Discussions

Tapering benzodiazepines
Patients are often unaware that benzodiazepines are the reason for their daytime drowsiness or lack of energy when combined with some of their other medications, and that a taper can lead to increased alertness, focus and energy throughout the day.
Salty foods are making people sick—in part by poisoning their microbiomes
How might a substance previously thought worth its weight in gold have transformed into something many medical institutions consider a key predictor of disease?

When to call up a colleague rather than calling them out

One of my patients—a trans man—told me he left urgent care because of how embarrassing an interaction with the doctor there became. Luckily, his subsequent trip to the ER and laparoscopic appendectomy went well.
Unveiling the hidden struggle: Pharmacists are key allies in identifying and treating alcohol use disorder

When high-risk drinking is identified, one of the first steps is to provide a brief intervention to support positive behaviour change related to alcohol use.
On the diagnostic trail of ‘dizzy and tired’ with Dr. Max and Dr. Min

'While Dr. Min got to the root of the diagnosis and Dr. Max didn't ... Both had been there for this family over the long haul. And if that's not good enough, I don't know what is.'
Dyslipidemia and statin therapy in patients with HIV

Due to the increased risk of ASCVD in patients with HIV, aggressive treatment with lifestyle modifications and lipid-lowering therapy are generally recommended.
Resolve in defeat: J.J. McCarthy and the CaRMs UnMatchables

Going unmatched in 2003 gave me some serious doubts about my abilities. My skills. Was it a mistake to go into medicine? Could I be happy in another field? Did I leave the stove on?
Kid guilt

Dr. Melissa Yuan-Innes grapples with guilt over the perceived imbalance between a demanding medical career and the time spent with her children.
POLL: When a patient says something racist, sexist, transphobic or homophobic do you confront the patient?

See what your colleagues say. Take our weekly doctor poll.
The obsessive passion: is it a way to escape?

Sometimes passionate interests serve as escapes from underlying issues, argues Dr. Jabir Jassam.