614 - Wash Your Stupid Nutz
Weird Medicine: The Podcast
Deep Dive
Why is the FDA proposing to ban phenylephrine from over-the-counter decongestants?
Phenylephrine has been shown to be ineffective as a decongestant, and its risks outweigh the benefits. It was introduced as a replacement for pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) after methamphetamine abuse became a concern, but it doesn't provide the same relief.
How do GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy potentially help with substance abuse?
GLP-1 medications reduce cravings for high-calorie foods and may also reduce cravings for opioids and alcohol by acting on receptors in the brain. A study showed a 40% lower risk of opioid overdose and a 50% lower risk of alcohol intoxication in those taking these drugs.
What is Paragoric, and why is it controversial?
Paragoric is a derivative of opium used to treat diarrhea and teething pain. It was made a controlled substance due to abuse, as people were using it to smoke opium. It’s still available with a prescription, but safer alternatives like loperamide exist.
What is the new glioblastoma treatment that reduced a tumor by 50%?
A patient with glioblastoma underwent surgery to remove the tumor and had a device called an Omaya reservoir implanted. Low levels of radioactivity were injected into the tumor weekly for six weeks, reducing it by 50%. The treatment is still in phase one trials.
What causes exercise-induced urticaria, and is there a cure?
Exercise-induced urticaria, or cholinergic urticaria, causes hives and itching after exercise. It’s rare and has no cure, but treatments like fexofenadine (Allegra) or mast cell stabilizers like Montelukast can help manage symptoms.
Can humans be allergic to other humans?
While rare, humans can be allergic to other humans due to dander or body odor. Autoallergy, where people are allergic to parts of their own body, is also possible. Mast cell activation syndrome can cause people to be allergic to almost anything, including their own scent.
What is the BRCA gene, and how does it affect children?
The BRCA gene increases the risk of certain cancers. Each child of a parent with the BRCA mutation has a 50% chance of inheriting it. Early testing and surveillance can help manage the risk, but children should be tested when they’re older.
Why is there persistent neck inflammation after spinal surgery?
After neck surgery, scar tissue and muscle buildup can occur, causing inflammation. This is a protective response to stabilize the neck. Treatments like acupuncture, physical therapy, or steroid injections can help reduce the swelling.
- FDA plans to ban phenylephrine in decongestants.
- Phenylephrine is ineffective as a decongestant.
- Alternatives include topical nasal sprays and addressing underlying causes of congestion.
Shownotes Transcript