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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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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

Guide to Drug Food Interactions (Amazon Best Seller)

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.

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)

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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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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

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April 17, 2025April 17, 2025

Linagliptin Pharmacology

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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)

April 10, 2025March 19, 2025

Meclizine Pharmacology Podcast

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Meclizine is classified as a first-generation antihistamine. I discuss meclizine pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, and much more.

Meclizine is included on the Beers list due to its highly anticholinergic activity. Anticholinergic effects include constipation, dry eyes, dry mouth, urinary retention, and confusion.

Sedation is an important adverse effect of meclizine. This adverse effect can be increased when used with other sedating medications such as opioids and benzodiazepines.

Meclizine is primarily used for vertigo and motion sickness in clinical practice. The usual starting dose ranges between 12.5 to 25 mg.

Meclizine is partially broken down by CYP2D6 so medications like bupropion can inhibit the breakdown of meclizine and lead to higher concentrations.

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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

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April 3, 2025March 19, 2025

Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) Pharmacology Podcast

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In this episode, I discuss amphetamine/dextroamphetamine pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, and much more.

Stimulants like Adderall are well known to cause insomnia. This adverse effect can be affected by the timing of the dose.

Lack of growth and poor appetite are two important things to monitor in pediatric patients taking Adderall.

Changes in the pH of the stomach/gut can alter the absorption of Adderall. I discuss this in greater detail in this podcast episode.

Cardiovascular monitoring is essential with the use of stimulants like Adderall. Pulse and heart rate are two important vital signs to assess.

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)

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March 27, 2025March 17, 2025

Benazepril Pharmacology Podcast

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Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat hypertension by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing vasoconstriction.

Combining benazepril with potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia due to aldosterone suppression.

Common side effects of benazepril include dry cough, hyperkalemia, and hypotension due to its effect on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Benazepril can be prescribed alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, such as diuretics or calcium channel blockers, to enhance blood pressure control.

Benazepril has a long duration of action, allowing for once-daily dosing, which improves patient adherence and convenience in hypertension management.

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)

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March 20, 2025March 16, 2025

Loratadine Pharmacology Podcasst

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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 podcast episode, I cover loratadine pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, and much more.

Loratatdine is a second generation antihistamine. It has a lower incidence of central nervous system adverse effects compared to first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine.

Loratadine dosing varies in pediatric patients and those with renal impairment. I get into the details on this podcast episode.

Drug interactions aren’t common with loratadine but I discuss a few that may be clinically significant.

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

Support The Podcast and Check Out These Amazing Resources!

Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

Guide to Drug Food Interactions (Amazon Best Seller)