Pharmacists and medical professionals from the United Kingdom contribute 18 chapters highlighting practical and ethical dilemmas and solutions for community pharmacists who interact with and provide care for drug abusers. The book will be of interest to students and professionals worldwide who are involved with pharmacy or managing health care for drug abusers. Sheridan (pharmacy practice, U. of Auckland) and Strang (National Addiction Centre, London) edit topics including drug misuse and community pharmacy in Scotland, legal and ethical considerations for pharmacists, new approaches to dispensing controlled drugs such as methadone, and needle exchanges. Annotation (c)2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Drug misuse is a major challenge for health professionals in the 21st century, and community pharmacy holds a key place in the management of prescribed medication, the provision of health education and promotion messages to drug users. Two decades ago there would have been no need for a book to describe such the role of community pharmacy; however, since more people are injecting drugs now and HIV is on the rise, community pharmacists have found their services in higher demand. The quality practice of tomorrow hinges on trained and competent practitioners working in a variety of community pharmacy settings. Drug Misuse and Community Pharmacy explains the historical, research and practical aspects. Experts use a practical and evidence-based approach to educate students of pharmacy, pre-registration pharmacists, community pharmacists working with drug users and anyone involved in developing and managing primary healthcare for drug misusers.