Rare Diseases

In this episode of Unscripted – The AMCP Podcast, guest host Steve Kheloussi, PharmD, MBA, FAMCP, principal consultant at Kheloussi Consulting, speaks with Amy Lugo, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, FAPhA, FAMCP, founder and CEO of LoneStar Health Solutions, about the evolving treatment landscape for narcolepsy. The discussion explores the burden of delayed diagnosis, the real-world impact of excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy, and how treatment may shift from symptom management toward addressing the underlying disease process. Steve and Amy also examine formulary considerations, patient-reported outcomes, utilization management challenges, and how managed care organizations can balance access, value, and patient-centered care as new therapies enter the market. This activity is supported by an independent medical education grant from Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. AMCP offers CPE for this podcast through June 30, 2027.

What happens when a diagnosis is delayed—not because symptoms aren’t there, but because they don’t fit expectations? In this episode of Unscripted, guest host Steve Kheloussi, PharmD, MBA, FAMCP, speaks with Blair and Dallas Burleson about delayed MS diagnosis, the realities of living with an unpredictable disease, and the impact on caregivers. The conversation also examines where managed care can better support patients—through more flexible, individualized access to treatment and a clearer understanding of real-world patient needs.