DOCTOR PROFILE
About Dr. Christine Leduc, Pharm. D.
Dr. Christine Leduc, Pharm. D. was born and raised in Irvine, CA. She attended college at Midwestern University, where she graduated cum laude. The most rewarding part of her job is suggesting lifestyle changes, educating patients on how their medication works, and precepting future pharmacists. Her areas of expertise are customer service and knowledge of specialty medication. Having worked in the service industry in the past, she has gained the customer service skills necessary to understand the needs of her patients. Dr. Leduc is currently precepting students from Marshall B. Ketchum University, University of Kansas, and Midwestern University. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, baking, and gardening.
Articles by Dr. Christine Leduc, Pharm. D.
Central Line TPN Guidelines for Healthcare Professionals and Patients
If you or your loved one requires total parenteral nutrition or TPN for a long period of time, your healthcare provider will order TPN nutrients to be administered through a central line, also known as the central venous catheter (CVC), into your body. A central line or central venous catheter (CVC) is a soft, thin, and flexible hollow tube that is inserted in a large vein, usually the veins located near the neck or chest. Unlike a regular IV tube, a central line tube is much longer and can stay in place for a month to several years. Furthermore, large amounts of fluids can be delivered easily through a central line, which would not be possible through peripheral catheters.
Clinimix vs. TPN: How Are They Different?
Clinimix is a preformulated total parenteral nutrition (TPN) intravenous formula. It provides nutritional support to patients who are unable to obtain adequate nutrients orally due to gastrointestinal dysfunction or other illnesses. The purpose of TPN is to fulfill the nutritional requirements of patients. TPNs can differ in their composition and storage requirements. This article discusses the key differences between Clinimix and a customized TPN and when each type of formula is suitable for patients.
Are IVIG Products Interchangeable?
Though intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) products are equally efficacious, and all work to normalize the overactive or compromised immune system, they are not interchangeable, unlike typical generic drugs. Every IVIG brand is different in terms of composition, purification, and approved treatment for different medical conditions.
Considering IVIG for Polymyositis? Here’s What You Need to Know
A growing number of medical literature suggests the use of IVIG for polymyositis. IVIG may be particularly beneficial in chronic, treatment-resistant cases. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are the first-line treatment for polymyositis (PM). However, they may cause severe side effects. Moreover, many patients fail to improve with these treatments. Therefore, your doctor may consider intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
AIDP vs. CIDP: Unraveling the Similarities and Differences
Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) are both neurological disorders in which the body’s immune system attacks its own nerves and can lead to paralysis. While both disorders have similar symptoms, they differ in duration and progression. Understanding the differences can be crucial for your treatment of these disorders.
Surgery for Myasthenia Gravis: Understanding the Benefits and Potential Risks
Surgery for myasthenia gravis—thymectomy—may be an option if your symptoms are caused by an enlarged thymus. It is the standard treatment if you have a thymus tumor (thymoma). The thymus gland produces infection-fighting white blood cells called T cells, and the gland plays a pivotal role in the development of myasthenia gravis (MG) [1]. In a minority of people with MG, the thymus produces antibodies directed against acetylcholine receptors in the muscles. As a result, the muscles cannot contract as usual, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.