = {New Drug Information}, chapter = {129}, abstract = {

Sodium glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, as a new class for treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus, offer a novel mechanism of action, and are very effective in bringing the blood sugar levels down, either alone or in combination with other oral hypoglycaemic agents, with minimal side effects. Among the several drugs in this group, which are in various stages of clinical trials, canagliflozin has been recently approved by USFDA for use in type 2 dia-betes mellitus, either alone or in combination with other oral hypoglycaemic agents and insulin.

}, keywords = {Blood glucose, Canagliflozin, SGLT2 inhibitors}, author = {Sangeeta Bhanwra and Kaza Ahluwalia} } @article {167, title = {Nephroprotective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Roots and Oleanolic Acid Isolated from Roots of Lantana Camara}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Sciences}, volume = {1}, year = {2012}, month = {June 2012}, pages = {54-60}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {54}, abstract = {

Background:\ It is estimated that about 12\% of men and 55\% of women have at least one episode of kidney stone during their life time. The incident in general population is about 1 in 1000 adults per year.\ Objectives:\ The present study was done to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of ethanolic extract of roots and oleanolic acid (OA) isolated from roots of\ Lantana camara\ (L. camara)\ Materials and methods:\ The nephroprotective effect of different concentrations of oleanolic acid (60 mg/kg, 80 mg/kg and100 mg/kg) and ethanolic extracts of roots of L. camara (ELC) at a dose of 200 mg/kg was assessed in albino Wistar male rats using gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity model. The parameters studied were urine volume, serum creatinine, urine creatinine, serum albumin, urine albumin, serum blood urea nitrogen, serum urea, urine blood urea nitrogen, urine urea, weight of kidney, body weight and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Statistical analysis was performed by Dunnett{\textquoteright}s Multiple Comparison test. All values were represented as Mean {\textpm} SEM. A p value \< 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.\ Results:\ Urine creatinine, serum creatinine, blood urea, blood urea nitrogen, serum albumin, urine albumin and weight of rat kidneys were found to be increased in rats treated with gentamicin, but these indicators of nephrotoxicity were normalized in OA (p \< 0.001) and ELC (p \< 0.05) treated rats in a dose dependent manner. Reduced level of GFR in gentamicin treated group was also normalized by OA and ELC treated groups in a dose dependent manner.\ Conclusion:\ The result of the above study concludes that the OA showed promising nephroprotective activity in dose dependent manner. These results suggest the therapeutic utility of OA in renal injury.

}, keywords = {Gentamicin, Lantana Camara, Nephroprotective Activity, Oleanolic Acid}, author = {Narendra Vyas and Ameeta Argal} }