“The Pill Predicament: 6 Essential Questions to Raise About Your Drug Therapy.
Preambule: During my extensive experience in the field of community pharmacy, I have encountered numerous situations where I strongly believe that patients should ask important questions to ensure their well-being. Recognizing the significance of patient education and empowerment, I have decided to embark on a new endeavor: a series of blogs and reels aimed at addressing the crucial questions that patients should be aware of. Through these blogs and reels, my goal is to provide valuable insights and guidance, shedding light on various aspects of healthcare, medication management, and overall well-being. I understand that navigating the world of pharmacy can sometimes be overwhelming, and patients may not always know what questions to ask. Therefore, I aim to bridge this gap by presenting the information in an accessible and engaging format. Each blog post and reel will delve into a specific topic, exploring areas such as medication safety, potential side effects, drug interactions, proper storage and administration techniques, and understanding prescription labels. I will strive to break down complex medical jargon into simple terms, ensuring that patients can easily grasp the information and apply it to their own healthcare journeys. Moreover, I will tackle broader issues surrounding healthcare, such as the importance of regular check-ups, preventive measures, and lifestyle modifications that can positively impact one’s health. By addressing these topics, I aim to foster a proactive approach to healthcare, encouraging patients to take an active role in managing their well-being and making informed decisions. Through the medium of blogs, I will provide detailed explanations and descriptions of key concepts, backed by evidence-based information and reliable sources. The reels, on the other hand, will be visually engaging, concise videos that deliver bite-sized pieces of information, making it easy for patients to consume and retain the knowledge. By encouraging patients to question and engage with their healthcare providers, I hope to empower them to take ownership of their health and make informed decisions. My ultimate aim is to contribute to a more informed and health-conscious society, where patients are equipped with the necessary knowledge to advocate for their own well-being. I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey of sharing knowledge and addressing important questions in the realm of community pharmacy. Together, let us pave the way for a healthier and more educated patient population. Here are my top 6 for today- Things you should question! 1.Caution when treating drug side effects with more even more drugs Sometimes, side effects from a medication can be mistaken for a new medical condition, leading doctors to prescribe more medications. This situation, known as a prescribing cascade, can lead to an increase in medication interactions, side effects, and poor adherence. It’s important for patients and health practitioners to consider if a new symptom might be a side effect from a current medication before prescribing additional drugs. 2.Avoid over-the-counter codeine for pain management: Over-the-counter medications that contain codeine (example : Tylenol no 1 contains 8mg of codeine) are not recommended for managing acute or chronic pain. Codeine is an addictive opioid and can lead to misuse, harsh constipation and dependence. Also, over-the-counter codeine is often combined with non-opioid painkillers ( ex: acetaminophen), which can result in serious side effects and liver damage if taken in high doses. 3. Only start or renew medication if it’s beneficial It’s crucial to only start or renew a medication if there’s a valid reason and a reasonable expectation of benefit for the patient. Many people, especially seniors, are on multiple medications, which can increase the risk of adverse reactions and hospitalizations. Let’s take the time to review the sometimes long list of medication at each renewal and see if there is a way to decrease a dose, change a medication or completely stop. We sometimes get so caught up on just renewing that we forget to question why. 4. Regularly review long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy: A typical example (from point 3 above) would be the renewal of Proton pump inhibitors (ex: esomeprazole, pantoprazole, the “zoles”), used for gastrointestinal symptoms, should not be used long-term without attempts to stop or reduce the therapy at least once a year. Prolonged use of PPIs can lead to a number of adverse effects, such as increased risk of bone fractures, infections, and deficiencies in certain nutrients. Please consider a Calcium plus D supplement if you must continue on these drugs. 5. Think twice before using antipsychotics for insomnia The use of certain antipsychotics for insomnia has increased dramatically, despite a lack of evidence for their effectiveness. They also come with potential side effects, such as weight gain and metabolic disorders. It’s recommended to explore other treatments for insomnia before resorting to antipsychotics. 6. Plan for benzodiazepine discontinuation when starting treatment: Benzodiazepines are commonly used for anxiety disorders and insomnia, but they come with risks, especially for older adults. Examples of Benzodiazepines include lorazepam (Ativan) and clonazepam ( the “zepams”). Long-term use can lead to dependence and other adverse effects. It’s advised to have a plan for discontinuing benzodiazepines when starting treatment, and to explore other treatment options before prescribing these medications. Remember, it’s always important to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. MisterPharmacist™ can help you make a more informed decision that you can then bring back to your doctor for further discussion! and don’t forget, always reach out with your Minor Ailment Questions!
Unlock the Benefits of Having a MisterPharmacist™ in Your Corner
This short blog will be discussing the increased responsibility of Ontario Pharmacists who began prescribing for minor ailments in January 2023, and why the general public should take advantage of it. We all want to live a long and healthy life; yet we often overlook the crucial part that pharmacists play in our healthcare system. While they may seem like a place where we must simply go to pick up our medication, Ontario Pharmacists have taken on a larger role. They are now allowed to diagnose and prescribe for minor ailments, and this gives the general public access to even more convenient healthcare options.The new responsibilities given to pharmacists have been made possible by changes in legislation and can greatly benefit many, particularly those with limited access to other healthcare services. With the additional authority these medical professionals now carry, they can provide greater support for our aging population, those living in rural communities, and those with busy work schedules. Not only does having an Ontario Pharmacist in our corner provide convenience, but it also increases access to affordable care. With the ability to diagnose and prescribe, pharmacists can help reduce wait times and associated costs, as well as limit the overuse of antibiotics. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of having an Ontario Pharmacist in our corner and how it can improve our overall health. We’ll cover how pharmacists can help us make informed decisions about our health and provide valuable advice both in person and online. WHAT CAN MISTERPHARMACIST™ DO FOR YOU? As mentioned before, Ontario Pharmacists now have the authority to diagnose and prescribe for minor ailments, as well as provide additional healthcare services such as administering vaccinations, administering a wider selection of injected products and administering inhalers (as of July 2023). With their increased authority, they are able to offer a much broader range of healthcare services than was possible before. For example, they can diagnose and treat common illnesses such as cold sores and urinary infections. . Furthermore, they can provide clinical advice and counseling on various medications, such as dosages and side effects. This additional authority does not replace the need to visit a doctor; however, it can greatly reduce wait times and the cost of healthcare. By using the services of a pharmacist, patients can avoid the hassle and expense of going to the doctor’s office or an emergency room for minor ailments. STAYING INFORMED: HOW MISTERPHARMACIST™ CAN HELP. Having an Ontario Pharmacist in our corner also provides access to reliable information about our health. They can help us stay informed on the latest advances in medicine, as well as answer questions about our medications. By taking the time to discuss our health with a pharmacist, we can better understand our health conditions and make more informed decisions about our treatment. Pharmacists can also provide valuable advice on various health-related topics such as nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes. They can even offer advice on supplements and natural remedies, so we can have a more holistic approach to our overall health. KEEPING TRACK OF YOUR HEALTH: MONITORING YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS An Ontario Pharmacist can also help us keep track of our medications. They can review our medication records to make sure they are up to date and that we’re taking the right medications for our condition. This can help us avoid potential drug interactions and side effects, as well as make sure we don’t miss any doses. Pharmacists can also help us make sure our medications are working as intended and that we’re taking the right dosages. TAKING ADVANTAGE OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Another benefit of having an Ontario Pharmacist in our corner is access to professional services. For instance, they can offer advice on how to manage side effects, as well as provide advice on how to get the most out of our medications. They can also give us tips on how to stay healthy and provide referrals to other healthcare professionals. Pharmacists are also able to provide assistance with minor ailments, such hemorrhoids, allergies and dermatitis. They can provide advice on over-the-counter medications, as well as provide referrals for more specialized tests and treatments. MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR MEDICATION: KNOWING THE BASICS Having an Ontario Pharmacist in our corner also gives us access to information on how to properly use our medications. They can help us understand how our medications work, as well as provide information on potential side effects. This can help us make the most of our medications and avoid unnecessary complications. Pharmacists can also provide useful tips on how to store our medications properly. This can help us ensure that our medications stay safe and effective for as long as possible. They can also provide information on disposal and recycling of medications, so we can do our part in protecting the environment. KNOWING WHEN TO SEE YOUR PHARMACIST It is not difficult to know when to see a pharmacist, so it’s important to understand the types of situations that require their services. Pharmacists can provide advice on over-the-counter medications, minor ailments, as well as provide information on other healthcare services. They can also offer advice on how to manage chronic conditions and provide referrals to specialists. If you’re experiencing any side effects from your medications, it’s a good idea to speak with your pharmacist. They can provide advice on how to manage the side effects and make sure you get the most out of your medications. When in doubt, ask MisterPharmacist™ for advice on what do to. “It’s that simple” says: Alexandre Mihaila, pharmacist, in a recent interview. Pharmacists are the first point of contact to figure out what to do next. Patients really value this service of triage. CONCLUSION: INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH WITH AN ONTARIO PHARMACIST Having an Ontario Pharmacist in our corner can provide many benefits, such as improved access to healthcare and reliable advice. They can help us make informed decisions about our health and provide valuable advice both in person and
“Empowering Patient Care: How Ontario Pharmacists Adapt Prescriptions for Better Health
In Ontario, pharmacists have the ability to make changes to prescriptions in four helpful ways. Let me explain each one to you in more detail. The first way is by adapting the route of administration. This means that if a medication is normally taken as an oral tablet, but it’s difficult for the patient to swallow, the pharmacist can adapt it to a suppository form instead. This makes it easier for the patient to take the medication and get the benefits they need. The second way is by adapting the dosage form. For example, if a cream is not suitable for a patient’s skin condition, the pharmacist can change it to an ointment or even a different form like a liquid or gel. Similarly, if a patient has trouble swallowing tablets, the pharmacist can adapt it to a liquid form, making it easier for them to take. The third way is by adapting the directions. This means that if the original instructions say to take the medication in the morning, but it causes drowsiness, the pharmacist can adapt the directions to suggest taking it in the evening instead. Similarly, if the instructions say to take the medication once a day, but the patient needs it more frequently, the pharmacist can adapt the directions to suggest taking it two or three times a day for better effectiveness. The fourth way is by adapting the dose. Let’s say a patient has been prescribed 100 milligrams of a medication, but they usually take only five milligrams for their condition. In this case, the pharmacist can adapt the dose back down to five milligrams, ensuring the patient gets the correct amount that works for them. Conversely, if a patient’s medication isn’t working well, the pharmacist can adapt the dose up to see if a higher amount is more effective. Likewise, if the patient experiences unwanted side effects, the pharmacist can adapt the dose down to minimize those effects. It’s important to note that adaptations do not involve swapping one medication for another. For example, a pharmacist cannot replace a medication like Pantoprazole with Esomeprazole, even if they both belong to the same class. Additionally, certain monitored drugs, including narcotics, controlled substances, and targeted substances, cannot be adapted by a pharmacist. If a pharmacist makes a clinically significant adaptation, meaning it has an important impact on the patient’s treatment, they should inform the prescriber. If the prescriber is a specialist, it’s also a good idea to notify the primary care provider, whether that’s the family physician or nurse practitioner, to ensure coordinated care. If changing the dose of a medication has a significant effect on its effectiveness, it’s considered a clinically significant adaptation. In such cases, the pharmacist should obtain consent from the patient or their authorized representative, and make a note on the prescription that consent was obtained. I hope this explanation clarifies the ways in which pharmacists can help adapt prescriptions to better suit patients’ needs in Ontario!- and don’t forget…. MisterPharmacist™ makes patient care easy!
Beyond the Counter: How Pharmacists are Expanding Their Role with Inhalers and Injections
Exciting news coming your way! Starting July 1, 2023, there’s a big, positive change on the horizon for Ontario’s healthcare system. Some new amendments have been approved to O. Reg 202/94 (General) of the Pharmacy Act, 1991 that are going to make a world of difference for patients and pharmacy professionals alike. So, what’s all the buzz about? Well, Ontario’s Part A pharmacists, as well as registered pharmacy students and interns, are now authorized to administer substances listed in the regulations via injection and inhalation. And guess what? It’s not just for the purpose of demonstration and education anymore. This scope expansion is a massive step forward! It means that pharmacists and pharmacy students, provided they’ve got the necessary injection training, will be able to assist their patients with the regular injection (think Ozempic® and Vitamin B12 shots) or inhalation of medicines. This is a game changer for patients suffering from conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, who may struggle with self-injection due to a fear of needles or physical difficulties. Not to mention, those who require inhaled medications for conditions such as asthma are also going to benefit enormously. This change is all about making healthcare more accessible and manageable for everyone involved. And that, my friend, is why we are buzzing with excitement! Stay healthy, and remember, your MisterPharmacist™ is now more equipped than ever to support you on your health journey. List of INHALERS approved by the new regulations: 1. **Anticholinergic Agents** (Aclidinium (Tudorza® Genuair), Glycopyrronium, Ipratropium (Seebri ® Breezhaler), Tiotropium (Spiriva®), Umeclidinium): These drugs work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that can cause muscle contractions. In the case of respiratory conditions, these drugs can help relax the muscles around the bronchi (airways), reducing symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. 2. **Anti-infective Agents** (Aztreonam, Levofloxacin (Quinsair®), Tobramycin, Zanamivir (Relenza®): These medications are used to treat or prevent infections. For example, Levofloxacin is an antibiotic that can treat bacterial infections, while Zanamivir is an antiviral medication used for influenza. 3. **Autonomic Drugs, Miscellaneous** (Nicotine): This category includes drugs that affect the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary body functions. Nicotine, for example, stimulates the release of various neurotransmitters and can have a range of effects on the body. 4. **Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat (EENT) Preparations** (Beclomethasone, Budesonide, Ciclesonide, Fluticasone, Mometasone, Sodium Cromoglycate): These medications are typically used to treat conditions related to the eyes, ears, nose, or throat. They include corticosteroids (Beclomethasone, Budesonide, Ciclesonide, Fluticasone, Mometasone) which can reduce inflammation and Sodium Cromoglycate which is used to prevent allergic reactions. 5. **Miscellaneous Agents** (Sodium chloride, Sterile water for inhalation): These substances can be used in various ways. Sodium chloride can be used for hydration or to replace lost electrolytes. Sterile water for inhalation is typically used as a diluent for inhaled medications. 6. **Respiratory Tract Agents** (Acetylcysteine, Dornase alfa): These drugs are used to treat respiratory conditions. Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic agent that helps to break down mucus, making it easier to cough up. Dornase alfa is used in cystic fibrosis to reduce the thickness and stickiness of mucus in the lungs. 7. **Sympathomimetic (Adrenergic) Agents** (Formoterol, Indacaterol, Olodaterol, Salbutamol, Salmeterol, Terbutaline, Vilanterol): These drugs mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to bronchodilation. They are often used to treat conditions like asthma and COPD by relaxing the muscles around the bronchi, making it easier to breathe. List of INJECTABLES approved by the new regulations: Analgesics & Antipyretics: – Codeine – Hydromorphone – Morphine – Nalbuphine Antibacterials: – Amikacin – Ampicillin – Cefazolin – Cefepime – Cefotaxime – Cefoxitin – Ceftazidime – Ceftriaxone – Clindamycin – Cloxacillin – Ertapenem – Gentamicin – Penicillin G Anticholinergic Agents: – Glycopyrrolate – Hyoscine – Scopolamine Anticoagulants: – Dalteparin – Danaparoid – Enoxaparin – Fondaparinux – Heparin – Nadroparin – Tinazaparin Antidiabetic Agents: – Exenatide – Dulaglutide – Insulins – Liraglutide – Lixisenatide – Semaglutide (OZEMPIC) Antihemorrhagic Agents: – Emicizumab Antihistamines: – Dimenhydrinate – Diphenhydramine Antimigraine Agents: – Erenumab – Sumatriptan Antiparkinsonian Agents: – Apomorphine – Benztropine Antivirals: – Enfuvirtide – Interferons – Peginterferon alfa-2a Central Nervous System Agents, Miscellaneous: – Inotersen Complement Inhibitors: – Icatibant – Lanadelumab Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs: – Abatacept – Adalimumab – Anakinra – Etanercept – Golimumab – Methotrexate – Sarilumab – Tocilizumab – Ustekinumab Enzymes: – Asfotase Alfa GI Drugs, Miscellaneous: – Certolizumab Pegol – Methylnaltrexone Gonadotropins & Antigonadotropins: – Follitropin-alpha – Follitropin-beta – Follitropin-delta – Gonadotropin-chorionic – Gonadotropin-chorionic alfa – Goserelin – Lutropin-alfa – Menotropins – Triptorelin acetate Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Antagonists: – Cetrorelix – Ganirelix Heavy Metal Antagonists: – Deferoxamine Hematopoietic Agents: – Darbepoetin alfa – Epoetin alfa – Filgrastim – Pegfilgrastim – Romiplostim Immunomodulatory Agents: – Denosumab – Glatiramer – Interferon-Beta-1A – Interferon-Beta-1B – Natalizumab Immunosuppressive Agents: – Belimumab – Mepolizumab Miscellaneous Agents: – Sodium Chloride – Sterile Water for Injection (Diluent) Parathyroid: – Calcitonin Salmon – Teriparatide Pituitary: – Desmopressin – Vasop ressin Progestins: – Medroxyprogesterone – Progesterone Prokinetic Agents: – Metoclopramide Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin Type 9 (Pcsk9) Inhibitors: – Alirocumab – Evolocumab Psychotherapeutic Agents: – Haloperidol – Methotrimeprazine Respiratory Tract Agents: – Omalizumab Skin & Mucous Membrane Agents: – Brodalumab – Dupilumab – Guselkumab – Ixekizumab – Risankizumab – Secukinumab Somatostatin Agonists & Antagonists: – Lanreotide – Octreotide – Pasireotide Somatotropin Agonists & Antagonists: – Pegvisomant – Somatropin – Tesamorelin Sympatholytic (Adrenergic Blocking) Agents: – Dihydroergotamine Vitamins ( not to be administered IV) – Ascorbic Acid aka VITAMIN C – Cyanocobalamin aka VITAMIN B12 – Folic Acid – Pyridoxine – Thiamine – Vitamin K
Overcoming the Obstacles of Fast Prescription Delivery
Getting your medication quickly is a big concern, especially when it comes to balancing the accuracy of the prescription and health safety. In this blog post we explore what kind of issues come up with delivering prescriptions as fast as possible – not least because there’s no point if something goes wrong! We’ll take a look at how important accurate descriptions are for ensuring delivery speed; out-of-stock problems that might delay things; any insurance issues that may arise and the need to make sure the deliveries fall in the correct hands. So strap yourself in: let’s get ready for an insightful dive into rapid prescription fulfilment! ENSURING PRESCRIPTION ACCURACY WHILE BALANCING FAST DELIVERIES Making sure every single prescription is accurate is a major priority for any pharmacy, especially when trying to balance speedy delivery. As pharmacists we’ve got the responsibility of making sure patients get precisely what they need in a timely fashion. With technology developing fast, many pharmacies have adopted strategies that help make accuracy happen while simultaneously speeding up prescriptions getting to their destination on time. One way often used by pharmacies is double-checking via phone call or text message from the shop to either patient’s home or doctor’s office verifying all specifics concerning medicine and health info attached with it– this crucial step stops mistakes being made but also gives space for corrections before handing out medications if needed! Another strategy employed by some shops are barcode scanning which makes certain prescriptions entered correctly as well like dispensing drugs and shipping process; so should there be an order containing wrong data then it can quickly be identified and fixed prior to shipment happening . Barcodes aren’t just beneficial at making precision happen though – they’re great too at monitoring inventory levels meaning stock outs become easier avoided therefore leading ultimately onto faster deliveries without compromising quality whatsoever When aiming towards delivering scripts swiftly yet still keeping everything precise, its essential that pharmacists take each necessary measure such as calls & scans whenever possible: That way speed/safety stay balanced throughout operations constantly… Pharmacists must remain aware about maintaining correct records when handling medication due various potentially dangerous outcomes associated (if not dealt with properly): This means always staying up-to-date based upon best practices around those types of orders ACHIEVING OPTIMAL DELIVERY SPEED FOR PRESCRIPTIONS To guarantee that customers get their medications promptly and accurately, pharmacies must take certain measures. Firstly, they need to have a well-structured inventory system in place. This will involve carefully monitoring each medication so shortages can be identified quickly and acted upon swiftly. Plus it’s important for the pharmacy to keep accurate records of customer orders and when these are filled out so there is an exact timeline for delivery – no delays due to paperwork errors here! Secondly, the pharmacy should make sure staff members know how best handle prescription orders efficiently; being able understand insurance issues as well as applying precision when filling prescriptions helps avoid any costly mistakes or hold ups . Thirdly , why not partner with third parties such as deliverers or online ordering systems? Streamlining processes like this implies quicker deliveries without cutting corners on quality service ! Finally don’t forget about tech advancements; automated refill systems help manage patient info effortlessly while mobile apps let customers track their own prescriptions reducing wait times substantially which is great news all round! If you put into practice these changes , your pharmacy will be equipped with efficiency gains whilst still providing patients top notch care superfast!. HANDLING OUT-OF-STOCK MEDICATIONS AND ENSURING QUICK DELIVERY Dealing with out-of-stock medications and getting them to customers as fast as possible can be a real headache for any pharmacy. Accuracy is particularly important when someone’s health is at stake, so running out of medication can cause huge delays in filling the prescription. Many instances of delays are associated with back orders: Doctors often prescribe their favorite meds only for pharmacies to inform them and their patients that the medicine is currently not available -or worse- discontinued. This add a layer of delays as getting in touch with the doctor often takes hours if not an extra day to make the appropriate changes. On our site we offer access to a current database of drug shortages which can save a lot of time to prescribers interested in providing the best care to their patients and want to avoid prescribing medicines that are simply not available on the Canadian market place at the time of prescribing. Canadian Drug Shortages Searchable Database- – MisterPharmacist™ Another Issues may delay if the doctor decides to prescribe a new medication or an unusual strength to their patients- most pharmacies would need 24 hours to obtain the product. At MisterPharmacist™ we make it a goal to keep the most current TOP 30 drugs in stock at all times and if we cannot get it any request we obtain before 11am can be ordered same day for later in the afternoon. To tackle these issues effectively pharmacies should have specific strategies ready to go; they need accurate records showing what meds are available at all times; policies covering how insurance payments will be processed promptly once prescriptions arrive from doctors or patients; plus clear communication with customers about stock availability and payment processing hold ups so everyone knows what’s going on. At MisterPharmacist™ we text message our patients to let them know when there’s an issue before they show up at the store front door or waiting at home – one less thing for them worry about! It is important that as a recipient of the medicine that there is a system in place to receive and have accountability of the receipt of the medicine. Ex; controlled medicines will need to have a receipt signature in order to ensure proper chain of custody of the prescriptions. NAVIGATING INSURANCE ISSUES WHILE OFFERING EXPEDITED PRESCRIPTION SERVICES Navigating insurance issues for quick prescription deliveries can be a tricky task. To begin, most insurers require the
Unlocking the Power of Your Pharmacist: Empowering Assessments and Prescriptions for Minor Ailments!
Once prescribing for minor ailments becomes a part of your pharmacist’s practice, there are a few things you should know. Your pharmacist will always follow a set of guidelines called the Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice, and relevant Policies and Guidelines, including the College’s Virtual Care Policy. This ensures that you receive the best care while upholding professional and legal obligations. If you’re wondering about reimbursement through the Ontario Drug Benefit Program, don’t worry! The minor ailment service can be provided to you either in-person or virtually (including over the phone) from an eligible pharmacy location. This gives you options and flexibility in how you access the service. Virtual care, like phone or video consultations, can be really convenient for minor ailments. Your pharmacist will carefully assess if it’s suitable for your situation and ensure they meet all their responsibilities. They’ll consider factors such as your condition, medical history, and any contraindications to provide a comprehensive assessment and the right treatment plan. Your privacy and data security are important too. Your pharmacist will follow strict privacy regulations and keep your information confidential during virtual consultations. You can trust that your personal information is protected. By following these guidelines, your pharmacist can provide you with excellent care and make sure that you’re eligible for reimbursement if applicable. Don’t hesitate to ask MisterPharmacist any questions you may have—they’re there to help you!
Aiming to take patient care to new levels
Mister Pharmacist aims to take patient care to new levels Toronto pharmacist gets back to basics by making patients feel valued. By Rosalind Stefanac In the heart of Toronto is a small pharmacy with a big mission: to make every single patient who walks through the door feel comfortable and valued. Alexander Mihaila, a.k.a. Mister Pharmacist—a moniker he recently trademarked—opened his pharmacy in the midst of the pandemic because he saw an opportunity to fill a gap in patient care. “I started an online business called Nutrition Pharmacist selling vitamins and supplements but then COVID hit and I realized I could do more within an actual pharmacy,” he says. He opened Mister Pharmacist in May 2021 and hasn’t looked back. “At the time, I was one of the few stores downtown able to source COVID tests and other pandemic supplies people were looking for so it was good timing.” Read: Pharmacy models practice around in-home patient visits Situated at the bottom of an old house, the pharmacy features wood panelled floors and a spacious waiting room, complete with comfortable couch, candles and a fridge stocked with free refreshments. “I think it feels very welcoming,” says Mihaila. Along with seeing his pharmacy patrons, he makes deliveries and offers his phone number for text questions off hours. “I’m leveraging technology as much as possible so people feel taken care of,” he says. “If I can’t answer their questions right away, I can tell them when I’ll be available.” Eventually his plan is to figure out ways to use artificial intelligence to reach patients more efficiently, while still maintaining that personal touch. With more than 30 years of experience in pharmacy under his belt, in both community pharmacy and the pharma industry, Mihaila says he has channelled what h’s learned along the way to create a environment that would allow him to put patients first. Vaccinations are still among his most popular services, although he says he is fully equipped for minor ailments prescribing now that that’s available to Ontario pharmacists. Using social media, Mihaila has been successful in marketing the Mister Pharmacy brand, even garnering significant media attention. “I credit social media and the fact I’m bilingual for opening doors to media outlets like the CBC,” he says. “It gives me a real opportunity to share my knowledge and reach a much bigger audience.”
“Exploring the Controversy Surrounding Ozempic: Are ‘Talk to Your Doctor’ Ads Doing More Harm Than Good?”
The original article published by Radio-Canada / CBC discusses the rising popularity of the drug Ozempic in Canada, primarily prescribed for diabetics but increasingly used for weight loss. The drug’s extensive advertising campaign, including ads on streetcars, buses, and subway stations, has caught the attention of pharmacist Alexander Mihaila, who expresses frustration with the expectations created by the ads. Many individuals purchasing Ozempic at pharmacies are seeking weight loss rather than diabetes treatment. Health Canada acknowledges the increased demand for the drug but has not received an application to license it for weight loss. Concerns are raised about potential supply problems that could negatively impact patients relying on Ozempic for diabetes management.
Urinary Tract Infections
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections are infections of the lower urinary tract. This infection usually affects women of any age who do not have any other health problems, are not pregnant, and do not have any physical problems with their urinary tract. As it is rather common, it is important to be able to tell the difference between simple UTI (also called cystitis), asymptomatic bacteriuria (increase bacteria count in the urine), and complicated cystitis so that you can choose the right antibiotic and length of treatment. UTI can be complicated by: being male, immunosuppression, poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, pregnancy, functional or structural abnormality of the urinary tract, recent urological manipulation, nosocomial infections, acute or chronic renal insufficiency, urinary tract obstruction, renal transplant, and catheterized patients or patients who are frequently catheterized. Typically we do not treat asymptomatic bacteriuria, except in certain groups (e.g., pregnant women, patients undergoing urological procedures).
How should uncomplicated cystitis be treated?
Cystitis is one of the most common urinary tract infections, and it is often uncomplicated. Uncomplicated cystitis is usually limited to the bladder or lower urinary tract and is commonly caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli). Other organisms that can cause cystitis include Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus faecalis and Streptococcus agalactiae. T he symptoms of cystitis typically include local symptoms such as frequent, urgent and painful urination, but there are usually no fever or flank pain associated with it. As a result, uncomplicated cystitis is often treated without urine cultures or sensitivities. When treating uncomplicated cystitis, one of the most commonly used antibiotics is trimethoprim, which is available in a 100 mg tablet and is usually prescribed for three days. Alternatively, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is also used, which is available in a 160/800 mg tablet and is taken twice a day for three days. However, if the resistance rate to these antibiotics is above 20%, or if the patient has taken either of these antibiotics in the last three months, then they should be avoided. Nitrofurantoin is another common antibiotic that is used to treat cystitis, and it is available in a 100 mg capsule. It is usually prescribed for five days and is to be taken twice a day . For those who cannot take one of the above antibiotics, beta-lactams such as amoxicillin-clavulanate (875/125 mg twice a day) or cephalexin (500 mg taken two to four times a day) may be prescribed for three to seven days. Ampicillin or amoxicillin monotherapy should be avoided due to lower efficacy rates. Finally, fosfomycin (Monurol®) is also available in a 3 g single dose. It is important to seek medical advice if you think you may have cystitis. Uncomplicated cystitis can be treated easily with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications. Furthermore, if your symptoms persist even after completing your course of antibiotics, it is important to seek your doctors advice again to make sure there is no underlying cause for your symptoms.