Editorial: Opinions and Convictions: Who are you?

An "opinion" is defined as a view, judgment, or appraisal formed in the mind about a particular matter; a belief stronger than an impression and less strong than positive knowledge; a generally held or popular view. Opinions frequently change.

A "conviction" is a fixed or strong belief. Convictions rarely change.

I have heard it said that "You may have an opinion, but a conviction has you."

I bring this up because we are in the midst of a presidential campaign. The airways are filled with "opinions" and "promises"; most of which will never come to fruition. What we need are candidates with "convictions and plans" that tell us who they are and what they will do if elected, rather than the rhetoric of opinions that sway with the wind (or audience) to the point we have no idea what they really stand for. How often must a candidate change their mind before we realize they are more interested in getting elected than being a public servant? It's like paying money for a "grab bag" at a department store; sometimes you are pleasantly surprised, but, sometimes you are disappointed or get something you really didn't want.

We still have the best system in the world, but some changes are needed to get back to the foundations upon which America was built. We may become so diversified that we no longer stand for anything; at that point, we have many opinions but no convictions.


Loyd V. Allen, Jr., PhD, RPh
Editor-in-Chief

Those listings in bold are regular advertisers and supporters of the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding.

All procainamide hydrochloride oral formulations (Pronestyl, Procanbid, generics) are no longer manufactured; once current supplies are exhausted, no more will be available.

Dictionary of Pharmacy
Worthen DB
Binghamton, NY: Pharmaceutical Heritage Editions; 2004

"A thorough and comprehensive compilation of information for all areas of practice, from professional pharmacy students through specialized practitioners. Easy to use and of definite value for all who own it."

This dictionary is dedicated to pharmacy students and practicing pharmacists for their work to ensure positive medication outcomes in the patients they serve. This well-organized guide defines all of the jargon surrounding this ever-evolving field of pharmacy. In addition to a complete A-Z listing of definitions, you'll find:

• Abbreviations
• Latin/Greek terms
• Weights and measures
• List of professional associations and organizations
• Lists of colleges of pharmacy in the United States and schools of pharmacy (and their faculties) in Canada
• APhA's Code of Ethics and Principles of Practice for Pharmaceutical Care
• AACP's Pledge of Professionalism and Pharmacist's Oath

According to the NCPA, about 70% of independent pharmacies offer compounding services. In addition to their data, almost ALL hospitals and many chain store pharmacies compound. The contribution of pharmacy compounding to patient care is significant!

Computer Checkup Time!
With what frequency are your computers checked for viruses, spam, ads, etc.? Also, how often are they "serviced" by qualified technicians? It's good practice to have your computers properly serviced at least every six months for updates, cleaning, and other items needing attention so they can run faster and save time. Contract with a good computer company and stick with them. They will generally be of great assistance when an unforeseen disaster occurs.