CAPhO Connections Podcast

Canadian Association of Pharmacy in Oncology

CAPhO Connections Podcast Series keeps the oncology pharmacy community informed on matters affecting you and updated on CAPhO’s news related to education, awards, advocacy and research. Whether it’s your morning commute to work, a walk in the park, or just relaxing at home, the CAPhO Connections Podcast will offer a convenient way to keep up to date with all things oncology pharmacy!

  1. Sep 18

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: Targeting Active RAS in Pancreatic Cancer: Daraxonrasib from Molecular Glue to Clinical Data

    Pancreatic cancer has long remained one of the most challenging malignancies to treat. Could pan-RAS inhibition reshape the future treatment landscape for pancreatic cancer? In this episode, we explore daraxonrasib, a first-in-class oral pan-RAS inhibitor that uses a novel molecular glue mechanism to target active RAS signaling. We'll review the landmark RASolute 302 trial, unpacking the key efficacy and safety findings and discussing what they may mean for the future of pancreatic cancer treatment. The conversation also examines where daraxonrasib may fit within the evolving treatment paradigm, including patient selection, treatment sequencing, and practical considerations for safe use such as toxicity management, drug interactions, monitoring, administration, and patient counselling. Finally, we'll explore the opportunities and challenges of integrating this emerging therapy into multidisciplinary pancreatic cancer care, including feasibility, supportive care, access, reimbursement, and future directions. Join us as we unpack the science, evidence, and clinical questions surrounding one of the most closely watched emerging therapies in pancreatic cancer! Learning Objectives: Describe the mechanism of action of Daraxonrasib as a first-in-class pan-RAS inhibitor and explain how it differs from conventional systemic therapies used in pancreatic cancerReview the landmark RASolute 302 trial, including its key efficacy and safety findings, and interpret the clinical significance of the study outcomesDiscuss the evolving role of daraxonrasib within the pancreatic cancer treatment landscape, including potential patient selection and treatment sequencing across lines of therapyRecognize practical considerations for the safe use of daraxonrasib, including adverse event management, drug interactions, monitoring, administration, and patient counsellingExplore the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating daraxonrasib into multidisciplinary pancreatic cancer care, including supportive care, access and reimbursement considerations, and future directions for clinical practice About the Guest: Ming-Hei Tai Ming-Hei Tai is currently an oncology pharmacist at William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan Pharmacy School in 2019 and is a member of HOPA’s Publications and Resources Committee. As a pharmacist, he is involved in treating patients with both solid and liquid tumors, and has his own podcast, called PharmOncology. Resources Used: 1. Wolpin, B. M., Wainberg, Z. A., Garrido-Laguna, I., Manji, G. A., Spira, A. I., Azad, N. S., ... & O'Reilly, E. M. (2025). Trial in progress: RASolute 302—A phase 3, multicenter, global, open-label, randomized study of daraxonrasib (RMC-6236), a RAS (ON) multi-selective inhibitor, versus standard of care chemotherapy in patients with previously treated metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). 2. Seufferlein, T., Hammel, P., Pietrantonio, F., Azad, N. S., Ko, A. H., Morizane, C., ... & Pant, S. Trial in Progress–RASolute 303: A Phase 3 Global, Open-Label, Randomized 3-Arm Study of Daraxonrasib Monotherapy or Daraxonrasib Plus Gemcitabine and Nab-paclitaxel Versus Gemcitabine and Nab-paclitaxel as a First Line Treatment for Patients With Metastatic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. 3. Honda, R. (2026). Daraxonrasib and Beyond: Pan‐RAS Inhibition, Resistance, and Next‐Generation Strategies. Cancer Science.

  2. Aug 17

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: Liquid Clues: Decoding circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to Rewriting Colorectal Cancer Care

    This episode explores the evolving role of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in reshaping colorectal cancer care and how detection of tumour-derived DNA fragments in plasma is challenging traditional reliance on imaging, pathology, and CEA for assessing disease burden and recurrence risk. We unpack what ctDNA represents biologically, including its role in identifying minimal residual disease and emerging actionable alterations, as well as its strengths and limitations in clinical interpretation. The discussion highlights how ctDNA is already influencing practice, from early detection of recurrence risk shortly after surgery to guiding surveillance strategies and managing cases where ctDNA is positive despite negative imaging, raising important questions about how success is defined in curative-intent treatment and when to act on molecular signals. We also examine real-world barriers to feasible adoption, alongside the rise of early-onset colorectal cancer and shifting screening thresholds in Canada. Overall, the episode highlights an emerging era of precision oncology where multidisciplinary teams come together to turn ctDNA signals into earlier answers, clearer decisions, and more proactive cancer care. After this episode, listeners will be able to: Understand what ctDNA is and why it is transforming how we detect and define colorectal cancer recurrence earlier than ever before.Explore how ctDNA is reshaping real-world colorectal cancer care, from post-surgical surveillance to guiding treatment decisions alongside imaging and CEA.Examine how to interpret ctDNA results in practice, including discordant findings and what they mean for disease activity, risk, and treatment.Discuss the growing role of ctDNA in precision oncology, including actionable mutations, treatment adaptation, and minimal residual disease monitoring.Identify current barriers and future opportunities for ctDNA adoption, including turnaround time, access, cost, rising early-onset CRC, and multidisciplinary collaboration in advancing care. About the Author: Stacey Cohen Dr. Stacey A. Cohen is a Professor at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center and University of Washington. She is a GI medicaloncologist, with a clinical practice that focuses on lower GI cancers. She is the co-director of the Colorectal Cancer and Peritoneal Malignancy (HIPEC) multidisciplinary clinics. Her research focuses on biomarkers of prognosis and treatment response, with a special focus on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). Visit the CAPhO website for the list of resources used.

  3. Jul 30

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: Pharmacy Technician Spotlight Series: RPhTs at the front line of oncology drug shortages: An Interview with Miranda Artiga

    Oncology medicines are increasingly implicated in National drug shortages, which could result in a crisis for treatment of patients who need the drug. After this episode, listeners will be able to: Explain an advanced role for pharmacy technicians working in cancer care through drug procurement efforts and the management of drug shortages.Provide a framework for the management of an oncology drug shortage, focusing on ensuring patient safety when implementing alternatives and solutions within your organization.Brainstorm considerations using an example of an oncology drug shortage that was recently encountered.Discuss potential future opportunities for oncology pharmacy technicians in drug procurement and leading drug shortage strategies. About the Presenter: Miranda ArtigaMiranda Artiga is a registered pharmacy technician based in Kelowna, British Columbia. She currently works at BC Cancer, where she plays a key role in supporting patient care and pharmacy operations. Miranda graduated from Stenberg College in 2018 and began her career in the retail pharmacy sector, initially working as an assistant before advancing to a pharmacy technician role. In 2022, she transitioned to BC Cancer, expanding her expertise in a specialized healthcare setting. In addition to her primary responsibilities, Miranda has served as the secondary pharmacy purchaser for the past three years, contributing to the efficient management of medication procurement and inventory. Resources Referenced: Government of Canada - Drug shortages in Canada - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/drug-products/drug-shortages.html#a1 National Library of Medicine - Oncology Drug Shortages: Impacts, Policy Reforms, and Advocacy Imperatives - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12459138/ USP - Why cancer medicines are and continue to be vulnerable to drug shortages - https://qualitymatters.usp.org/why-cancer-medicines-are-and-continue-be-vulnerable-drug-shortages Government of Canada - Annex 1 to the Good manufacturing practices guide – Manufacture of sterile drugs (GUI-0119): Premises, equipment, utilities and personnel - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/compliance-enforcement/good-manufacturing-practices/guidance-documents/gmp-guidelines-annex-1-manufacture-sterile-drugs-0119/premises-equipment.html Government of Canada - Tier 3 Drug Shortages - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/drug-products/drug-shortages/tier-3-shortages.html#wb-auto-4 Government of Canada - List of drugs for exceptional importation and sale - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/drug-products/drug-shortages/list.html#wb-auto Government of Canada - Draft Guidance Document: Generic Drug Equivalence: Medicinal Ingredients - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/public-involvement-consultations/drug-products/consultation-profile-draft-generic-drug-equivalence/document-1.htmlHealth Product Shortages Canada - https://healthproductshortages.ca/.

  4. Jul 15

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: From Print to Patient Transforming Cancer Care Through 3D Printing

    This episode explores into how 3D printing is rapidly reshaping oncology care, transforming how cancer medications may be designed, manufactured, and delivered to patients. It walks through the full journey from digital drug design to patient-ready therapy, while unpacking real-world considerations like formulation challenges, quality assurance, and clinical readiness. We also explore its promise in tackling oncology drug shortages and enabling truly individualized treatment approaches, especially for pediatric and other complex-to-treat populations. Looking forward, the discussion highlights key factors to scaling this innovation across health systems and what emerging clinical research suggests about its future. At its core, this episode reimagines oncology pharmacists as evolving professionals who bridge clinician, scientist, engineer, and manufacturer roles. Tune in and don’t miss how this could redefine the future of cancer care! After this episode, listeners will be able to: Understand the science behind 3D printing in oncology care and how a digital drug design becomes a real, patient-ready cancer medication.Explore what is realistically possible today with 3D printed drug formulations, including how they are developed, tested, and quality assured before reaching patients.Examine where 3D printing could first be integrated into oncology pharmacy practice, including its potential role in addressing drug shortages and improving access to critical therapies.Discover how 3D printing could transform individualized cancer treatment, especially for pediatric patients and other complex groups requiring highly tailored dosing, formulations, or access solutions.Evaluate the future of oncology pharmacy and cancer care delivery, including clinical readiness, scalability, funding models, regulatory challenges, and the path toward truly personalized, on-demand cancer therapy. About the Presenter: Brooke Bernhardt Dr. Brooke Bernhardt is a board-certified pediatric and oncology pharmacist with experience in clinical pharmacy practice, pharmacoepidemiology, clinical trials, and clinical pharmaceutics. She completed her Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia, and masters at the University of Houston. Dr. Bernhardt is an Associate Member in the St. Jude Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and the St. Jude Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. As the Division Director of Pharmaceutical Services and Chief Pharmacy Officer, Dr. Bernhardt strives to ensure St. Jude delivers the highest level of pharmaceutical care to patients. In her laboratory work, Bernhardt works collaboratively to research the influence of pharmacogenomics in clinical outcomes across populations of children with cancer and discover new ways to deliver more suitable, pediatric-friendly finished dosage forms through 3D printing and advanced compounding techniques. Resources referenced: Developing an innovative 3D printing platform for production of personalised medicines in a hospital for the OPERA clinical trial - PubMedA risk-based, QTPP-driven framework for semi-solid extrusion 3d printing of personalized medicines: Integrating hospital compounding and clinical trial regulation - PubMedAutomated 3D Printing-Based Non-Sterile Compounding Technology for Pediatric Corticosteroid Dosage Forms in a Health System Pharmacy Setting - PubMed

  5. May 28

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: Brain Matters: Targeting IDH Mutant Low Grade Gliomas with Vorasidenib

    Step into the future of neuro-oncology with Vorasidenib, the first-in-class targeted therapy for dual IDH-mutant gliomas. In this episode, an oncology Nurse Practitioner and neurology Clinician-Investigator share their real-world experience, tracing Vorasidenib’s journey from early SAP use to Health Canada approval and its transformative impact on low-grade glioma management. We explore key findings from the INDIGO trial, practical prescribing considerations, drug access, interaction management, toxicity monitoring, and how interprofessional teams optimize care across all age groups. Discover how this breakthrough therapy is reshaping glioma treatment, redefining pharmacy practice, and empowering pharmacists to drive better patient outcomes and quality of life. Learning Objectives: Discuss key findings from the INDIGO trial, including clinical implications and touch upon future potential usesProvide real-world experience and implications with vorasidenib at all stages from drug access, prescribing, monitoring, dispensing, tolerability, drug-interactions, follow up, and collaboration with care teams to optimize patient outcomesExplore strategies to preserve neurocognitive function and quality of life for glioma patients receiving long-term vorasidenib treatment, including approaches to monitoring cognitive health, managing symptoms, and supporting patients’ functional well-being throughout therapyReflect on the role of oncology pharmacists in managing oral targeted therapies such as vorasidenib, and how pharmacists can work with other disciplines for effective care The Canadian Drug Agency (CDA) has recommended Voranigo(r) (vorasidenib) for reimbursement by provinces according to the criteria found here. Since the recording of this episode, the province of Ontario has began funding vorasidenib under the Ontario Drug Benefit Exceptional Access Program, with the anticipation that other Canadian health ministries will follow. About the Presenters: Andrea Wong Andrea graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Windsor in 2016, with her primary focus in oncology. She began her career at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in 2016, working on the inpatient Medical and Radiation Oncology unit before transitioning to the Complex Malignant Hematology unit in 2018. In 2019, she obtained her Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) certification in Oncology Nursing. Andrea went on to complete her Master of Nursing and Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate at Toronto Metropolitan University in 2022. Since then, she has worked as a Nurse Practitioner in the Neuro-oncology Clinic at the Odette Cancer Centre, where her recent focus has been on the development and implementation of the vorasidenib program at Sunnybrook. Andrea is a member of the Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology and serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at the Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing at the University of Toronto. Dr. James Perry Dr. James Perry is a Toronto-based clinical investigator and professor of neurology specializing in innovative therapies for primary brain tumours. He leads outcomes focused research for the Canadian brain tumour consortium, and has been the PI of several practice-changing clinical trials including new standards of care using metronomic temozolomide, chemoradiation in the eldery with glioblastoma, and recently the INDIGO study of vorasidenib for low grade glioma.

  6. Mar 20

    CAPhO Connections Podcast Sponsored Episode - Honouring Excellence and Advancing Knowledge: HOPE Awards and the ABC Course

    CAPhO has made every effort to ensure that information included within this podcast episode is accurate at the time of production. The information cannot substitute for the advice or direction of a health care professional, and the association makes no guarantees, nor can it assume any legal liability for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such information or for any damage incurred directly or indirectly from the information. This episode of the CAPhO Connections Podcast is sponsored by Apobiologix. Go behind the scenes with two steering committee members to highlight the HOPE Awards and the ABC course, two key initiatives sponsored by the Apobiologix Partnership Program. They'll share an insider's perspective on celebrating six years of excellence and building the foundational skills needed to advance oncology pharmacy practice across Canada. Learning Objectives: Gain insights from steering committee members on the vision and impact of fostering professional development within Canadian oncology pharmacy, through the Apobiologix Partnership Program (APP).Explore the purpose and evolution of the HOPE Awards through the personal experiences of the committee members and understand its role in celebrating excellence and innovation among pharmacists, technicians, and DANs.Identify the unmet need for standardized oncology education among Canadian pharmacists and explain how the Addressing Basics in Cancer (ABC) program serves as a direct solution by providing essential, practical training.Outline the key steps and criteria for participating in both the HOPE Awards and the ABC course, empowering listeners to engage with these valuable initiatives. Guests: Tina Crosbie Tina Crosbie is a clinical hematology pharmacist at The Ottawa Hospital’s ambulatory hematology unit. With over 25 years of experience, she counsels patients diagnosed with lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and acute and chronic leukemia. For the past six years, Tina is also a hematology pharmacist at Extend Pharmacy; a community oncology-focused pharmacy. Here she supports patients in managing their take-home anti-cancer therapy. Tina’s research aims to optimize drug administration and enhance patient education. She evaluates pharmacy education programs for CCCEP and is a conference planning committee member for CAPhO Con 2026 taking place April 2026 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Scott Edwards Scott Edwards is currently the Clinical Oncology Pharmacy Specialist at the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Center in St. John’s, Newfoundland. He is also an assistant professor at the School of Pharmacy and the Discipline of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland. He is active in clinical cancer research in the area of chemotherapy toxicities, supportive care and oral chemotherapy adherence. He graduated from Memorial University of Newfoundland with a B.Sc. (Neuroscience) in 1994 and a B.Sc (Pharmacy) in 1997. In 2005, he graduated with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Washington. He completed a Master’s degree in Oncology from Newcastle University in 2015. Learn more about the HOPE Awards. Learn more about the ABC Program.

  7. Mar 13

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: Cracking the Code: Pharmacists in the Age of Precision Oncology

    Precision oncology is advancing cancer care, turning one-size-fits-all treatment into tailored therapy designed for each patient’s unique genetic blueprint. For oncology pharmacists, this opens new possibilities to lead in matching the right drug, dose, and patient at the right time. In this episode, we explore how pharmacists can decode the genomic puzzle, navigate biomarker-driven decisions, and drive innovation in personalized cancer care. Get ready to discover why precision pharmacy isn’t just the future, it is happening now! Learning Objectives: Describe the evolving role of oncology pharmacists in biomarker-guided therapy and precision oncology decision-making.Identify pharmacy-led innovations in personalized cancer care and their application in diverse practice settings.Evaluate strategies to integrate genomic and biomarker data into pharmacy workflows while managing operational challenges.Assess the impact of precision oncology on outcomes, safety, and resource use, highlighting the pharmacist’s role.Outline practical steps for pharmacists to lead precision oncology initiatives through collaboration, education, and research. Guest: Dr. Mya Tran Dr. Mya Tran, PharmD, BCOP, is a Precision Oncology Clinical Pharmacist at Indiana University Health Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center. Since joining the IU Precision Genomics program in 2022, she specializes in genomic analysis and targeted therapies for solid tumors, particularly lung cancer, while standardizing biomarker testing protocols Resources Referenced: - Podcasts: Research to Practice, Onc Brothers, Illumina Genomics Podcast - Virtual MTBs: Caris (https://www.carislifesciences.com/caris-resources/caris-molecular-tumor-board/ or email Ricci Sheridan at RSheridan@carisls.com)NCCN (https://education.nccn.org/tumorboards#group-tabs-node-course-default1)- GenomeWeb (webinars, resources, and archived vMTBs) - Targeted Oncology - Precision Oncology News newsletter - ACCP/HOPA PGx Certificate Course - Harvard HMX Pro Genetics - Cancer Genomics and Precision Oncology Certificate Course - AMP (especially webinars and "Molecular in My Pocket" reference cards)

  8. Mar 1

    CAPhO Connections Podcast: Microbiome Matters: Gut Response and Its Impact on Cancer Immunotherapy

    Could the secret to optimizing immunotherapy success lie in the gut flora? Emerging research reveals how the microbiome influences cancer treatment response, toxicity, and overall health outcomes. Join us as we explore how gut health, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and pharmacy practice are coming together to transform cancer care. Get ready to rethink the future of immunotherapy from the inside out!Learning Objectives: Explore the influence of the gut microbiome on immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) efficacy, toxicity, and overall immuno-oncology outcomes, with a focus on emerging evidence.Evaluate the impact of gut-disrupting factors, including antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, and other medications on ICI treatment response and adverse events.Discuss current and emerging microbiome modulation strategies, such as dietary interventions, prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplants, to enhance ICI outcomes and manage toxicity.Identify practical recommendations for oncology pharmacists to promote microbiome health through medication stewardship, dietary counseling, and collaboration with the care team to optimize ICI therapy. About the Guest: Dr. Arielle Elkrief: Dr. Arielle Elkrief MD, FRCPC is a clinician-scientist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Oncology at the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM). She was recruited to the CRCHUM in 2023 and directs her research laboratory focused on the gut and tumor microbiome as a biomarker of response to immunotherapy. She is also co-Director of the CHUM Microbiome Centre where she leads microbiome-centered clinical trials combining microbiome interventions such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), prebiotics, and diet. In addition, she contributed to establishing the negative impact of antibiotics on immunotherapy activity in patients with cancer. She was recently awarded the American Society of Clinical Oncology Young Investigator Award and the Society of Immunotherapy of Cancer-Melanoma Research Alliance Women in Melanoma Award.

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CAPhO Connections Podcast Series keeps the oncology pharmacy community informed on matters affecting you and updated on CAPhO’s news related to education, awards, advocacy and research. Whether it’s your morning commute to work, a walk in the park, or just relaxing at home, the CAPhO Connections Podcast will offer a convenient way to keep up to date with all things oncology pharmacy!

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