The evolving role of Hospital Oncology Pharmacists (HOPs) in assessing therapeutic innovations and managing toxicities in cancer care

Ann Pharm Fr. 2026 Jan;84(1):69-77. doi: 10.1016/j.pharma.2025.10.001. Epub 2025 Oct 8.

Abstract

Hospital oncology pharmacy (HOP) is evolving in tandem with the rapid pace of oncology research, encompassing breakthroughs in anticancer therapies, the management of treatment-related toxicities, and the application of novel methodologies for evaluating therapeutic strategies. This paper presents a synthesis on these topics, based in part, on the latest scientific event organized by the French society for oncology pharmacy (SFPO), known as St. Louis' Day. During this event, seven leading experts - comprising medical oncologists and HOPs - engaged in in-depth discussions on three pivotal themes: the assessment of therapeutic innovations, recent progress in cancer-related vaccinology, and the management of immune-related adverse events. The proceedings underscore the critical role of HOPs as key members of the interdisciplinary oncology team, driving ongoing advancements in the quality and safety of cancer care.

Keywords: Cancer-related vaccinology; Clinical trials; Essais cliniques; Hospital oncology pharmacy; Innovation; Oncologie; Pharmacie; Pharmacien hospitalier; Vaccinologie anticancéreuse.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Cancer Vaccines / adverse effects
  • Cancer Vaccines / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology* / trends
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Pharmacists*
  • Pharmacy Service, Hospital*
  • Professional Role

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Cancer Vaccines