Research Updates
Effects of Finerenone on Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Chronic Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetes - The ARTS-DN Trial
Becca Sauter, PharmD, St. Cloud Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Finerenone is a non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist used for patients with chronic kidney disease. However, do the cardio-renal properties of this medication impact 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure despite its short half-life?
Bempedoic Acid: A CLEAR Look into Cardiovascular Outcomes in Statin-Intolerant Patients
Casey LaBelle, PharmD., New Ulm Medical Center
Statin intolerance has limited the ability for clinicians to lower cholesterol levels and provide cardiovascular benefits. Can bempedoic acid be an alternative option for clinicians in statin-intolerant patients?
Therapeutic Thoughts
Are We “statin” to have New Options for ASCVD Risk Reduction?
Madeleine Davies, PharmD, Open Cities Health Center
Statins have long been the backbone of preventive therapy for cardiovascular health. However, many patients are unable to take statins for prolonged periods of time due to muscle symptom concerns, or they are unable to reach target cholesterol levels despite good adherence. How might novel therapeutic targets change the treatment path for these patients?
A new GOLD standard? A review of the 2023 COPD GOLD Guideline Updates
Megan Traxler, PharmD, Allina Health
The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) published their 2023 guideline update for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management in November 2022. With the phasing out of LABA/ICS therapy, the LAMA/LABA combination inhalers will take a front row seat. What other updates were published?
Unearthing Unconventional Medications for Treatment Resistant Depression
Ann Wenzel, PharmD, Cash Wise Clinic Pharmacy / CentraCare
Treatment resistant depression is a huge burden on patients who experience it, leading to increased risk of suicide and hospitalizations. Accepted therapies today include changing medications in different classes or augmenting current medication, but what if there are even more treatment options available to patients?
Miscellaneous News
Removing the X-Waiver to Prescribe Buprenorphine
Josie Xu, PharmD, Welia Health
In December 2022, the requirements for the X-waiver was eliminated, and now providers with valid DEA registration with Schedule III authority can prescribe buprenorphine. There are no longer limits on the number of patients a provider may treat with buprenorphine, which may encourage buprenorphine prescribing.
Affordability Breakthroughs: Updates in Insulin Access and Pricing
Erika Harvey, PharmD, First-Year Pharmaceutical Care Leadership Resident - Broadway Family Medicine Clinic
In response to President Biden's initiative to cap the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for Medicare Part D beneficiaries, Eli Lilly and Co., Novo Nordisk, and Sanofi have made a commitment to reduce the cost of insulin in the United States. These companies have implemented copay limits and reduced list prices for their insulin products. However, ongoing advocacy is needed to ensure affordable insulin and accessibility for all individuals with diabetes.