Congress: No More Scribbled Scrips, Doc

Docs warn trend could cause health care time bomb

(NEWSER) - Cash-strapped consumers nationwide are risking their health by cutting back on prescription drugs, the New York Times reports. Some try to stretch out their supply by splitting their pills in half or taking them every other day. Others choose for themselves which medications to stop taking, increasing the chances of serious—and costly—health problems in the future. More»

Deal for developing nations first blow by Dems in Congress

(NEWSER) - Congress and the White House have agreed to give developing nations more access to affordable generic drugs by easing some patent enforcement rules. Tucked into a broader trade agreement passed last week, the provision is the first blow to American pharmaceutical companies since the Democrats won control of Congress, the Wall Street Journal reports. More»

Prescription labels, doctor's cues can trigger symptoms

(NEWSER) - Ignorance truly is bliss when it comes to prescription drugs. The side effects listed on warning labels have a self-fulfilling quality, researchers tell the Wall Street Journal. People sensitive to this "nocebo effect" should think twice before reading that their pills can cause nausea, vomiting, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. For many, merely knowing about those symptoms can prompt them. More»

Lousy rapport impairs treatment, survey finds

(NEWSER) - Odds are you're annoying your doctor, according to a Canadian study that asked nearly 300 physicians about their daily frustrations. As the Globe and Mail reports, many had difficulty establishing rapports with patients, who routinely resisted or flouted their advice —which can lead to patient safety problems. “When you have patients that can't communicate, there's going to be a big issue,” said one of the study’s authors. More»

If trained professionals won't use them, why would you?

(NEWSER) - Some drugs have such serious drawbacks that even doctors won’t take them, Men’s Health reports. The big eight:

• Advair: Can actually increase the severity of asthma attacks
• Avandia: Diabetes drug carries risk of heart attack