Efficacy and Safety of Appetite-Stimulating Medications in the Inpatient Setting.

Background: Hospitalized patients are subject to acute illness and stress which may impact appetite or weight. Loss of appetite may lead to increased morbidity or mortality. Medications such as dronabinol, megestrol, and mirtazapine are used for weight gain in the outpatient setting; however, there is limited information about safety or effectiveness when initiated inpatient.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Cardioversion: A Review of Current Evidence.

Objective: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are recommended for the prevention of stroke or systemic embolism in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban represent possible alternatives to warfarin in the setting of cardioversion. A literature review was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of DOAC use pericardioversion.

Implementation of a New Clinic-Based, Pharmacist-Managed PCSK9 Inhibitor Consultation Service.

Background: The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors alirocumab and evolocumab were approved by the FDA in 2015. In anticipation of provider interest and a potential increase in referrals to the on-site specialty pharmacy, we created a pharmacist-managed consultation service.

Program Description: The development of a clinic-based pharmacist-managed consultation service for the management of the PCSK9 inhibitor agents alirocumab and evolocumab is described.

Assessment of Apixaban Prescribing Patterns for Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation in Hospitalized Patients.

Background: Apixaban is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Other DOACs require renal dose adjustments based solely on creatinine clearance. Apixaban differs in that its dose adjustments are more complex, potentially leading to prescribing errors.