8.1 Dr Laurence Gray - The Dose Maketh the Poison
With Dr Laurence Gray we explore the vital topic of toxicity — from the dangers of medicines such as propranolol, to the principles of managing patients exposed to toxic substances, and the crucial role of healthcare professional education in reducing harm
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Laurence Gray, Consultant Clinical Pharmacologist and Director of the National Poisons Information Service (NPIS) in Cardiff. We explore the vital topic of toxicity — from the dangers of medicines such as propranolol, to the principles of managing patients exposed to toxic substances, and the crucial role of healthcare professional education in reducing harm. Drawing on insights from the research, pharmacology and his extensive clinical experience, Dr Gray offers a compelling perspective on how toxicity impacts patients and healthcare systems alike.
⚠️ Listener Notice: This episode includes discussion of how some medicines can be involved in deliberate overdoses. We recognise this may be a sensitive topic, so please listen with care and at your own pace.
We continue the theme with our micro-discussion, when we look at the paper Poisoning in adolescents in the UK: a review of enquiries to the National Poisons Information Service: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40121012/ We also heavily reference The problem of propranolol poisoning https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40611599/. How has such a common drug often thought of as relatively safe become such a growing issue?
As with all of our guests, Laurence shares with us his Memory Evoking Medicine, a career anthem and book that has influenced his life. Some very personal and thoughtful choices. Please follow us on LinkedIn! Let us know what you think https://www.linkedin.com/company/auralapothecary/
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From Prescription to Ocean — A TEDx Talk by Jamie Hayes We’re incredibly proud to share that Aural Apothecary co-host Jamie Hayes has taken to the TEDx stage with a thought-provoking talk: Prescription to Ocean: The Hidden Impact of Medicines https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swCLNaAG5qY Jamie explores a fascinating and urgent question: What happens to our medicines once they leave the prescription pad — and how do they impact the world beyond the patient? It’s a journey that connects healthcare, the environment, and our shared responsibility for the future. You’ll never think about prescribing (or taking) medicines in quite the same way again. Please take a few minutes to watch, reflect, and share — this is a conversation worth having.