This module focuses specifically on the class of medicines called antihistamines. You should review this module in conjunction with the product information provided on specific medicines that contain antihistamines. Include topics Hay Fever, Allergies, Urticaria, Conjunctivitis, Insect Bites, Anaphylaxis, along with all major antihistamine products and classes.

Hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis is an allergic disorder. Allergy is an excessive reaction of the body’s immune system in the presence of substances called allergens e.g. pollen. For a person with allergy to pollen, when pollen comes into contact with the nose, eyes, mouth or throat, their body produces an antibody to attack the pollen. This course, updated in 2020, will outline common presentations and treatments for hay fever.

Colds and flu are very common presentations at pharmacy in the winter months. Many patients will use the two illnesses interchangeably, but they are different. This module will teach you how to be able to differentiate between the two illnesses and to provide appropriate advice. Linked courses include: Infection, cough, sore throat, vaccination, temperature, pain, aches and blocked nose.

Required Time in Course: 30 mins

Coughs are an extremely common presentation in the Pharmacy setting during the colder months. Coughs can be acute or chronic, chest or dry. Knowing the difference between the types of cough significantly influences suggested treatments which are readily available over the counter. This course is linked with products for cough and colds, infections, flu, hay fever, sore throat and smoking cessation.

Required Time in Course: 30 mins

Both viruses and bacteria can cause a sore throat.  Viruses are the most common causes, with 90% of all throat infections caused by viruses, most frequently the cold or flu viruses. As we prepare for winter a common presentation in the Pharmacy will be Sore Throats. This course is aligned with courses on: Respiratory System, What Causes Infections, Managing Infections, OTC Products for Sore Throat,  Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Consultation Skills in the Pharmacy. Products: Difflam, Flursil, Strepsils, Lysopadol, Oraldene, Pharmony, Septabene, TCP Liquid Antiseptic, Tyrozets Lozenges

Required Time In Course: 15 mins