THE ROLE OF PHARMACISTS IN THE BRAZILIAN POPULAR PHARMACY PROGRAM IN THE DISPENSING OF METFORMIN, GLIBENCLAMIDE, AND INSULINS TO PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

The Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program (Programa Farmácia Popular do Brasil – PFPB) is an important pharmaceutical care strategy that contributes to expanding the population's access to medicines used in the treatment of chronic diseases. Among these conditions, type 2 Diabetes Mellitus stands out as a disease that requires continuous treatment, appropriate follow-up, and rational use of medicines. In this context, pharmacists play a fundamental role in dispensing medicines and providing patient guidance, particularly regarding the use of medicines such as metformin, glibenclamide, and insulin, considering prescriptions, dosage, administration schedules, proper use, possible adverse reactions, drug interactions, and the importance of treatment adherence. This study aims to analyze the role of pharmacists in the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program in dispensing medicines intended for the treatment of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, with emphasis on metformin, glibenclamide, and insulin, highlighting their contribution to patient safety and the rational use of medicines. This is a literature review based on scientific studies and documents related to the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program, pharmaceutical care, type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and the pharmacist's role in medicine dispensing. The studies analyzed demonstrate that pharmaceutical guidance during dispensing can contribute to an adequate understanding of treatment, prevention of medication-related problems, and improved therapeutic adherence. It is concluded that pharmacists play a relevant role in assisting patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus through the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program, contributing to access to medicines, pharmacotherapy safety, and the promotion of rational medicine use.