Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) is a superficial fungal skin infection caused by dermatophytes, most commonly the anthropophilic dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum. Clinically, it is characterized mainly by scaling, erythema, and fissure formation, and it may present in three primary forms: interdigital, plantar, and vesiculobullous. The infection is often accompanied by mild pruritus; when fissures develop, burning and pain may also occur. Maceration, fissures, and desquamation of the stratum corneum in the interdigital spaces may serve as entry points for β-haemolytic streptococci, thereby increasing the risk of erysipelas. Another complication is the potential spread of infection to the nails, hands, groin, or other body sites. Tinea pedis is primarily indicated for topical antifungal therapy. Over-the-counter antifungal agents include imidazoles, allylamines, thiocarbamates, and undecylenic acid derivatives. Based on an analysis of clinical studies, their efficacy and duration of treatment have been compared.

Traveling may be associated with various health problems caused by changes in environment, diet or climate. A properly equipped travel first aid kit therefore represents an important tool for first aid for minor injuries and common health issues. This article summarizes the basic recommended equipment of a travel first aid kit and the factors that should be considered when preparing it.

Tirzepatide represents a significant breakthrough in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or obesity as the first dual agonist of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. Current analysis of available clinical data demonstrates the exceptional efficacy of tirzepatide in glycemic control, with a dose- and duration-dependent reduction in HbA1c of 20.4-28.2 mmol/mol. Weight reduction reaches 5-20.9 % with 72 weeks of therapy, with the effect being dose-dependent. The mechanism of action includes improved insulin sensitivity, delayed gastric emptying, and modulation of central regulatory centers for food intake. The safety profile is characterized primarily by gastrointestinal side effects with a treatment discontinuation rate of 4-10 %. Tirzepatide also has beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors, including lipid profile and anti-inflammatory biomarkers. A key strategy for optimizing therapeutic outcomes is gradual dose escalation and individualization of treatment according to the patient's clinical condition.

Atrasentan, a selective endothelin receptor ETA antagonist, is a new potential molecule in the treatment of proteinuric glomerulopathies, especially IgA nephropathy. Current studies confirm its benefit in reducing proteinuria. In combination with currently used renoprotective drugs, atrasentan may significantly contribute to reducing renal damage and thus slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Biopharmaceuticals, particularly monoclonal antibodies, represent a key therapeutic class in modern pharmacotherapy for the treatment of autoimmune, inflammatory, oncological, and rare diseases. Despite their high efficacy and specificity, their clinical use is largely limited to parenteral administration, which may negatively affect patient comfort and long-term treatment adherence. In recent years, the inhalation route of administration has emerged as a promising, non-invasive alternative, especially for respiratory diseases. This is due to the large absorptive surface area of the lungs, their rich vascularization, and the possibility of achieving high local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic adverse effects. This review summarizes and critically evaluates current knowledge and emerging trends in the field of inhaled monoclonal antibodies. The text focuses on the specific features of pulmonary physiology, as well as the anatomical, physiological, and immunological barriers influencing the deposition, stability, and absorption of biological therapeutics. Particular attention is given to advanced formulation strategies aimed at improving pulmonary retention and the systemic bioavailability of protein-based drugs. Inhaled administration of biologics may significantly expand the therapeutic potential of monoclonal antibodies in the future and contribute to more effective and targeted treatment strategies.

Chronic stress negatively affects both mental and physical health. The most common manifestations are neuropsychiatric disorders, which can be characterized by their symptoms and assessed using the proposed "6N" concept. The growing prevalence of these disorders increases the need to address them in pharmacies as well. An effective and safe self-treatment for the neuropsychiatric symptoms of chronic stress involves treating magnesium deficiency with over-the-counter magnesium-containing medications as an etiopathogenetically oriented approach, given the vicious cycle of stress and magnesium, as well as symptomatic treatment of the main symptoms using registered phytopharmaceuticals. In this article, we present the results of a survey and provide explanations and recommendations for the pharmacist's practical approach in real-world pharmacy practice.

Haemophilus influenzae serotype b (Hib) has historically been the most significant pathogen causing invasive infections. In recent decades, an increase in the incidence of other Haemophilus influenzae serotypes has been observed, particularly serotypes e+ f, as well as, most notably, invasive infections caused by non-typeable strains. Invasive disease caused by Hia, similarly to Hib, affects primarily young children and represents a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. To better understand the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of Hia, epidemiological studies and active microbiological surveillance of invasive disease across all age groups worldwide are needed. We describe a six-month-old, previously healthy but incompletely vaccinated infant who was hospitalized with suspected sepsis and purulent meningitis following a four-day history of intermittent fever associated with chills, vomiting, drowsiness progressing to apathy, and gradual development of dehydration. Haemophilus influenzae was confirmed from both blood culture and cerebrospinal fluid, and capsular antigen identification at the National Reference Laboratory for Haemophilus infections determined serotype a (Hia). A two-week course of parenteral antibiotic therapy with cefotaxime led to recovery without significant neurological complications.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa that significantly affects patients' quality of life and represents a risk factor for the development of asthma. The pharmacy is often the patient's first point of contact with the healthcare system, placing the pharmacist in a key role in the early identification of the disease, recommending appropriate self-medication, and recognizing situations requiring medical evaluation. This article summarizes current recommendations for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis, focusing on a rational stepwise approach to self-medication in the pharmacy, and provides practical guidelines for pharmaceutical practice.

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a hydrophilic, non-toxic bile acid that represents the gold standard in the treatment of various cholestatic and hepatobiliary diseases. Its therapeutic benefit lies in its complex pleiotropic mechanism of action, including cytoprotection of hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, stimulation of hepatobiliary secretion, antiapoptotic effects, and immunomodulatory properties. This article comprehensively summarizes the pharmacological characteristics of UDCA and its rational clinical use in key indications such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), dissolution of cholesterol gallstones, reactive gastritis due to duodenogastric reflux, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). Furthermore, it focuses on the safety profile of UDCA, including its excellent tolerability, dose-dependent diarrhea, and confirmed safety for use during pregnancy and lactation, making it a crucial drug in hepatology.

The ability of skin to retain water and its hydration are essential for both the appearance and function of the skin barrier. Dry skin occurs when natural hydration mechanisms are impaired, accompanied by a loss of elasticity, scaling and an unpleasant feeling of tightness. The aim of this article is to explain the mechanisms of skin hydration and describe the properties of moisturizing cosmetic products. The article discusses the mechanisms of action and examples of cosmetic humectants, emollients, and occlusives that prevent transepidermal water loss. Moisturizing cosmetics containing these ingredients are therefore essential for restoring and maintaining skin hydration. Knowledge of the composition and function of dermocosmetics can assist not only in selecting suitable products but also in educating users/patients on their proper use.

Ocular allergies, the majority of which are seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, are one of the most common ocular conditions for which patients seek professional help. These allergies mainly affect the structures of the anterior segment of the eye, including the conjunctiva, cornea, eyelids, or lacrimal glands. Patients may experience a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, and in some cases, chronic forms of the condition can lead to gradual vision impairment. Currently, several over-the-counter medications containing antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and decongestants are available for the treatment of ocular allergies, when used in combination with non-pharmacological and preventive measures. In terms of dosage form, topical preparations in the form of eye drops or systemic oral treatment can be chosen. Particularly, systemic oral treatment is usually preferred in chronic cases, with frequent exacerbations, or when the simultaneous occurrence of other allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, is present. To reduce the ocular manifestations of allergies, the use of selected medical devices is also recommended, for example, those containing ectoine and hyaluronate which form a protective layer on the surface of the eye, thereby reducing the risk of irritation.

Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses is a common respiratory tract disease and a frequent reason for visiting the pharmacy. In most cases, acute sinusitis is of viral origin, treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and does not require physician intervention. The article briefly summarizes the groups of over-the-counter products suitable for self-treatment of acute sinusitis, their use and limitations, complementary non-pharmacological measures, and situations where self-treatment is no longer sufficient.

Pelargonium sidoides and Pelargonium reniforme are two closely related species of geraniums growing in Southern Africa. The species belong to the section Reniformia and are morphologically quite similar and often confused. Both species are used for medicinal purposes, but differ in the representation of the compounds and pharmacological effects. The article summarizes information about their composition and medicinal effects and compare it.