All posts by Scott Gavura

Scott Gavura, BScPhm, MBA, RPh is committed to improving the way medications are used, and examining the profession of pharmacy through the lens of science-based medicine. He has a professional interest is improving the cost-effective use of drugs at the population level. Scott holds a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy degree, and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Toronto, and has completed a Accredited Canadian Hospital Pharmacy Residency Program. His professional background includes pharmacy work in both community and hospital settings. He is a registered pharmacist in Ontario, Canada. Scott has no conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: All views expressed by Scott are his personal views alone, and do not represent the opinions of any current or former employers, or any organizations that he may be affiliated with. All information is provided for discussion purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for consultation with a licensed and accredited health professional.

FDA poised to reshape the cold remedy aisle

The FDA is proposing to order the removal of phenylephrine from oral cough and cold remedies.

/ November 21, 2024
Close-up of raw, rolled oats displaying their flat, oval shape with beige and white shades. The texture appears dry and flaky, typical of uncooked oatmeal.

Widespread Use of Dietary Supplements Linked to Liver Damage

Millions of Americans are taking herbal remedies that may be toxic to the liver.

/ October 24, 2024

Elderberry (What is it good for)

Accumulated evidence does not demonstrate that elderberry has meaningful beneficial effects.

/ October 10, 2024
cause - effect - cause - effect

Post Hoc Bias in Medicine

We are more likely to use an ineffective treatment after slight symptom improvement, even when the changes are coincidental.

/ September 26, 2024

Cannabis use and cardiovascular disease

New research suggests that cannabis use may be harmful and could be causing cardiovascular disease.

/ September 12, 2024

Homeopathy in Pharmacist Education

A new paper that looks at homeopathy in pharmacy education raises more questions than answers.

/ August 29, 2024

Are dietary sugar alcohol sweeteners safe?

Should we be concerned about new research linking sugar alcohols like xylitol and erythritol?

/ August 15, 2024

Magnesium oil: Not so magical

Despite the hype, there is no evidence to show magnesium oil is effective for any purpose.

/ July 18, 2024

No Benefit to Daily Multivitamin Use

A 20-year analysis of almost 400,000 generally healthy adults shows that vitamins do not help you live longer.

/ July 4, 2024