As science marches on, especially in the world of pharmaceuticals, everything new is hailed as tremendous stride forward.
But is it?
As reported in a March 30, 2009 Associated Press news story, the new “poly-pill” combines aspirin with four blood pressure and cholesterol lowering medications, resulting in a single, multi-purpose, one-size-fits-most pill that promises all sorts of benefits based on initial clinical trials.
Proponents of the new poly-poll, now awaiting FDA approval, say it will lower costs, make heart disease preventative medication more widely available, and has psychological advantages, because four prescriptions bundled into one, relieve the “pill burden” of taking multiple medications.
This may sound reasonable, especially if you subscribe to the disease-model of health care, which boils down to; 1) diagnose the disease, and; 2) prescribe the drug, and; 3) let the drug take care of the problem. But it’s not that simple.
While some drugs save lives, the VAST MAJORITY of people taking cholesterol and blood pressure lowering drugs, could easily produce the same result for themselves with simple diet, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, without risking the inevitable side effects of the drugs, which may include impotence, heart arrhythmia, and muscle pain and weakness, just to name a few.
Furthermore, the one-pill-fits-most approach arbitrarily assumes everyone who takes aspirin, and/or blood pressure medication, and/or cholesterol-lowering medication, has the exact same medical condition, and should be prescribed the exact same four-drug mix. This, of course, is wildly absurd.
I do agree with the spokesman for the American College of Cardiology, who, commenting on the drug, said, "President Obama is trying to offer the greatest care to the greatest number. This very much fits in with that." And of course, he is right.
If Poly-Pill wins FDA approval, this four-drug cocktail will no doubt become the poster-child drug-of-choice that will, in the name of prevention, be indiscriminately recommended, and widely prescribed to anyone with even the slightest elevation in blood pressure or cholesterol.
I won’t even mention the fact that research proves cholesterol medication does not stop the advance of arterial plaque build up, and blood pressure medication does not help the body function better on it’s own; it just artificially lowers blood pressure, right along with libido, I might add.
The point is, because the drugs do nothing to improve natural function, people taking these medications are dependent on them, and usually stay on them for life. And eventually are prescribed more drugs to deal with the unavoidable side effects.
There is no solution here other than knowledge. And to assist you with that knowledge, you may find these items of particular interest.
First: This link takes you to an article I wrote about prescription drugs and your health.
If you, or anyone you care about, take prescription drugs, you may appreciate this information.
Second: In my book, 5 Steps To Optimal Health you learn how to reach a lean, healthy body weight, and improve your health in every way measurable, relying entirely on a natural approach to diet, nutrition and lifestyle.
Click Here To See The Order Page
Warning: Known side effects of applying the information in 5 Steps To Optimal Health may include; safe-lasting weight loss, higher energy, naturally lower blood pressure, naturally lower cholesterol; higher energy; fewer aches and pains; better sleep; and more.
Topics covered include . . .
Understanding Metabolism
How food affects hormones & how hormones affect your health
All about protein, carbohydrates and fat
Understanding cholesterol – You’ll be surprised!
Human Growth Hormone & Aging;
How To Stimulate Human Growth Hormone Naturally
Essential Nutrition – Which supplements are important and why
How to beat stress and overcome fatigue
What your body SHAPE tells you about your health
Secrets of safe-permanent weight loss
How to Eat For Optimal Health
Detoxification and Health
Discover the only REAL Fountain of Youth
Delicious Meals That Build Health & Vitality
Attitude Belief & Weight Loss
Much, Much, Much more.
In case you are interested…
Click Here To See The Order Page
Written by Dr. Russell J. Martino, Ph.D
The Voice Of Health
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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Dr. Martino,
My doctor has told me I need to be on blood pressure and cholesterol medication. As I read through this site, it seems like I might be able to manage this on my own. My levels were only slightly out of the normal range and I am very hesitant to start popping pills to manage my health!
I am going to give this program a try for the next six months and see if I can get these levels in a health range on my own. I will keep you updated on my progress.