Joe Schwarcz has done it again! His new book is not only packed with good science-based information, but is highly entertaining. Joe Schwarcz’s prolific output continues. His latest book is Science Goes Viral. It’s not actually out yet (I read an advance copy) but can be pre-ordered on the Amazon website. As usual,… read more "Science Goes Viral"
Are Muscle Relaxants an Effective Adjunct for Treating Acute Low Back Pain? Yes and No
The journal American Family Physician left me confused about adding muscle relaxants to analgesics for acute low back pain. One article says it isn’t effective, but another article in the same issue says it is. For 22 years, American Family Physician (the journal of the American Academy of Family Physicians) has been… read more "Are Muscle Relaxants an Effective Adjunct for Treating Acute Low Back Pain? Yes and No"
DNA Vibe Jazz Band
The DNA Vibe Jazz Band device promises to relieve pain and do other wonderful things. It has nothing to do with DNA, Jazz, or evidence. The ad says “Put it on, Turn it on, feel better. Guaranteed.” “Enjoy more of what you love.” “Reduce Pain, Speed Recovery, Improve Performance.” “Intelligent… read more "DNA Vibe Jazz Band"
Genetic Testing for Selection of Psychotropic Medications
GeneSight is a blood test to determine which neuropsychiatric medications are indicated for an individual based on genetic analysis. The test is expensive and not likely to be helpful for most patients. Patients who suffer from major depression and other neuropsychiatric conditions usually improve with medication, but about half of… read more "Genetic Testing for Selection of Psychotropic Medications"
Lumen’s Information Is Not So Illuminating
Lumen is a handheld device that you can supposedly use to “hack your metabolism”. The science behind it is not convincing. Users are essentially navel-gazing. An introductory video on the website for Lumen presents it as the first device for hacking your metabolism. They make a lot of claims that… read more "Lumen’s Information Is Not So Illuminating"
American Academy of Family Physicians Supports “Integrative Medicine”
Is integrative medicine “strong medicine”? I thought I could trust the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) to recommend the best medicine available. My family practice residency followed their philosophy. By learning what the AAFP taught I was able to pass the board certification exam with flying colors. Their flagship… read more "American Academy of Family Physicians Supports “Integrative Medicine”"
Misogyny in Medicine
Misogyny persists in clinical and academic medicine. We need to be aware of subtle micro aggressions and report abuses, but we mustn’t get carried away into paranoia and conspiracy theories. We should be guided by common sense and moderation in all things. In the June 17, 2021 issue of The New… read more "Misogyny in Medicine"
A New Covid-19 Myth?
A correspondent suggested I should have known that the pandemic was over months ago. That’s obviously a myth. But where did that idea come from? Everything I have been reading indicates that the pandemic is far from over. Around the world, people are still testing positive, being hospitalized, and dying.… read more "A New Covid-19 Myth?"
The First Woman Doctor in America
This book about the first woman doctor in America contains fascinating details about the Blackwell sisters, their struggles, and the times they lived in. Elizabeth Blackwell is to be commended for her accomplishments, but it appears that she was not a nice person. This is a review of the book The… read more "The First Woman Doctor in America"
InstaHard: Hard to Believe, Easy to Laugh At
InstaHard is advertised in a stupid video as a cure for erectile dysfunction and other sexual problems. The claims are unbelievable, but they are good entertainment; they made me laugh. Oh, no, not again! Yet another video promoting an untested mixture of dietary supplements. I’m not looking for these stupid… read more "InstaHard: Hard to Believe, Easy to Laugh At"