GHAPPcast

Thank you to Ardelyx for sponsoring this GHAPPcast episode! 

In this episode of GHAPPcast, host Christina Hanson, FNP, alongside guest Kim Orleck, PA-C, dives into advanced strategies for diagnosing and managing IBS-C. They discuss the importance of the positive diagnostic strategy, ways to differentiate IBS-C from other conditions, and share valuable insights on how to optimize patient care and treatment. Listeners will gain practical tips for effectively communicating with patients, setting realistic expectations, and making informed decisions on therapeutic options. Tune in to enhance your approach to managing IBS-C and stay up-to-date with the latest in GI and hepatology care. Don't forget to subscribe and visit GHAPP's website for more resources!

Thank you to Boehringer Ingelheim for your support of this FAQ Video Module.

Join Tedra Gray, NP, as she explains how biosimilars and generics play a crucial role in modern medicine, especially in fields like gastroenterology, rheumatology, and dermatology. She explains the key differences between biosimilars and generic medications, helping both healthcare providers and patients make informed treatment decisions.

Generic medications are identical copies of brand-name drugs, containing the same active ingredients, dosage, and route of administration. These drugs are FDA-approved and become available once the patent for the original brand-name drug expires. On the other hand, biosimilars are highly similar but not identical to biologic drugs, which are derived from living organisms or cells. These medications are often used to treat complex diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. While biosimilars must demonstrate no clinically meaningful differences in pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics, they are not exact replicas like generics due to the complexity of biologic drugs.

For gastroenterology patients and providers, understanding the differences between biosimilars and generics is essential when choosing effective treatment options. Whether managing chronic GI conditions or exploring cost-effective alternatives, recognizing these distinctions ensures better patient care. For more information on biosimilars, generics, and GI treatment strategies, visit the GHAPP website or GHAPP ACE 2.0 mobile app to stay informed and empowered in your healthcare journey!

Thank you to Ardelyx for your support of this FAQ Video Module.

For years, the primary treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) have been limited to secretagogues, offering varying doses and tolerability. However, a new mechanism of action (MOA) is now available, revolutionizing treatment choices for healthcare providers and patients alike. In this discussion, Kim Orleck, PA-C, from Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, explores the triple-action MOA of this novel IBS-C therapy and how it enhances clinical decision-making.

This innovative therapy works by targeting the sodium-hydrogen exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3) on the apical surfaces of the small intestine and colon. By inhibiting NHE3, three key physiological effects occur. First, dietary sodium absorption is reduced, leading to increased luminal water content, which accelerates intestinal transit and softens stool consistency. Second, intestinal permeability is decreased, which helps to reduce abdominal pain. Lastly, visceral hypersensitivity is lowered, further alleviating the pain associated with IBS-C. These combined actions address multiple aspects of IBS-C pathophysiology, providing a minimally absorbed yet highly effective approach to symptom management.

With this exciting advancement, healthcare providers now have a novel treatment option that expands beyond traditional secretagogues, offering a new level of relief for patients struggling with IBS-C. To learn more, visit the GHAPP website for additional insights and expert perspectives on IBS-C management.

Thank you to Boehringer Ingelheim for your support of this podcast.

In this episode of GHAPPcast, the official podcast for Gastroenterology and Hepatology Advanced Practice Providers, host Gabriella McCarty, NP, is joined by Tedra Gray, NP, to explore the role of biosimilars in GI treatment. They dive into the differences between biosimilars and generics, the cost savings associated with biosimilars, their safety and efficacy, and strategies for effectively educating patients about making the switch. With insights into the FDA approval process, insurance challenges, and real-world clinical experience, this discussion provides essential guidance for APPs looking to enhance patient care and communication.

Key topics covered include what biosimilars are and how they differ from generics, the benefits of switching to a biosimilar—including improved access and cost savings—how biosimilars are tested for safety and efficacy, and best practices for discussing these treatments with patients. The episode also addresses common patient concerns, potential barriers to biosimilar adoption, and how to navigate insurance requirements.

To stay informed, visit ghapp.org for more resources or download the GHAPP ACE app. Don’t forget to subscribe to GHAPPcast for more expert insights into gastroenterology and hepatology. Tune in now to gain valuable knowledge that will help you empower your patients and improve their treatment experience.

Join Dr. Nadege Gunn, from the 2024 Liver Connect Conference. In this special episode, she is joined by Elizabeth Coacher, PA, and Ann Moore, FNP, to discuss the management of NASH (Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis), newly approved treatments, and the importance of clinical trials.

They explore patient-centered care, lifestyle modifications, and non-invasive tests for identifying at-risk patients. Tune in for insights on balancing clinical trial participation with approved therapies, addressing patient access and equity, and the need for ongoing education in hepatology. This episode offers valuable information for healthcare providers committed to improving liver health. Don't miss this engaging and informative discussion!

Hosted by: Nadege Gunn, MD
With Special Guests: Elizabeth Goacher, PA, and Ann Moore, NP

In our twelfth and final episode of the GHAPP & RhAPP biosimilar podcast series host Gabriella McCarty, NP, and guest Jamie Brogan, NP have an in-depth conversation about discussing biosimilars with patients.

The learning objectives for this episode are to:

• Design methods to appropriately explain biosimilars to patients
• Address potential patient perceptions of biosimilars
• Devise methods to combat the nocebo effect when discussing biosimilars with patients
• Explain the potential benefits of biosimilars for patients

Please take our evaluation regarding this podcast here:   https://www.ghapp.org/biosimilars-podcast-eval

Welcome to our eleventh episode of the GHAPP & RhAPP biosimilar podcast series! In the penultimate episode host Amanda Mixon, PA-C has an in-depth conversation with the incredible Naomi A. Amudala, CRNP, MSN,  about The Nocebo Effect.

The learning objectives and goals for this episode are to:

• Define the nocebo effect
• Appraise nocebo effect research as it pertains to biosimilars
• Explain effective ways to counter the nocebo effect such as patient counseling

Please take our evaluation regarding this podcast here:  https://www.ghapp.org/biosimilars-podcast-eval

In the tenth episode of the GHAPP & RhAPP biosimilar podcast series host Gabriella McCarty, NP-C, and guest Sharon Dudley-Brown PHD, FNP-BC, FAAN, FAANP discuss the practical use of biosimilars in Gastroenterology APP practice.

The learning objectives for this episode are to:

• Interpret the AGA Biosimilars Roundtable meeting report and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Biosimilar position statement
• Discuss the use of biosimilars in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases
• Produce strategies for implementing the use of biosimilars in gastroenterology practice

Please take our evaluation regarding this podcast here:   https://www.ghapp.org/biosimilars-podcast-eval

In the ninth episode of the GHAPP & RhAPP biosimilar podcast series host Amanda Mixon, PA-C, and guest Daric Mueller, PA-C discuss the practical use of biosimilars in rheumatology APP practice.

The learning objectives for this episode are to:

• Interpret the ACR white paper on biosimilars in rheumatology
• Discuss the use of biosimilars in the treatment of rheumatic diseases
• Produce strategies for implementing the use of biosimilars in rheumatology practice

Please take our evaluation regarding this podcast here:   https://www.ghapp.org/biosimilars-podcast-eval

In our eighth episode of the GHAPP & RhAPP biosimilar podcast series host Gabriella McCarty, NP, and guest Gwen Cassidy, NP review the benefits of biosimilars.

The learning objectives for this episode are to:

• Outline the cost savings of biosimilars for patients
• Summarize the cost savings for healthcare organizations
• Discuss  healthcare providers  feeling the pressure and burden of rising costs and how biosimilars may help in bridging the transition from volume-based to value-based care

Please take our evaluation regarding this podcast here:   https://www.ghapp.org/biosimilars-podcast-eval