Author: Robert Wakeling

Robert Wakeling
Dec
16

Antipsychotics and Stroke Risk in Seniors with Dementia: What You Need to Know

Antipsychotics are commonly prescribed for dementia-related behaviors, but they increase stroke risk by up to 80% and raise death rates by 60-70%. Learn why these drugs are dangerous and what safer alternatives exist.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
15

Generational Differences: How Age Shapes Attitudes Toward Generic Medications

Generational attitudes toward generic medications vary widely, shaped by advertising, experience, and health literacy. Boomers trust brands, Gen Z trusts data, and everyone needs clear, age-appropriate information to make safe, affordable choices.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
15

Medication-Induced Diarrhea: How to Prevent and Treat It Effectively

Medication-induced diarrhea is a common and serious side effect of chemotherapy, antibiotics, and immunotherapy. Learn how to prevent it, when to use loperamide or octreotide, and what to avoid to stay out of the hospital.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
11

GLP-1 Side Effects: How to Manage Nausea, Dosing, and Realistic Expectations

GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Ozempic help with weight loss but often cause nausea. Learn how dosing schedules, dietary changes, and timing can reduce side effects and help you stick with treatment.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
10

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: Breath Tests and Treatment Explained

SIBO is a common but misunderstood gut condition causing bloating, diarrhea, and nutrient issues. Breath tests are the main diagnostic tool, but they’re imperfect. Learn how they work, why they’re controversial, and what actually works for treatment.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
9

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: How Riluzole Slows Neurodegeneration and Extends Life

Riluzole is the first and still most widely used drug for ALS, offering a modest but meaningful extension of life. Learn how it works, who benefits, and why it remains essential despite side effects and newer treatments.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
7

Dangerous Hyperkalemia from Medications: Cardiac Risks and Treatment

Medications for heart and kidney disease can cause dangerous high potassium levels, leading to heart rhythm problems and cardiac arrest. Learn how to recognize the risks, what treatments work, and how to stay on life-saving drugs safely.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
4

Pharmacist Recommendations: When to Suggest Authorized Generics

Pharmacists should recommend authorized generics when patients have allergies to inactive ingredients, take narrow therapeutic index drugs, or experience side effects after switching to regular generics. Authorized generics are identical to brand-name drugs but cost 20-80% less.

Robert Wakeling
Dec
3

How to Keep Medications Safe from Children and Pets at Home

Learn how to safely store and dispose of medications to protect children and pets from accidental poisoning. Simple steps can prevent emergencies and save lives.

Robert Wakeling
Nov
29

Schizophrenia: Understanding Antipsychotic Medications and Atypical Agents

Antipsychotic medications are essential for managing schizophrenia. Atypical antipsychotics like aripiprazole and clozapine offer better side effect profiles than older drugs, but choices depend on individual needs, side effects, and treatment history.