Exploring the Efficacy and Safety of Short-Acting Reversible Contraception Methods: A Review for Pharmacists

Exploring the Efficacy and Safety of Short-Acting Reversible Contraception Methods: A Review for Pharmacists

Faculty

Brooke L. Griffin, PharmD, BCACP
Professor and Vice Chair, Pharmacy Practice
Midwestern University College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove Campus
Downers Grove, Illinois

Writing and Content Development Support

Kathleen Hill-Besinque, PharmD, MSEd
Professor of Pharmacy Practice
Chapman University School of Pharmacy
Irvine, California
 
Program Description
The landscape of available hormonal and nonhormonal contraception options for women continues to grow, and pharmacists are uniquely positioned to guide patients seeking a contraception method to ensure the most optimal outcome. Selection of a short-acting reversible contraception (SARC) method is complicated by the variable preferences and concerns of each individual, so it is vital for pharmacists to understand the nuances of different options so that they are able to appropriately assist their patients. Women may face significant challenges and barriers when seeking appropriate contraception options, such as complications getting appointments, restrictions on quantity packs dispensed, as well as periods in which prescriptions cannot be refilled. An immediate effect stemming from inadequate access to, or inconsistent use of, contraception is unintended pregnancies. Recently, with expanded ability at some state levels to prescribe contraception options, pharmacists have opportunities to take a more active role in decreasing the burden for women seeking contraception methods and improving access. With enhanced knowledge about the use of SARC products, particularly the benefits and safety-related information associated with their use, pharmacists can identify individualized options for women to optimize outcomes.

Target Audience: Retail pharmacists
Type of Activity: Application
Release date: June 10, 2021
Expiration date: June 15, 2022
Time to complete activity: 2.0 hours
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives
At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Explore the clinician and patient factors that may influence selection of a contraception method
• Compare hormonal versus nonhormonal formulations of short-acting reversiblecontraception (SARC) methods
• Investigate the mechanisms of action, dosing, administration, and potential adverse effects associated with current and new SARC options
• Identify the role of the pharmacist in improving patient access to novel SARC formulations and in educating patients about the proper use of these agents

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education^™ is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education. This activity is approved for 2.0 contact hours (0.20 CEU) under the ACPE universal activity number 0290-0000-21-233-H01-P. The activity is available for CE credit through June 15, 2022.


Instructions for Completing the Activity and Receiving CPE Credit
To receive CPE credit, participants must complete the pretest, read the article in its entirety, complete the posttest, and complete the online activity evaluation. After successful completion of the online activity evaluation, you can submit your credit to CPE Monitor. You may view your credit within 48 hours at www.mycpemonitor.net. All participants must request credit before the activity expiration date. CE credit will not be issued after this date.
 

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Disclosures

Brooke L. Griffin, PharmD, BCACP, and Kathleen Hill-Besinque, PharmD, MSEd, have no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose.

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education^™ Planning Staff – Jim Palatine, RPh, MBA; Maryjo Dixon, RPh; Liza Patel, PharmD, RPh; Crissy Wilson; Susan Pordon; Brianna Winters; and Chloe Taccetta have no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose.

An anonymous peer reviewer is used as part of content validation and conflict resolution. The peer reviewer has no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose.

Educational Disclaimer
CPE activities are offered solely for educational purposes and do not constitute any form of professional advice or referral. Discussions concerning drugs, dosages, and procedures may reflect the clinical experience of the author(s) or they may be derived from the professional literature or other sources and may suggest uses that are investigational in nature and not approved labeling or indications. Participants are encouraged to refer to primary references or full prescribing information resources.

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