Course Description
About AAPP Toolkits
AAPP toolkits highlight both the evidence base available as well as strategies of clinical decision making used by expert psychiatric pharmacist clinicians. The content reflects the views and practice of the authors as substantiated with evidence-based facts as well as opinion and experience. Toolkits are peer reviewed by psychiatric pharmacists. Authors and AAPP review and update toolkits annually and strive to use up-to-date, non-stigmatizing language. Terminology does evolve rapidly and often regionally such that there may be differences between reader experiences and expectations and those of the author(s). AAPP members receive complimentary, continuous access to toolkits. Non-members can purchase for a fee for a period of 3 months.
Alcohol is readily available across the world despite having been determined to be the most harmful drug to individuals and society.1 Based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 28.9 million people aged 12 or older in the US met the criteria for alcohol use disorder with 757,000 (2.9%) falling between the ages of 12 and 17.2 Unfortunately, it has been estimated that only 554,000 (1.9%) of those diagnosed with AUD received medication to treat in the past year.2 Pharmacists can play an important role in patient management and should be knowledgeable about the appropriate screening for and treatment of AUD.
The toolkit provides quick tips and guideline summaries in the following areas of AUD:
- Screening and Diagnosis
- Alcohol Withdrawal
- Maintenance Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder
- Special Populations and Treatment
- Co-occurring Disorders
- Harm Reduction Strategies
- Resources and References
Authored by AAPP members James J. Gasper, PharmD, BCPP and Bethany A. DiPaula, PharmD, BCPP, this toolkit is intended to highlight both the evidence base available as well as strategies of clinical decision making used by expert clinicians.