Discussions

Drug news—January/February 2023
A review of new launches, new indications, new dosage forms and Health Canada advisories.
The error-prone elephant in the pharmacy room
Pharmacy is all about accuracy and risk reduction, and for good measure. A mistake in the dispensary can lead to serious adverse outcomes for the patient. It makes sense then, that we have such an exhaustive list of rules and regulations surrounding the dispensing of medications.

Are we obligated to fill out disability forms?

An experience with a patient prompts Dr. Jabir Jassam to question the role of doctors in filling out disability forms, eligibility requirements, and the option of omitting a medical condition at the request of a patient.
Unlocking our inner pharmapreneurs

Participating in an entrepreneurial ‘Dragon’s Den’ exercise was challenging for a group of clinically-minded young pharmacists. But it showed us that thinking like a business person will make us more well-rounded practitioners who truly understand patient needs.
Speaking out against violence towards the LGBTQ+ community

Hate against members of this community isn't something we simply read about in the paper. It's happening in our own backyards.
The fight against antibiotic resistance is growing more urgent, but artificial intelligence can help

Antibiotic-resistant infections cause the deaths of up to 1.2 million people annually, making them one of the leading causes of death.
Poll: Do provincial health plans cover everything they should or do they cover too much?

Take our weekly doctor poll. See what your colleagues say.
Public or private?

When it comes to educating our youth, Dr. Melissa Yuan-Innes questions if private school really makes a difference.
Cousin Stan the 'detail man'

I spoke with my cousin, now 85, about his decades as a pharmaceutical sales rep—known in his day as a 'detail man'—and about how the industry is barely recognizable today.
The struggles of compliance

Doctors believe they do a great job of prescribing and fine-tuning medications, but the reality is that some patients still aren't taking them, says Dr. Hector Baillie.