CAR T therapy –⁠ the role of the pharmacist

Overview

CAR-T therapy uses and advances the ability of the human immune system to attack tumor cells. It can currently only be administered in specialized treatment centers in the Czech Republic, which must be able to ensure the collection of T lymphocytes, their sending for preparation, the subsequent administration of CAR-T preparations, as well as the recognition, monitoring and management of possible adverse effects of the treatment (1). The aim of this article is to highlight the role of hospital pharmacists, who are key to the correct handling of these highly specialized preparations. Due to the difficulty of handling and the high price of these preparations, it is necessary to have all steps standardized and documented. Hospital pharmacists are guarantors of the correct handling of all medicinal products in hospitals and play an important role in the management of CAR-T therapies. They actively participates not only in providing CAR-T preparations for medical facilities, but also in solving irregularities and defects connected with their application. Patient care is complex and is based on the multidisciplinary cooperation of health professionals, in which hospital pharmacists also have their place.

Keywords:

Medication Management – CAR-T therapy – hospital pharmacist