2019 December

December 20, 2019 By admin

Before you can begin your formal training to become a pharmacist, Marla Ahlgimm says you might have to take the PCAT. But what is it? And do I really have to take it to get into college? Ahlgrimm answers these questions and more in today’s brief Q&A.

Q: What is the PCAT?

Marla Ahlgrimm: The PCAT is a test designed to determine the abilities of a potential pharmacy school student. It is reviewed periodically by deans, working pharmacists, and other industry professionals to determine if the information contained within it is still relevant. Takers can expect to be given just more than two hours to take the test, which is comprised of nearly 200 questions; a short essay question is also included.

December 15, 2019 By admin

In the following brief blog, Marla Ahlgrimm answers questions about hormones and how they play a role in our mood.

Q: What are hormones?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Hormones are best thought of as chemical messengers. They are released by different glands and travel through the blood telling our brain and body how to feel, how to react, and how to grow.

Q: Are hormones responsible for moodiness during a woman’s menstrual cycle?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Absolutely. Women’s hormones are a fickle beast, and the majority of women of childbearing age experience fluctuating hormones at least once each month. Although PMS is not fully understood, rising, dropping, and shifting hormones are at least, in part, responsible for triggering moodiness about a week before a woman starts her period.

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