TalkWhat We’re Talking About This Week
This week, we’re talking about science. Or rather, since this is a Week of Science, I’m only reporting on the science gossip over by the water cooler.
The development of a noninvasive test for fetal abnormalities. Here’s Medscape’s coverage, if you’ve got access.
The new screening recommendations for Down syndrome, what causes Down syndrome (trisomy 21), and why the occurence of trisomy 21 increases with maternal age. (My friend who just turned 40 is pregnant with her first child!)
FDA’s approval for over-the-counter sales of Alli (a.k.a. Xenical). Interesting that the OTC brand name sounds like your, you know, best girlfriend.
Technorati Tags: prenatal screening, down syndrome, weight loss drugs, alli, xenical, trisomy 21, nuchal cord screening, ultrasound
February 15th, 2007 at 12:29 pm
So I see you say you are talking about Alli. As professionals in the field, do you feel that it is safe? I read the manufacturer’s website, http://www.myalli.com and they talk about the side effects, and mention that they are preventable, but from a professional opinion, is this something that women should put into their body? I look forward to a reply. Gail
February 16th, 2007 at 12:04 pm
Hi Gail, I’m not a doctor so I can’t provide a professional perspective. As a woman and a health advocate, however, I am wary of the way in which pharmaceuticals such as Alli get marketed to consumers. The ad campaigns will, inevitably, appeal to the emotions of their target market — women — not their sensibilities. And yet, sensibility should be used to determine when and for whom this medication is appropriate. The brand name is the first step in marketing. Does “Alli” sound like a medication or drug (i.e., Xenical), or does it sound safe, friendly?
Ultimately, it’s every women’s choice what she puts into her body and it’s her responsibility to make an educated, not just emotional, decision. When it comes to weight loss, there are no magic pills. There is no silver bullet. All medications come with risks and benefits. In addition, each individual metabolizes drugs uniquely (See Factors That Affect Drug Response). If you’re seriously considering Alli, talk with your doctor and your pharmacist.