In case of self-treatment of common urological disorders, a pharmacist or pharmacy assistant is often the first healthcare professional the patient turns to. Appropriate information should be obtained from the interview with the patient to distinguish between symptoms and conditions suitable for self-treatment and, conversely, to recommend a visit to the physician. The first contact of a patient with healthcare professionals in a pharmacy can also contribute to the detection of more serious diseases. The article deals with the possibilities of pharmaceutical care for a patient with common urological difficulties and the requirement of a recommendation for self-treatment, focusing on the understanding of individual symptoms, their differentiation, principles of self-treatment and the identification of situations unsuitable for self-treatment.

This review represents a continuation of the already published surveys on substances used in local, general inhalational, and intravenous anesthesia. The administration of a single active substance in these applications is rare, as it is not capable of inducing anesthesia without seriously compromising hemodynamic or respiratory functions, aggravating the operating conditions, or delaying the postoperative recovery. For this reason, other agents (benzodiazepines, opioid analgesics, presynaptic α2-adrenergic receptor agonists and peripheral myorelaxants) are standard components of general anesthesia (in addition to the anesthetic agents listed in the previous reviews), which improve the profile of each anesthetic agent. Each additive has an effect on the properties of the anesthetics used. The review contains the characteristics of individual groups of co-administered substances with their chemical structure, chemical IUPAC name, and pharmacological and pharmacokinetic profile. Chemical structures are organized into groups according to their structure or pharmacological effect and attention is also paid to their stereochemistry (presence of stereogenic center, chair form of cyclic systems).

The purpose of the study was to determine the degree of influence of the marketing communications system elements on consumer preferences for pharmaceutical products and the loyalty of drug consumers to pharmacies in the conditions of martial law, with further recommendations for the management of pharmacies in wartime. The results of the study showed that the patient’s choice of a pharmacy to receive pharmaceutical care is largely influenced by the following factors: convenient location of the pharmacy to the place of residence; affordable prices for the necessary medicines and the level of physical availability of medicines that meets all the patient’s needs. Among the sources of information that influence the choice of drugs, 75% of respondents indicated recommendations or prescriptions of a doctor, recommendations of a pharmacist – 46.7%, 9.8% – advertising products. Queues, unprofessional care and the pharmacist’s intrusive manner of communication are the factors that cause the greatest negative emotions. In the conditions of martial law, people pay attention to advertising, which helps to orientate on the necessary pharmaceutical products, as well as assess their economic availability at a specific moment in time. Therefore, pharmacy management needs to focus attention and resources on building clear communication links with patients using informational and reference digital technologies.

Background: Electronic prescriptions (e-prescriptions) are a key element of the digital transformation of Ukraine’s healthcare system. However, their implementation and usage levels vary significantly depending on the physician’s specialty, years of experience, and the type of locality. This study is relevant due to the need for empirical analysis of these differences to improve the e-prescription system and enhance its overall efficiency. Objective: To assess the impact of e-prescriptions on the workflow of physicians from various specialties and to identify patterns associated with location, professional experience, and medical specialization. Methods: The study is based on an online survey of 86 physicians from public and municipal healthcare institutions conducted between April 2024 and April 2025. Descriptive statistics, χ² tests for associations, and calculation of means with 95 % confidence intervals were used for data analysis. Results: General practitioners and family physicians were more likely to use e-prescriptions, particularly in remote form (82,1 % vs. 26,7 % among specialists; χ² = 23,4; p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found in the prescription of antibiotics (χ² = 0,74; p = 0,389) compared to other medications. The highest-rated statement among respondents was “the e-prescription is useful in my work” (mean 4,39 ± 0,78), although 17 % of physicians reported that the procedure takes more than 6 minutes to complete. Conclusion: A total of 82,1 % of general practitioners and family physicians use the remote e-prescription functionality. Despite the high overall evaluation of the e-prescription system (mean score 4,39 ± 0,78), 17 % of physicians reported spending over 6 minutes on its issuance, indicating the need for further technical optimization and user support.

Introduction: Obesity is a chronic disease associated with multiple comorbidities and can affect drug pharmacokinetics. Appropriate dosing in obese patients is essential to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety. Objective: To summarize the impact of obesity and bariatric surgery on drug pharmacokinetics and provide recommendations for individualized dosing. Methods: Review of available literature and clinical guidelines addressing changes in drug absorption, distribution, metabo­lism, and excretion in obese patients and after bariatric procedures. Results: Obesity is associated with nonlinear changes in volume of distribution and heterogenous changes in clearance: modification of certain CYP enzyme activity (notably CYP3A4, CYP2C19, CYP2E1), and alteration of renal function. Anatomical and functional chages of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) following bariatric surgery variably modify absorption area, pH, GIT motility and lead to improvement in metabolic comorbidities. Dose adjustments are particularly important for drugs with a narrow therapeutic range, weight-based dosing regimens, and highly lipophilic substances. An individualized approach and therapeutic drug monitoring are recommended in clinical practice. Conclusion: Universal drug dosing regimens for obese patients or those after bariatric surgery are unavailable for most drugs. Body composition and other patient-specific factors, as well as drug pharmacokinetics should be considered. Clinical pharmacists can contribute to optimal pharmacotherapy in this heterogeneous population.

Chronic stress negatively affects both mental and physical health. The most common manifestations are neuropsychiatric disorders, which can be characterized by their symptoms and assessed using the proposed "6N" concept. The growing prevalence of these disorders increases the need to address them in pharmacies as well. An effective and safe self-treatment for the neuropsychiatric symptoms of chronic stress involves treating magnesium deficiency with over-the-counter magnesium-containing medications as an etiopathogenetically oriented approach, given the vicious cycle of stress and magnesium, as well as symptomatic treatment of the main symptoms using registered phytopharmaceuticals. In this article, we present the results of a survey and provide explanations and recommendations for the pharmacist's practical approach in real-world pharmacy practice.

Biopharmaceuticals, particularly monoclonal antibodies, represent a key therapeutic class in modern pharmacotherapy for the treatment of autoimmune, inflammatory, oncological, and rare diseases. Despite their high efficacy and specificity, their clinical use is largely limited to parenteral administration, which may negatively affect patient comfort and long-term treatment adherence. In recent years, the inhalation route of administration has emerged as a promising, non-invasive alternative, especially for respiratory diseases. This is due to the large absorptive surface area of the lungs, their rich vascularization, and the possibility of achieving high local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic adverse effects. This review summarizes and critically evaluates current knowledge and emerging trends in the field of inhaled monoclonal antibodies. The text focuses on the specific features of pulmonary physiology, as well as the anatomical, physiological, and immunological barriers influencing the deposition, stability, and absorption of biological therapeutics. Particular attention is given to advanced formulation strategies aimed at improving pulmonary retention and the systemic bioavailability of protein-based drugs. Inhaled administration of biologics may significantly expand the therapeutic potential of monoclonal antibodies in the future and contribute to more effective and targeted treatment strategies.

Introduction: The growing prevalence of allergic diseases and the widespread use of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines necessitate rationalization of symptomatic treatment, balancing clinical relevance with limited healthcare resources. Aim: To evaluate OTC medicines used for symptomatic allergy treatment through ABC/VED analysis in order to identify priority medicines and support pharmaceutical and managerial decision-making. Materials and methods: The study included 25 OTC medicines registered in Ukraine for symptomatic allergy treatment during 2024–2025. Aggregate sales data from pharmacy networks and distributors were analysed. ABC analysis was used to assess expenditure distribution, while VED analysis classified medicines according to clinical importance based on pharmacist protocols, clinical guidelines, pharmacological role, safety profile, and suitability for self-medication. The integrated ABC/VED matrix was applied to determine priority medicines. Results: A limited number of medicines accounted for the majority of expenditures. Cetirizine, Loratadine, Desloratadine, Xylometazoline and Oxymetazoline formed the A/Vital category, representing the highest priority group combining economic weight with clinical relevance. The results demonstrate a strong concentration of financial resources in first-line antihistamines and essential topical agents used for rapid symptom relief in self-medication. Conclusion: The integrated ABC/VED approach is an effective tool for identifying priority OTC antiallergic medicines, supporting rational pharmacy assortment management, supporting evidence-based practice and pharmaceutical care in self-medication under limited healthcare resources.

Pharmacovigilance, pivotal in ensuring drug safety and regulatory compliance, requires meticulous surveillance and adherence to ethical standards. This article explores the multifaceted realm of pharmacovigilance, emphasizing the essential role of pharmacovigilance audits and compliance monitoring. By delving into key areas such as drug safety surveillance, signal detection, literature monitoring, and ethical considerations, this research sheds light on critical aspects of pharmacovigilance activities. The paper examines the outcomes of pharmacovigilance audits, highlighting common findings and areas for improvement to enhance regulatory compliance and the safety of pharmaceutical products. Insights gleaned from real-world experiences and regulatory guidelines underscore the importance of fostering a culture of good practice and ethical conduct in pharmacovigilance activities. By addressing challenges and trends, and elucidating the critical interaction between regulatory compliance, signal detection, and ethical considerations, this article provides valuable insights for stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry, aiding them in optimizing pharmacovigilance systems and safeguarding patient safety.

Preparing oral powders for filling of hard capsules is one of the basic activities in pharmacies. One of the key operations that affects the resulting homogeneity of the substances in the mixture is the mixing process. Until recently, most pharmacies have used only a porcelain mortar and pestle for the mixing process, where the homogeneity of the resulting mixture is highly dependent on the experience and thoroughness of the preparing pharmacist or pharmacy assistant. In recent years, compact mixing devices that can be used in the pharmacy environment have become more widely employed. One of them is the FagronLab™ InvoMatic three-dimensional mixer. This paper evaluates the efficacy of the mixing process for a model substance using this device with three commonly available fillers. Mixing cycles were tested with different mixing speed and the same mixing time, which was set at 10 minutes. The results were compared to manual or ceramic-bead mixing. The material of the mixing vessel was also evaluated. Crystalline sodium chloride (NaCl) was chosen as the model substance, which was crushed into a fine powder before the mixing process. The individual NaCl contents in the capsules were determined using potentiometric argentometric titration with a 0.01 M silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution. With one exception, the device provided a sufficiently homogeneous mixture for the preparation of oral powders, when the RSD¹ value was not greater than 5. Capsules met the content uniformity test according to Czech Pharmacopoeia 2023, article 2.9.40 Uniformity of dosage units. Acceptance value (AV) was less than 15.

Acute cough is a frequent symptom accompanying upper respiratory tract infections and acute bronchitis. In order to start self-treatment, a thorough consideration of its suitability is necessary. A systematic algorithm can help pharmacists to do this, and its subconscious automation will help them reliably detect warning signs (red flags) of an acute illness or the inappropriateness of self-treatment in risk groups of patients. The presentation of the practical application of the cough self-treatment algorithm is therefore the main goal of this publication. Although a number of over-the-counter products are available for the symptomatic treatment of cough, their effectiveness in short-term administration for the relief of acute cough is still questionable. However, they are still recommended by experts and often bring patients a feeling of subjective relief. In general, we can summarize that mucoactive drugs are preferred for coughs with a suspected infectious cause and yellow-green sputum production. The amount of sputum in healthy patients with acute bronchitis is minimal and the main benefit is considered to be antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Antitussives are indicated in the case of a dry non-productive cough, mainly to increase the quality of life during an ongoing infection. Self-treatment of cough can be made significantly more effective by choosing the suitable dosage form, the precise knowledge of which can be considered the domain of pharmacists.

Background: Good pharmaceutical counselling in the sore throat symptomatic treatment is an important component of the health care first line, timely detection of infectious diseases, provision of qualified assistance, prevention of complications, and correct use of medications. Methods: The study included a self-assessment of adherence of Ukrainian pharmacists to the Pharmacist Protocol through a survey, evaluation of the level of awareness of Ukrainian pharmacists with international standards for the symptomatic treatment of sore throat, assessing prospects and finding ways to harmonize the Ukrainian standard with international ones. Results: A high level of commitment of pharmacists to the proper detection of the patient’s problem, high fluctuations in adherence to the detection of specific “alarm” symptoms, an average level of proper information about the medications, a low level of awareness of international approaches to the sore throat symptomatic treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were established. Based on the results of the assessment of prospects, it was determined that there are basement and opportunities for Ukrainian Pharmacist’s Protocol harmonization with international guidelines. Conclusions: Based on the conducted research, proposals for changes to the Pharmacist’s Protocol were developed.

Pregnancy is a unique period requiring careful assessment of safety and effectiveness of pharmacotherapeutic interventions regarding the mother and foetus. The main source of information on the choice of a drug in pregnancy is usually the summary of product information, which often offers only brief general information and encourages excessive caution. The aim of this article is therefore a narrative overview of available professional information resources on medication use during pregnancy, which can be utilized in the care of pregnant women taking medicines. It demonstrates national and international monographs, biomedical databases, clinical guidelines, specialized professional web portals for healthcare professionals, adverse drug reaction reporting databases, teratology information services, and congenital anomaly registries. The article also emphasizes that a comprehensive approach including systematic utilization of all available information sources to healthcare professional, multidisciplinary cooperation and applying evidence-based medicine principles are essential when searching for and critically evaluating information use in pregnancy.

Gynecological issues such as itching, discharge, burning, or dryness are common reasons for seeking medical attention. However, with the wide availability of over-the-counter medications, self-treatment is becoming increasingly relevant. This review article summarizes the most frequent vaginal complaints - vaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, aerobic vaginitis, mucosal dryness, and genital herpes - and outlines treatment options available within the scope of pharmaceutical care. It highlights the pharmacist's role in educating patients, recommending appropriate therapies, and identifying cases that require medical evaluation. The text also includes clear tables of non-prescription products, lifestyle recommendations, and supportive approaches such as probiotics and vaginal douching.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a serious clinical and social issue. The questionnaire-based study was performed to assess the management of VVC in Lviv, Ukraine. Totally 408 women were enrolled in the survey. The lifetime prevalence of VVC was high (72.6 %). 35.8 % of women had VVC during the last year with the predominance of 1 episode (72.6 %). The most common symptoms were vaginal itching and cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, affecting 89.7 % and 71.7 % of women with VVC, respectively. Stress (57.2 %) was the main self-reported factor associated with the VVC, followed by antibiotic therapy (49.7 %). Only 51.0 % of women with VVC sought a doctor’s help, 35.2 % of women reported about self-treatment. The management of VVC included usage of medicines and nonmedicinal interventions. Oral antifungals and vaginal medicines prevailed (86.2 % and 80.7 % of woman with VVC used them, respectively). The management of VVC was associated with inappropriate interventions, such as the treatment of an asymptomatic sexual partner (22.8 %), vaginal douching (11.0 %), taking oral antifungals with only local effectiveness for gastrointestinal fungal infections (natamycin and nystatin, 15.2 % vs 14.8 % respectively), using of vaginal drugs with none antifungal activity (5.1 %), and incorrect duration of the treatment (29.1 %). Rural residence (p = 0.000) and the absence of higher education (p = 0.001) significantly contribute to the inappropriate management of VVC. The management of VVC is often associated with self-treatment and different inappropriate interventions. Educational programs are required to improve the management of VVC. Pharmacists may significantly contribute to raising patients’ awareness and improving the management of VVC, especially in rural areas.

Breastfeeding is the optimal method of infant nutrition in early life, supporting physical health, reinforcing maternal-infant bonding, and offering economic and ecological benefits. The aim of this article is a narrative review of available professional information sources utilized by pharmacists, paediatricians, and other healthcare providers in breastfeeding pharmacotherapy decision-making. These include primary evidence (e.g., case reports, clinical lactation studies, adverse drug events reporting systems), secondary systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and tertiary sources comprising authoritative monographs (e.g., Hale's Medications & Mothers' Milk), clinical guidelines, or fact-based databases (e.g., LactMed, e-lactancia). Other information is received from regulatory documents (summary of product characteristics), websites for health care professionals, and drug information services (e.g., InfantRisk Center, Specialist Pharmacy Service). Access to such information sources enable individualized assessment of infant exposure while providing detailed data on drug transfer into breast milk, milk-to-plasma concentration ratios, and other pharmacokinetic properties, health condition of infant and mother as well as mother´s willingness to breastfeed. Critical appraisal of these sources with focus on current and evidence-based information are together with a multidisciplinary approach essential to ensure safe and effective treatment for breastfeeding women.

Dry eye syndrome is the most common cause that leads a patient to seek quick relief from symptoms in a pharmacy. The aim of the article is to define dry eye syndrome, distinguish it from other eye diseases and provide guidance in choosing appropriate products or over-the-counter remedies. As part of comprehensive care for a patient with dry eye syndrome in a pharmacy, an overview of nutritional and dietary measures that can be offered by a pharmacist and a pharmaceutical assistant is also provided.

Introduction: Evaluating ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) profiles is critical in drug development to ensure bioavailability, efficacy, and safety. 1,2,4-Triazole derivatives, particularly those with a 2-bromo-5-methoxyphenyl radical, are promising due to their broad biological activities, yet their pharmacokinetic properties are insufficiently studied. The objective of this study was to predict the ADME characteristics and drug-likeness of these compounds to identify candidates with optimal pharmacokinetic potential for therapeutic applications. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the ADME profiles of new 1,2,4-triazole derivatives incorporating a 2-bromo-5-methoxyphenyl fragment using in silico methods and evaluate their compliance with drug-likeness criteria, such as Lipinski’s Rule of 5, for potential pharmaceutical development. Methods: A series of 28 derivatives, including 5-(2-bromo-5-methoxyphenyl)-4-R-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiols (3a–3d), thioacetic acids (4a–4d), and esters (5a–5t), were analyzed via the Molinspiration Property Calculator. Key parameters assessed were lipophilicity (miLogP), polar surface area (TPSA), molecular weight (MW), hydrogen bond donors (nOHNH) and acceptors (nON), rotatable bonds (nrotb), and Lipinski rule violations (nviolations). Results: Thiol derivatives (3a–3d) showed moderate lipophilicity (miLogP 3.02-3.33) and TPSA (39.95–50.81 Ų), suggesting good permeability. Thioacetic acids (4a–4d) had higher TPSA (77.25–88.11 Ų) and lower miLogP (2.46–3.81), indicating enhanced solubility but reduced permeability. Esters (5a–5t) varied widely in lipophilicity (miLogP 3.08–5.86), with three compounds (5l, 5p, 5t) exceeding Lipinski’s miLogP limit (> 5). Most compounds complied with Lipinski’s Rule, with MW ranging from 286.15–476.40 g/mol and nrotb from 2–10. Conclusion: Structural modifications significantly influenced ADME profiles, with thiols and thioacetic acids showing favorable drug-like properties. High-lipophilicity esters may require optimization. These findings support the potential of these triazole derivatives as drug candidates, warranting further pharmacological studies.

Hearing impairments or hearing loss affect a person's social, professional, and personal activities, and are therefore closely linked to quality of life. The largest group of hearing-impaired patients consists of older adults whose hearing deteriorates with age, but hearing disorders also affect children and people of working age. The use of an appropriate and properly adjusted hearing aid can help improve hearing and speech comprehension in cases of hearing loss. One of the most common causes of hearing loss or damage is exposure to excessive noise. For this reason, it is important to focus on prevention, which includes the use of hearing protection. The aim of this article is to present the basic types of hearing aids and to provide a brief overview of their use, adjustment options, and available maintenance tools. Additionally, the article offers an overview of various types of devices used for hearing protection.

Contemporary pharmacy in the Czech Republic is substantially feminized profession. This article describes the process of feminization since permission for women to study pharmacy in 1900 till 2000, based on data analysis, in three aspects – number of graduates from Czech universities, number of women working in pharmacies and number of women among pharmacy owners / managers. Women predominate among graduates since after the World War II, as pharmacy workers since 1950s and pharmacy managers since 1980s. At the end of the analyzed period of time, women constituted as many as 80 % of graduates and pharmacy workers and 70% of pharmacy managers / owners.

Idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs) represent a heterogeneous group of rare lung diseases characterized by distinct radiological and histological phenotypes. The new 2025 classification provides a more detailed definition of individual entities, including the incorporation of idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias and rare forms, without yet altering current therapeutic approaches. The most common form is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), where antifibrotic therapy with pirfenidone and nintedanib has been shown to improve prognosis. Recent clinical trials (FIBRONEER, TETON) suggest further therapeutic options. The treatment of other IIPs, particularly nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), is based on systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy, though evidence remains limited. Complications such as pulmonary hypertension and acute exacerbations significantly impact disease course. Non-pharmacological strategies, including oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and, in selected cases, lung transplantation, play an important role.

Introduction: Paper presents the principles of modern artificial intelligence (AI), its current capabilities, limitations, and practical applications in pharmacy. The text outlines the development of AI, explains key terms, and introduces the most important models and their capabilities. Objective: The objective of the article is to show how AI can support pharmaceutical practice, where its limits lie, and what legislative and safety requirements must be respected when using it. Results: Modern AI models enable text generation, data processing, image analysis, and decision support. In pharmacy, they can speed up data analysis (e.g., LEK-13 reports), facilitate information retrieval, and support the supervision of IPLP preparation. Examples confirm the high efficiency of the models (e.g., GPT-5 in CSV processing), but also reveal the risk of errors and hallucinations. Model performance varies-rankings (e.g., Chatbot Arena) show specific differences between GPT, Gemini, Claude, and open models. Training a computer vision model for capsule counting is feasible on a standard PC and is capable of very high accuracy. Conclusion: AI is an important tool for pharmaceutical practice, but it does not replace the expertise of a pharmacist. It is necessary to understand its principles, limitations, ethical and legislative frameworks (AI Act, NIS2) and always check the outputs. When used correctly, it can significantly increase the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of pharmaceutical processes.

The text summarizes the principles of effective communication in pharmacy practice and emphasizes its key role in ensuring the safe and high-quality provision of pharmaceutical services. The introduction provides a detailed description of verbal, paraverbal, and nonverbal communication elements, including their interaction in everyday patient interactions. The text further describes internal and external communication barriers that may disrupt or hinder information exchange. Significant attention is given to empathy and active listening, which enable pharmacists to better understand the needs, concerns, and expectations of patients. Active listening supports the asking of questions and the sharing of information, while empathy allows the pharmacist to understand the patient's situation without taking on their emotions, fostering trust and a positive relationship. The text also outlines the principles of assertive communication, which help the pharmacist clearly define professional boundaries, maintain respect for the patient, and manage conflictual or emotionally challenging situations. An assertive approach combines objectivity, respect, and the ability to offer alternative solutions while maintaining professional authority. Finally, the text emphasizes the necessity of individualizing communication according to the type of patient. This individualization may include adjustments in pace, language, style, or form of expression. An individualized approach also involves the use of visual aids or written instructions for patients with communication limitations. Taken together, these elements of effective communication represent a key competency for pharmacists, significantly influencing the quality of pharmaceutical services, treatment safety, and patient trust in the healthcare system.

Pelargonium sidoides and Pelargonium reniforme are two closely related species of geraniums growing in Southern Africa. The species belong to the section Reniformia and are morphologically quite similar and often confused. Both species are used for medicinal purposes, but differ in the representation of the compounds and pharmacological effects. The article summarizes information about their composition and medicinal effects and compare it.

Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses is a common respiratory tract disease and a frequent reason for visiting the pharmacy. In most cases, acute sinusitis is of viral origin, treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and does not require physician intervention. The article briefly summarizes the groups of over-the-counter products suitable for self-treatment of acute sinusitis, their use and limitations, complementary non-pharmacological measures, and situations where self-treatment is no longer sufficient.

Ocular allergies, the majority of which are seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, are one of the most common ocular conditions for which patients seek professional help. These allergies mainly affect the structures of the anterior segment of the eye, including the conjunctiva, cornea, eyelids, or lacrimal glands. Patients may experience a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, and in some cases, chronic forms of the condition can lead to gradual vision impairment. Currently, several over-the-counter medications containing antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and decongestants are available for the treatment of ocular allergies, when used in combination with non-pharmacological and preventive measures. In terms of dosage form, topical preparations in the form of eye drops or systemic oral treatment can be chosen. Particularly, systemic oral treatment is usually preferred in chronic cases, with frequent exacerbations, or when the simultaneous occurrence of other allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, is present. To reduce the ocular manifestations of allergies, the use of selected medical devices is also recommended, for example, those containing ectoine and hyaluronate which form a protective layer on the surface of the eye, thereby reducing the risk of irritation.

The text is based on the authors' paper at this year's LXXth Symposium on the History of Pharmacy (24/05/2025, Kuks) and summarizes their arguments as to why contemporary Czech pharmaceutical historiography is in an attenuation (decline?) and what are the possible paths to its re-flourishing. The authors see the cause of this situation in an overly narrow conception of the field, focused exclusively on strictly pharmaceutical matters, further in a certain preference for pharmaceutical education as a prerequisite for research into the history of the field and, last but not least, a impression that the picture of the history of pharmacy is already more or less complete with major publications by classics of the field, led by Václav Rusek. The authors see hope for pharmaceutical historiography in its opening primarily towards professional historians, reflection on internationally researched topics related more to the social or cultural history of civilization (and therefore also pharmacy), inter- and over-disciplinary team cooperation, and diversity of perspectives that may not be respected by the currently prevailing view of the linear development of pharmacy as a path of constant progress.

The ability of skin to retain water and its hydration are essential for both the appearance and function of the skin barrier. Dry skin occurs when natural hydration mechanisms are impaired, accompanied by a loss of elasticity, scaling and an unpleasant feeling of tightness. The aim of this article is to explain the mechanisms of skin hydration and describe the properties of moisturizing cosmetic products. The article discusses the mechanisms of action and examples of cosmetic humectants, emollients, and occlusives that prevent transepidermal water loss. Moisturizing cosmetics containing these ingredients are therefore essential for restoring and maintaining skin hydration. Knowledge of the composition and function of dermocosmetics can assist not only in selecting suitable products but also in educating users/patients on their proper use.

Drug shortages may lead to interruption of ongoing treatment, delays in therapy initiation, or the need to modify therapeutic regimens. This represents a current and persistent problem that requires systematic and long-term solutions, as it may be a significant contributing factor to off-label prescribing. Between 2018 and 2020, the occurrence of drug shortages increased up to twentyfold, accompanied by a growing demand for essential medicines. The aim of this study was to analyse the occurrence of off-label prescribing in the paediatric population in a community pharmacy and to assess a possible association between the unavailability of a selected medicine and an increase in off-label use of a therapeutic alternative. A retrospective analysis was conducted using data obtained from pharmacy software and the national eHealth system for the period 2021-2024. A total of 6,366 paediatric patients were included in the analysis, with off-label prescribing identified in 705 cases (11.07%). Off-label use most frequently involved antibiotics for systemic use and ophthalmological medicines, with the highest proportion of off-label prescribing within an ATC group observed for ophthalmological drugs. In evaluating the relationship between the unavailability of Pamycon and increased off-label prescribing of Uniflox 0.3% eye drops, no statistically significant association was demonstrated (p > 0.05). Off-label prescribing is a common component of paediatric pharmacotherapy and is influenced by multiple factors beyond medicine availability alone. Pharmacists play an important role in ensuring safe treatment by identifying potential risks, educating parents or caregivers, and supporting the rational use of medicines. Strengthening collaboration among healthcare professionals and consistent pharmacovigilance are essential for improving the safety of off-label treatment in children.

Antimikrobiální rezistence (AMR) představuje zásadní globální zdravotní hrozbu, která podněcuje naléhavé hledání nových terapeutických látek. Hybridní molekuly založené na xanthinových a 1,2,4-triazolových skeletech představují slibný směr díky svým potenciálním multitargetovým antimikrobiálním účinkům. Tato studie měla za cíl syntetizovat nové deriváty 2-[(7-ethyl-3-methylxanthin-8-yl)sulfanyl]acetohydrazidu obsahující 1,2,4-triazolové zbytky, charakterizovat jejich struktury a vyhodnotit jejich antimikrobiální a protiplísňové vlastnosti. Byla syntetizována řada dosud nepopsaných sloučenin za použití N-substituovaných isothiokyanátů a následných strategií S-alkylace/cyklizace. Struktury byly potvrzeny pomocí ¹H NMR spektroskopie a elementární analýzy; pro reprezentativní derivát 14 byla navíc použita hmotnostní spektrometrie. Antimikrobiální aktivita byla hodnocena proti E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa a C. albicans metodou ředění v bujónu za účelem stanovení minimálních inhibičních a baktericidních/fungicidních koncentrací. Všechny syntetizované deriváty byly s vysokou mírou jistoty strukturálně charakterizovány. Většina sloučenin vykazovala slabou až střední antibakteriální a protiplísňovou aktivitu. Zejména amidové a nitrilové deriváty vykazovaly středně silný protiplísňovou aktivitu proti C. albicans (MIC 25 μg/mL), srovnatelný s ketokonazolem (MIC 25 μg/mL). Analýza vztahu struktura-aktivita ukázala, že S-substituce a modifikace postranních řetězců zvyšují antimikrobiální účinnost. Byly syntetizovány a charakterizovány nové xanthin-triazolové hybridní molekuly, které prokázaly, že vybrané deriváty mají slibné antimikrobiální a protiplísňové vlastnosti. Tyto výsledky podporují další optimalizaci a biologický výzkum těchto hybridů jako kandidátů v boji proti antimikrobiální rezistenci.