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.

Acupuncture needles

So-Called Alternative Medicine

Edzard Ernst calls it "So-Called Alternative Medicine". This insider's view of SCAM is a new book from an prolific researcher and author.

/ June 14, 2018

Are generic drugs equivalent to brand-name drugs?

Generic drugs cost a fraction of brand-name drugs. What gives us confidence they are equivalent? Science.

/ May 31, 2018

The Supreme Court of Canada orders a new trial for parents convicted in Ezekiel Stephan’s death

The Supreme Court of Canada has ordered a new trial for David and Collet Stephan, who had been convicted in the meningitis death of their son. The Stephans say they're vindicated. The facts say otherwise.

/ May 17, 2018

Five steps to add ten years to your life expectancy

A new study identifies five lifestyle decisions that can add over a decade to your life expectancy.

/ May 3, 2018

How rabid dog saliva became an approved and endorsed remedy in Canada

A recent blog post by a British Columbia naturopath is raising questions from health professionals about the practice of naturopathy, and the use of homeopathic remedies to treat children with serious behaviour problems.

/ April 19, 2018

St. John’s Wort for depression – A herbal remedy that works?

St. John's wort is a herbal remedy that appears to be effective for the treatment of depression. But how does it compare to antidepressants?

/ April 5, 2018

PSA Screening for Prostate Cancer

PSA testing is controversial. A new study finds that PSA screening for prostate cancer offers no survival benefits.

/ March 22, 2018

It doesn’t have to hurt: Strategies to reduce vaccine pain

To address anti-vaccine views, try to understand the underlying motives for these perspectives. Some reject vaccines because of underlying fears of the pain of vaccination. Several strategies can effectively decrease vaccine pain.

/ March 8, 2018

Are we all contaminated with chemical toxins?

Are we all being gradually poisoned by environmental toxins? And what is the evidence for detoxification kits and cleanses?

/ February 22, 2018

Anti-vaccine sentiment associated with belief in conspiracy theories

A recent survey examined the relationship between opposition to vaccines, belief in conspiracy theories, and other factors. The results suggest that we may need to modify how we address concerns about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.

/ February 8, 2018