Pharmacist-Bilal Asghar

17/05/2025

*Use of metformin in adults with diabetes linked to lower risk of long COVID*

A recent NIH-funded study shows that adults with type 2 diabetes who take metformin have a lower risk of developing long COVID or dying from a COVID-19 infection compared to those taking other anti-diabetes medications. The study, which analyzed health data from nearly 38 million Americans, found a 13-21% reduction in long COVID or death in metformin users. This builds on earlier research showing metformin reduced long COVID risk by 40% in non-diabetic adults. The exact mechanism remains unclear but may involve reduced inflammation and viral levels. Metformin should only be used under medical supervision!

02/03/2025

05/02/2025

🚨 ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE CRISIS IN PAKISTAN: WE CAN’T STAY SILENT! 🚨

📊 SHOCKING STATS:

88% of pharmacies give antibiotics WITHOUT prescriptions (vs.

22/12/2024

Why???

15/12/2024

The FDA approved Wegovy (semaglutide) injection for reducing the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack, and stroke in adults with cardiovascular disease and either obesity or overweight, along with a calorie-restricted diet and increased physical activity. It's the first weight loss medication with this indication. Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, and shouldn't be used with other semaglutide products or GLP-1 agonists. It significantly reduces major adverse cardiovascular events. However, it carries a boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors and should be avoided in patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It's also approved for long-term weight reduction in certain adults and children with obesity.

09/12/2024

The use of intravenous nitroglycerin is contraindicated in patients with constrictive pericarditis, pericardial tamponade, or restrictive cardiomyopathy. In these patients, cardiac output is dependent upon venous return, which can be reduced by nitroglycerin due to venous pooling. Also, nitroglycerin-induced hypotension may lead to paradoxical bradycardia and increased angina pectoris.

17/11/2024

Concurrent use of Warfarin and Foods Rich in Vitamin K may reduce Warfarin’s effectiveness
Talk to your doctor before consuming foods high in vitamin K (such as kale, spinach, or broccoli) while on Warfarin. These foods can reduce Warfarin's effectiveness, increasing the risk of blood clots and stroke. Maintaining a consistent intake of vitamin K is important for stable blood thinning effects. Be sure to inform your doctor about any dietary changes.

26/10/2024

*Saltwater Drops in Nose Could Shorten Kids' Colds*

A study from the University of Edinburgh found that saltwater nose drops can reduce the length of children's colds by two days. Over 400 kids under six were studied, with those using the drops recovering in six days compared to eight for those with usual care. The saltwater drops also reduced cold transmission within families and the need for medications. Researchers believe the drops boost the respiratory system's defense by increasing hypochlorous acid production, which helps fight the virus. The simple, low-cost remedy could significantly ease cold symptoms globally, with parents widely reporting positive results.

05/10/2024

*Lung Complications + Rheumatoid Arthritis Increase Risk for Lung Cancer*

A study published in *Modern Rheumatology* highlights an increased risk of lung cancer in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and pulmonary complications such as combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE), interstitial lung disease (ILD), and emphysema. Researchers found that the incidence of lung cancer was significantly higher in RA patients with these complications, particularly those with CPFE. Male RA patients had a notably higher risk compared to the general population, while female patients did not show the same increased risk. The study emphasizes the need for close monitoring of lung cancer in RA patients with pulmonary issues, especially those with a history of smoking.