Your kidneys are an important organ, they are responsible for filtering waste and excess water from your blood, as well as maintaining your bodies fluid and pH balance and producing some hormones. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and lupus can lead to kidney damage, leading to kidney disease later in life. When a person’s kidneys begin to fail, dialysis is often scheduled to assist the kidneys. There are two different kinds of dialysis; Hemodialysis and Peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis takes place by having a machine, called a dialyzer, remove blood from your body, filter it, and return the cleaned blood back to your body. Peritoneal dialysis differs from hemodialysis in that it doesn’t filter the blood by removing it from your body, but through your abdomen. Some patients like peritoneal dialysis for the convenience, as it can be done at home, work, or while traveling without the need to visit a dialysis center regularly.

Transplant

Kidney transplant is the preferred treatment for patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Patients have demonstrated improved long-term survival when placed on a transplant list compared to patients who stay on dialysis. In fact, those who undergo transplantation experience better Quality of Life (QOL) and have a projected survival benefit of 10 years over those on dialysis. There are two types of kidney transplants: Living donor and Deceased donor. A deceased donor kidney comes from someone who has died and chosen to donate one to someone in need, where a living donor kidney comes from a healthy person who is still alive. Living donor kidneys aren’t as common as deceased donor kidneys, but they last on average longer than deceased donor kidneys (15-20 years vs. 7-10 years). Talk with your transplant team to see which options are right for you.

Management of Kidney Transplantation

Although there are many benefits of kidney transplantation, receiving a donor kidney doesn’t “Cure” a patient’s kidney disease, and success long term depends on many variables. One of the biggest risks to a new transplanted kidney is rejection. Rejection happens when your body’s immune system recognizes a transplanted organ as foreign from the rest of your body and attacks it. Healthcare providers reduce rejection risk with the help of immunosuppression medication like Steroids (prednisone), Tacrolimus, and Mycophenolate, all available at Rx Outreach. One of the most important responsibilities you will have post-transplant is to follow a medication regimen prescribed by your transplant team. These anti-rejection medications help to reduce the risk of your body rejecting a transplanted organ, and must be taken at the same time every day to ensure the medication levels in your body is maintained! Some side effects of anti-rejection medications include an elevated blood glucose, high blood pressure, nephrotoxicity (toxic to kidneys), increased cancer risk, and a decrease in your ability to fight infections. Some foods can interact with immunosuppression medication levels, such as grapefruit, pomegranate, pomelo, blood orange, and black licorice. It’s best to avoid these foods as they could dangerously increase the amount of anti-rejection medication in your body and cause dangerous side effects.

Hydration and diet

Hydration is very important following a successful kidney transplant. It’s suggested to drink 2-3 liters (8.5 cups, or 68 ounces) of water per day. It’s important to keep track of the fluids you choose since some (e.g., caffeinated drinks) can actually dehydrate you, so ease up on the coffee and double down on that H2O! Maintaining a balanced healthy diet is also important after a transplant, since some of the anti-rejection medications can cause an unwanted increase in bodyweight (Prednisone). Post-transplant, you should have fewer dietary restrictions than when you were on dialysis, and a heart-healthy diet low in sodium & fat is often recommended by transplant teams.

Elevated blood glucose

Some of the medications prescribed after a transplant (like Prednisone, Tacrolimus, and Mycophenolate) can make it harder for your body to control blood sugar. Up to one in three people will develop some high blood sugar levels post-transplant. Oftentimes this is temporary, however for some it’s not, and can develop into something called Post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM). Having PTDM after a transplant can increase the risk of infections, cardiovascular complications, and organ rejection. Because of this, it’s important to monitor and manage your blood glucose levels closely with your team after a kidney transplant until you know how your medications affect you, and anytime your transplant team adjusts or changes your anti-rejection regimen/dose.

Cancer prevention

Patients who receive kidney transplants have an increased risk of developing cancers, up to 4 times higher during the first two years following the transplant due to the anti-rejection medications. The most common types of cancers following a kidney transplant are some skin cancers, lymphoma, and breast cancer. As a result, current clinical guidelines for kidney transplant recipients include monthly self-skin examinations, as well as annual total body examination by a dermatologist. It’s important to wear sunscreen and long sleeves to protect your skin and reduce your skin cancer risk. Your team may recommend other cancer screenings such as cervical, prostate, and breast cancer screening depending on your age, sex, and other conditions.

Labwork

Causes of kidney allograft dysfunction that requires rapid intervention are more common in the first few days to weeks, so early monitoring is crucial to the long-term health of the transplant. Common labs to check include drug levels, Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP), blood glucose, urinalysis, and electrolytes. All these tests help your transplant team know the health of your new kidney is, so It’s important to do every test recommended by your team.

Post Written By: Zach McNealy, University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy (St. Louis)

Each February, American Heart Month brings much-needed attention to the nation’s number one killer: heart disease. One in four deaths in the USA is caused by heart disease Despite advances in medical science, heart disease remains a leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. American Heart Month aims to address the lack of awareness by getting us all thinking about the small ways in which we can keep our hearts healthy. Let’s dive into the essentials of heart disease and how to take steps toward a stronger, healthier heart.

What Is Heart Disease?

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The most common type is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks and strokes.

Other forms of heart disease include:

• Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms.
• Heart Failure: When the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
• Heart Valve Disease: Malfunction of one or more heart valves.

Congenital Heart Defects: Heart abnormalities present at birth.

Key Risk Factors for Heart Disease

While some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be controlled, many others are preventable or manageable. Major risk factors include:

1. High Blood Pressure: Often called the "silent killer," uncontrolled blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease.
2. High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.
3. Smoking: Tobacco use damages blood vessels and significantly raises the risk of heart disease.
4. Diabetes: Poorly managed blood sugar levels can harm blood vessels and the heart.
5. Obesity: Excess weight puts added strain on the heart and increases the likelihood of high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol issues.
6. Sedentary Lifestyle: A lack of physical activity weakens the heart and contributes to other risk factors.
7. Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars can increase the risk of heart disease.
8. Stress: Chronic stress and poor stress management can negatively impact heart health.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Recognizing the warning signs of heart disease or a heart attack can save lives. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
• Shortness of breath.
• Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
• Nausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweats.

Important: Women may experience more subtle symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, or back pain. Always consult a healthcare provider if you notice these signs.

Taking Control: Steps to Prevent Heart Disease

The good news is that many cases of heart disease are preventable. Here are some actionable steps you can take to improve your heart health:

1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet:
   • Choose whole, nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
   • Limit saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.
   • Incorporate heart-healthy fats from sources like nuts, seeds, and fish.
   • Find heart-healthy diets here on www.millionhearts.hhs.gov
2. Stay Physically Active:
   • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.
   • Include strength training activities to build muscle and support overall health.
3. Quit Smoking:
   • If you smoke, seek resources and support to help you quit. The benefits to your heart begin almost immediately after quitting.
4. Monitor Your Numbers:
   • Regularly check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. Partner with your doctor to address any issues early.
5. Manage Stress:
   • Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
   • Set aside time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
6. Get Regular Checkups:

Preventive care is key. Schedule annual visits with your healthcare provider to assess your heart health and discuss any concerns.

How can RX OUTREACH help you:

All your cardiovascular medications are available at Rx Outreach at reasonable costs, particularly when taking the drugs as prescribed, which is crucial to managing this long-term illness.

Post Written by: Jaelyn Peebles, MPH, Rx Outreach

References:

• The American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org
• World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases
• The Heart Foundation: https://theheartfoundation.org
• dnaweekly.com
• Motlohi, N.F., Wiafe, E., Mensah, K.B. et al. A systematic review of the role of community pharmacists in the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases: the perceptions of patients. Syst Rev 12, 160 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-023-02338-7

Welcome!

For many people, the cost of prescription medications is more than just a financial burden—it’s a barrier that stands between them and their health. With skyrocketing prices and limited insurance coverage, countless individuals are forced to go without the essential medications they need. At Rx Outreach, we believe that healthcare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their income. Our mission is to ensure that no one has to choose between paying for prescriptions and meeting other basic needs. In this post, we’ll share how we’re transforming lives by providing access to affordable, high-quality medications to those who need them most.

Who We Are

Rx Outreach is a nonprofit pharmacy dedicated to making medications affordable and accessible for individuals and families who might otherwise struggle to get the care they need. Our purpose is simple yet impactful: to enhance equitable health outcomes for the people of our nation through patient advocacy, community partnerships, and affordable medications. We strive to be a trusted resource for those with limited access to essential medications and health resources.

Our promise is straightforward—we pledge to assist patients, prescribers, and partners in reducing financial, geographic, and social barriers to health. Many are dealing with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, mental health issues, or substance use disorders. For them, getting access to essential medications is not only about managing a condition—it’s about improving their quality of life, maintaining stability, and, in many cases, enabling them to survive and thrive.

І “This Pharmacy Experience has changed my way of getting my prescription filled. It is so easy and helpful to have everything at one central location. The staff are wonderful and helpful with all your questions and needs. The savings are really great, so give them a call and see if it will work for your pharmacy needs.” І

Why Rx Outreach Matters
The need for affordable medications is critical—especially as healthcare costs continue to rise across the U.S. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans have reported not filling a prescription due to cost, which can lead to worsened health outcomes and increased medical costs in the long term (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2022). This situation is particularly troubling for those managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and mental health disorders, where ongoing access to medication is crucial for maintaining stability. According to the CDC, nearly 50% of people with chronic illnesses do not take their medications as prescribed due to financial constraints (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Rx Outreach exists to reduce these barriers, ensuring that people can afford and receive their essential medications. Through our services, we help to alleviate the stress of rising healthcare costs and empower individuals to manage their health effectively.

By the Numbers

• 500K+ Patients served since 2010
• Over $1B Saved on medications
• Nearly 4M Prescriptions Filled
• Access to Over 950 Medications covering most chronic conditions
• Shipping and Service to all 50 states and major U.S. territories

The Impact of Our Work

Every day, we hear from patients whose lives have been transformed through our services. From aging adults managing multiple medications to eliminating transportation barriers for a family facing the challenge of chronic illness, the work we do is changing lives in ways that go beyond the medications themselves.

We invite you to hear firsthand how Rx Outreach is making a difference by watching our CEO, Roy Whitley, and our Director of Development, Katy Robertson, share our mission on Show Me St. Louis, during Giving Week.

І Watch the video here

At Rx Outreach, we believe that healthcare is about more than just medications—it’s about making it possible for individuals to live better, healthier lives despite the barriers they may face. Through patient advocacy, community partnerships, and our commitment to reducing financial, geographic, and social barriers to health, we are working to enhance equitable health outcomes for all.

Post Written by: Jaelyn Peebles, MPH, Rx Outreach

Citations:
Kaiser Family Foundation. (2022). Prescription drug costs and access in the U.S. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Chronic disease and health promotion. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov.