Author: Eric Christianson

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June 5, 2025May 29, 2025

Nifedipine Pharmacology

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Nifedipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and reduced peripheral vascular resistance.

The extended-release formulation of nifedipine provides more stable plasma concentrations and is preferred for chronic management of hypertension and angina.

Common adverse effects include headache, flushing, peripheral edema, and dizziness, all related to its vasodilatory action.

Nifedipine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, primarily via CYP3A4 enzymes, which significantly influences its bioavailability and potential drug interactions.

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, grapefruit juice) can increase plasma levels of nifedipine, raising the risk of hypotension and adverse effects.

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May 29, 2025May 27, 2025

Clotrimazole Pharmacology

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On this podcast episode, I discuss Clotrimazole pharmacology, adverse effects, indications, administration, and much more.

Clotrimazole is an imidazole antifungal that exerts its pharmacological effect by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. This inhibition compromises membrane integrity, leading to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately fungal cell death.

Clotrimazole is primarily used topically due to poor systemic absorption when administered via the skin or mucous membranes, which limits systemic side effects.

When clotrimazole is used intravaginally or orally in lozenge form, localized concentrations are sufficient to treat mucocutaneous infections without significant systemic exposure.

Pay attention when clotrimazole is used frequently to treat Candida infections as corticosteroids, immunosuppression, and antibiotics may increase the risk of this type of infection.

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May 22, 2025May 14, 2025

Irbesartan Pharmacology

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Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily for the management of hypertension and diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes.

It selectively inhibits the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor found in vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This blockade results in vasodilation, reduced aldosterone secretion, decreased sodium and water retention, and ultimately lower blood pressure.

Irbesartan is administered orally, with a typical starting dose of 150 mg once daily, which may be increased to 300 mg depending on the patient’s clinical response and tolerability.

Adverse effects of irbesartan are generally mild but can include hyperkalemia and dizziness. Hypotension may occur, especially in volume-depleted individuals or those on diuretics.

Routine monitoring of renal function and serum potassium is recommended, especially in patients with underlying kidney disease or those taking potassium-sparing agents or supplements.

Irbesartan is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal toxicity and should be discontinued as soon as pregnancy is detected.

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May 15, 2025May 14, 2025

Benzonatate Pharmacology Podcast

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On this episode, I discuss benzonatate pharmacology, adverse reactions, and much more.

Tessalon Pearls (benzonatate) are a non-narcotic antitussive commonly prescribed to relieve dry, non-productive coughs.

Benzonatate acts by numbing stretch receptors in the respiratory tract, lungs, and pleura, which helps suppress the cough reflex at its source. Unlike opioid-based cough suppressants, it doesn’t work in the brain’s cough center.

The usual adult dose is 100 to 200 mg taken orally three times a day as needed, with a maximum daily dose of 600 mg.

One of the most critical points is that the capsules must be swallowed whole. Chewing, sucking, or crushing them can cause numbness in the mouth and throat, leading to a risk of choking or aspiration.

There are no major drug interactions associated with benzonatate.

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May 8, 2025May 5, 2025

Polyethylene Glycol (Miralax) Pharmacology

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On this episode of the Real Life Pharmacology podcast, I discuss Miralax (polyethylene glycol) pharmacology, adverse effects, and much more.

MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative commonly used to treat occasional constipation by retaining water in the stool to increase stool frequency and soften consistency.

The standard adult dose of MiraLAX is 17 grams (approximately one heaping tablespoon) dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of liquid once daily.

Electrolyte imbalances are rare but possible with prolonged or excessive use of Miralax, particularly in elderly or renal-impaired patients.

Advise patients to maintain adequate hydration while using MiraLAX to support its mechanism and reduce side effects.

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May 1, 2025May 1, 2025

Minoxidil Pharmacology

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On this episode of the Real Life Pharmacology Podcast, we cover minoxidil pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, and much more.

Minoxidil is a potent arterial vasodilator used in the treatment of hypertension and androgenetic alopecia.

The route of administration greatly impacts the drug’s safety profile. Oral minoxidil is typically reserved for refractory hypertension due to its strong systemic effects and associated risks.

Topical formulations (2% or 5%) are widely used for hair regrowth, offering local benefits with minimal systemic absorption.

Systemic minoxidil can result in fluid retention, tachycardia, and even pericardial effusion, often requiring co-administration with a diuretic and beta-blocker.

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April 24, 2025April 23, 2025

Prednisone Pharmacology

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Prednisone is a commonly used medication for its antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive action. On this episode I discuss prednisone pharmacology, ADRs, and much more.

In the episode, I discuss how prednisone affects the HPA system in the body. Cortisol production can be greatly impacted by long term use of prednisone.

GI adverse effects can be problematic with oral prednisone which is why we often give this medication with food or milk.

Hyperglycemia is a complication from the use of prednisone. I’ve commonly seen blood sugar spike by 50-100+ mg/dL due to this medication.

Osteoporosis is a long term risk with the use of prednisone. Prednisone can also impact the benefits of vaccination. I discuss this in greater depth in the drug interactions portion of the podcast.

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April 17, 2025April 17, 2025

Linagliptin Pharmacology

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Today’s sponsor is Freed AI! Freed’s AI medical scribe listens, transcribes, and writes notes for you. Over 15,000 healthcare professionals use Freed and you should too! Learn more here!

On this episode of the Real Life Pharmacology Podcast, I cover linagliptin pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, and much more.

Linagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which stimulate insulin release and decrease glucagon levels in the blood.

Linagliptin is usually taken once daily and can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications.

Unlike some other diabetes drugs, linagliptin does not usually cause weight gain or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used alone.

Linagliptin should not be used with GLP-1 agonists as it works on a similar pathway as that medication class.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!

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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

Guide to Drug Food Interactions (Amazon Best Seller)