The People's Pharmacy

This week, the topic is lead. A hundred years ago, chemists discovered that adding lead to gasoline decreased engine knock and gave the cars of the day more power. It remained a popular additive for decades. At the same time, companies were adding lead to house paint to help it last longer. We know now […]

This week, two scientists discuss the evidence on using vitamin C to treat colds and as part of the treatment for cancer. For years, the medical establishment has maintained that such claims could not be considered seriously. But new studies vindicate Linus Pauling, the Nobel Prize winner who postulated that vitamin C would help. You […]

In this week’s episode, find out what everyone gets wrong about weight loss. Why don’t diet and exercise work very well? Do official guidelines and weight loss drugs offer a clearer path to success? Health Consequences of Excess Weight: With nearly three-fourths of American adults either overweight or obese, we can’t ignore the problem any […]

In this episode, investigative journalist Gardiner Harris delves into the dark secrets of one of the country’s most admired pharmaceutical firms. Johnson & Johnson sold talcum powder–Johnson’s Baby Powder–for decades even though it contained asbestos, an acknowledged carcinogen. How did the company maintain its superb reputation for so long? You could listen through your local […]

This week, Joe and Terry discuss liver health with two specialists. You may not have spent much time thinking about your liver. It is, however, an absolutely essential organ. When the liver is working properly, every part of the body gets the nutrients it needs and no parts are exposed to damaging toxins. These are […]

This week, a renowned neurosurgeon shares what he has learned in decades of working to restore ailing brains. His new book covers a vast range of neuroscience. Our dilemma was what to pay attention to in all those options. In a sense, that is always the human situation. We are capable of conscious processing of […]

In this engaging conversation with Dr. Mark Hyman, a leading functional medicine expert, listeners learn how to measure biological age versus chronological age. He shares vital insights on nutrition, advocating for the Mediterranean diet and its role in preventing chronic diseases. Hyman discusses the transformative power of functional medicine, emphasizing the need to address root causes of health issues. Practical tips on dietary strategies, including the importance of a nutritious breakfast and innovative recipes, make health both achievable and delicious.

David Nichols, an authority on hallucinogens from UNC Chapel Hill, and Matthew Johnson, a psychiatric researcher at Johns Hopkins, discuss the evolving landscape of psychedelic therapy. They explore how psychedelics like LSD, traditionally stigmatized, are now being researched for mental health treatment, including addiction and cancer-related distress. Notably, they highlight a modified LSD that lacks hallucinogenic effects but may enhance neuroplasticity. Their insights shed light on the potential revolution in mental health care through these once-taboo substances.

David Kaylie, a neuro-otologist at Duke Health, dives into the intricacies of dizziness and balance disorders. He explains the differences between vertigo and lightheadedness, exploring conditions like Menière disease and BPPV. Listeners learn about potential treatment options, including the Epley Maneuver and beta histine for Menière's. Personal stories from callers enrich the discussion, emphasizing the impact of these conditions on daily life. Kaylie also shares insights on managing symptoms and navigating communication with healthcare providers.

This week, two pharmacists describe why you should check with a pharmacist about possible problems when you combine supplements, herbs and medicines. In some cases, a supplement might interfere with your prescription drug. In other situations, an herb might slow metabolism of the medicine and increase the possibility of side effects. It’s better to know […]