I REFER to the letter by Mdm Doris Chng Kim Leng, 'Hubby hit by asthma but pharmacies won't sell inhaler' (ST, Nov 20).

It was unfortunate that Mdm Chng was unable to obtain the needed prescription medication at our Jurong West branch on Deepavali as our pharmacist was not scheduled to be on duty then.

On that day, Nov 8, 39 of our outlets had pharmacists on duty, including three stores in Jurong - IMM, Jurong Point and West Mall.

Should a pharmacist be on duty and an asthma patient has an attack, it is possible for the pharmacist to supply asthma medication initially without a prescription. The patient can submit the prescription to the pharmacist later, after receiving the appropriate medical attention.However, in cases of severe asthma attacks, oxygen and medication such as a high dose of oral or injected steroid would be necessary and a visit to the nearest hospital's emergency department is warranted.

We agree with Mdm Chng that all asthma patients should keep an adequate supply of anti-asthmatic medication.

Apart from that, asthma patients should acquire a good knowledge of the treatment and prevention of asthma, and work closely with their doctors to establish individualised and comprehensive treatment plans.

Choo Wai Lin (Mrs)
Pharmacy Practice Director
Guardian Health & Beauty