Author: Barbara Lalicki - Page 2

Medical Alert Bracelets: When and Why They Matter for Drug Safety

Barbara Lalicki February 2, 2026 Medications 15 Comments
Medical Alert Bracelets: When and Why They Matter for Drug Safety

Medical alert bracelets save lives by giving emergency responders critical drug safety info when you can't speak. Learn who needs one, what to engrave, and how QR codes are changing the game for medication safety.

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MedWatch System Explained: How FDA Tracks Drug and Device Safety

Barbara Lalicki February 1, 2026 Medications 14 Comments
MedWatch System Explained: How FDA Tracks Drug and Device Safety

MedWatch is the FDA's system for tracking side effects and safety issues with drugs, devices, and cosmetics. Anyone can report problems, and these reports help the FDA issue warnings, update labels, or recall dangerous products.

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Packaging and Labeling: How to Identify Authorized Generics

Barbara Lalicki January 31, 2026 Pharmacy 14 Comments
Packaging and Labeling: How to Identify Authorized Generics

Learn how to identify authorized generics by reading packaging and NDC codes. Discover why they're identical to brand drugs, how they differ from traditional generics, and how to verify them using FDA resources.

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How to Use Behavioral Tricks to Build a Medication Habit

Barbara Lalicki January 30, 2026 Medications 13 Comments
How to Use Behavioral Tricks to Build a Medication Habit

Learn practical, science-backed behavioral tricks to turn medication-taking into a daily habit-without relying on willpower. Improve adherence with simple cues, reminders, and routines that actually work.

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Antitrust Issues in Generic Substitution: How Pharma Tactics Block Cheaper Drugs

Barbara Lalicki January 29, 2026 Pharmacy 12 Comments
Antitrust Issues in Generic Substitution: How Pharma Tactics Block Cheaper Drugs

Pharmaceutical companies are using legal loopholes to block generic drugs from replacing brand-name medications, costing patients and taxpayers billions. Learn how product hopping and REMS abuse undermine competition - and what’s being done to stop it.

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Sensitive Skin Care: Fragrance-Free Routines and Testing

Barbara Lalicki January 28, 2026 Health and Wellness 8 Comments
Sensitive Skin Care: Fragrance-Free Routines and Testing

Learn how to build a fragrance-free skincare routine for sensitive skin, backed by dermatologists and clinical data. Discover what really causes irritation, how to test products safely, and which ingredients actually heal your barrier.

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How to Document Provider Advice About Medications for Later Reference

Barbara Lalicki January 27, 2026 Medications 10 Comments
How to Document Provider Advice About Medications for Later Reference

Learn how to properly document provider advice about medications to prevent errors, ensure continuity of care, and protect your health. Essential tips for patients and providers on what to record, how to verify accuracy, and why it matters.

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Decongestants with Antihistamines: What You Need to Know About Safety Risks

Barbara Lalicki January 26, 2026 Medications 15 Comments
Decongestants with Antihistamines: What You Need to Know About Safety Risks

Decongestants with antihistamines are common OTC cold and allergy meds, but they carry hidden risks like high blood pressure, drowsiness, and overdose. Learn who should avoid them and safer alternatives.

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Medication Errors vs Drug Side Effects: How to Tell Them Apart and Why It Matters

Barbara Lalicki January 25, 2026 Medications 9 Comments
Medication Errors vs Drug Side Effects: How to Tell Them Apart and Why It Matters

Learn how to tell the difference between preventable medication errors and unavoidable drug side effects. Knowing this can help you avoid harm and push for safer care.

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How to Report Adverse Drug Events to FDA MedWatch: Step-by-Step Guide for Patients and Providers

Barbara Lalicki January 24, 2026 Medications 14 Comments
How to Report Adverse Drug Events to FDA MedWatch: Step-by-Step Guide for Patients and Providers

Learn how to report adverse drug reactions to the FDA's MedWatch system. Step-by-step guide for patients and providers on using Form 3500B, when to report, and why your report matters for drug safety.

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Psychosis: Recognizing Early Warning Signs and Accessing Coordinated Specialty Care

Barbara Lalicki January 22, 2026 Health and Wellness 8 Comments
Psychosis: Recognizing Early Warning Signs and Accessing Coordinated Specialty Care

Learn the early warning signs of psychosis and how Coordinated Specialty Care can dramatically improve recovery outcomes. Early intervention saves lives-here's what to look for and where to get help.

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Topical Medication Allergies: How to Spot Contact Dermatitis and Get Effective Treatment

Barbara Lalicki January 20, 2026 Medications 10 Comments
Topical Medication Allergies: How to Spot Contact Dermatitis and Get Effective Treatment

Topical medication allergies cause contact dermatitis in up to 17% of patch-tested patients. Learn the top 5 culprits, how patch testing works, and why stopping the allergen - not just using more cream - is the only way to heal.

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