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2025 CPD: College of Pharmacy Grand Rounds


 
Description: The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy (UTCOP) Pharmacotherapy Rounds for Residents is a learning experience provided to residents participating in pharmacy residency programs affiliated with UTCOP. The program provides the opportunity for pharmacy residents to develop presentation skills in a safe, collegial space. The purpose of this experience is to disseminate up-to-date clinical information at the post-graduate level to resident and pharmacist colleagues.Pharmacotherapy Rounds will be held on some Wednesdays(12-1pm) and most Fridays (2-5pm) beginning in September and continue weekly as needed. Presentations will be presented either from room PHR 4.114or PHR 3.106 (depending on availability)at the College of Pharmacy or online using Zoom. Wednesday presentations will only be held on Zoom. Otherwise, it is presenter preference to present in person or online. All presentations will be broadcast using Zoom.  All instructions, assignments, resources, rubrics and essential information will be on the Canvas website at https://canvas.utexas.edu/.
 

The College of Pharmacy, in conjunction with facilities throughout Texas, provides a variety of outstanding PGY1 and PGY2 Practice Residencies in Pharmacy Practice, Community-based Practice, Ambulatory Care, Internal Medicine, and many more.

Questions: Please contact Gloria Fang, Administrative Program Coordinator at gloria.fang@austin.utexas.edu

 
 

Date: Sep 1, 2025 01:00 AM - Jan 24, 2026 01:00 AM

Fee

$0.00

CE Hours

7.00

CE Units

0.700

Registration closes on Jan 24, 2026 01:00 AM

Activity Type

  • Knowledge

 

 

 

   

Title: Fat Chance Without It: Insulin for Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Pancreatitis

Faculty:
Derek Garza, PharmD
PGY-2 Pharmacy Resident - Internal Medicine
Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas

Disclosure: Dr. Garza does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe pathophysiology of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis
  • Apply current literature regarding intravenous insulin in patients presenting with hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis
  • Develop treatment recommendations for the role of intravenous insulin in hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis
 

Gap Analysis:
Hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis is a severe condition patients can present with to the hospital with limited pharmacotherapy. Treatment strategies typically involve costly and invasive modalities. Most pharmacotherapy options require days to weeks to take effect and do not achieve the quick resolution that is medically desired. Intravenous insulin has been shown to adequately and quickly reduce triglycerides in this patient population. However, many clinicians are concerned since there has not been a defined dosing strategy and there is potential risk for adverse drug reactions such as hypoglycemia and electrolyte abnormalities. Many retrospective studies have been published highlighting the utility of an insulin infusion for this patient population with minimal adverse events. It is important that pharmacists know the optimal treatment and recommendations for these patients to optimize outcomes and prevent significant side effects. This presentation will provide a literature review and evaluate whether an insulin infusion should be utilized for patients presenting with hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis.
 

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-070-L01-P/T
Date: 09/12/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

 

   

Title: Keeping Rhythm in Check: How TDM Stops Antiarrhythmics From Going Offbeat 
 
Faculty: 
Julia Wing, PharmD
PGY2 Pharmacy Resident - Internal Medicine 
Dell Seton Medical Center at the University of Texas 
 
Disclosure: Dr. Wing does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies. 
 
Learning Objectives: 
1. Discuss antiarrhythmic medications and ventricular action potentials
2. Evaluate various antiarrhythmics and the utility of therapeutic drug monitoring 
3. Analyze rarely used antiarrhythmic medications and understand their place in therapy 
4. Develop a treatment plan for a patient on an antiarrhythmic medication 
 
Gap Analysis: 
Antiarrhythmic medications often have a narrow therapeutic index and complex pharmacokinetics, making close monitoring essential for safe and effective use. Therapeutic drug monitoring plays a crucial role in optimizing patient outcomes, ensuring drug efficacy, and minimizing the risk of toxicity and adverse effects. Understanding how to monitor and dose these drugs properly is essential in tailoring treatments to individual patient needs, adjusting dosing regimens and improving overall cardiac care. Although therapeutic drug monitoring is essential for various antiarrhythmics, it is not always clinically useful for all antiarrhythmic medications. This presentation will highlight the importance of understanding when therapeutic drug monitoring is appropriate or when it offers little clinical value. 
 

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-071-L01-P/T
Date: 09/19/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

   

Title: Benzodiazepine-Sparing in the PICU: Are We Causing More Harm Than Good? 
 
Faculty:
Elizabeth Longo, PharmD, MPH
PGY1 Pharmacy Resident - Pediatric Focused
Dell Children's Medical Center 
 
Disclosure: Dr. Longo does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the rationale for benzodiazepine-sparing sedation strategies in the PICU
  • Evaluate the efficacy and safety profiles of dexmedetomidine, ketamine, and clonidine as alternative sedatives in critically ill pediatric patients
  • Identify strategies to optimize outcomes and minimize harm when determining sedation regimens in the PICU
Gap:
As the PICU shifts toward benzodiazepine-sparing strategies to reduce delirium and withdrawal, many centers have embraced alternatives like dexmedetomidine, ketamine, and clonidine. But with rising concerns about polypharmacy, tolerance, and agitation, it's worth asking — have we gone too far? This session will explore evolving sedation practices, pharmacologic risks, and the pharmacist’s role in balancing safety, comfort, and recovery.
 
 

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-073-L01-P/T
Date: 09/19/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

   

Title: The Rhythm is Going to Get You:  Rate vs Rhythm Treatment  in Patients with Chronic Atrial Fibrillation
 
Faculty:
Kari Blackwell, PharmD, MHA
PGY1 Pharmacy Resident
Dell Seton Medical Center at the University of Texas
 
Disclosure: Dr. Blackwell does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Recall guideline recommendations regarding rate and rhythm control of patients with AF
  • Analyze available literature regarding which approach is the best long-term treatment for patients with atrial fibrillation
  • Develop recommendations for which treatment would be best used in patients with AF
     
Gap:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, with both its incidence and prevalence continuing to rise in the United States and globally.1 Over time, the recommended treatment approach for AF has evolved. Prior to 2014, rhythm control was generally favored. However, the release of the 2014 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline for the Management of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation marked a shift in clinical practice, recommending rate control as the initial strategy, with rhythm control reserved for cases in which rate control proved inadequate.
A decade later, the 2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation revised this stance once more. Rather than designating a preferred strategy, the updated guideline emphasizes a patient-centered approach, recognizing that the choice between rate and rhythm control is nuanced and may evolve over time based on individual patient characteristics and clinical response.
It is essential that pharmacists are well-versed in current treatment recommendations for AF and are equipped to help identify the safest and most effective therapeutic strategy for each patient. This presentation will review the relevant literature and examine which patient populations may benefit most from initial treatment with either rate or rhythm control strategies.

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-071-L01-P/T
Date: 09/19/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

 

   

Title: The Maribavir Era (CMV’s Resistant Version)
 
Faculty:
Pau Rios, PharmD
PGY1 Pharmacy Resident
Dell Seton Medical Center at the University of Texas
 
Disclosure: Dr. Rios does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Review the background, risk factors, and management strategies for CMV in solid organ transplant recipients
  • Explore refractory/resistant CMV and evaluate the role of maribavir
  • Apply CMV management principles to clinical practice, including patient case discussion and access consideration
 
Gap:
CMV is one of the most frequent opportunistic infections in SOT recipients - with manifestations ranging from asymptomatic viremia to end-organ disease (CMV retinitis, colitis, pneumonitis, etc). Because of this, most SOT recipients requires some form of CMV prophylaxis or treatment after transplant. Current options for prophylaxis and treatment are limited especially in the case of resistant disease, and feature significant adverse effects. Maribavir, as the first therapy approved for refractory/resistant CMV in this population, represents a novel and potentially practice-changing option. Evaluating the role of maribavir within current management strategies is essential to optimize patient outcomes, address therapeutic gaps, and inform future clinical decision-making.

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-074-L01-P/T
Date: 10/03/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

   

Title: Low-Dose Paralysis in the PICU: Targeted Therapy or Trouble?
 
Faculty:
Meron Mitiku, PharmD
PGY-1 Pharmacy Pediatric Resident
Dell Children's Medical Center at The University of Texas
 
Disclosure: Dr. Meron Mitiku does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the pathophysiology of neuromuscular blocking agents and their role in the PICU
  • Explain the rationale behind controversy on utilizing targeted versus low doses among pediatric patients
  • Summarize the current guidelines and institutional protocols for the use of paralytic agents in pediatric populations
  • Evaluate various clinical trials pertaining to NMBAs among patients in the PICU at varying doses
  • Develop evidence based algorithms based on collected data from various studies
Gap Analysis:
The topic being presented was submitted by a pharmacy specialist(s) in their area of expertise and has been deemed relevant & important to pharmacy practice The use of low dose neuromuscular blocking agents among pediatric patients have gained traction throughout the years. Currently, there is controversy surrounding their use as low dose paralytic agents within critical care patients. Data on this topic is limited, resulting in a lack of consensus on which doses are most safe and efficacious for patients within the PICU. Many argue for low dose agents while others may see benefit in full paralysis. This presentation provides insight on both regimens and concludes which may be the preferred method for PICU patients.

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-075-L01-P/T
Date: 10/03/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

 

   

Date: 10/10/25
Time: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
   

   

Title: Pharmacologic therapies for neurologic recovery/awakening in non-traumatic brain injury
 
Faculty:
 
Kaelin F. Randle
PGY-1 HSPAL Resident, Ascension
Disclosure: Dr. Randle does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Distinguish the pathophysiology and clinical outcomes of traumatic versus non-traumatic brain injury
  • Discuss the roles of key neurotransmitter systems in regulation arousal and consciousness
  • Critique the evidence base for amantadine, methylphenidate, and modafinil in disorders of consciousness
  • Describe pharmacological strategies to optimize management of NTBI-related disorders of consciousness
 
Gap: While neurostimulants such as amantadine, methylphenidate, and modafinil are increasingly used to promote recovery in patients with disorders of consciousness, the available literature remains limited and fragmented, particularly in non-traumatic brain injury (NTBI). Most randomized controlled trials have been conducted in traumatic brain injury, leaving ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and anoxic brain injury comparatively underexplored. Existing studies often vary in timing of initiation, dosing strategies, and outcome measures, with many focusing only on short-term improvements in arousal rather than long-term functional recovery or quality of life.  Comparative effectiveness data across agents are lacking, and combination or sequential strategies have not been evaluated. In addition, safety reporting is inconsistent, and no standardized monitoring or patient selection criteria exist to guide clinical decision-making. These gaps underscore the importance of critically reviewing the available evidence to identify where these agents may provide benefit, highlight limitations in current practice, and stimulate discussion on how future studies can better inform patient care. This presentation aims to address that need by synthesizing the best evidence currently available and considering its implications for NTBI management in critical care and rehabilitation settings.

Activity Number

0067-0000-25-078-L01-P/T
Date: 10/10/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

   

Date: 10/10/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 10/22/25
Time: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 10/24/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 10/24/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 11/07/25
Time: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
   

   

Date: 11/07/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 11/07/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 11/11/25
Time: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 11/14/25
Time: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
   

   

Date: 11/14/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 11/14/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 11/21/25
Time: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
   

   

Date: 11/21/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 11/21/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 12/12/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 12/12/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 12/19/25
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 12/19/25
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 01/16/26
Time: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
   

   

Date: 01/16/26
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 01/16/26
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

 

   

Date: 01/23/26
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

   

Date: 01/23/26
Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
   

   

   

   

   



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Education Disclaimer
The author(s) of this continuing education activity have made reasonable efforts to ensure that all information contained herein is accurate in accordance with the latest available scientific evidence at the time of publication. However, because information regarding medications, treatment guidelines, and other healthcare information is subject to constant change, the participant is advised to always confirm practice resources before applying any learned information in practice. Activities produced by UT Continuing Pharmacy Education are intended solely to supplement health care professionals’ knowledge. The opinions expressed in this educational activity are those of the faculty and do not necessarily represent the views of The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy.
 
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