The number of pregnant women in the United States being prescribed narcotic pain medicines has grown, says a new study. This is happening even though the risks to a developing fetus are unknown. Researchers looked at the pharmacy records of 1.1 million pregnant women receiving Medicaid. Between 2000 and 2007, the number of women filling a prescription for these drugs rose from 18.5% to almost 23%. Codeine and hydrocodone were most often prescribed. The prescription rates varied from 9.5% to 41.6% depending on the state. Another study published online in the journal Anesthesiology in February found similar results. The pregnant women in that study had private health insurance. The journal Obstetrics & Gynecology published the new study. HealthDay News and the New York Times wrote about it.
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In people with heart disease and also at risk of diabetes, taking a cholesterol-lowering statin drug is still beneficial despite their tendency to raise blood sugar.
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Taking multiple medications, poor health, and older age can make aggressive drug therapy for high blood pressure riskier.
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The Mediterranean diet emphasizes olive oil, grains, fruits, nuts, vegetables and fish. Research shows that it prevents heart attacks and strokes.
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Taking extra vitamin E or selenium every day can raise the risk of prostate cancer, and the risk is substantially higher if the amount of selenium from your diet is already pretty high.
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Involuntary eyelid twitching is usually harmless and brought on by stress, lack of sleep, and caffeine.
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Mindfulness-based meditation helps to reduce stress. It combines rhythmic breathing and focused attention.
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