Hanamkonda: Students told to work on brain stroke research

Hanamkonda: There was a need for detailed research on brain stroke with emphasis on nutrition on dual combination therapies and feeding techniques, Dr. Ramakrishna T, MD, DNB-Neurology (KIMS, Hyderabad), Assistant professor KMC, MGM, Warangal, said.

He was delivering a guest lecture on "Understanding Brain Stroke" jointly organized by the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) India Telangana Chapter and the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), Hanamkonda Branch, at the St. Peter's Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences here on Thursday.

Dr. Ramakrishna, who explained the guidelines of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, 2018, also dwelt at length on neuro anatomy, pathogenesis, types of stroke, symptoms, and risk factors for stroke. He also explained the stroke risk calculator and role of telemedicine WhatsApp to support the patient for early diagnosis. He gave detailed information about evidence-based medicine and experience-based medicine in his lecture.

He emphasised that pharmacist must get thorough knowledge on treatment for adverse drug reactions (ADR's), National Institute of Health stroke scales, patient counselling and medication adherence. He also said that pharmacist should council the patient regarding dosage regimen and healthy lifestyle.

He also explained about preventing errors and time window for treatment. He also gave live examples which he encountered during his study and practice with a note on co-morbidities associated with administration of hormonal drugs like estrogen and progesterone. As they are becoming the most important risk factor for cerebral sinus venous thrombus (CSVT) along with smoking, alcohol, BP, Diabetes, and stress. He also mentioned about the guidelines for BP management and also recommendations for maintaining BP.

Speaking on the occasion, St Peter's Institutions Chairman T Jayapal Reddy said that they have planned more interactive guest lectures for the benefit of PharmD students. Principal Dr P Rajashekar, HOD of PharmD Dr Devender Kodati and scores of PharmD students were present.