Ralph J. Riello, PharmD, BCPS

Panelists discuss how evolving clinical guidelines for intensive low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)–lowering therapies have shaped personalized treatment approaches through risk stratification, with different targets for primary vs secondary prevention and consideration of genetic factors when determining appropriate statin intensity.

Panelists discuss how cardiology practice has evolved toward more aggressive low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)–lowering strategies across specialties, with current guidelines generally recommending targets below 70 mg/dL for high-risk patients and even lower thresholds (below 55 mg/dL) for very high-risk individuals, though these targets require personalization based on age, comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension, and other cardiovascular risk factors.

In their concluding remarks, Arun Jesudian, MD; Ralph J. Riello, PharmD, BCPS, and Chas McCormick, RPh, MBA, summarize the key takeaways and highlight the persistent unmet needs in the management of hepatic encephalopathy.

Key opinion leaders highlight essential considerations for pharmacists, including medication costs, staying current with the latest advancements and clinical trials in hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and understanding the incidence of the disease.

Experts explore strategies for motivating treatment adherence and the importance of providers ensuring patients thoroughly understand their condition.

KOLs emphasize the crucial role of collaboration between pharmacists and physicians in managing hepatic encephalopathy, stressing the importance of monitoring sedating medications, polypharmacy, and patient response to HE therapy, while making necessary adjustments to optimize care.

Medical experts discuss the challenges of starting treatment for newly diagnosed, cognitively impaired patients, addressing prescription processes, patient education, and the role of cost, care quality, and convenience in promoting successful medication adherence.

Arun Jesudian, MD; Ralph J. Riello, PharmD, BCPS, and Chas McCormick, RPh, MBA, highlight the importance of adhering to evidence-based guidelines and utilizing approved medications in the management of hepatic encephalopathy, emphasizing their crucial role in preventing patient relapse within 30 days of hospital discharge.

Panelists explore the critical roles of lactulose and rifaximin in managing hepatic encephalopathy, a potentially severe condition that can lead to intensive care unit (ICU) admission.