alert is an anti-platelet drug that is often prescribed to patients who have recently had a heart attack or stroke, or who have evidence of peripheral vascular disease. Previous studies have found that adding aspirin to Plavix for those who have already experienced a heart attack or stroke is beneficial, cutting the risk of a second episode or death in that specific population of patients. And since aspirin has the ability to prevent heart attacks in men, reduces the risk of heart attack for women over age 65, and prevents strokes in women, doctors thought Plavix and aspirin might be a good preventative aid. But a recent study found that low daily doses of aspirin plus Plavix made little difference, and in those who had no signs of heart disease, the combination could prove deadly. The combination of the anti-platelet drug and aspirin almost doubled the risk of death, heart attack, or stroke for those who had no evidence of clogged arteries or previous heart attack but were battling conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes or who had risk factors such as heavy smoking.
The essential treatment for depression
Q: I have been taking anti-depressants for about eight years, but I want so desperately to turn to natural remedies. Do you have any recommendations? JVW: I have found that the majority of patients experiencing depression have low essential amino acids, so I always recommend testing for these key nutrients as the first step in treatment. If you do have low levels, the next step is coming up with an individualized blend of the eight essential amino acids as a supplement and then determining the cause of your low levels. Most of the time it's caused by low stomach acid, for which I recommend adding injections of vitamin B12 with folic acid to your program. If, after a few weeks or months your depression still hasn't cleared up (and you are not bi-polar), then try adding between 180 and 720 milligrams daily of rubidium, a naturally occurring mineral. When taking rubidium, you should also take an equal or greater amount of potassium along with it. Although rubidium is completely natural and generally considered safe, you should still work with a physician skilled and knowledgeable in natural medicine if you are considering using it. Also, keep an eye out for additional natural treatments for depression in the July issue of Nutrition & Healing. If you're not already a subscriber, visit www.wrightnewsletter.com for details on how to become one.
What are...platelets?
Platelets are blood cell fragments that are produced in the bone marrow. Since the body has a very limited reserve of platelets, they can be rapidly depleted. Low levels can lead to bleeding, while high amounts may increase the risk of thrombosis or blood clotting. Sources:
"ACC: Plavix-Aspirin Combo No Better than Aspirin Alone for CVD Event Reduction," CNN.com, 3/12/06 | 
