Ask a Pharmacist

Concurrent Use of Cannabis May Reduce Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

By

Lisa Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

Observations suggest that concurrent use of cannabis with immune checkpoint inhibitors should be discouraged until more information is available.

Managing Adverse Effects of Antiemetic Prophylaxis

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

How should side effects of 5-HT3 antagonists be managed so patients can take their antiemetic prophylaxis?

Strategies for Improving Iron Absorption in Cases of Iron-Deficiency Anemia

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

What are some ways to improve oral iron absorption for patients with iron-deficiency anemia?

4-Letter Extensions on Biologics Names

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

Why do some of the new cancer drugs have extra letters at the end of their names?

Treatment-Related Taste Changes

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

What can be done to help with taste changes during chemotherapy?

Frequency of Chemotherapy, Medication Desensitization

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

How often should a patient be desensitized to medications?

Pregnancy Screening During Chemotherapy

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

What kind of pregnancy testing should be done in women of childbearing potential who are receiving chemotherapy?

Steering Patients Toward Reliable Internet Resources

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

What are some good Internet resources for patient information about cancer treatment regimens?

Counseling Patients on Oral Chemotherapy

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

What are some tips for speaking to patients about adherence to oral cancer medications?

High-Dose vs Standard-Dose Flu Vaccine in Elderly Receiving Chemotherapy

By

Lisa A. Thompson, PharmD, BCOP

What information is there about using the newer high-dose flu vaccine in patients with cancer?