Evolution of Functional Pharmacy & Supportive Conferences | TWIRx

Friday, November 13, 2026

The Future of Pharmacy: Clinical Innovation, Closures & a New Kind of Conference

Welcome to This Week in Pharmacy, where we bring you the headlines, innovations, and conversations shaping the future of pharmacy care.

Today's episode is sponsored by Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), supporting the strength and sustainability of independent community pharmacies, and Finch Marketing, helping pharmacy businesses communicate their value, strengthen their brands, and connect with their communities.

This week, we're covering major FDA safety developments, the continued disappearance of community pharmacies, a potentially transformative Medicare payment model, and two important new drug approvals.

Then we're joined by a true pioneer in functional pharmacy, Robert Kress, RPh, to discuss a new kind of pharmacy conference and why the future of the profession may depend on rethinking how pharmacists learn, collaborate, and practice.

Segment 1 — Vox Top 5 Pharmacy News

1. FDA Adds New GLP-1 Safety Warnings

The FDA is requiring updated labeling for GLP-1 receptor agonists, including medications used for diabetes and obesity, over a potential increased risk of a rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, or NAION.

An FDA review of 126 clinical trials identified 6.4 cases per 100,000 patient-years among GLP-1 users versus 3.8 among comparator patients.

The condition can cause sudden, painless vision loss. Although the absolute risk is low, pharmacists must be prepared to counsel patients, recognize symptoms, and coordinate timely medical evaluation.

Source: FDA Drug Safety Communication