Rated Rx

AI in healthcare is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s already answering the phones at your local CVS. We’re pulling back the curtain on how AI is currently being used in pharmacy practice, from encrypted "VA GPT" systems for note-writing to controversial new phone bots that some patients claim are a "stain on society". We dive into the big news of the CVS and Google Cloud partnership to launch Health100, a platform designed to integrate your refills, copays, and even wearable health data into a single AI-driven hub. While the promise of centralized care sounds like a dream, the "real-world" experience can feel like a nightmare. We react to a brutal Reddit thread and even call a CVS live to demonstrate the frustration of wrestling with a robot that refuses to transfer you to a human. Whether you're a "tinfoil hat" wearer worried about data leaks or someone just trying to get a prescription after surgery, you need to hear the clinical and personal reality of the AI takeover. This show is intended for educational and informational purposes.

Global supply chain disruptions thousands of miles away can be the reason your local hospital runs out of anesthesia or why your life-saving prescriptions suddenly triple in price. We’re pulling back the curtain on the "invisible" connection between international conflict and the pill bottle in your medicine cabinet, showing how tensions in the Middle East ripple through everything from drug manufacturing to the plastic used in your IV bags. Most people think pharmacy is local, but the reality is a massive, fragile global network where ingredients are made in China, processed in India, and shipped through critical bottlenecks like the Strait of Hormuz. When oil prices spike due to conflict, the cost of medicine follows because nearly every stage of healthcare—from the petroleum-based syringes to the fuel for refrigerated shipping—relies on oil. We break down why geopolitical instability isn't just a news headline; it’s a direct threat to medication access and the primary reason for the surging drug shortages hitting U.S. pharmacies today. If you found this breakdown helpful, there is much more to the story. You can join us for the full, unfiltered conversation by checking out the extended episode on our podcast. GET YOUR FREE COURSE: We are giving away a free Medication Adherence PDF and video course walkthrough! Simply subscribe at our website to claim yours: https://RatedRxMedia.com   This show is intended for educational and informational purposes.   Follow us here: Website: https://RatedRxMedia.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxmedia/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxmedia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Rated-Rx/61574813907982/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7KATtG1c3HwwYpVMtRuNub Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rated-rx/id1804181016

Soda boosting testosterone sounds like the perfect "have your cake and eat it too" health hack, but is there any actual science behind the viral headlines? We’re breaking down the mouse study that set the internet on fire and comparing it to massive human data that tells a completely different, and much darker, story for your hormones. A 2022 study found that mice drinking 100% Coke or Pepsi actually had larger testicles and higher testosterone levels. But before you go buy a 12-pack, you need to realize that men are not mice, and what works in a 15-day rodent trial often fails miserably in humans. In fact, when we look at data from thousands of men, the reality is that high sugary drink consumption is linked to more than double the risk of clinically low testosterone. We dive into why the sugar in your soda fuels obesity and insulin resistance—two of the biggest "testosterone killers" on the planet. This show is intended for educational and informational purpose   Website: https://RatedRxMedia.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxmedia/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxmedia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Rated-Rx/61574813907982/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7KATtG1c3HwwYpVMtRuNub Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rated-rx/id1804181016

Big Pharma isn’t just making medicine; they’re building legal fortresses to keep prices high while patients are forced to choose between life-saving drugs and their rent. We’re pulling back the curtain on the "legal heist" of American healthcare, from the 1,200% price hike on 100-year-old insulin to the "patent thickets" that block cheaper generics for decades.   We break down the devastating reality of drug rationing, like the story of a 26-year-old who died less than a month after aging out of his insurance because his insulin cost $1,300. You’ll learn exactly how companies use "evergreening" to make tiny, meaningless changes to a drug just to reset the patent clock and keep competition off the market. We’re moving past the industry talking points to show you why the same exact pills are sold for a fraction of the cost in Europe and Canada, and how new laws might finally start to crack the monopoly.   This show is intended for educational and informational purposes.   Website: https://RatedRxMedia.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxmedia/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxmedia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Rated-Rx/61574813907982/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7KATtG1c3HwwYpVMtRuNub Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rated-rx/id1804181016

Fish oil is in nearly every medicine cabinet in America, but for most people, that daily capsule isn't doing what the marketing promised. We’re breaking down why your standard supplement might be a waste of money and when Omega-3s actually become life-saving medicine. For years, we’ve been told that a simple fish oil pill prevents heart attacks and strokes, but massive clinical trials like the VITAL and ORIGIN studies showed that one gram of standard fish oil did almost nothing for primary prevention. It turns out there is a massive difference between eating a piece of salmon and taking a processed softgel. We dive into the "REDUCE-IT" trial to show you the specific high-dose, prescription-grade EPA that actually reduced cardiovascular risk by 25%—and why your over-the-counter bottle can't compete with those results. If you’re taking fish oil "just in case," you might even be increasing your risk for things like atrial fibrillation. We’re moving past the hype to give you the clinical reality of triglycerides, pregnancy benefits, and why your pharmacist is the best person to ask before you swallow another pill. This show is intended for educational and informational purposes.

Pet medication safety starts with one simple question: what does the veterinary prescription label actually mean? This episode breaks down the SID vs BID mix up, one of the easiest ways for a once daily dose to accidentally become twice daily dosing. That kind of dosing error can seriously harm a dog or cat, especially when the medication has a narrow safety margin. You’ll hear why abbreviations on a veterinary prescription label cause problems in the real world. “SID” can look close enough to “BID” that a rushed handoff or a quick assumption turns into a doubled dose. The episode uses chlorambucil (Leukeran) as the anchor example to show why this matters, and why frequency mistakes can become dangerous fast. From there, the episode turns into a practical pet owner checklist for safer dosing at home. It covers what to ask for in plain language, how to confirm dosing frequency, and why repeating directions back out loud catches errors before the first dose is given. It also explains the most common medication safety traps that show up across veterinary and human meds: decimal point errors (leading zero and trailing zero issues), unit mix ups like micrograms vs milligrams, insulin unit confusion, and look alike drug names that can fool anyone at a glance. The episode also tackles a habit that feels organized but can increase risk: putting pet meds into a pill organizer. For many pets, keeping meds in the original labeled container keeps the dosing instructions attached to the drug, which matters when sleep, stress, and routine changes make mistakes more likely. If this episode helps, subscribe and share it with another pet owner who gives medications at home. For educational and informational purposes only.

TrumpRx, TrumpRx.gov, and prescription drug prices are all over the news and group chats right now and for good reason. In this episode, Robbie and Sam (both pharmacists) test the hype around TrumpRx.gov after its February 5, 2026 launch and explain what it actually is: a coupon style discount card, not a pharmacy, and not insurance.   Robbie and Sam break down who benefits most from TrumpRx (uninsured patients, cash pay patients, and people whose insurance refuses to cover certain brand name meds like GLP 1 drugs) and who may not (insured patients whose copay beats the coupon, or anyone who needs the purchase to count toward a deductible or out of pocket maximum). They also call out the “discount math” that tricks people: a huge percent off a brand list price looks amazing on a headline, but if a generic already exists, the TrumpRx coupon price can be higher than what many people already pay. Protonix is a clean example. 👀 Bottom line: this isn’t a system overhaul. It’s a workaround. And whether it helps depends on where someone sits in the insurance maze.  If this episode helps, hit like and subscribe. Comment with the most confusing part of prescription pricing, and share this with someone comparing TrumpRx to GoodRx or Cost Plus. Rated Rx is a proud affiliate of the Pharmacy Podcast Network.  This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.    

Retatrutide is one of the most promising weight loss drugs in development, and it is already being used by people outside of clinical trials. In this episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists break down why educated patients are intentionally using an investigational drug that is not FDA approved, does not have a verified supply chain, and is labeled for research use only. You will learn how retatrutide works as a triple agonist targeting GLP 1 GIP and glucagon, why early clinical trial data is generating excitement, and where the line gets crossed between understanding the science and bypassing safety systems. The discussion covers black market peptide sourcing, cold chain failures, contamination risk, dosing uncertainty, and why even expert level knowledge does not replace regulation. The hosts also explain why compounding pharmacies refuse to make investigational drugs, how online research chemical markets operate, and what can go wrong when sterility purity and oversight are missing. This is a clear and honest conversation about impatience driven by science, weight loss desperation, and why waiting for FDA approval protects patients even when the data looks promising. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Rated Rx Website ratedrxpodcast.com YouTube youtube.com/@RatedRxMedia Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982 Instagram instagram.com/ratedrxmedia/ TikTok tiktok.com/@ratedrxmedia  

ADHD does not look the same in boys and girls, and that difference causes many girls to be missed, misdiagnosed, or diagnosed years later 🧠⚠️. In this episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists break down how ADHD presents differently by gender, why disruptive behavior gets attention faster than quiet struggles, and how masking, anxiety, and perfectionism can hide ADHD symptoms in girls. You’ll learn why boys are more likely to be referred early due to hyperactivity and impulsivity, while girls often struggle silently with inattention, emotional overload, and burnout. The conversation also covers diagnostic bias, referral patterns, overlapping conditions like anxiety and depression, and why treating symptoms without identifying ADHD can delay meaningful care. The hosts walk through a simplified DSM-5-TR-style symptom checklist in plain language so you can better understand how ADHD is evaluated in real life. They also discuss treatment basics, medication concerns, and why early recognition matters for children, teens, and adults. This is one of the most commonly searched mental health topics online, and understanding these differences can change outcomes for families, educators, and clinicians. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.   Follow Rated Rx Website ratedrxpodcast.com YouTube youtube.com/@RatedRxPodcast Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rated-rx-podcast/id1804181016 Spotify open.spotify.com/show/7KATtG1c3HwwYpVMtRuNub Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982 Instagram instagram.com/ratedrxmedia/ TikTok tiktok.com/@ratedrxmedia

What happens when your doctor prescribes a medication that does not exist? Not backordered. Not insurance denied. It simply is not made anywhere. In this episode of Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists break down compounding pharmacy, why it exists, and why some patients would not survive without it. This is one of the most misunderstood areas of healthcare, and it answers a question people search online every day: what happens when standard medications do not work for you? You hear real examples involving pediatric epilepsy, elderly patients with complex medication regimens, feeding tubes, allergies to dyes and fillers, and rare conditions where mass-produced drugs fail. The episode explains how compounding pharmacists legally create customized medications by changing dosage forms, removing allergens, combining medications, and creating formulations that pharmaceutical companies never made. The crew also tackles the biggest misconception around compounding medications, including why compounded drugs are not FDA approved, what regulations actually apply, how USP standards protect patients, and why this work is highly regulated rather than experimental. Sterile compounding, non-sterile compounding, safety checks, pharmacist verification, and real-world problem solving are all explained clearly so you understand how these medications are made safely and legally. This episode helps patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals understand when compounding is appropriate and why asking about it can change outcomes. For educational and entertainment purposes only. Follow Us At: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxPodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxpodcast/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxpodcast

Do you really need to take your medications forever, or are some meant to be stopped? In this episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists break down one of the most commonly searched health questions online: how long should you actually be on a medication 💊👀. This episode is part of Rated Rx’s Trending Health Questions Breakdown, where we take real questions people are Googling every day and explain them clearly without fear, confusion, or misinformation. The crew explains why some medications are truly lifelong, including insulin for type 1 diabetes, thyroid replacement, seizure medications, transplant drugs, and certain psychiatric medications. They also break down medications that depend on disease control, like blood pressure meds, cholesterol drugs, type 2 diabetes medications, and antidepressants. Finally, they cover medications that are often meant to be temporary but people accidentally stay on for years, including PPIs, steroids, antibiotics, allergy meds, and sleep aids. You’ll also hear why stopping medications suddenly can be dangerous, which drugs require tapering, and how to start the right conversation with your doctor or pharmacist before making any changes. This episode focuses on education, safety, and helping you understand why you are taking what you take and when it should be reevaluated. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Never start, stop, or change a medication without medical supervision.   Follow Rated Rx 🎙️ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxPodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxpodcast/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxpodcast

You take your medications every day trusting they keep you healthy, but where you store your pills can quietly make them less effective or even dangerous 💊⚠️. In this episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists kick off Rated Rx’s Trending Health Questions Breakdown, where the show focuses on answering the most common health and medication questions people are actively searching for online. One of the most searched questions around medication safety is “Where should I store my medications?” and the answers floating around the internet are often incomplete or flat-out wrong. That’s why the crew breaks down the five worst places to store your medications, explaining how heat, humidity, cleaning chemicals, and everyday household items can interfere with drug stability and safety. They walk through common storage mistakes people make without realizing it, including bathroom medicine cabinets, under-the-sink storage, garages, kitchen counters, and junk drawers. You hear why original packaging matters, when pill organizers help or hurt, and how improper storage increases risks for children and pets. This segment turns a trending online question into practical, pharmacist-backed advice you can actually use. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Follow Rated Rx and Join the Conversation 🎙️   YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxPodcast   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxpodcast/   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxpodcast      

In this episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists break down the biggest healthcare news of 2025 and what it actually means for patients and clinicians 👀💊. You hear real pharmacist perspectives on artificial intelligence in healthcare, new federal plans to regulate AI, and why clinical judgment, patient trust, and human decision making still matter more than algorithms 🤖➡️🧠.   The conversation also dives into major vaccine policy changes, including updates to newborn hepatitis B vaccination recommendations and why shifts like this raise real concerns for public health 🧬🩺. The crew explains what these changes mean in practice, how misinformation spreads fast, and why prevention still saves lives.   Later, the episode tackles the explosion of GLP 1 weight loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide. You hear honest discussion about access, cost, compounding risks, and why obesity needs to be treated as a chronic disease instead of a personal failure ⚖️📈. This episode blends news, clinical insight, and real world experience to unpack where healthcare is heading next.   This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.   Listen and Follow Rated Rx 🎙️ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rated-rx-podcast/id1804181016 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7KATtG1c3HwwYpVMtRuNub Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxpodcast/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxpodcast

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie, Sam, and Xavier break down the 8 most-asked pharmacy interview questions and show you how to answer them without freezing on the spot 😅. You’ll hear how to nail “Tell me about yourself,” explain why you chose pharmacy, handle tough patient situations, and talk through medication errors without wrecking your chances 💊🔥. The crew reacts to the popular interview guide from RxLocal — here’s the full article we reviewed: https://www.rxlocal.com/blog/8-most-asked-pharmacy-interview-questions-how-to-answer-them They rewrite weak answers, point out red flags, and give you clean, confident ways to talk through your past, present, and future so you stand out in any interview. If you’re prepping for a residency, hospital role, or your first pharmacy job, this episode gives you the tools to walk in ready to win 🚀.   This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.   If you want more unfiltered pharmacy insights, interview tips, and behind-the-scenes moments, follow Rated Rx everywhere: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RatedRxPodcast Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574813907982 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ratedrxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ratedrxpodcast/  

In this special Rated Rx interview, Robbie sits down with Dr. Zack Meade, an anesthesiologist and major social media presence known for breaking down medical misinformation and educating patients online. They talk about why he started posting, how his content evolved from awkward early videos to confident patient-focused education, and why online medicine feels completely different from practicing in person. Zack opens up about the realities of online backlash, the communities that react the strongest, and the ground rules he follows to stay professional while still being funny. He also shares stories about hospital policies, case report controversies, naturopathic claims, wellness scams, and the strange world of “designer ECMO” at med spas. The conversation closes with the biggest lesson he learned from the comment section: patients need more time, more patience, and more understanding than most clinicians realize. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.

In this Adverse Reactions episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, Xavier Hill, Sam Llona, and Robbie Abasi react to a viral interview fail where the candidate didn’t even know which company they were interviewing with. The crew breaks down what actually matters in a pharmacy interview, how to recover when you blank, and the questions you should never ask unless you want an immediate rejection. They talk about the biggest green flags interviewers look for—being early, staying accountable, remembering names, looking prepared, and showing you can ease the team’s workload. They also cover the red flags that end interviews fast, including asking about drug tests, vacation limits, free perks, and bad-mouthing past employers. You hear real stories about awkward introductions, questionable grooming choices, and the surprising importance of color psychology when choosing what to wear. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.

In this Weekly Weigh-In from the Rated Rx Podcast, Sam Llona, Robbie Abasi, and Xavier Hill answer a listener question about how to crush your pharmacy interview without letting nerves take over. The crew shares stories from their own OSCEs, job interviews, and residency days, including a few disasters, and gives real advice on staying calm, showing people skills, and turning anxiety into confidence. They explain how to handle nervous habits like saying “um” too often, why silence can actually be powerful, and how to use small talk and observation to connect with interviewers. The conversation also covers practicing empathy questions, setting boundaries for inappropriate interview questions, and remembering that authenticity always beats perfection. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Under the Cap episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill dive into a Reddit thread that asks pharmacy technicians, “What’s one thing you wish patients knew?” The crew ranks the most-liked responses and shares their own stories from inpatient and compounding settings. From constant phone calls seconds after an order drops to the “fill them all” requests, they highlight how time pressure and unrealistic expectations make the job harder for everyone. You hear funny but real moments about mispronounced drugs, refill confusion, and the universal truth of pharmacy—everyone just needs a little more time. The conversation closes with shoutouts to pharmacy technicians, the unsung heroes who keep chaos from taking over. Original Reddit Post: https://www.reddit.com/r/PharmacyTechnician/comments/1cyt8fi/qotd_whats_one_thing_you_wish_patients_knew_at/ This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Adverse Reactions episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, Xavier Hill, Sam Llona, and Robbie Abasi react to viral headlines about recent drug recalls and how misinformation spreads online. The crew breaks down how the recall process actually works, why clickbait articles cause panic, and what patients should really do if they think their medication is affected. They share real-world experiences from hospital and community settings, showing how pharmacists verify lot numbers, notify patients, and balance professional responsibility with setting boundaries online. The conversation gets honest about “rage bait,” accountability, and the pressure of being a licensed professional in the comment section. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Weekly Weigh In, Sam Llona, Robbie Abasi, and Xavier Hill answer a listener question about why pharmacists ask for your date of birth every time. They show how look alike names, same birthdays, and rushed handoffs lead to wrong patient errors, including a real mix up with a long acting injectable that forced a hospital policy change. You hear how teams prevent errors with multiple identifiers, barcoding, and good catch reporting, and why many near misses never get logged. The crew closes by debating biometric shortcuts and apps at pickup, and why patient safety still needs human checks. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Plan B Blind Draft from the Rated Rx Podcast, Sam Llona, Robbie Abasi, and Xavier Hill rank the classes and skills they wish pharmacy school actually taught. From “how to say we’re short-staffed in 14 professional tones” to “defensive counseling when every patient is a lawyer,” the crew mixes humor and truth to spotlight the skills every pharmacist learns the hard way. Between talk of refunds on half-empty bottles, the art of passive-aggressive communication, and real stories from practice, this episode captures the parts of pharmacy life that don’t make it into textbooks. You’ll hear laughter, frustration, and honesty about what it’s like to navigate patient interactions, burnout, and unrealistic expectations in healthcare. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Under the Cap episode of the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill kick things off with a hilarious work rant about privacy, cameras, and the unexpected realities of hospital pharmacy life. Once the laughter settles, the team dives into this week’s theme—“Things I Wish I Knew in Pharmacy School.” They unpack a Pharmacy Times article called “The Three Skills You’ll Need Most” and explore how the profession is shifting from memorizing knowledge to mastering real-world skills. The crew breaks down what truly separates good pharmacists from great ones: communication that motivates, business adaptability in a broken PBM world, and AI fluency that keeps pharmacists relevant in the digital age. From workplace wedgie confessions to sharp commentary on billing, burnout, and automation, this episode blends humor with the hard truths every pharmacist and student should hear. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Adverse Reactions segment of the Rated Rx Podcast, Xavier Hill, Sam Llona, and Robbie Abasi react to a TikTok from Retail with Reece about the most important lessons learned in pharmacy school. The crew takes the viral video’s message about grades and networking and turns it into an open, honest conversation about what really matters after graduation. They talk about the value of communication, confidence, and relationships over GPA, sharing how networking opened unexpected doors in their own careers—from residency connections to real-world job offers. The discussion digs into what pharmacy schools get right, what they miss, and how students can balance grades with experience without losing themselves in the process. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Weekly Weigh-In from the Rated Rx Podcast, Sam Llona, Robbie Abasi, and Xavier Hill reflect on what pharmacy school actually prepares you for—and what it doesn’t. The crew debates whether the curriculum focuses too much on memorization and not enough on communication, empathy, and real-world problem-solving. Sam kicks things off with a story from his sterile compounding lab, where a testosterone formula failed a particle test, leading to a deep dive into benzyl alcohol chemistry and troubleshooting under pressure. From there, the team talks about the hands-on lessons that school often misses: learning to talk to doctors, managing burnout, and gaining confidence through real experience instead of just grades. This episode gives pharmacy students and professionals an honest look at what it takes to grow beyond the classroom and into the realities of patient care, teamwork, and communication. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special crossover episode was originally featured on This Week in Pharmacy (TWiRx) from the Pharmacy Podcast Network on October 17, 2025. The Rated Rx Podcast crew—Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill—join host Todd Eury for a candid takeover that blends humor, honesty, and hard truths about the profession. They talk about what pharmacy school doesn’t teach, how grades and residencies shape (and sometimes limit) career expectations, and why burnout often starts with unrealistic goals. The conversation covers ownership myths, the role of AI in pharmacy, and the responsibility pharmacists have to speak up when systems fail patients. It’s an open discussion between educators, practitioners, and innovators—each with a different view of where pharmacy stands today and where it’s headed next. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill celebrate Pharmacy Month by talking about the medications that changed the world. The crew shares their top picks—penicillin, smallpox vaccines, and antiretroviral drugs—and how each one reshaped public health. They move from past breakthroughs to future hopes, debating which conditions need the next big cure and why diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s still frustrate researchers and families alike. Later, things take a strange turn when they react to a viral TikTok of someone marinating chicken in NyQuil. You’ll hear the team’s pharmacist brains short-circuit as they try to make sense of it. From there, the Plan B Blind Draft introduces the wildest made-up medications imaginable, from freezing time pills to regret-free memory tabs. Robbie wraps with a new segment called Under the Cap, revisiting the story of thalidomide and the 1962 Kefauver-Harris Amendment that forever changed how the FDA approves drugs. The discussion shifts to today’s political climate, vaccine misinformation, and the importance of trusting experts over conspiracy headlines. The episode ends with a blunt reminder: read books, not comment sections. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill talk about what happens when personal data meets mental health apps. They share which wearables they actually use, how accurate the data feels, and whether the privacy tradeoff is worth it. You’ll hear about sleep tracking rings, guided meditation apps, and where the line falls between wellness and surveillance. The group also asks the bigger question: who regulates this stuff? They compare mental health apps to supplements—promises everywhere, oversight nowhere—and debate whether tech companies should face the same rules as drug makers. The conversation takes a turn into data tracking, government access, and whether devices like Neuralink cross an ethical line. In Pharmacy Fantasy, the crew imagines a world where pharmacists run a spaceship. From floating insulin vials to reconstituting antibiotics in zero gravity, things go sideways fast. They end with a Blind Draft of the worst things to find in a pharmacy fridge, and a reaction to a viral “food tampering” video that sparks a talk about safety seals, the Tylenol murders, and why pharmacists still trust but verify. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill sit down with their longtime friend and colleague Joelle Ayoub, now an associate professor at Western University of Health Sciences. Joelle talks about her path from math major to pharmacy educator, why she never lost her love for psychology and mentoring, and how she uses social media to connect with her students. You’ll hear stories about her own time as a student, including awkward immunization practicums, showing up late with Starbucks, and being called out in class. She also shares what it’s like to precept today’s students, from overthinking pencils and pens on exams to cramming empathy from YouTube videos overnight. In the Blind Draft, Joelle ranks the wildest student mishaps, from counseling the wrong patient to trying to reverse a vaccine error with another vaccine. The crew also reacts to a viral video on pharmacist burnout and debates whether pharmacy still offers a fulfilling career path—or if the system itself needs to change. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill talk about the pushback patients give on medical devices. From compression stockings to CPAP machines, canes, and blood sugar checks, the crew shares the resistance they’ve seen and how education and design can make a difference. The Pharmacy Fantasy segment throws them into chaos with a “miracle pill” that lowers cholesterol, balances blood sugar, melts pounds, and hands out cash. With only 12 bottles to give, the team debates fairness, gatekeeping, and what this scenario says about pharmacists in real life. In the Blind Draft, they rank the most confusing and outrageous auxiliary labels, including “take until you stop hearing colors.” Robbie adds a rant about synesthesia and patients who see sounds in color. The episode wraps with a video reaction to a frustrated patient who felt abandoned by her psychiatrist, sparking a raw talk about patient autonomy, shared decision-making, and how far providers should go to involve patients in their own care. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill break down the FDA’s new GLP-1 “green list” for compounding. You’ll hear why it raises quality standards and why patients will pay more. They talk through tough ethical calls: forced treatment in psychiatry, anticoagulation in gray cases, opioid management, and assisted suicide. You’ll see how their approach has shifted since graduation—less about memorizing the book, more about clinical judgment and emotional intelligence. They share advice for students and new grads: manage imposter syndrome, find mentors, set boundaries, and say no when needed. In Pharmacy Fantasy, they fix a “smart pill organizer” that makes life harder instead of easier. In the Blind Draft, they rank supplement label claims, from “immune to STDs on leap years” to other wild promises. They close with Adverse Reactions, where a patient celebrates paying “only” $120 a month for prescriptions. That sparks a real talk about drug prices, insurance gaps, and oversharing personal health information online. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill cover everything from Canadian pharmacy quirks to the future of Walgreens. Sam shares his trip up north and a surprising liquor store sign, while Xavier breaks down Walgreens’ new CEO and what it could mean for company culture and working conditions. The Weekly Weigh-In tackles a listener question about why doctors and pharmacists sometimes give different instructions and how patients can advocate for themselves when they feel rushed or confused. The crew shares real-life stories of mixed messages, from empty stomach prescriptions to pet meds gone sideways, and gives practical advice on what patients should always ask. Later, the Pharmacy Fantasy segment imagines what happens when an entire pharmacy staff wins the Powerball and leaves the manager alone to run the hospital pharmacy. Finally, the team plays a Blind Draft of the wildest just one more question moments and reacts to a viral video of a pharmacist breaking down mid-shift, sparking a raw conversation about burnout, workload, and supporting colleagues before they hit their limit. If you have ever wondered what pharmacy looks like behind the counter, from everyday confusion to once-in-a-lifetime chaos, this episode delivers laughs, honesty, and practical insight. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill dig into the ripple effects of GLP-1s—not just for patients, but for the economy, grocery stores, and even airlines. From there, the conversation shifts to messy handwriting vs. e-scribing, and Robbie’s attempt to fix his penmanship by taking a Japanese class. The laughs keep rolling with a Pharmacy Phantasy scenario featuring the self-proclaimed “Kombucha King,” convinced his garage brew works better than lisinopril. The crew also runs a Blind Draft of the ultimate “Not My Job” pharmacy moments, and reacts to a viral video of a furious patient yelling over a one-hour wait—sparking a real talk about staffing shortages, Amazon Prime expectations, and how pharmacists can draw the line while staying professional. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists Robbie Abasi, Sam Llona, and Xavier Hill welcome Todd Eury, founder of the Pharmacy Podcast Network and one of the earliest voices in pharmacy podcasting. Todd shares the origins of PPN, how podcasting went from a niche experiment to a major educational platform, and why evidence-based podcasting could be the future of continuing education. The group dives into AI in healthcare—how pharmacists can use tools like ChatGPT responsibly, what happens when patients start citing AI in place of medical advice, and why the human touch will only grow more valuable as AI expands. Todd also talks about authenticity in podcasting, what separates strong content from noise, and why mission-driven shows have staying power. From vape-pen albuterol fantasies to a blind draft of “pharmacy topics that should never be a live podcast” (spoiler: Guess That Rash didn’t make the cut), the episode balances insight with plenty of laughs. They wrap with a look at TikTok misinformation—like the “dandelion cures everything” myth—and why professionals have a responsibility to correct false health claims without trashing their peers. If you care about the future of pharmacy media, patient trust, and how pharmacists can own the digital space, this conversation with the “RxPodfather” is a must-listen. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists Robbie Abasi, Sam Lona, and Xavier Hill dig into the gray areas where pharmacy practice meets real-world challenges. The Weekly Weigh-In calls out workplace “shortcuts” like leaving the safe open or relying on sticky notes, and why culture, accountability, and clear procedures make all the difference in patient safety. In Pharmacy Fantasy, the crew tackles a counseling nightmare: a patient on warfarin who’s also taking a laundry list of herbal supplements—St. John’s wort, ginkgo, turmeric, kava, melatonin, fish oil, garlic, ginger, elderberry, ashwagandha, and spirulina. They unpack which interactions matter most, how to keep patients engaged, and why counseling is as much about strategy as it is about knowledge. The episode wraps with a wild Reddit story about a technician receiving a highly inappropriate “gift,” sparking a frank discussion about professional boundaries, pharmacy culture, and how to respond when workplace lines are crossed. If you want practical insight on supplement interactions, patient counseling, and pharmacy culture—with some unfiltered bench-level honesty—this one’s for you. This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists Robbie Abasi, Sam Lona, and Xavier Hill sit down with Hila, a fourth-year pharmacy student from the University of Toronto, for a candid look at training on the other side of the border. Hila talks through Canada’s PharmD path, why U of T is moving to a three-year, year-round program, and the tradeoffs that come with accelerated timelines—more clinical exposure, but real burnout risk. She also breaks down Ontario’s expanding “minor ailments” prescribing (hello, bigger clinical role) and shares what school really costs, what new-grad pay looks like in Toronto vs. rural areas, and why many students still peek at U.S. opportunities. The weekly weigh-in tackles first-job counseling nerves: freezing mid-sentence, scaring patients with rare side effects, and handling the classic “Can I drink on rifampin?” conversation. Hila shares a humbling hydrocortisone story plus a simple community tactic for required counseling when patients try to bolt. From there, the team gets practical about documentation (be accurate without boxing yourself in), how to coach students without crushing them, and why the best preceptors set expectations, give timely feedback, and praise in public while correcting in private. They close with a Reddit story about a nightmare preceptor—and Hila’s take on turning school “essays” into usable, real-world workups. If you’re into real talk about pharmacy school, early-career confidence, and what great teaching looks like, you’ll like this one. Stick around to the end for Hila’s TikTok plug and how she’s building community for students. Disclaimer: This show is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists Robbie, Sam, and Xavier rate what really makes a shift feel like “the best day ever”—from cloud-like work shoes and silent phones to the surprise of being sent home on a paid holiday. The light banter pivots into a lively “Pharmacy Fantasy” scenario: an AI side-kick that flags drug interactions in real time… then starts critiquing snack choices and interrupting prescribers. The crew debates whether advanced AI will free pharmacists for deeper patient care or just create new headaches—and whether pharmacy schools should start teaching “AI fluency” alongside kinetics. The conversation heats up when board certifications enter the ring. Are extra letters after your name worth the fees and renewal CEs, or does real-world experience speak louder? Finally, a “Plan B-but-before” question from a caller launches a frank (and often funny) dive into sex-ed gaps, birth-control basics, and how pharmacists can tackle misconceptions without judgment. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance tech innovations, professional credentials, and day-to-day sanity at the counter, this episode delivers insight with just the right dose of sarcasm. Enjoy the mix of straight talk and practical takeaways? Hit subscribe, leave a review, and share your own stories at RatedRxPodcast.com or @RatedRxPodcast on TikTok and Instagram. Disclaimer: This show is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists Robbie Abasi, Sam Lona, and Xavier Hill trade their white coats for story-telling mode. They open with a “Plan B Blind Draft,” ranking the most head-scratching things techs say—like charging $3 for “emotional labor” or claiming HIPAA only counts if someone actually hears you. Laughs aside, the game tees up a real conversation about coaching technicians without turning every request into damage control. From there, Xavier steers the crew into the metaverse: could a VR “avatar pharmacist” ever replace face-to-face counseling? The debate covers rural access, identity-checking headaches, and whether AI avatars would still need to prove they’re more than a slick interface. The weekly weigh-in tackles passive-aggressive pharmacy body language—eye rolls, tray slams, and the legendary “10-second sigh.” Robbie shares his secret weapon: a programmable red “tap-out” button that techs earn for going above and beyond, redeemable when they need a break from a rough interaction. The competition keeps morale high and workload balanced. Finally, Pharmacy Pandemonium brings a caller who found loose lisinopril tablets after a burglary and demands the pharmacist identify the thief. (Spoiler: pills don’t come with name tags.) The hosts dissect what pharmacists can—and can’t—legally do, then imagine the antics of a “Lisinopril Bandit.” Enjoy the mix of humor and practical insight? Tap subscribe, drop a quick review, and share your own stories at RatedRxPodcast.com Disclaimer: This show is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, pharmacists Robbie Abasi, Sam Lona, and Xavier Hill start off light with a “drug-candy blind draft,” matching everyday medications to favorite sweets to explain why some therapies pair better with certain patient personalities. From there, Xavier rewinds to 1240 AD and Emperor Frederick II’s decree that split doctors from apothecaries—an early decision that still shapes pharmacy practice. The tone shifts to burnout and safety on the bench. Robbie leans on a high-energy commute playlist, while Sam finds focus in five quiet minutes of coffee. Together they break down how small, consistent rituals can keep errors low and morale high. A viral Reddit post about a patient insisting on same-day delivery of a Snickers bar opens a wider look at professional boundaries: the practical limits of meds-to-beds programs, questionable veterinary-clinic kickbacks, and a July 4th dispute over who really controls holiday hours. Throughout, the hosts offer clear strategies for communicating with older patients, avoiding PBM traps, and setting expectations that protect both staff and patients. Enjoy the mix of real-world insight and straight talk? Tap subscribe, leave a quick review, and share your own stories at RatedRxPodcast.com or @RatedRxPodcast on TikTok, Instagram, X, and Threads. Disclaimer: This show is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Rated Rx Podcast, Robbie, Sam, and Xavier are back with another round of pharmacy shenanigans. They kick things off with a hilarious draft of the top things pharmacists wish they could say to patients but don’t (because, professionalism). Then it's all fireworks and chaos—literally—with some wild 4th of July injury stories and a pharmacy fact about how we end up treating more burns than you’d think. The guys also dive into a Reddit post calling out nurses for blaming pharmacy when things go wrong. It sparks a real convo about teamwork, finger-pointing, and how pharmacists and nurses can (and should) work together. Plus, they wrap things up with a frustrating but all-too-relatable story about a nurse refusing to share med info over “HIPAA concerns”—and the patient almost going without seizure meds because of it. Disclaimer: This show is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining the crew is a special guest. Maurice is a pharmacist who dispenses wisdom by sharing his story. Listen in as Maurice picks out his dream team for the best pharmacy shift, talk about our worst manager experiences, and guess how much the most expensive medication is. TikTok/Instagram username: Retailwithreece Website: https://ratedrxpodcast.com/ Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we talk about how pharmacists changed the Olympics, rank side effects we are cool with, weigh in on health trends among different generations, and spill the mixture on compounding errors. *The podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only* www.ratedrxpodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining the gang is a special guest. Paige is a pharmacist making waves on social media while representing pharmacy. Join us as Paige takes a shot at the Plain B Blind Draft, consume a spicy fact, discuss if residencies are needed, and decipher screaming cheetahs. You can find Paige on TikTok and Instagram. User name: Paige_km Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We finally reach a milestone by getting to episode 10. Tune in to laughs and serious discussion as we talk about beaver glands, professionalism, and pharmacy student mistakes. *This episode is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only* Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the episode we talk about the old definition of pharmacy, board inspections, EpiPens, and introduce a new game. *This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only* Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return after a short break. In this episode, we talk about deathly prescriptions, discuss what we would change about pharmacy, and discuss how we handle awkward situations with other pharmacists. This is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we talk about the origins of rx, discuss what it means to have passion in pharmacy, and listen to a story about fake prescriptions. Tune it for some hyuks. This episode is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we take a turn back in time before computers, way back before they learned what pharmacy really is. *This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only* Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we talk about how pharmacists shaped the world of soda, get vulnerable on a tough topic in pharmacy culture, and explain how a pharmacy is no place for acid. This episode is intended for entertainment and information purposes only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Rated Rx Podcast, the crew debuts a brand new segment- Weekly Weigh-In. Here we dive into a tough question about choosing between a full ride at Butler or the prestige of Purdue. Then things take a turn in Pharmacy Pandemonium with a suspicious couple, a shady prescription, and an ending you won’t see coming. Tune in for some laughs! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.