Author: Ruaridh Wood

Cold-Induced Urticaria: What Happens When Cold Triggers Hives

Cold-Induced Urticaria: What Happens When Cold Triggers Hives

Cold-induced urticaria causes itchy hives after cold exposure - not just from ice, but even from cool air or chilled drinks. Learn how it works, how to diagnose it, and how to stay safe - including life-saving tips for swimming and daily living.

Ruaridh Wood 7.02.2026
Medication Adherence: Practical Strategies to Take Your Pills as Prescribed

Medication Adherence: Practical Strategies to Take Your Pills as Prescribed

Half of people don't take their meds as prescribed. Here's why-and how to fix it. Simple, proven strategies to stay on track with your pills, manage complexity, cut costs, and avoid dangerous gaps in treatment.

Ruaridh Wood 7.02.2026
DSCSA: Protecting the Drug Supply Chain from Counterfeit Medications

DSCSA: Protecting the Drug Supply Chain from Counterfeit Medications

DSCSA is a federal law that tracks prescription drugs to stop counterfeits. It mandates serialization and electronic data sharing. Compliance has reduced counterfeit risk by 95% and improved recalls. Full implementation by 2024 ensures a secure supply chain for patient safety.

Ruaridh Wood 4.02.2026
Advocating for Your Health: How to Speak Up About Medications and Side Effects

Advocating for Your Health: How to Speak Up About Medications and Side Effects

Learn how to speak up about medication side effects to improve your treatment, avoid dangerous reactions, and take control of your health. Practical steps, real data, and proven tools to help you communicate effectively with your doctor.

Ruaridh Wood 3.02.2026
Import Alerts: How the FDA Blocks Drugs from Non-Compliant Manufacturers

Import Alerts: How the FDA Blocks Drugs from Non-Compliant Manufacturers

The FDA uses Import Alerts to block unsafe drugs from non-compliant manufacturers. With the 2025 GLP-1 crackdown, thousands of shipments have been detained, reshaping global pharma supply chains and forcing manufacturers to meet strict U.S. quality standards.

Ruaridh Wood 2.02.2026
Why Medications Lose Potency Over Time and How It Happens

Why Medications Lose Potency Over Time and How It Happens

Medications lose potency over time due to chemical breakdown, not just because they’ve passed their expiration date. Learn how heat, moisture, and light affect pills and liquids-and why some drugs are riskier to use after they expire.

Ruaridh Wood 1.02.2026
180-Day Exclusivity and Authorized Generics: Legal Considerations in U.S. Drug Markets

180-Day Exclusivity and Authorized Generics: Legal Considerations in U.S. Drug Markets

The 180-day exclusivity rule rewards the first generic drug maker to challenge a patent - but brand-name companies can undercut them by launching authorized generics. This legal loophole undermines competition and cuts into savings for patients.

Ruaridh Wood 31.01.2026
Common OTC Medications: Uses, Side Effects, and Safety Information

Common OTC Medications: Uses, Side Effects, and Safety Information

Learn how to safely use common OTC medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and antihistamines. Understand their uses, risks, and when to avoid them-plus expert tips to prevent overdose and side effects.

Ruaridh Wood 30.01.2026
Renal Dosing of Antibiotics: How to Avoid Toxicity in Kidney Disease

Renal Dosing of Antibiotics: How to Avoid Toxicity in Kidney Disease

Improper antibiotic dosing in kidney disease leads to toxicity or treatment failure. Learn how to adjust doses using creatinine clearance, avoid common errors, and understand the latest guidelines for acute and chronic kidney injury.

Ruaridh Wood 29.01.2026
Drug-Induced Liver Injury: High-Risk Medications and How to Monitor Them

Drug-Induced Liver Injury: High-Risk Medications and How to Monitor Them

Drug-induced liver injury can be silent and deadly. Learn which medications pose the highest risk, how to monitor for liver damage, and what to do if you suspect a problem.

Ruaridh Wood 28.01.2026