Your Mom on Drugs

In this episode, we delve into the world of CBD, a compound derived from the cannabis plant that has garnered widespread attention for its potential health benefits. From its legal history and regulatory landscape to its current uses, we explore how CBD works in the body and its role in managing conditions such as treatment-resistant epilepsy, for which it is FDA-approved. Despite its popularity, CBD’s efficacy in other areas, such as anxiety, pain relief, and sleep improvement, remains under-researched and often misunderstood.Listeners will gain insights into the science of CBD, including its non-psychoactive properties, its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, and the challenges surrounding product quality and standardization. We’ll also address common myths, potential side effects, and the importance of informed use in a market with inconsistent labeling and safety oversight. Whether you’re curious about CBD’s medical potential or its broader societal impact, this episode provides a balanced and comprehensive perspective.

In this episode, we explore the growing popularity and science behind GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®), medications initially developed for type 2 diabetes that have become game-changers in weight loss management. We’ll examine how these drugs work to regulate appetite, slow gastric emptying, and promote fat loss while discussing their effectiveness compared to traditional approaches. With soaring prescription rates and celebrity endorsements, GLP-1 agonists have gained attention for their transformative potential in combating obesity, a chronic condition affecting millions.Listeners will learn about the benefits, side effects, and myths surrounding these medications, as well as the economic and accessibility challenges that patients face. We’ll also highlight the importance of combining these treatments with healthy lifestyle changes to achieve sustainable weight loss. Whether you’re curious about the science or considering options for weight management, this episode delivers a comprehensive overview for the lay audience.

Got shingles? This week’s podcast dives into everything you need to know about Herpes Zoster—better known as shingles. We’ll break down how this painful condition is caused by the same virus that gave you chickenpox as a kid and why it can sneak back into your life later. With over a million cases in the U.S. every year, we’ll explore the symptoms, from that telltale rash to nerve pain that could linger for months, and why some folks are more at risk than others.But don’t worry—we’re not just here to scare you! We’ll also chat about how you can prevent shingles with vaccines like Shingrix and what to do if you or a loved one already has it. Tune in to get the scoop on treatment options, myths, and even tips for reducing the itch. Whether you’re over 50 or just love staying informed, this episode’s got all the viral vibes you need!

Brrrrr it's cold outside, common cold that is! Josh and Jennifer, the mom on drugs, tackle a brisk topic as they delve into the world of the virus and why these pesky bugs tend to come around this time of year!Intro 1 billion cases occur in United States annuallyOne of top five illnesses in U.S.Adults: 2-3 colds/year; children: 6 or more/yearColds may occur at any time of year but more common in winter monthsWhat it isViral infection of upper respiratory tractMost caused by rhinoviruses but may also be caused by coronavirus and adenovirusRepresents 60% of all disorders with nasal stuffiness/discharge as primary complaint (Patient Assessment in Pharmacy – chapter 7)Onset is typically slow – symptoms progress over 12-36 hours and last 5-9 days (Patient Assessment in Pharmacy)Transmission due to contact with nasal secretions/saliva of infected people (Am Family Physician) through direct contact, coughing, sneezing, or talking (Postgrad Med)Symptoms (Patient Assessment, Handbook of OTC DrugsSore throatNasal symptomsLow-grade fever not common; may occur more in children – typically not higher than 100.4 degrees F orallyGeneral malaiseWhat to do about itTreatment goals (Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs)No cure, so goals are to reduce symptoms and prevent transmission to othersAntibiotics ineffective against viral infectionsPreventive measures (American Family Physician)Good hand hygienePreventive practices with little or no effectiveness:GinsengEchinaceaVitamin C or DProbioticsWater garglesRecommended TreatmentNonpharmacologic therapy (evidence of efficacy lacking)Vaporizers/humidifiersBreathe Right nasal stripsAromatic oils (e.g., Vicks VapoRub) – may ease nasal congestion – use cautiously in children as oils can irritate eyes and skin and accidental ingestion can lead to toxicityNasal aspirators/bulbs for babies and young children who cannot blow nose (4 years and younger)AnalgesicsNo aspirin use in childrenAcetaminophenNSAIDsLocal anestheticsBenzocaine (not in children < 2 – causes methemoglobinemia), dyclonineLozenges, sprays for sore throat – temporary reliefIntranasal ipratropiumDecongestants with or without antihistaminesOral decongestantsPhenylephrinePseudoephedrine (behind the counter)Nasal decongestantsTopical efficacyLimited use to 3 days due to risk for rebound congestionZincHigh zinc concentrations may block adhesion of human rhinovirus to nasal epithelium and blocking viral replication but in vitro data may support only modest antiviral effect

In this episode we explore the wonderful world of sunscreen! We explore chemical versus mineral sunscreens, how SPF is calculated, how often it should be applied and so much more. It's summer right now so it's a perfect episode to learn about the marvels of this cancer preventing cream!