In this episode of the Pharm So Hard Podcast, the hosts discuss GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications used to manage blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and to treat obesity. They provide an overview of the history and development of GLP-1 receptor agonists, highlighting their clinical superiority and various benefits. The hosts also explain the role of GLP-1s in the body, including their glucose-dependent insulin secretion and effects on gastric emptying. They discuss the impact of GLP-1s on hunger and mental health, emphasizing the reduction of food noise and improvement in satiety levels. Additionally, they differentiate GLP-1 receptor agonists for diabetes and weight loss and explore their indications and guideline positioning. Takeaways

• GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications used to manage blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and to treat obesity.

• GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown clinical superiority to other anti-hyperglycemic drugs, improving glycemic control, reducing weight loss and blood pressure, and providing cardio-protective benefits.

• GLP-1s increase glucose-dependent insulin secretion, block glucagon secretion, and slow gastric emptying, leading to improved blood sugar control and increased satiety.

• GLP-1 receptor agonists have a positive impact on mental health, reducing food noise and helping individuals make healthier food choices.

• Different GLP-1 receptor agonists have specific indications for diabetes and weight loss, and their use is guided by clinical guidelines.

• GLP-1 receptor agonists are FDA-approved for improving glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and for the treatment of obesity.

• The choice of GLP-1 receptor agonist depends on factors such as comorbidities, weight loss goals, and patient preferences.

• GLP-1 receptor agonists have different dosing regimens, and the specific dose may vary based on the indication and the product.

• Common side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but these side effects often improve with continued use and proper management. GLP-1 agonists can cause loss of appetite as a side effect.

• GLP-1s are being used off-label for conditions such as NAFLD and depression.

• GLP-1s may have positive effects on bone health and blood pressure.

• The high cost of GLP-1s poses challenges for patient access.

In this episode, Morgan Grier and Micaela Hayes discuss Micaela's personal and professional journey to becoming an ambulatory care pharmacist. Micaela shares her early interest in softball and how it led her to explore pharmacy as a career. She talks about her educational path, including her undergraduate studies in biochemistry and her decision to pursue pharmacy school at Wingate University. Micaela also discusses her passion for ambulatory care and her goals for the Pharm So Hard Ambulatory Care Podcast, which include promoting the versatility of ambulatory care practice and advancing the pharmacy profession. In this conversation, Micaela Hayes discusses her vision for the podcast, which includes a deeper dive into ambulatory care and reviewing clinical topics. She also shares her plans for engaging with the audience through social media and other platforms. Micaela highlights the challenges of reimbursement and limited acknowledgement of pharmacists as providers in ambulatory care, as well as the successes of pharmacists in demonstrating their value to the healthcare team. She offers advice to aspiring pharmacists, emphasizing the importance of seeking out opportunities and mentorship. Outside of pharmacy, Micaela enjoys horses, music, and dancing. She also shares her excitement about her upcoming low-maintenance wedding in October.

Takeaways

• Micaela's journey to becoming an ambulatory care pharmacist started with her early interest in softball and her love for working on a team.

• She pursued pharmacy as a career after her sister suggested it as a good fit for her interests in math and science.

• Micaela's passion for ambulatory care stems from her desire to work in an interdisciplinary healthcare team and spend one-on-one time with patients to improve their health.

• The Pharm So Hard Ambulatory Care Podcast aims to create a community of ambulatory care pharmacists, provide valuable content, and promote and advance the pharmacy profession. The Pharm So Hard Ambulatory Care Podcast will focus on ambulatory care and clinical topics, providing insights into different roles and models in ambulatory care and discussing guideline updates.

• Engaging with the audience will be done through the podcast, social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, and LinkedIn.

• Challenges in ambulatory care include reimbursement issues and the need to advocate for the value of pharmacists in the healthcare system.

• Successes in ambulatory care include demonstrating the value of pharmacists in improving patient outcomes and contributing to preventative care.

• Aspiring pharmacists should seek out opportunities to explore their interests, connect with mentors, and advocate for the experiences they want.

• Micaela's hobbies include horses, music, and dancing. She is also excited about her upcoming low-maintenance wedding in October.

Join us as we dive into the captivating world of pharmacy and podcasting with our co-host, Morgan, PharmD. In this episode, we'll explore Morgan's background in pharmacy, her unique journey through residency, and her diverse interests beyond the pharmacy counter. From her hobbies to her aspirations for our podcast, get ready to embark on a delightful journey filled with insights, stories, and a healthy dose of personality. Tune in as we unravel the layers of our co-host, Morgan, and discover the passion driving her pharmacy practice and podcasting endeavors.