Both descriptions of side-effects and their impact on daily activities, personal life and Everolimus supplier socialisation

were documented [15.4%, n = 65]. Of the 61 [14.5%] comments around efficacy, most indicated perceived dependence on medicines for symptom relief, performance of daily activities, and prolonging life, although some perceived inadequate efficacy. There were 59 [14%] comments articulating respondents’ general attitudes towards medicines, including worries about adherence, dependence, interactions, and generics. Relationships with healthcare providers were mentioned in 58 [13.8%] comments, many suggesting that medicines-related discussions were inadequate, failing to consider individuals’ concerns. Some respondents lacked trust and confidence in providers, and desired comprehensive, updated and meaningful

information about medicine risks and benefits; nineteen [4.5%] described searching for additional information. A few respondents described having little control over medicine regimes and brands [1.7%, n = 7]. This study revealed a wide range of medicine-related experiences among the general public, and their impact on day-to-day lives. The population in this study was entirely self-selected and, given the on-line promotional methods used, potentially attractive to those with issues they wanted to raise through self-help forums. However, the findings are comparable to other, qualitative studies1 which suggest that many people have negative experiences of using regular medicines. Health care professionals

need to recognise the magnitude of medicine-induced burden which some individuals see more experience. While a method of identifying those with the greatest medication-burden could be valuable in helping to optimise medicines use, our results suggest that a simple open question may encourage individuals out to raise key issues of concern to them. 1. Pound P et al. Resisting medicines: a synthesis of qualitative studies of medicine taking. Soc Sci Med. 2005; 61:133–155. 2. Krska J, Morecroft CW, Rowe PH, Poole H. A novel instrument to measure medicines-related quality of life [Abstract]. Int J Clin Pharm. 2013; 35:488. S. Karima,b, S. Hussaina, K. Hodsonb, R. Hornec aHeathwerwood and Wexham Park NHS Foundation Trusts, Slough, UK, bCardiff University, Cardiff, UK, cUCL School of Pharmacy, London, UK Counselling patient prior to discharge has a major impact on their use of medicines. Cardiology patients counselled by a pharmacist were more satisfied with the information received about their medicines. Patients at high risk should be prioritised to receive counselling by a pharmacist. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) released guidance ‘Keeping patients safe when they transfer between care providers – getting the medicines right’, which aimed to bridge the gap between different care sectors.