Clinical Capsules - Actionable Medication Pearls in Minutes - podcast cover

Clinical Capsules - Actionable Medication Pearls in Minutes

TRC Healthcare | Pharmacist's Letter | Prescriber Insights | Pharmacy Technician's Lettertrchealthcare.com

On Clinical Capsules we bring you the same evidence-based insights you trust from TRC Healthcare, now in podcast form.

Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, our expert editors from Pharmacist’s Letter, Prescriber Insights, and Pharmacy Technician’s Letter will break down the most impactful clinical developments - giving you clear, actionable takeaways in just minutes.


TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for this podcast for pharmacist subscribers at our platinum level or higher and pharmacy technician subscribers. Log in to your Pharmacist’s Letter or Pharmacy Technician’s Letter account and look for the title of this podcast in the list of available CE courses.

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Episodes

Updated COPD Guidelines: Strategies for Treatment and Management

Updated COPD guidelines are reshaping how soon patients start daily inhalers—and what therapies make the most sense based on symptoms and risk. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP, reviews practical, guideline-based strategies for treating and managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) . Don highlights common factors that increase exacerbation risk and explains how current recommendations aim to better match therapy to ...

May 26, 202619 minSeason 2Ep. 10

Beyond the Cuff: Measuring and Monitoring Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is one of the most commonly measured — and most commonly misread — vitals in healthcare. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Vickie Danaher, PharmD, discusses how pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can help patients better manage hypertension . She goes over how to choose the right home blood pressure monitor, ways to use it correctly, and tips for getting the most accurate readings. This is an excerpt from our March 2026 Pharmacy Essential U...

May 12, 202616 minSeason 2Ep. 9

Hair Loss in Men: Treating Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness is more than a cosmetic concern – and patients often turn to the pharmacy first for answers. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP , discusses treating male pattern baldness. He reviews the underlying mechanism of hair loss and compares evidence-based treatment options, including oral finasteride, topical minoxidil, and more. Don also provides practical counseling points, including adverse effects, expected tim...

Apr 28, 202621 minSeason 2Ep. 8

Semaglutide Becomes the First ORAL GLP-1 Approved for Weight Loss

A new oral option is changing the GLP-1 landscape for weight loss, along with raising questions about efficacy, dosing, and when switching products makes sense. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Vickie Danaher, PharmD discusses how semaglutide became the first FDA-approved oral GLP-1 agonist for obesity. She breaks down how it works, how it compares to injectable options, and dosing considerations for patients. Vickie also walks through key counseling point...

Apr 14, 202615 minSeason 2Ep. 7

Managing Opioid Overdose: Signs, Symptoms, and Reversal Agents

Opioid overdoses remain a leading cause of preventable death - and pharmacy teams are on the front lines of response. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP, discusses how to recognize opioid overdose, compares naloxone and nalmefene options including the new nalmefene auto-injector, and shares tips for counseling patients and caregivers on using opioid reversal agents effectively. This is an excerpt from our December 2025 Pharmacy E...

Mar 24, 202618 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Treating Dry Eye Disease: A Look at Today’s Medications

Dry eye disease affects millions of patients, yet the growing list of treatment options can make decision-making feel more complicated than ever. Treating dry eyes requires understanding not just what options are available, but where each one fits into therapy. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Assistant Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Gina Corley, PharmD, walks through the causes of dry eye disease and breaks down today’s treatment landscape, from OTC artificial tears to prescription options like ...

Mar 10, 202615 minSeason 2Ep. 5

First-Time Rx Oral Liquids for Common Meds

New oral liquids are hitting the market – here's what to expect for your pharmacy. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Vickie Danaher, PharmD, discusses a growing wave of first-time oral liquid formulations for familiar medications, including ADHD therapies, diabetes meds, antihypertensives, and more. She breaks down why these liquid options are emerging, which patients may benefit most, and what pharmacists and technicians need to watch for when dispensing. ...

Feb 24, 202617 minSeason 2Ep. 4

Hypothyroidism Meds: Answers to Common Questions

Managing hypothyroidism often seems straightforward—but the details can make all the difference. In this episode, Rachel Cole, PharmD , shares actionable pearls for pharmacy teams, such as how to handle levothyroxine product switches, when to monitor TSH, and tips for counseling patients on adherence. Plus, we’ll tackle common myths, explore safety concerns with desiccated thyroid extract (DTE), and review FDA’s recent alert. Get clear answers, practical counseling tips, and monitoring strategie...

Feb 10, 202615 minSeason 2Ep. 3

What’s New in Acute Sinusitis: Antibiotics vs. Watchful Waiting

Think every sinus infection needs an antibiotic? Think again. Updated guidelines for acute bacterial rhinosinusitis are sparking discussions about when antibiotics are truly warranted—and pharmacy teams play a key role in helping guide practice. In this episode , TRC Healthcare Assistant Editor and Clinical Pharmacist Gina Corley, PharmD, explains new recommendations for “watchful waiting,” when to initiate antibiotics, supportive care measures to try, and more. You’ll also hear practical pearls...

Jan 27, 202615 minSeason 2Ep. 2

Helping Patients Quit Vaping

Vaping is more popular than ever, especially among young adults, and pharmacy teams are in a prime position to guide patients toward cessation. In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Gina Corley, PharmD, breaks down the health risks of vaping and shares unique barriers to vaping cessation. She also discusses how proven smoking cessation strategies (varenicline, nicotine replacement therapy, and bupropion) may work to help patients quit vaping. Plus, you’ll hear about counseling points and free ...

Jan 13, 202614 minSeason 2Ep. 1

Preventing Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Immunization Updates

RSV prevention is more important than ever, and pharmacy teams are on the front lines. In this episode, TRC Healthcare Associate Editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD, reviews who should receive RSV vaccines, recent changes to age and risk-based recommendations, and how monoclonal antibodies protect infants and high-risk children. You’ll also hear practical tips on the best time to vaccinate patients, co-administration with other vaccines, product nuances, and safety considerations to help confidently ...

Dec 23, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 23

Walk Through Updated Guidelines for Restless Legs Syndrome

In this episode, Rachel Cole, PharmD , walks us through the evolving landscape of restless leg syndrome management, highlighting why dopamine agonists are no longer first-line therapy and what that means for clinical practice. You’ll learn about the importance of checking for iron deficiency, practical non-drug interventions, and alternative medications like gabapentin and pregabalin. Rachel shares actionable tips for educating patients, managing tricky cases, and staying up to date with the lat...

Dec 09, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 22

Lenacapavir for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

In this episode, Rachel Cole, PharmD , explores the evolving landscape of medications for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), spotlighting lenacapavir (Yeztugo)—a newly approved long-acting injectable option given just twice yearly. She walks through how it compares to oral therapies like Truvada and Descovy, plus other injectables such as cabotegravir. Rachel also offers practical guidance on identifying candidates for HIV PrEP, navigating lab requirements, and managing side effects. You’ll al...

Nov 25, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 21

Flu Vaccine Guidance for 2025-2026

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD, dives into the 2025/2026 flu vaccine season with a clear overview of what’s new and what remains consistent. From updated vaccine strain compositions and preferred products for older adults to thimerosal-free recommendations and egg allergy guidance, this episode equips you with the latest evidence-based insights. She also tackles common patient questions, discusses coadministration with COVID-19 and RSV vaccines, and shares practic...

Nov 11, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 20

Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD, discusses how pharmacists and pharmacy technicians play a vital role in ensuring access to buprenorphine for opioid use disorder treatment. She’ll explore approaches to addressing dispensing barriers, inventory management strategies, and the importance of recognizing opioid use disorder as a chronic condition requiring appropriate long-term care. This is an excerpt from our March 2025 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education ...

Oct 28, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Don’t Let New Meds for Acute Migraine Give You a Headache

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Rachel Cole, PharmD , evaluates 3 new migraine treatments: Atzumi, Brekiya, and Symbravo. She'll explain their dosing techniques and how they compare to existing therapies, while providing practical guidance on clinical considerations and cost-effective alternatives for acute migraine management. This is an excerpt from our August 2025 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. ****** CE Information: TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for...

Oct 14, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 18

Explore Different Med Regimens for H. pylori

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Rachel Cole, PharmD , unpacks the updated recommendations for H. pylori management, spotlighting why bismuth quadruple therapy is now front and center and how to navigate antibiotic resistance and patient-specific factors. You’ll come away with actionable pearls on regimen selection, adherence strategies, and which drug interactions to watch for. This is an excerpt from our February 2025 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The c...

Sep 23, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Pain Management Update: Meet Suzetrigine (Journavx)

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD , digs into Suzetrigine—brand name Journavx—the first non-opioid analgesic approved in over two decades. You’ll hear how it works, how it compares to hydrocodone/acetaminophen, and why it might be a game-changer for patients at risk of opioid misuse. We’ll also unpack limitations in the clinical trials, cost concerns, dosing nuances, and key drug interactions to watch for. Plus, we’ll share tips for counseling patients and navigating...

Sep 09, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 16

New Twists to Old Meds: Fresh Formulations of Losartan, Minocycline, and More

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD , discusses recently approved drug formulations that bring fresh options—and new challenges—to the pharmacy counter. From Arbli , the first ready-to-use losartan suspension, to Emrosi , a low-dose minocycline for rosacea, and Opipza, an oral film version of aripiprazole, we’ll walk through what makes each product unique and what pharmacy teams should watch for. We also cover HemiClor , a 12.5 mg chlorthalidone tablet that may help pa...

Aug 26, 202519 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Zepbound for Zzz’s: Exploring Tirzepatide for Sleep Apnea

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS unpacks the newly approved use of tirzepatide (Zepbound) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) —a first-in-class pharmacologic option for a condition long managed with devices and lifestyle changes. You’ll hear a concise review of sleep apnea pathophysiology, how tirzepatide works to reduce airway obstruction, and what the latest clinical trials reveal about its efficacy and safety. Plus, you’ll get practical pharmacy-focused insigh...

Aug 12, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 14

Biosimilars 101

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD, guides listeners through the evolving landscape of biosimilars, highlighting their increasing presence in pharmacy practice and their critical distinctions from traditional generics. She explains the science behind biologics, the FDA’s rigorous approval process for biosimilars, and the nuances of interchangeability. With examples of biosimilars for Stelara, Humira, and Prolia, Vickie illustrates how pharmacists can confidently couns...

Jul 22, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Diabetes Treatment Debate: Should Metformin Still Be Used First?

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Rachel Cole, PharmD , delves into the debate about whether newer medications for Type 2 diabetes, including SGLT-2 inhibitors or GLP-1 agonists, should be used first-line instead of metformin. She examines the benefitsand drawbacks of these newer medications, including their cardiovascular and kidney benefits, side effects, and costs. This is an excerpt from our March 2025 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resourc...

Jul 08, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Avoiding Medication Mishaps with Pet Prescriptions

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP , explores how to avoid medication mishaps with pet prescriptions. Learn about common pitfalls, species-specific risks, and best practices for pharmacists and technicians. This is an excerpt from our December 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insi...

Jun 24, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 11

Doxy PEP for STI Prevention

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD, discusses Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for STIs. This is an excerpt from our August 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insights : Chart: Drugs with Different Salt Forms Checklist: HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Checklist Chart: Sexually Tra...

Jun 10, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 10

Sofpironium (Sofdra) for Hyperhidrosis

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Gina Corley, PharmD , discusses how to treat hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, including the use of a drug called sofpironium or Sofdra, which is a new topical agent approved for primary axillary hyperhidrosis. This is an excerpt from our November 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and P...

May 27, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Tailoring Contraceptive Use

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS , discusses tailoring contraceptive use in certain populations based on updated US medical eligibility criteria, patient preferences, and medical history. This is an excerpt from our October 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insights : Article: Con...

May 13, 202519 minSeason 1Ep. 8

Managing Conjunctivitis

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD , discusses the treatment of conjunctivitis, or pink eye. This is an excerpt from our July 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insights : Article: Explain That Antibiotics Aren’t Often Needed for Pink Eye Resource: The Ins and Outs of Eye and Ear Meds Don...

Apr 22, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 7

To Vitamin D or Not to Vitamin D?

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Rachel Cole, PharmD , answers the question… To Vitamin D or Not to Vitamin D? That’s right, this episode we explore the latest guidelines on Vitamin D Supplementation. This is an excerpt from our October 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insights : Article: To “D” or Not to “...

Apr 08, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 6

Epinephrine for Anaphylaxis

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Vickie Danaher, PharmD , explains how the recently approved epinephrine nasal spray compares to the injectable products for treating anaphylaxis. This is an excerpt from our October 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insights : Article: Explain How Epinephrine Nasal Spray Comp...

Mar 25, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Ensifentrine (Ohtuvayre) for COPD

In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS , discusses a new drug for COPD, ensifentrine ( Ohtuvayre ). This is an excerpt from our September 2024 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series. The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter , and Prescriber Insights : Article: Watch for Ensifentrine (Ohtuvayre) for COPD Chart: Inhaled Medications for COPD Don’t miss out!...

Mar 11, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 4
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