Shows
Medication TalkConsiderations with Oral Oncology MedsListen in as our expert panel discusses critical aspects of managing patients on oral cancer therapies. Our experts review tips for optimizing patient care and share best practices for handling these specialized medications.Special guests:Jill Cassaday, BPharm, PharmD, BCPS, BCOPClinical Pharmacist Specialist – Multiple MyelomaBanner MD Anderson Cancer CenterSamuel Snowaert, PharmD, BCOP, MBAClinical Oncology Pharmacist Pharmacists Optimizing Oncology Care Excellence in Michigan (POEM)Covenant Cancer Care CenterLisa Thompson, PharmD, BCOP, CPPSClinical Pharmacy Specialist in Oncology Kaiser Permanente ColoradoYou’ll also hear practical advice from TRC’s Editorial Advisory Board member:Craig D. Willi...
2025-12-0135 min
Rumor vs TruthNatural Cold and Flu RemediesIs your favorite cold fix fact—or folklore? In this episode, hosts Don and Steve team up with special guest Jeff Langford, PharmD, from TRC’s NatMed team, to bust the biggest myths about natural remedies for cold and flu. Together, they dig into the roots of popular remedies—from pharmacy shelves to grandma’s kitchen—to uncover what’s backed by evidence.🍯 Is honey for cough a sweet solution or just a sticky myth?🫐 Elderberry syrup: flu fighter or fruity fad?🌱 Are homeopathic flu remedies backed by science?Get ready for the verdict on th...
2025-11-1831 min
Rumor vs TruthBONUS: Dental Dilemmas – Extended Fluoride InterviewWe loved our conversation with Dr. Jayson Chalmers, DDS so much that we’re sharing the full, never‑before‑heard interview. It goes deeper than our last episode “Dental Dilemmas” on the history of fluoridation, chemistry, dosing, safety signals, and what clinicians should actually recommend. ** No CE credit for this bonus episode. (CE returns with our next regular episode on cold & flu.) ** What you’ll learn:How fluoride prevents cavities (the hydroxyapatite → fluorapatite story) Where the 2025 JAMA Pediatrics metaanalysis on fluoride exposure and children’s IQ fits (signal v...
2025-11-0416 minMedication TalkPet Meds Unleashed: Keeping Furry Patients SafeListen in as our expert panel explores the clinical challenges of veterinary pharmacology, discussing medications, supplements, and inactive ingredients that can be dangerous to pets. You’ll hear practical dispensing and safety guidance, along with evidence-based strategies to help pharmacists protect animal patients from accidental exposure to human medications.Special guests:Alexandria Gochenauer, PharmD, DICVP, FSVHP, FACAStaff Pharmacist and Interim Pharmacy Manager, WalmartPresident-elect of the American College of Veterinary PharmacistsErica Wassack, PharmD, DICVP, FSVHP, FACVPAssociate Pharmacy OfficerPlumb's Veterinary Drugs, Instinct ScienceTina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT Senior DirectorASPCA Poison ControlNone of the spe...
2025-11-0134 min
Rumor vs TruthDental DilemmasIn this episode, Don and Steve separate fact from fiction about meds and oral health.💊 Could your favorite mouthwash be more “spirited” than you think?😬 Can a key medication for opioid use disorder quietly sabotage your smile?🦷 What really happens when you put aspirin on a toothache—relief, or regret? Ready to brush up on the facts and drill down to the truth? No need to sugarcoat it, our myth-busting pharmacist duo (and a special dentist guest expert) are here to rinse away the rumors and polish up the evidence!Claims:Flu...
2025-10-2130 min
Rumor vs TruthQuick Verdicts: Acetaminophen in PregnancyIn this “Quick Verdicts” episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small separate fact from fiction about whether acetaminophen use during pregnancy increases the risk of neurologic disorders in kids. ****** TRC Healthcare Editor Hosts: Stephen Small, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, BCCCP, CNSC Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP ****** The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter, and Prescriber Insights: Chart: Glossary of Study Design and Statistical Terms Chart: Analgesics in Pregnancy and Lactation Chart: Topical Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation Toolbox: Resources for Discussing Medi...
2025-10-0110 minMedication TalkBiosimilars in ActionListen in as we discuss considerations, challenges, and strategies related to the use and switching of biosimilars in clinical practice. You’ll hear communication tips to address patient and prescriber concerns as well as operational considerations for integrating biosimilars into practice. Special guests:Bharati Bhardwaja, PharmD, BCPS, LSSBBRheumatology Clinical Pharmacy SpecialistKaiser Permanente ColoradoMegan May, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, FAPOClinical Oncology Pharmacy SpecialistBaptist Health Lexington/Hamburg Cancer Care CenterYou’ll also hear practical advice from TRC’s Editorial Advisory Board member:Craig D. Williams, PharmD, FNLA, BCPSClinical Professor of Pharmacy PracticeOregon Health and Science...
2025-10-0131 min
Rumor vs TruthTestosteroneIn this episode, Don and Steve flex their clinical muscles and bust myths about testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) - from supplements to safety risks.🐶 Can topical testosterone transfer to pets and kids?💊 Are supplements like ginseng and vitamin D legit testosterone boosters?❤️ Does testosterone increase cardiovascular risk?Stick around as our pharmacist duo breaks down the evidence and shares insights on these hot-button hormone claims:Testosterone should be considered for ALL men with low testosterone levels, or “low T”Topical testosterone can transfer to other people and petsSome vitamins and supplements ar...
2025-09-1623 minMedication TalkMeds After Acute Coronary SyndromeListen in as our expert panel discusses the latest recommendations for managing medications after heart attacks and other cardiac events. You’ll hear our panelists review which antiplatelets to use, the optimal blood pressure meds, and the role of statin and non-statin cholesterol meds.Special guests:Danielle Blais, PharmD, FCCP, BCCP, BCPSCardiology Lead Specialty Practice PharmacistRichard M. Ross Heart HospitalThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterJoel C. Marrs, PharmD, MPH., BCACP, BCCP, BCPS, FAHA, FASHP, FCCP, FNLAProfessor and Coordinator of Clinical OutreachThe University of Tennessee Health Science CenterDepartment of Clinical Pharmacy & Translational ScienceYou’ll also...
2025-09-0132 min
Rumor vs TruthManaging AcneIn this episode, hosts Don and Steve tackle one of the most common (and commonly misunderstood) skin conditions: acne. Joined by dermatology expert Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS, the team breaks down the myths, meds, and marketing claims that surround acne treatment. 💊Do doxycycline and minocycline treat acne the same way? 🧼Is it possible to wash your face TOO much? 🪥And can toothpaste really help banish blemishes? 🤔Pop in as we clear up the evidence and face the facts! They’ll share research and insights into some interesting cl...
2025-08-1926 minMedication TalkHIV Prevention: A Guide to PrEP and PEPListen in as we explore the latest pharmacologic strategies for HIV prevention—before and after exposure. Our expert panel breaks down key considerations for PrEP and PEP, including indications, drug selection, dosing, and monitoring.Special guests:Caitlin Prather, PharmD, BCACP, AAHIVPClinical Pharmacy Specialist, Ambulatory CareInova Health SystemMichael A. Deaney, PharmD, AAHIVPInfectious Diseases Clinical PharmacistChildren's Hospital ColoradoYou’ll also hear practical advice from TRC’s Editorial Advisory Board member:Andrea Darby-Stewart, MDAssociate Director, Honor Health Family Medicine Residency ProgramClinical Professor of Family, Community & Occupational MedicineThe University of Arizona College of Medicine - PhoenixFor th...
2025-08-0138 min
Rumor vs TruthShedding Light On SunscreensIn this episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small throw some serious shade at common sunscreen myths—and yes, Steve may or may not be rocking a fake sunburn.🌞🧴 Does a higher SPF really mean better protection?🌤️ Can sunscreen mess with your vitamin D levels?⚠️ Are sunscreen ingredients secretly harmful? 🕶️ Grab your shades and join our myth-busting duo as they shine a light on the facts about these hot-button sunscreen claims:The higher the SPF, the better for most people.Sunscreens reduce vitamin D production.Sunscreen isn’t as important for people with darker skin tones.Su...
2025-07-1522 minMedication TalkAntidepressant InsightsListen in as our expert panel discusses practical considerations for starting and optimizing antidepressants for treating depression and anxiety. You’ll listen to panelists cover various aspects of antidepressant use, such as serotonin syndrome, QT prolongation, and weight gain concerns.Special guests:Tammie Lee Demler, BS, PharmD, MBA, BCGP, BCPP Director of Pharmacy and Residency Programs, New York State Office of Mental Health State University of New York at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Sarah E. Grady, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPProfessor, Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health SciencesClinical Pharmacist, Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, Broadlawns Medica...
2025-07-0138 min
Rumor vs TruthRetro Rumors (40th Anniversary Episode)🎉 In this special anniversary episode, Don and Steve throw it back to 1985 —complete with mullets 🦱, mustaches 🥸, and popped collars 👔—to celebrate 40 years of the Pharmacist’s Letter! 🗂️ Join them as they dig into the archives and revisit some of the earliest (and wildest) claims ever published.They’ll reexamine research and insights into claims from yesteryear including:Whether topical minoxidil really works for hair regrowth (and why Steve looks like he joined the trial)The Vioxx scandal and how it reshaped FDA safety rulesWhy Darvocet disappeared from pharmacy shelvesThe truth about benzoyl peroxide and...
2025-06-1720 minMedication TalkMeds for Alzheimer DementiaListen in as our expert panel discusses medications for the treatment of Alzheimer dementia. They'll review the risks and benefits of cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and the anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies. And you’ll hear strategies for managing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Special guests:Tatyana Gurvich, PharmD, BCGP, APhAssociate Professor of Clinical PharmacyMann USC School of PharmacyUCI Senior Health CenterCandace Pierce, DNP, RN, CNE, COINurse Educator, Nurse Planner, and Healthcare Leader, Colibri HealthcareDarlene Moyer, MD, FAAFPAssociate Director, HonorHealth Family Medicine Residency ProgramAssociate Professor of Clinical Practice – SOMME – Arizona State UniversityClinical Associate Professor – University of Arizona College of Medicine...
2025-06-0134 min
Rumor vs TruthColor Coded: Dyes in MedicationsIn this episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small separate fact from fiction about dyes in medications and food.🚫 Why is the FDA banning certain artificial dyes, and what does it mean for your meds and favorite foods? 💊 Can the color of your pills really affect how you feel about them?🐀 Why do we talk so much about rats and sewers in this episode? 🌈 Folks are dye-ing to know the truth...let’s find out!They’ll share research and insights into some interesting claims including:White tablets or clear solutions...
2025-05-2018 minMedication TalkMedications for Opioid Use DisorderListen in as our expert panel discusses medications for management of opioid use disorder. They’ll review strategies to optimize buprenorphine use and clarify the role of methadone and naltrexone.Special guest:Tyler J. Varisco, PharmD, PhDUniversity of Houston College of Pharmacy Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and PolicyAssistant Director, The PREMIER CenterYou’ll also hear practical advice from panelists on TRC’s Editorial Advisory Board:Stephen Carek, MD, CAQSM, DipABLM, Clinical Associate Professor of Family Medicine for the Prisma Health/USC School of Medicine Greenville Family Medicine Residency Program at the Uni...
2025-05-0137 min
Rumor vs TruthExpired MedicationsIn this episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small separate fact from fiction about expired medications. 📅 How are med expiration dates chosen? Is it science or just a guess?⏳ Can a medication that’s older than the FDA itself… still work?💊 Are meds no longer effective after they expire?⏰ It’s time to uncover the truth behind meds that are past their prime!They’ll share research and insights into some interesting claims including:Med expiration dates are chosen at random.Meds are no longer good after their expiration date.Med...
2025-04-1518 minMedication TalkCardiovascular Impact of Diabetes MedsListen in as our expert panel discusses which diabetes meds have cardiovascular (CV) benefits. We’ll review the evidence and discuss the pros and cons of SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, etc) and GLP-1 agonists (dulaglutide, semaglutide, etc) in patients with or at risk for CV disease.Special Guests:Lauren G. Pamulapati, PharmD, BCACPAssociate Professor, Ambulatory CareVirginia Commonwealth University School of PharmacyClinical Pharmacist, Hayes Willis Health Center/VCU HealthChristie Schumacher, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, BCCP, BC-ADM, CDCES, FCCPProfessor, Pharmacy PracticeDirector, PGY2 Ambulatory Care Residency ProgramMidwestern University College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove CampusClinical Pharmacist, Northwestern MedicineTRC Editorial Adv...
2025-04-0136 min
Rumor vs TruthTackling TetracyclinesIn this episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small separate fact from fiction when it comes to claims about tetracyclines. 🦷 Will doxycycline stain children’s teeth? ☠️ Is expired tetracycline truly deadly? 🐱 What do cats have to do with all this? 🚴♂️ Let’s cycle through the facts! They’ll share research and insights into some interesting claims including:Doxycycline should never be used in young kids due to teeth concerns.Doxycycline monohydrate is better than the hyclate version.Minocycline can permanently pigment skin.Expired tetracyclines are toxic.Tetracyclines shouldn’t be used in pregnancy.Tetracycl...
2025-03-1821 minMedication TalkBronchitis and Pneumonia TreatmentIn this episode, listen in as our expert panel digs into identifying and treating acute bronchitis and community-acquired pneumonia. They’ll discuss when antibiotics are appropriate, which antibiotics to use, and other management tips.You’ll also hear practical advice from panelists on TRC’s Editorial Advisory Board:Stephen Carek, MD, CAQSM, DipABLM, Program Director for the Prisma Health/USC School of Medicine Greenville Family Medicine Residency Program and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, GreenvilleAndrea Darby Stewart, MD, Associate Director, Honor Health Family Medicine Residency Program and Clinical Professor of Fam...
2025-03-0134 min
Clinical CapsulesManaging Diabetes Meds Around SurgeryIn this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Stephen Small, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, BCCCP, CNSC, discusses the management of diabetes meds around surgery. This is an excerpt from our November 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series.The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter, and Prescriber Insights: Article: Guide Peri-Op Management of Diabetes Medications Chart: Perioperative Management of Diabetes Chart: Perioperative Management of Chronic Medications in Noncardiac Surgery Don’t miss out! Subscribe to Pharmacist’s Letter today to stay...
2025-02-2515 min
Rumor vs TruthHangover RemediesIn this episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small separate fact from fiction about hangover remedies. 💧 Does drinking water actually help prevent symptoms? 🤕 Is acetaminophen safe for hangover headaches? 🔨 Let’s hammer out the facts! They’ll share research and insights into some interesting claims including:Consuming fluids before, during, or after drinking will curb hangovers.Having beer before switching to harder drinks can prevent hangovers.Acetaminophen should be avoided after drinking.Some natural products can be used for hangovers.“Hydration clinics” are a hangover cure.******TRC Healthcare Editor Ho...
2025-02-1811 minMedication TalkNotable New Meds of 2024In this episode, TRC Healthcare editors, Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS, and Stephen Small, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, BCCCP, CNSC, discuss notable new meds of 2024. Listen in as our editors discuss several novel drugs approved in 2024...and highlight some medications now available in a new dosage form. They’ll review efficacy, safety, and considerations for use with these new treatment options. None of the speakers have anything to disclose. TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for this podcast. Log in to your Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter, or Prescriber Insights account a...
2025-02-0131 minClinical CapsulesPneumococcal Vaccine RecommendationsIn this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD, discusses Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations for Adults. This is an excerpt from our December 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series.The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter, and Prescriber Insights: Article: Prepare to Give More Adults a Pneumococcal Vaccine Algorithm: Pneumococcal Vaccination in AdultsChart: Comparison of Pneumococcal VaccinesDon’t miss out! Subscribe to Pharmacist’s Letter today to stay ahead with trusted insights and tools. If you're...
2025-01-2820 min
Rumor vs TruthJuicy InteractionsIn this premiere episode, hosts Don Weinberger and Steve Small separate fact from fiction about medication interactions with fruit juices. 🍊 Does that morning grapefruit really matter with your medications? 👍 Are some juices beneficial? 🍹 Let's squeeze out the truth! They’ll share research and insights into some interesting claims including:You shouldn’t drink grapefruit juice with certain statins.There are other meds that interact with fruit juices.Juices can affect the absorption of ADHD stimulants (Adderall, etc).Sildenafil may be affected by more “exotic” juices.Fruit juices are actually good for certain meds.
2025-01-2216 minMedication TalkNatural Medicines HighlightsIn this episode, TRC Healthcare editors, Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS, and Stephen Small, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, BCCCP, CNSC, tackle the topic of Natural Medicines. Listen in as they define what natural medicines are... and discuss the safety and efficacy of several natural medicines, including ashwagandha, berberine, and turmeric. They’ll also discuss how to navigate discussions with patients about supplements, including tips for choosing a quality supplement. None of the speakers have anything to disclose. TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for this podcast. Log in to your Pharmacist’s Letter...
2025-01-0155 minMedication TalkImmunization Updates 2024Special guest Jean-Venable “Kelly” R. Goode, PharmD, BCPS, FAPhA, FCCP, Professor and Director of the Community-Based Residency Program at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy, join(s) us to talk about immunizations.Listen in as we discuss the latest COVID-19, influenza, and RSV vaccine recommendations and answer some common questions about giving vaccines.You’ll also hear practical advice from TRC Editorial Advisory Board member, Stephen Carek, MD, CAQSM, DipABLM, the Program Director for the Prisma Health/USC School of Medicine Greenville Family Medicine Residency Program and Clinical Associate Professor at the...
2024-12-0136 minMedication TalkCultural Competency in HealthcareSpecial guest Stephen Carek, MD, CAQSM, DipABLM, Program Director for the Prisma Health/USC School of Medicine Greenville Family Medicine Residency Program and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, joins us to talk about cultural competency in healthcare.Listen in as we discuss cultural differences and how biases can lead to disparities in healthcare.None of the speakers have anything to disclose. TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for this podcast. Log in to your Pharmacist’s Letter or Prescriber Insights account and look for the...
2024-11-1523 minMedication TalkImplicit Bias in HealthcareSpecial guest Stephen Carek, MD, CAQSM, DipABLM, Program Director for the Prisma Health/USC School of Medicine Greenville Family Medicine Residency Program and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, joins us to talk about implicit bias in healthcare.Listen in as we discuss the differences between implicit and explicit bias and how biases can lead to disparities in healthcare.None of the speakers have anything to disclose. TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for this podcast. Log in to your Pharmacist’s Letter or Prescriber Ins...
2024-11-0128 minMedication TalkAsthma and COPD TreatmentSpecial guest Lori A. Wilken, PharmD, FCCP, BCACP, NCTTP, AE-C, Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Illinois, Chicago, joins us to talk about Asthma and COPD treatment.Listen in as we discuss answers to your big questions about treatment of asthma and COPD. You’ll also hear practical advice from panelists on TRC’s Editorial Advisory Board:Stephen Carek, MD, CAQSM, DipABLM, Clinical Assistant Professor of Family Medicine, Prisma Health/USC-SOMG Family Medicine Residency Program at the USC School of Medicine GreenvilleAndrea Darby Stewart, MD, Assoc...
2024-10-0135 minMedication TalkPrecepting: Helping Learners SucceedIn this episode, listen in as our expert panelists discuss tips for creating successful learning experiences for students and residents. We’ll review various teaching tools and summarize strategies for incorporating learners into your practice. We’ll also discuss different approaches for providing meaningful feedback and managing challenging situations with learners.Our panel for this conversation includes: Andrea Darby Stewart, MD; Associate Director, Honor Health Family Medicine Residency Program; Clinical Professor of Family, Community & Occupational Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine – PhoenixMary Franks, MSN, APRN-FPA, FNP-C; Nurse Planner, NetCE; Adjunct Professor, Bradley University; Nurse Practitioner, Carle He...
2024-09-0147 min