by Eric Christianson | Jul 2, 2025 | Infectious Disease and Oncology Medication and Disease State Clinical Pearls
While we often think about bacterial infections and managing the use of antibiotics, fungal and viral infections are relatively common in practice as well. We have many antifungal medications, and we also have a large number of antiviral agents. When comparing fungal...
by Eric Christianson | Jun 29, 2025 | Infectious Disease and Oncology Medication and Disease State Clinical Pearls
Fluconazole is a commonly used antifungal agent with strong CYP450 inhibitory activity, especially on the CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 enzymes. Because of this, it can significantly affect the metabolism of many medications. Here are my top five fluconazole drug...
by Eric Christianson | Jun 25, 2025 | Psychiatry and Addiction Medication and Disease State Clinical Pearls
When comparing venlafaxine versus desvenlafaxine, we must first recognize that they are both part of the drug class called SNRIs. Both of these medications work by inhibiting the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Venlafaxine comes in an extended-release...
by Eric Christianson | Jun 22, 2025 | Neurology, Pain, and Musculoskeletal Medication and Disease State Clinical Pearls
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are routinely used for pain and inflammation, but they are also commonly implicated in clinically significant interactions. As medication experts, pharmacists play a critical role in recognizing and navigating these risks....
by Eric Christianson | Jun 18, 2025 | Neurology, Pain, and Musculoskeletal Medication and Disease State Clinical Pearls
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often requires complex, long-term medication regimens. This polypharmacy increases the risk of clinically significant drug interactions that can impact efficacy and safety. Below are five of the most important drug interactions encountered in...
by Eric Christianson | Jun 8, 2025 | Cardiovascular Medication and Disease State Clinical Pearls
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are widely used in managing hypertension, heart failure, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and diabetic nephropathy. While these agents share a common mechanism—blocking the angiotensin II type 1 (AT₁) receptor—not all ARBs are...