We often hear or read criticism about the work of regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration. They are only human so sometimes mistakes are made. However, there is value in their work, as a frightening note in a recent issue of the New England Journal of Medicine highlights.
During the first half of 2008, a total of 150 non-diabetic individuals were admitted with severe hypoglycemia to local hospitals in Singapore. Seven of them remained comatose, and four subsequently died. Careful investigation revealed that 85% of these patients had glyburide in their blood. On specific questioning, 30% admitted to taking illegal sexual-enhancement drugs and herbal preparations that contained 2.5 to 20 times the standard dossage of glyburide for diabetics!
Positive Tip: When it comes to all medications (prescription or over-the-counter), don’t take chances. Make sure what you take is regulated and from a well known manufacturer.