April 2023: Practical posts on meds and chronic care
This month I focused on four things that matter if you take medications or manage a chronic condition: a new angle on empagliflozin for kidney disease, real-world tips for navigating care with ulcerative colitis, the simple science behind calcipotriol, and how to store and handle bisacodyl safely. Each piece is short, useful, and written from a patient-focused perspective.
What I covered in April 2023
Empagliflozin and kidney disease: Empagliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor that blocks glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. That effect lowers blood sugar and, importantly, recent evidence shows it can slow progression of diabetic nephropathy and help protect kidney function. Practical points: ask your clinician about kidney-focused outcomes, monitor eGFR and volume status, and watch for side effects like dehydration or genital infections.
Navigating the healthcare system with ulcerative colitis: Dealing with UC can feel like a maze—finding the right gastroenterologist, keeping track of flare patterns, and getting quick access to care are key. I shared how to prepare for appointments, build a simple symptom diary, use your IBD nurse or coordinator, and speak up for tests or treatments when symptoms change. Small steps make appointments more productive and reduce delays in care.
The science behind calcipotriol: Calcipotriol is a topical vitamin D3 analog used for psoriasis. It slows excessive skin cell growth and lowers inflammation without big systemic effects for most people. Tips: apply exactly as directed, avoid sensitive areas like eyes, expect mild irritation at first, and tell your doctor if you use multiple topical treatments together.
How to properly store and handle bisacodyl: Bisacodyl is a common laxative and it needs simple care—keep it in a cool, dry place away from bathroom humidity, keep the original container sealed, and store out of reach of children. Check expiration dates, don’t crush enteric-coated tablets, and ask your pharmacist about safe disposal if you need to throw some away.
Quick, practical takeaways
Ask targeted questions: For empagliflozin, ask about kidney outcomes and whether it fits your current meds and kidney function.
Bring proof: For UC visits, bring a one-week symptom log and a list of current meds to speed decisions.
Follow directions: With calcipotriol, more is not better—use the prescribed amount and report irritation early.
Store smart: Keep bisacodyl in a stable, dry spot and check labels before use—especially if you travel or the product looks old.
If you want the full reads, click to each post for details and examples from my experience. And remember: none of this replaces talking with your clinician—use these notes to make those conversations clearer and more useful.