Naturalpath

Healthnotes Newswire (November 29, 2007)—Following reports of serious injuries and deaths in children treated with cold medicines, the health community and industry has waited expectantly for the US Food and Drug Administration to weigh in on the issue. The FDA’s announcement in August of its plans to conduct a hearing prompted many manufacturers to voluntarily remove children’s cold medicines from store shelves. Now, the much-anticipated hearing has led the FDA to conclude that, until more research is conducted that shows safety and efficacy, these medicines should not be given to children under two years old unless instructed by a healthcare provider.

Persistent concentrations of hormones, antidepressants, and antibiotics end up in our waterways and our drinking water according to the US Geological Survey<!--[if !supportFootnotes]-->Perhaps this is a cheap public health measure for keeping everyone healthy! Unfortunately, a recent study found that a mixture of 13 common medications found in drinking water inhibits cell growth and causes negative changes to human embryonic cells. Simply put, by-products of industrial society are not the only endocrine disruptors; medications for humans and livestock have negative consequences on our health as well. Casual disposal of medicinal hormones creates water-borne pollution. Proper disposal of pharmaceutical medications is a must.