>> A royal condition
>> Medication news: pluses and minuses
>> Alzheimer’s disease: possible benefits of lifestyle and drugs
The Med & Mic™ 2.5.24 – 2.9.24
A medical news blog post
from the author of “Scoop, MD”
This Week In Medical News
In high profile news…
King Charles Has Cancer
The 75-year-old British monarch has begun treatment for cancer. King Charles disclosed the diagnosis a week after having treatment for a benign enlarged prostate. The type of cancer has not been revealed, but announcements specify it is not prostate cancer. The king is postponing public facing duties, though he will continue with state business and official paperwork. He chose to share the information to encourage others to be proactive with their health. (CNN, L. Said-Moorhouse and M. Foster, 2.7.24)
In medication news…
Double Duty for Weight Loss Treatment
Effective treatment of obesity may improve heart health and blood pressure control. In two separate studies, blood pressure improved for people who took injections of a weight loss medication or had bariatric surgery. (CNN, M. Cheng, 2.5.24)
Persistent ADHD Medication Shortage
High demand for ADHD drugs coupled with restricted output has fueled a nationwide shortage, leaving many people frustrated and skipping doses. Adderall, Focalin, Ritalin, and Vyvanse are some of the medicines for ADHD that have been in short supply, some as far back as 2022. Regulatory and supply chain issues may be contributing to the problem. (NBC News, B. Lovelace, Jr, 2.6.24)
In Alzheimer’s disease news…
Alzheimer’s Disease, Diet, and Brain Function
A nutritious diet, regular exercise, and low alcohol intake could still be of benefit even if the signs of Alzheimer’s are already present. In an autopsy study, researchers analyzed the brains of 586 people and correlated 24 years of lifestyle data. For every one-point increase in healthy lifestyle, there was a 0.120 unit decrease in the amount of beta-amyloid in the brain and higher scores on thinking and memory tests by 0.22 points. The observational study cannot show cause and effect. (CNN, S. LaMotte, 2.5.24)
Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Linked to Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s
People who were prescribed erectile dysfunction drugs were 18% less likely to be diagnosed with Alheimer’s disease compared to people who weren’t. It’s possible the drugs improve brain health by increasing blood flow to the brain. (Forbes, A. Johnson, 2.7.23)
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.