Pharmacists should be playing a greater role in the care of juvenile arthritis, suggests new research published by Pharmacy Research UK. The innovative research project, named ‘Arthriting’, explored how medication impacts on the self-image and daily lives of young people with arthritis, as well as the role of pharmacy in helping them manage their condition.

Of the 150 cases reviewed, 128 young people were using at least one medication, and yet, in none of their case notes was a local community pharmacist identified for ongoing care. In addition, no issues with medicines were recorded in the notes, other than funding requests for therapies. Study co-leader Dr Janet McDonagh regretted that “pharmacists were not generally recognised as a part of the care team by young people and parents”, adding that, “in juvenile arthritis, the therapies can be complex and team working with other professionals is needed to provide the best care for young people.”

The project recommends that MURs and the new medicine service be developed to support young people with arthritis, following appropriate training.