As the organization representing U.S. colleges and schools of pharmacy, the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) emphasizes the critical role pharmacists play in providing safe and effective recommendations for over-the-counter medicines being sought by their patients. Through rigorous education and hands-on training, pharmacists are equipped to help patients evaluate and select self-care treatments that address their needs.
Pharmacy education also prepares pharmacists to interpret and apply scientific evidence and dispel misinformation, such as recent claims drawing an unsubstantiated association between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
AACP urges policymakers and others with influence on patients' beliefs regarding health care decisions to exercise caution in advancing inaccurate information.