Pediatric Pharmacist Review

pediatricpharmacistreview

In partnership with the Pharmacy Podcast Network, Perfecting Peds brings the pediatric pharmacy perspective to a broader audience of healthcare professionals, families, and industry leaders. Through expert interviews, case discussions, and real-world stories, these episodes highlight the challenges and opportunities in pediatric medication management. Listeners gain insights into the future of pharmacy, innovations in care delivery, and the vital role of pharmacists and care teams in shaping better outcomes for children and their families.

  1. 11/26/2025

    Rx for the Winter Blues: Shining Light on Seasonal Depression | Pediatric Pharmacist Review

    In this episode of The Pediatric Pharmacist Review, we explore the phenomenon of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and its relevance to children, adolescents, and families. Our guest, Tim Horton, is a seasoned psychiatric nurse‑practitioner (APRN, CNP) and founder of PeopleFirst Clinic in Woodbury, Minnesota, where he specializes in holistic, medication‑management and therapy‑integrated care for youth and adults. With his unique background in pediatric mental health, patient‑centered approaches, and collaborative provider work, Tim brings deep insight into how biological and environmental factors converge in seasonal depression—and what practical actions caregivers and clinicians can take to mitigate its impact. Key Discussion Points: Biological & Environmental Contributors: We unpack how changes in daylight exposure, circadian rhythm shifts, neurotransmitter variations (serotonin, melatonin), and geographic/seasonal factors contribute to SAD in children and teens. Lifestyle & Environmental Interventions: Tim and I discuss actionable strategies such as structured light‑exposure (dawn simulators, 10,000 lux boxes), daily outdoor activity, consistent sleep schedules, and nutritional supports (timing of meals, nutrient‑dense foods, healthy fats) to reduce symptom severity. Treatment Options & Efficacy: We review standard of care for SAD—starting with behavioral and lifestyle measures, then progressing to light therapy and pharmacologic treatment (SSRIs, SNRIs, augmentation) when needed, including considerations unique to pediatric populations. Vitamin D and Seasonal Depression: We examine the evidence linking vitamin D deficiency with increased SAD risk, discuss screening thresholds in younger patients, supplementation strategies, and how this fits into a broader preventive mindset. Preventive Measures Ahead of Winter: Tim outlines a pre‑winter readiness plan—adjusting indoor lighting, optimizing outdoor daylight exposure, establishing routine exercise, reinforcing healthy diet patterns, and monitoring early warning signs for a proactive response. Misconceptions and Under‑Recognition: We address common myths—such as SAD only occurring in extreme northern latitudes, or that “it’s just the blues” and will self‑resolve—highlighting how under‑recognition in pediatric settings can delay helpful intervention. Resources & Links: Tim Horton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-horton-248858359/ PeopleFirst Clinic: https://www.peoplefirstmn.com/

    29 min
  2. 08/12/2025

    The Poison Playbook: Keeping Kids Safe | Pediatric Pharmacist Review

    Guests: 👩‍⚕️ Nicole McElroy, PharmD, DABAT – Pediatric Clinical Toxicologist, Holtz Children’s Hospital 👩‍⚕️ Lauren Longo, PharmD, BCPPS – Pediatric Emergency Medicine Pharmacist, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 👨‍⚕️ Anthony Jaworski, PharmD, DABAT – Pediatric Emergency Medicine Pharmacist & Clinical Toxicologist, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia We cover the most common household poisons, surprising look-alike risks (yes, that gummy might be a vitamin), and what to do if your child gets into something dangerous. From the busiest poison control centers to the emergency department, this trio brings decades of experience—and practical advice—for families, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike. What You’ll Learn: 🧪 What a day in the life of a Poison Control expert looks like 🚫 The top household dangers lurking in plain sight 🍭 Why “look-alike” meds can trick even the most careful child 🚨 What symptoms should make you stop and call Poison Control 🩺 What to do immediately if you suspect a poisoning 💊 How pharmacists and pediatric teams can help prevent toxic exposures 🔍 Real-life cases that changed how these clinicians educate families Key Questions We Asked: What are the biggest challenges in managing pediatric poisonings? What types of calls come into Poison Control most often? What was a case that stuck with you—and what did you learn from it? What are the most common (and surprising) poisoning risks for kids? What should parents look out for—symptoms, behaviors, red flags? What’s the best way to store meds and household products safely? How can healthcare professionals—especially pharmacists—make an impact? 📞 Poison Help Hotline: 1-800-222-1222 – Save it. Share it. 🎙️ Subscribe & Follow Don't miss future episodes where we dig into pediatric pharmacogenomics, medication safety, and more with leaders in the field.

    43 min
  3. 04/01/2025

    Seizure Control Through Nutrition: The Power of Keto | Pediatric Pharmacist Review

    🔬 Episode Overview: While medications are often the first line of treatment, some children continue to experience seizures despite multiple drug therapies. The ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate approach, has been used for nearly a century to help control epilepsy—sometimes leading to significant seizure reduction or even remission. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✅ How the ketogenic diet works to control seizures ✅ The science behind ketosis and its impact on the brain ✅ Who qualifies for ketogenic therapy and when it’s recommended ✅ Practical challenges of implementing the diet in children ✅ The pharmacist’s role in monitoring and supporting ketogenic therapy ✅ Key risks, side effects, and how to manage them 🎤 Guest Experts: We’re joined by Jon Cokley PharmD BCPPS and Lauren Kronisch, MS, RDN, LDN, leading experts in pediatric neurology, ketogenic diet therapy, and clinical pharmacy, who share insights on how this diet is changing the landscape of epilepsy management. 🔗 Resources & References: 📄 Clinical guidelines on ketogenic diet therapy 📚 Studies on keto’s effectiveness in refractory epilepsy 🥑 Parent and caregiver resources for implementing the diet 🎧 Tune In Now! Don’t miss this deep dive into how nutrition is playing a critical role in seizure management for children. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform! 📢 Join the Conversation: Have experience with ketogenic therapy? Questions for our experts? Connect with us on Apple Podcasts and share your thoughts!

    56 min
  4. 03/17/2025

    Rare & Resilient: Navigating Pediatric Rare Diseases with Rarus Med | Pediatric Pharmacist ReviewRare & Resilient: Navigating Pediatric Rare Diseases with Rarus Med | Pediatric Pharmacist Review

    In this episode, we’ll explore the unique hurdles faced by children with rare conditions, the latest advancements in treatment, and the vital role of collaboration between healthcare providers, researchers, and families. Join us as we speak with experts Isabelle Vacher and Dana Tate from Rarus Med to shed light on how innovation and advocacy are shaping the future of rare disease care. Let’s navigate this journey together—because every child deserves hope and resilience. Isabelle Vacher Founder/Nurse/Educator/Mother of Daughters with Rare Diseases "Our educational ecosystem embodies my unique perspective as a nurse, educator and mother who has navigated the complex journey of having two daughters, each with different rare disorders. I have ten years of nursing experience and over two decades of experience designing, developing and implementing healthcare provider continuing education and patient/family education. Collectively, this experience infuses RarusMed/RarusGalaxy with a deep understanding and a personal commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges, opportunities and triumphs of the rare community." Dana Tate Director of Public Health Education Leveraging her background in public health, health education, biomedical science, omni-channel marketing, content development, and rare diseases patient advocacy, Dana leads strategic efforts to empower patients through education, resources, and support networks within the RarusGalaxy platform.

    56 min

About

In partnership with the Pharmacy Podcast Network, Perfecting Peds brings the pediatric pharmacy perspective to a broader audience of healthcare professionals, families, and industry leaders. Through expert interviews, case discussions, and real-world stories, these episodes highlight the challenges and opportunities in pediatric medication management. Listeners gain insights into the future of pharmacy, innovations in care delivery, and the vital role of pharmacists and care teams in shaping better outcomes for children and their families.