Consultant pharmacist impact on antihypertensive therapy in a geriatric long-term care facility

Antihypertensive therapy of a group of elderly patients in a long-term care facility was compared before and after the addition of a consultant pharmacist to the health care team. Criterion variables were systolic and diastolic pressure and drug cost and use. Consultant pharmacist protocol included drug history and monthly use review and pertinent communications regarding problems. Statistical analysis employed a t test with two-tailed probability. Both systolic (128.5 to 135 mm Hg) and diastolic pressure (68.9 to 72.3 mm Hg) were increased after 1 year, the number of patients with hypotensive readings decreased, and the average antihypertensive drug cost was decreased. The cost of potassium supplements was increased, however, fewer patients had abnormal potassium levels.