Health Info

Worth noting if you have ants -- (ants v aspartame)
http://www.mercola.com/2006/sep/5/got_an_ant_problem_use_aspartame.htm
Geoff

Dear Harold,
I stupidly lost the info you provided on the acceptable brands of
non-generic minocin. I was getting the Lederle from Walgreens until
the price just doubled. Can you please advise me whether there are
acceptable pelleted capsules on par with the Lederle.
Thanks so much,
esther

Dear All, this might be useful for you and your family
Technically engineered natural minerals have been structurally bonded
in glass, at molecular level, using several high heat fusion methods.
This combination of the techniques causes a catalytic energy
conversion creating a long lasting, specific natural Nano resonance
in the BIO DISC.
Transferring the "Nano Energising Frequency" into or through liquid
affects the nanos within the liquid. When the mineral nanos come into
contact with their specific frequency they behave completely differ
ently from the host atom for instance: they boil quicker, are lighter
and refract more light. This natural resonance has the ability to
create a molecular structure in all manufactured or treated liquid
and vegetation.
Product benefits:
-It will enhance taste of food and beverages
-It helps to improve sleep
-It has the ability to balance ying and yang and create a CHI Life
force
-It helps to create energized water by placing drinking water on top
of it
-By drinking the energized water created from Bio Disc will help you
detoxify and hydrate all body cells
-It enhance your immune system of the body
-It reduces stress levels
-It helps to remove depression and anxiety
-It increased take up of nutrients
-It increases oxygenation of the blood
-It has calming effects of the resonance increases mental Cognition
-Rejuvenating molecular structures and nano cells, reduces bacteria
formation, extends shelf life, improves taste and slows down the
aging process.
-Fruit, vegetables and meat lose molecular structure as they age. All
can be revitalised at a molecular level by Qi technology resonance.
-Put it in the pocket to reduce Jet Lag
-Improve Wine Taste
-Expose Positive and Expels Negative Effects
-Pour cosmetics/lotions on the surface of BIO DISC to maximize the
benefits of cosmetics/lotions
-Place BIO DISC on any wound/injury to accelerate the healing process
-Move it counter clock wise to remove muscle injury
-Remove Fat From Milk
-Put cigarettes box on BIO DISC for 30 minutes to remove Tar and
Nicotine from cigarettes
-It accelerates relaxation into deeper meditation
NO SIDE EFFECTS AT ALL
Product Specification
Appearance: Round Clear Glass
Specific Size: Diam 9cm Thickness 10mm
Specific Weight: 130grs
Country of Origin: Germany
Lifetime : 15 years
Certified by: Prognos
For more info and inquiry: http://masterpiece.myqnet.biz

Jeff,
The Minocin manufactured by Stiefel (not Steifel) in Canada is as
real as brand name Minocin can get. It's manufactured under license
from Wyeth, which had acquired Lederle Laboratories, developers of
the original Minocin. For some reason, Wyeth stopped manufacturing
Minocin in the U.S.
The original Minocin capsules manufactured by Stiefel were imprinted
with "Lederle M4," where M4 refers to the capsule size. A Stiefel
representative told me that the capsules are now imprinted with
"Stiefel" instead.
Sincerely, Harald

Back on AP now after a hiatus. Would like some feedback or suggested
links on Parvovirus and it triggering Connective Tissue Diseases.
After 2 years of suffering and wrong dx's, finally found a
Rheumatologist who interrupted my climbing ANA titers and + Parvovirus
test with a proper dx. She does not prescribe the the AP theory but my
family MD was willing to let me try. I can trace the beginning of my
problems to when I worked in a children's special needs classroom and
was assigned to a boy with a raging case of fifth disease (slap cheek
syndrome). Anyone with a similar experience with tracing the
Parvovirus to their current situation? I just restarted the AP with a
lower dose of 100mgs 3xs a week. Too many herx reactions before on a
higher dose. Also on Plaquenil but lowered it from twice daily to once
a day. Already feeling the pangs of that. Appreciate any reply posts
but would welcome emails. Rose

What is a herx reaction from antibiotic use? Could someone please
explain this? Thank You,Kelly

Emma,
I don't know if you were referring to me or El when you asked how much the test
costs.
The test that I was referring to cost $129 last month. Again, it checked for:
9 types of Dairy
7 types of Meat
10 types of Grains
9 types of Fish
6 types of Nuts
5 types of Shellfish
19 types of Fruits
23 types of Vegetables
7 types of Miscellaneous Items, including Cane Sugar, Chocolate, Honey,
Coffee Bean, Mushroom
Hope that helps!
~Jeff
Re: Blood Test for Food Allergies
Posted by: "emluv23@..." emluv23@...
Thu Sep 14, 2006 4:31 pm (PST)
How much did you pay for this test? My doctor ordered me the test from Immuno
Laboratory- to check for allergies to 115 foods- but it is a $900.00 test and
I have to save up for it.
Emma

Hi Everyone!
I just have to share this with you!
My doctor told me about a new medication (Omega-XL) that
has reduced my Arthritis pain to the point that I can now do
things that I haven't done in years!
It's alI natural with no side effects. I also have three friends
who swear by it.
I can tell you how to get free samples. Send me an email.
Larry

SCIENCE, FRUITS AND TODAY'S DIET
According to the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition, the four most
consumed plant foods (fruits or vegetables) in America are:
French fries, ketchup, pizza sauce and iceberg lettuce!
Is it any wonder that obesity has become an epidemic and that even
children are now afflicted with many of the "lifestyle" diseases
once reserved for older people?
Yes, we all know we should eat more fruits and vegetables. But lives
are busy. Quick meals are often a necessity. Fresh produce is
expensive in many locales. We tend to get bored with apples, bananas
and oranges. Parents don't have time to enforce healthy eating
habits upon their children.
Because of the powerful phytonutrients from the broad color spectrum
of nutrient-dense fruits in MonaVie, here at last is a product that
might well make up for many of the diet deficiencies in countries
around the world. The fact that it tastes delicious is purely a
bonus!
Set aside the slices of pepperoni for a moment, and look at a "Slice
of Life" as it relates to the American diet. Unfortunately, there
are parallels in other nations as well.
OUR EATING SCOREBOARD
The 2005 USDA Food Guide Pyramid has increased the recommended
servings of fruits to 2-4 daily and vegetables to 3-5 daily,
spearheading the change with their "5 a day" campaign and noting
that we are particularly deficient in consumption of fruits.
Current food consumption estimates for Americans
* Only 10% eat even 5 daily servings of fruits and vegetables.
* Average fruit consumption is only 1.4 servings daily.
* Only 17% eat 2-4 fruits daily.
* Only 12% have what could be called a "good" diet.
Faculty members in the Harvard School of Public Health feel the
revised government recommendations still fall short, are much too
heavily influenced by powerful food lobby groups, and do not put
into perspective the wealth of research conducted during the last
ten years that has reshaped the definition of healthy eating.
http://www.drinkfruits.com

News@UofT -- Health and Medicine
Find this story on the web at: http://www.news.utoronto.ca/bin6/060427-2255.asp
The biggest smallest threat: Infectious diseases are growing concern
Global health threats attributed to improper antibiotic use, bizarre animal
husbandry practices, human mobility
Apr 27/06
by Karen Kelly
Bacteria, viruses, fungi - It's hard to believe that tiny microscopic organisms
can decimate populations. Still, whether it's the Black Death of the Middle Ages
or the new threat of avian flu, deadly biological agents are reminders that big
things do come in small packages.
"Infectious diseases have always been the leading cause of illness and death in
the world," said Professor Kevin Kain of medicine and director of Toronto
General Hospital's tropical diseases unit. "They strike people at often the most
productive parts of their lives so they can have catastrophic effects on the
economy, particularly in the developing world."
Science has also established the deadly link between many cardiovascular
diseases and cancers precipitated by hepatitis B and hepatitis C or the human
papilloma virus. "We always think of smoking related cancers - which are
obviously a problem - but on a global scale, infection-related cancers probably
outnumber them," Kain said.
Improper antibiotic use, bizarre animal husbandry practices and increased human
mobility are all contributing to new infectious diseases or deadly new takes on
old ones. At a recent U of T conference, Kain along with other infectious and
chronic disease experts from around the world discussed issues related to global
health. The conference, Crossroads in Global Health: The Dual Challenge of
Infectious and Chronic Diseases, aimed to raise awareness and create dialogue
about global health issues.
"We need to put it on the table to get people in the West to think about it -
not just the avian flu but the big picture - and what type of steps we're going
to take," Kain said. "What's clear is that emerging infectious diseases are not
just health threats to the developing countries, they represent security,
economic and health threats to the entire world."
These biological threats include the avian flu as well as the next unidentified
big threat and researchers are calling for better tools, surveillance,
communication and interaction among all nations. What's clear is that many new
infectious diseases will emerge from resource-poor areas but sting the global
population. And while public attention has been directed primarily to the avian
flu, a new wave of pathogens is waiting to jump to the human population as their
habitat
becomes scarce.
"Thinking about other threats doesn't get a lot of attention," Kain said.
"There's probably a whole bunch of other infections out there that we haven't
even tweaked to, yet it doesn't mean they're going to sit there quietly."
As for global health experts, they're now faced with a unique predicament. "We
live in an interesting time," Kain said. "On one hand, we've got colliding
worlds, colliding cultures and on the other hand we've got this explosion of
biotechnology. I think global health sits at the interface of those two major
themes."
"We're talking about diseases that do the greatest harm to the greatest number
but traditionally have been largely ignored and under-resourced and we're trying
to address that fundamental inequity."

Hey all,
Jacob is now 6 years old and has been on the AP for a little over a year
after going to see Dr. Sinnott in Iowa. He is taking Erythremycin (is
that spelled correctly?) every day, along with his vitamins, and usually
some flax oil, and/or fish oil.
He complains about his chest hurting so badly he has to lie down. It
has begun to worry me. At first I thought it was just gas, or nerves,
or growing pains, but does anybody have any ideas? Could it be from the
antibiotic? What about the disease. He was never really truly
diagnosed, the doctors all sort of "banged around" a few ideas, from JRA
to Reiter's, to MCTD, to Psoratic Arthritis, or any combination of those
and others. Take your pick.
He was doing so well, and still is, really. He still has occasional
pain (sometimes severe), but with summer coming up it should subside for
a few months at least here soon.
We just went for an I.V. treatment in March and he says he wants to go
back. I don't know if he wants to go for the vacation element of it
(Ida Grove rocks, truly) or if he really believes he needs another I.V.
treatment and it will help his pain.
Any and all thoughts, ideas, suggestions, prayers are, as always,
wanted, hoped for and much appreciated.
Thank you, and God Bless you all.
Love, Diane

Florida teen's anti-inflammatory diet helps him overcome Crohn's to play
football
Little big man
<http://www.heraldtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061117/SPORTS/6111703\
28/1006
Sarasota Herald-Tribune - Sarasota,FL,USA
*...* A *diet* from which most teens would run. *...* Grant was plagued
with swollen joints. He took *anti*-*inflammation* drugs, all kinds of
medicines, without success. *...*

Rose,
My 'condition' started almost 2 years ago. I work at school and at
this same time I came down with 'this arthritis', several at school
had parvovirus. I was tested for it and my labs showed I had it at
one time but since it wasn't 'active', the doctor said it was
probably when I was younger and not now. I'm still convinced that
it had something to do with it. I take 50 mgs of mino everyday.
I'm not sure about the herx but I'm thinking I may be experiencing
it some. Either that or my disease is becoming more active. Also,
I'm on plaquenil and also lowered dose to 1 a day instead of 2...
which does make for more symptoms. However, that proves that it
just masks them. I feel tired and achy and my joints hurt quite a
bit too... I'm thinking it may be a herx. I going to post a
question or two. I love this group for info and support. Good luck
to you. I hope you find your answers.
Serena

Has anyone experienced calf muscle cramps and also having toe cramps
and cramps in the arch of your feet? Does this happen with a herx?
Serena

Question for everyone....
Has any of you, or someone that you know ever had a successful lawsuit against a
traditional doctor who prescribed FDA-approved medication that resulted in a
patient having a condition like RA?
If so, I would love to hear more details. I am considering such a lawsuit.
Thanks.
Jeff

Hi,
Has anyone found a solution to the coated tongue from the
antibiotics--no mater how much quality acidolphilus I take, it
happens. YECH!!!!!! I'm thinking that vinegar (acidity) could
help, but wonder how that affects the teeth. . . . There is an oral
sugary nystatin that isn't doing any good. . . . Thanks! e

Susie, I have read your two posts about your concern for your husband. It
must be difficult for you to deal with that right now when he won't talk
about it (it may be frightening him too) and you may not be feeling well
yourself. I thought I would write to let you know that for the last nine
months or so, I've been dealing with extreme anxiety episodes related to low
blood sugar. In my case, a couple of the doctors are starting to think that
it is related to an overdose of the hormone cream that I have been using.
As my hormones have slowly been normalizing, my symptoms have definitely
lessened But perhaps any imbalance in hormones can make a person more
susceptible to low blood sugar for which anxiety is definitely a symptom.
If your husband is reluctant to talk to his doctor about this, you could
purchase a glucometer at your pharmacy relatively inexpensively and measure
his blood sugar at times when he's feeling anxious. When I was at my worst,
I found that my blood sugar could drop very quickly and food would
definitely help. Two to three hours after eating is still my worst time if
I don't get a balanced snack. One of my doctor says that if food makes you
feel better in five to 15 minutes, then the problem is most likely blood
sugar as opposed to some sort of anxiety disorder. If the food has no
effect, then it probably is anxiety. Some simple medications can help deal
with the anxiety which is hard on the body and which can generalize if left
untreated. I hope this has been helpful in some way, and I do wish you and
your husband all the best in dealing with this.
Take care,
Linda

-Dear Group Leader,
Please delete my message 43531, I didn't realize my name and info
would go on the Web page like that.I thought it would only go to the
person I responded to.
Thank you,

Can anyone tell me if there is a blood test for Crohn's Disease? I have RA and
have been having major intestional problems for the last year thinking it was
IBS. How can yo tell the difference?
I know that both diseases are auto-immune problems and deal with inflammation.
Thanks,
Carol*

I had them badly for a couple weeks when I was lowering my Prednisone
dose. I don't know that the two were connected, but the cramps would
wake me from a sound sleep. I'd have to get out of bed and walk up and
down the hall to stop them. Then I started doing gentle leg stretches
several times a day and before bedtime. (lean against a wall with feet
flat on floor until you feel a gentle stretch in calves) I also
wrapped my legs and feet in a piece of polar fleece to keep them really
warm, AND I made sure to eat a banana, dried apricots, or an orange
every day to increase my intake of potassium. I was already taking 1500
mg. of calcium-magnesium, but apparently not getting enough potassium.
I don't know what made them stop for sure, but it was such a relief as
they are so painful.
Good Luck!
Bev in Iowa

Hi Bev
I have been on many high potent drugs and when ever you are decreasing
or increasing a drug your body has a certain amount of withdrawal.
Doing this takes time until your body gets use to not having it there.
Decrease the drugs as slowly as you can. Bananas are sure good source
of potasium. Other sources unsalted nuts 1/2c, tomatoes, sweet potato,
baked potato, celery, carrots,fish (tuna,salmon
3oz),1ccantaloupe,nectarines,raisins 1/2c, 3apricots,1c yogurt, milk,
buttermilk. There are others too. Eating equal amounts of sodium and
potassium is also recommended. My hubby has high blood pressure and was
told that a diet low in potassium and high sodium can be at risk for
HBP. Loves bananas so has finally started to eat.
Julie
juliehope@... <mailto:juliehope@...
http://www.4betrhealth.com <http://www.4betrhealth.com

I know that the book on AP is good. I read the physician's protocol
under files, this was written several years ago expanding on the book,
is this the most recent expansion that I can use to show my doctor?
If he had questions regarding the treatment would other dr's be
willing to consult, do you think?
Also, what would long-standing RA be considered?
Thanks alot,
laura

I didn't actually see Dr. S in his office. I have just gathered
information on his treatment regimine and his success. Then when he
was in a chat I gathered more info and relayed it to my doc. I had
given The Arhtitis breakthrough to my doc and told him what S
prescribed and he agreed to that. There are too many protocols and
websites to decipher and i just couldn't. Dr. S's just seemed so cut
and dry. I'm just not sure my dr will want to do this long term.
laura

Hi Everyone,
I'm new to the group and have currently just been browsing and doing a
lot of reading.
I was recently diagnosed with an early stage of Osteoarthritis. It's
not that I don't trust my doctor but I've been in pain for nearly 8
years, and after seeing 30 practitioners this is the first time I was
diagnosed with OA. Does the antibiotic therapy help at all with OA?
Can anyone recommend a good Doctor in the Toronto or surrounding area.
Since I'm new to the list any advice or help would come in handy.
Thanks,
Misha

Roni,
I have RA and hypothyroidism. I started taking Vitalzym X back in January of
2005. Almost immediately, it drastically cut my inflammation to almost nothing.
Under the advice of my holistic doctor, Dr. Jeffrey Nusbaum of the Center for
Holistic Medicine in W. Bloomfield, MI, I took it three times a day with my
pregnenolone and thyroid medicine. I was told to take them 45 minutes outside of
food, (and drinks, vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) When I add on Minocin, I
have to make that time frame 2 hours. [The Vitalzym X goes in and consumes the
inflammation. If you don't take it 45 minutes before or after food, then it will
just aid in digesting your food instead.] Where did you hear that it should not
be taken with medicine or supplements?
I have not had a problem with growths on my face, or anywhere else, due to the
Vitalzym X. But, then I don't have MCTD like the last person did. And, I have
never before heard of this possible side effect from Vitalzym X. I have however
had a form of acne near the location of usage of natural, trans-dermal
testosterone (hormone) cream.
Several months ago, I was diagnosed with celiac disease. Thus, I think that the
finger-like celia in my stomach will not be working well for the next two to six
months, while my body restores itself, as I transition quickly into a
gluten-free diet. Thus, I think that my body is not absorbing food, supplements
or medicine as well as it will once I recover. All of this to say that in the
last few months I have had a recurrence of inflammation that I expect to go away
as my body heals.
Bottom Line: I highly recommend Vitalzym X as a tool to use to reduce
inflammation.
But, I also recommend:
* Getting a metal toxicity check-up. If positive for metals, then detox.
* Stay away from foods that you're allergic to, especially if you're not just
allergic, but intolerant. Consuming these foods will increase your inflammation.
* Choose your diet based on the glycemic index. See the book, "Inflammation
Nation" by Floyd H. Chilton, Ph.D.
* Take Vitalzym X outside of food, 3 times a day. Take 3 pills, 3 times a day.
If you still experience inflammation, increase by 1 pill every 2 weeks to a
maximum of 9 or 10 pills, 3 times a day. You're taking too many, if you
experience diarrhea.
I hope that helps.
~Jeff
Re: vitalzyme question
Posted by: "2468 8462" sandykayball@... sandykayball
Sun Dec 17, 2006 10:02 am (PST)
I used Vitalzyme for several months - it did help me with pain and energy - had
to carry it w/me so I could take it.
but, I started noticing growths on my face - attributed it to my MCTD. Had a
facial in November and they told me the growths were from excess enzymes.
so stopped the Vitalzyme a month ago and all growths are gone - my energy is
lower but my pain level is ok.
Sandy
Beaumont CA
MCTD, on Ap 7 years

My friend has both of the above and is limited to the medications he
can take. He lives in Arizona for part of the year and other parts of
the west for others. He is in his late 30's and on Social Security
Disability and wonder if anyone has any suggestions.
Mangel

Hi,
I am brand new to the group also, in fact this is my first reply.
I am a 45 year young male or 45 years of age, notice I leave out the word
"old". The word "old" sounds so negative in our vocabulary so I just changed the
wording around.
Anyway I was recently diagnoised with Lupus, although I am going to go for a
second oppinion. My sister who is 42 was recently diag. with RA.
I go swimming as much as possible, that is reccommended as the best exercise.
After swimming I feel better for a longer period of time if I don't swim.
I bought my sister a book called Arthritis for Dummies. It gives you all the
basic facts so you are up to speed with everyone else who has aquired it and can
understand what the Dr.'s are saying.
Hope that helps.
Michael
Michael Feicco
661-219-0129 vm
661-755-9309 cell
www.LivingInSantaClarita.com
Dilbeck Realtors, GMAC Real Estate

Hi Gang! Geoff here.
I've been reading Dr. Joseph Mercola's protocol on www.rheumatic.org again.
(Actually, I printed it off for a new Dr. for myself and read it before
delivering.) His results are very hopeful and I strongly encourage anyone in
trouble to read it. It's only about 8 printed pages, sans bibliography but it
is so very worthwhile.
Geoff
Acts 2:39

Kelly,
I would suggest copying and printing this short article from Dr. Gabe
Mirkin on why he prescribes antibiotics for the rheumatic diseases.
You could print all the physicans package, but they typically won't
read it.
It wouldn't hurt to print it (found at rheumatic.org) and take it just
in case you have found a rheumy with an interest and time to learn.
http://www.drmirkin.com/morehealth/G221.html
Hope this doctor is co-operative.
Hugs, Jan

To the best of my knowledge, prednisone is the only known treatment
for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). By gradually decreasing the dosage
of prednisone, PMR can be cured in 1 to 2 years. Starting with 10 mg
of prednisone in December 2005, I am now down to 1 mg, and hope to be
down to 0 mg by January 15.
What does PMR have to do with Parvovirus (the subject of your email)?
A Google search does not indicate a connection.
Sincerely, Harald

I'm kinda new here, well, today in fact. But I was confused by two
different responces. It sounded like ne was talking about heartburn
in the chest. The other bone or joint pain in the chest. I'm curious
as to which it is, because I might have a solution depending on which
it is?
michael

Jane, if you read this note, please contact me. I've lost your number and can't
get a hold of you.
Roni

Martha,
Thanks for the advice. It is sound. I will follow doc and be patient!!
Amy

Which is better for inflammation due to RA - cod liver oil or omega-3 fish oil?
Also, have any of you used concentrated cherry juice for pain and inflammation
from RA -- and has it worked?
Blessings!

I haven't posted here in a while - After going through what I called
AP hell I have finally turned a corner thanks to Dr. S in
Chattanooga. Apparently Minocin alone was not enough for me - at
least not for 7 months. When he added Nizoral my pain melted away.
It was just amazing - I don't know what to say about it. I am almost
completely normal. My labs are lowering - Sed Rate is 12 - CRP is 0.7
and Rheumatoid Titer is 40. Life is Great -

I just got a new script for minocin and I have been using the minocycline, which
I just refilled. I'm wondering if it would be ok to take both. For example
minocycline for the am dose and then minocin for the pm dose? Is there any
reason not to mix with the generic? I thought this might be a good way to save
money since the brand name is so much more expensive and I might as well use up
what I have. Please let me know if anyone has a reason why this may not be a
good idea. Thanks,
Maggy

Lynne,
I'm sorry, I don't know anyone in Orlando, just Seattle WA. e

Hi Everyone:
Does anyone in the group have any knowledge if antibiotics help with the
treatment of Elersdanlos Syddrome? A dear friend has this disease and needs some
help.
Thanks
roni

I just got this in my email. I do not know if it is 100% correct, but it
certainly is food for thought. I am not endorsing Cosco, but I know our News
here in Tennessee have also done reporting on cheaper prices for drugs and it
usually was the best for cost. Again just something to think about
especially for those on a budget.. Martha
COSTCO! read this... Let's hear it for Costco!! (This is just
mind-boggling!) Make sure you read all the way past the list of the drugs.
The woman
that signed below is a Budget Analyst out of federal Washington, DC offices.
Did you ever wonder how much it costs a drug company for the active
ingredient in prescription medications? Some people think it must cost a
lot, since many drugs sell for more than $2.00 per tablet. We did a search of
offshore chemical synthesizers that supply the active ingredients found in
drugs approved by the FDA. As we have revealed in past issues of Life
Extension,
a significant percentage of drugs sold in the United States contain active
ingredients made in other countries. In our independent investigation of how
much profit drug companies really make,
we obtained the actual price of active ingredients used in some of the most
popular drugs sold in America.
The data below speaks for itself.
Celebrex: 100 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $130.27
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.60
Percent markup: 21,712%
Claritin: 10 mg
Consumer Price (100 tablets): $215.17
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.71
Percent markup: 30,306%
Keflex: 250 mg
Consumer Price (100 tablets): $157.39
Cost of general active ingredients: $1.88
Percent markup: 8,372%
Lipitor: 20 mg
Consumer Price (100 tablets): $272.37
Cost of general active ingredients: $5.80
Percent markup: 4,696%
Norvasc: 10 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $188.29
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.14
Percent markup: 134,493%
Paxil: 20 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $220.27
Cost of general active ingredients: $7.60
Percent markup: 2,898%
Prevacid: 30 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $44.77
Cost of general active ingredients: $1.01
Percent markup: 34,136%
Prilosec: 20 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $360.97
Cost of general active ingredients $0.52
Percent markup: 69,417%
Prozac: 20 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets) : $247.47
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.11
Percent markup: 224,973%
Tenormin: 50 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $104.47
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.13
Percent markup: 80,362%
Vasotec: 10 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $102.37
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.20
Percent markup: 51,185%
Xanax: 1 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets) : $136.79
Cost of general active ingredients: $0.024
Percent markup: 569,958%
Zestril: 20 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets) $89.89
Cost of general active ingredients $3.20
Percent markup: 2,809
Zithromax: 600 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $1,482.19
Cost of general active ingredients: $18.78
Percent markup: 7,892%
Zocor: 40 mg
Consumer price (100 tablets): $350.27
Cost of general active ingredients: $8.63
Percent markup: 4,059%
Zoloft: 50 mg
Consumer price: $206.87
Cost of general active ingredients: $1.75
Percent markup: 11,821%
Since the cost of prescription drugs is so outrageous, I thought everyone
should know about this. Please read the following and pass it on. It pays to
shop around. This helps to solve the mystery as to why they can afford to put
a Walgreen's on every corner. On Monday night, Steve Wilson, an investigative
reporter for Channel 7 News in Detroit, did a story on generic drug price
gouging by pharmacies. He found in his investigation, that some of these
generic drugs were marked up as much as 3,000% or more. Yes, that's not a
typo...
three thousand percent! So often, we blame the drug companies for the high
cost of
drugs, and usually rightfully so. But in this case, the fault clearly lies
with the pharmacies themselves. For example, if you had to buy a prescription
drug, and bought the name brand, you might pay $100 for 100 pills. The
pharmacist might tell you that if you get the generic equivalent, they would
only
cost $80, making you think you are "saving" $20. What the pharmacist is not
telling you is that those 100 generic pills may have only cost him $10!
At the end of the report, one of the anchors asked Mr. Wilson whether or not
there were any pharmacies that did not adhere to this practice, and he said
that Costco consistently charged little over their cost for the generic
drugs.
I went to the Costco site, where you can look up any drug, and get its
online price. It says that the in-store prices are consistent with the online
prices. I was appalled. Just to give you one example from my own experience, I
had to use the drug, Compazine, which helps prevent nausea in chemo patients.
I used the generic equivalent, which cost $54.99 for
60 pills at CVS. I checked the price at Costco, and I could
have bought 100 pills for $19.89. For 145 of my pain pills, I paid $72.57. I
could have got 150 at Costco for $28.08.
I would like to mention, that although Costco is a "membership" type store,
you do NOT have to be a member to buy prescriptions there,as it is a
federally regulated substance. You just tell them at the door that you wish to
use
the pharmacy, and they will let you in. (this is
true)
I went there this past Thursday and asked them. I am asking each of you to
please help me by copying this letter, and passing it into your own e-mail,
and send it to everyone you know with an e-mail address.
Sharon L. Davis
Budget Analyst
U.S . Department of Commerce
Room 6839
Office Ph: 202-482-4458
Office Fax: 202-482-5480
E-mail Address: _sdavis@..._ (mailto:sdavis@...)

Thanks Martha! I will take your advice and see if it helps me. I'm
sure it will... so far I get all my answers that work from this
group. Thanks again.

Is there anyone with scleroderma who has had esophageal problems - trouble
swallowing, choking, etc.? And, if so, does anyone know about the stretching
of the esophagus or actually had the procedure?
Thanks,
Ellen McCool

I personally take Krill Oil which I order from mercola.com. It is oil
from Krill which has more antioxidants and omegas than regular fish
oil. Also, there is no fishy aftertaste or side effects.
Serena

For the last 2 years(or more) every time I try to lose any weight or
even begain the decrease in calories I have horrilbe joint pains.
They're already in existance and have been continually getting worse.
However they are accelerated immensely pain the calorie reduction.
Does anyone else experience this?
And I don't have the funds available to start antibiotic therapy
through a doctor but understand the protocol. Does anyone else do
this without the benefit of a doctor?
Thanks!

I have Jo-1 positive Polymyositis.
I believe some months ago Harold posted the difference between the
minocycline brands, the pink one is time released and the gray one
is not.
Recently, my company changed the prescription plan policy to mandate
that maintenance drugs must be purchased through mail order. Since
half of the medications I take are considered maintenance drugs, I
researched how much I would save if I purchased some of my other
meds through mail order. One of these was the minocycline. I
thought wow, I really would be saving alot. So I ordered. What I
did not realize is that the brand I was purchasing at Walgreens was
the pink one and the brand I get through the mail order is gray.
I am not exactly sure if the timing is right, but since I have been
taking the gray one, my CPK has doubled and I am in constant pain,
especially at night. I wake up 2-3 times a night to take advil
liguid gel caps (does not bother my stomach even when I take 6 in
one shot).
Could it be the minocycline or just another side effect of the
prednisone tapering (down to 8mg daily).
I am considering switching back but I can't until mid-Dec when my
prescription plan will approve it.
Thank you.
Rosa
Plainfield, NJ

Hello everyone
Does anyone in this group live near Dayton, Oh.?
If so- did you ever find an AP Dr in the area.? Appreciate any
information.
Jenny

Hi Everyone,
I used Carlson lemon flavoredcod liver oil for a long time. When I
told my MD, she said "Yeech--how can you take that stuff--try Nordic
Naturals lemon or orange." Having done so, I know what she meant.
Since I buy large bottles, I notice the Nordic Naturals keeps its
citrus flavor much more so than the Carlson. ew
--

I have RA and I have been on Antibiotic Protocol (AP) using the generic form of
Minocin for 2-1/2 years, with little known effectiveness.....
So, I am wondering.....
For those who use 100 mg of Minocin, 1 pill in AM and 1 pill in PM - M,W,F
I want to take a quick "survey" of Generic Minocin vs. Brand name.....
Are you using the Brand Name or Generic?
Where do you buy it (co. name, phone, website, ...)
What is your cost per pill?
What has been your effectiveness at reducing "mycoplasma infection"?
If you wish to participate, please reply to roberts1008@... by Nov 8

I recommend that the list of antibiotics that I
believe Harold puts together be updated to include
zithromax, clindamycin, erthromycin, etc. This may be
helpful information if one of us become resistant to
minocin, can't handle the side-effects of minocin, or
are looking for an alternative to use during
pregnancy, etc.
These are just my thoughts.

Hi Everyone,
I'd like to hear from anyone who has had success with antibiotics
besides minocin and clindamycin. I stopped AP about 2 months ago
after about 1 year owing to the disagreeable reaction to minocin even
at 50 mg 3x a week. I do credit it with curing my knee, but couldn't
stay on it for the fingers and toes. . . Trying all natural things
full force including restricted diet. Thanks, ew
--

1: J Rheumatol. 2006 Aug;33(8):1694-6. Links
Ischemic scleroderma wounds successfully treated with hyperbaric oxygen
therapy.
Markus YM,
Bell MJ,
Evans AW.
Division of Rheumatology, Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences
Centre, Toronto, Canada.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been used to treat refractory wounds for
the last several decades, with the majority of research focusing on wounds
secondary to arterial insufficiency. We describe 2 patients with scleroderma
with intractable bilateral extremity ulcers. Local ischemia was identified using
transcutaneous oximetry. Each patient then underwent 30 treatments of HBOT at
a relative depth of 2.4 ATA with resulting wound healing. This is the first
reported successful use of HBOT to treat scleroderma ulcers, and may represent
an unrecognized treatment option for these notoriously difficult chronic wounds.
PMID: 16881126 [PubMed - in process]

I have had RA since 1998 and have been on minocin since I was diagnosed.
I have done very well and even test negative occasionally. Since I have
been on the same antibiotic for 8 years I was thinking I should take a
break, I know Dr Brown says you should change your antibiotic at least
for awhile ever 5 years. My doctor offers peroxide IVs and has used
them for RA, he is happy with me on minocin, but I would really like to
give my body a break from antibiotics. So has anyone tried the peroxide
IVs? I had my first one yesterday and plan to take one a week. I
remember reading that you can stop taking minocin for a few weeks and
then go back on it without any risk of it stopping working, does anyone
remember how long that is? I have to admit as much as I want to give my
body a break Im alittle afraid to stop the minocin.
Thank you
Julie
--
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.409 / Virus Database: 268.14.19/556 - Release Date:
11/28/2006

Have any of you used nettle tea for RA. I've read that it helps reduce
RA pain and enhances Diclofenac.

Have any of you tried MonaVie? From everything I've read and heard, it
sounds as though it would be good for pain and general good health.
I'd be interested in knowing your thoughts on this produce if you've
tried it.
Lea

HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2007

An interesting book:
http://www.lymebook.com
Also:
http://www.lymecommunity.com
Bryan

I'm sure this has been mentioned before, but could someone tell me where the
best place is to buy Carlson's Cod Liver Oil? I never paid a lot of
attention before because I never dreamed that I might be deficient in Vit D.
After
all I live in FL.
Nevertheless after reading an article Mercola sent the other day, I decided
to have mine tested. Sure enough, I'm seriously deficient with 7 ng/ml, when
even 20-30 ng/ml is considered insufficient. According to what I've read
anything below 32 is simply not good. I've been having severe inflammation
inspite of everything I'm taking, so this may be the key.
Thanks,
Jill

Jeff,
You found two interesting links, both from Wyeth in Mainland China.
It appears that Wyeth is still selling its brand name Minocin in
China. However, no clue on how Westerners can purchase this Minocin,
or for how much -- but there must be an exporting Chinese pharmacy.
For more information on Wyeth in China, please see
http://www.wyeth.com.cn/english/About/default.asp
Sincerely, Harald

Years ago, a naturopathic doctor told me that if you eat three meals a day
then you should have three BM's. In fact, he said things should pass through
your system in 24 to 36 hours ideally. One way to check your bowel transit
time is to take chlorophyl (sp?) pills. They turn your BM's green so if you
take them with a meal then you can time how long it takes for it to work
through your system.
Periodically, I time myself and, naturally, I strive to have 3 BM's (or
more) a day. Drinking plenty of water helps. Taking magnesium supplements
helps (especially if I have to take iron since iron supplements constipate
me.) Eating lots of raw vegetables helps.
Just my 2 cents worth...
- Anna
Ethel Snooks writes:

Hi Susie
JMO... 50+ years ago docs didn't even know what a virus was!!! It
really hasn't been that long since medicine was mostly hand holding
and morphine. Bottom line is despite the excellent advances and
medications, there is still a LOT that isn't known. Virus' infect us
by taking over the cellular machinery and later DNA expression - it
wouldn't be suprising that they can produce or trigger permanent
effects. But how this happens is not well known yet...
Even heart disease is felt to be inflammation / infection related -
just 15 years ago hypertension and high cholesterol were thought to be
the primary triggers. They are triggers, but not necessarily the only
ones.
I feel we are ar the beginning of a medical renaissance resulting from
the tools developed for the human genome project. I believe the
autoimmune disorders will be more effectively treated over time, to
the point where they are a very manageable health issue.

List attached.
Though it's not likely to have much impact, as 96% of Wal-Mart pharm
customers carry health insurance and of those the ave copay is $5.15.
Wal-Mart will profit only about $3 per drug sale.
Jeff

Hi Simon,
Hi Simon
I live in Byron Bay, 2 hours south of Brisbane. I noticed that the only drs
listed in Australia
are in Victoria - may as well be another country! I don't know of any drs in
Brisbane but Dr
Douglas Grey, my rheumatologist in Ballina (south of Byron), is open to me
trying
antibiotics. He gave me a couple of articles about it from medical journals and
said it
seems to work and he's wondered about it but that as conventional medicine
doesn't list
the dosages or protocol he's unsure how to use it so doesn't recommend or
mention it
unless asked. In the end he recommended methotrexate for me when the rheumatoid
was
getting worse on Plaquenil, Prednisone (low dose), Celebrex and paracetamol, but
didn't
say no to the minocycline.
So I gave my local GP the faq's (I don't think he's read them - too busy) and he
prescribed
Minocycline and left me to it. I've used the information on this list to monitor
myself. I've
only been on it for six weeks but already have cut out Celebrex and am almost
off the
prednisone (down to 0.5mg per day). I'm still on Plaquenil and paracetamol but
am happy
to stay on them for a few months then try reducing the Plaquenil.
The minocycline hasn't reduced the tendon pain though - prednisone seems to be
the only
thing that affects it. I wonder if others on this list with RA have tendon pain
too. Other
friends have RA but only joint pain. Dr Grey had nothing to say about the tendon
pain so I
don't know what it is.
If you ever find a rheumatologist in Brisbane or north coast who advocates AP
I'd be
interested to know about it. Good luck.
Rosalind

http://www.mercola.com/2007/jan/2/newer-stronger-health-warnings-on-tylenol-and-\
aspirin.htm

Here is the article:
Search for Answers to
Your Health Questions
Web Mercola.com
Print this Page
E-mail to a Friend
Stay Away From New Merck Painkiller
Arcoxia, the drug that Merck hopes will take the place of its
withdrawn painkiller Vioxx, is getting mixed reviews from doctors,
some of whom say that the results of studies on the drug do not make
an adequate case for its approval.
Many have pointed out that Arcoxia was compared to an older drug
(Voltaren) in clinical trials.
Both of the drugs raise the risk of heart problems, making Arcoxia's
effects on the heart more difficult to assess. Even given that
dubious comparison, more study patients quit taking Arcoxia due to
elevated blood pressure, and congestive heart failure was more
common among patients receiving higher doses of Arcoxia.
Dr. Steven Nissen, a cardiologist who formerly headed the FDA's
cardiac drug advisory panel, believes that the drug should not be
approved. Dr. David Graham, an FDA drug safety expert who has
criticized his agency's handling of Vioxx, agreed with Nissen.
Vioxx, like Arcoxia, is a kind of drug called a cox-2 inhibitor;
Vioxx was pulled from the market in 2004 over safety concerns about
heart risks.
In the wake of the controversy, Merck is now limiting its FDA
request regarding the approval of Arcoxia to two dose levels for
osteoarthritis, rather than for a range of doses and treatments,
including for rheumatoid arthritis.
Forbes.com November 13, 2006
American Heart Association November 13, 2006

This might be of help. Lynne
http://www.roadback.org/cgi-bin/eboard30/index2.cgi?frames=no&board=Main&mode=Cu\
rrent&message=73417
<http://www.roadback.org/cgi-bin/eboard30/index2.cgi?frames=no&board=Main&mode=C\
urrent&message=73417

BlankHi All
Just a reminder that we have a free Living with Arthritis Hints list available
to anyone wanting it. Just send a request either through our website
http://www.4betrhealth.com or email me at juliehope@...
Hope everyone is handling this cool weather we are getting. Best to all
Julie
Julie Hope
Degenerative Disease Information
juliehope@...
Saskatchewan, Canada
Tel: 1 306 648-2642 (CST)
Skype: Julie Hope (healthyhope)
http://www.4betrhealth.com

Esther, have you tried diflucan? Maybe a month or so of diflucan would
knock out the yeast, then adding something like black hull walnut, oil
of oregano, etc, daily along with increasing or changing probiotics
would help control the yeast. Jan

Hi - questions here -
I started on doxycycline in Feb '05 at 100mg twice a day. After a year with no
obvious results, I switched to minocycline (generic), again 100mg twice daily.
I was able to get on Minocin for awhile, same dosage, but am back on generic
minocycline. It's been a total of nearly 20 months on antibiotics and I can't
say they've helped much. I really do want this to work .. however, it's hard to
keep feeling positive when nothing seems to be happening.
Along with these antibiotics, I've taken other things in order to suppress
enough symptoms so that I could function. I was on plaquenil for awhile, added
prednisone (which gave me a tremendous amount of relief but of course came with
its own side effects). I got down to 10mg of pred every other day, but reducing
it from there resulted in extreme joint problems. In July I went off of the
plaquenil and started enbrel instead and was able to wean off of the prednisone.
Now I'm just on enbrel and minocycline (and some pain meds), but I'm pretty sure
that the only reason I'm able to do things is because of the enbrel. I'm sore
but functioning.
So my questions are: should I be trying a different antibiotic? How long
should I keep trying before I say "it's not going to work for me"?
And one last question - has anyone ever taken more than the 100mg twice a day?
I have a history of being resistant to drugs, and I have been able to take the
full 100mg BID from the beginning without problems like I hear other people
having. Maybe I am resistant to this and it will take a higher dosage for me?
Any comments or experiences along these lines would be appreciated.
Thank you -
Melanie

Can someone recommend a few doctors in the Chicago area who prescribe
Minocin?

I sent an email to the online pharmacy edrugnet.com asking that they
start offering this brand. edrugnet is based in Thailand so it's
possible that they can add it without too much trouble.

BlankHi - I found this tonight and thought it might be interesting to some. A
lot of medications/drugs out there today decrease the amount of density our
bones have, especially if we have been on them for any length of time. One good
reason our bones need good calcium/magnesium/vit D. We can get a calcium test
and it come back right on but the uptake might not be/the way the body uses what
it does get.
Can Drinking Cola Lead to Weaker Bones?
Author: Karen Barrow
Medically Reviewed On: Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Published on:Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Hi group,
Steve Heath has updated his story which you can find at
rheumatic.org/steve.htm - Steve has polymyositis and, as you can see,
he is still doing well.
Chris.
Begin forwarded message:

---
I was a patient of his. Dr Mercola is no longer in practice. He just
runs his website. He has someone else there who does not believe in
antibiotic therapy. Any other doctors in the area besides him?

I was diagnosed 2 and half years ago, after a 4 month bout with
severe hives covering 80% of my body. My only symptoms have been
very red skin and constant itching to the point of wishing someone
would shoot me. After many tests and doctor appointments an ANA was
run. My results were off the wall. I was refered by my Dermatolotist
to a Rhermatologist who perscribed plaquinil which only provided
minimal recovery from the itching and redness.
The Rheumatologist upped my dose to 3 per day which did not lead to
any improvement. So now I am faced with a delima...
The redness has gotten progressively worse and I spend most of the
day and night scratching my terrible skin. Now my Rheumatologist
wants me to start Methatrexate and my Dermatologist wants me to start
prednisone. They have worked together since I began treatment. I
have repeatedly rejected prednisone because of the horror stories I
have heard but, Methatrexate does not sound like a safe option.
I have been very fortunate in so much as all of my symptoms to date
have only involved my skin. Is there anyone out there suffering from
the same symptoms, who could give me some first hand advice on what
to do next?

Hi Kris,
<<she would prefer to try dietary & lifestyle changes before
prescribing antibiotics.
Which is fine if you are a new patient. I don't think an established
patient should be asked to go off meds and replace that with just a
diet and/or supplements.
<< I took the IVs and antibiotics for years, and am thankful I had
them
Me too, I am very thankful to Dr Mercola for that. I feel great now and
have felt great for a few years.
<<I know that Dr. Goh will give the antibiotics if a patient isn't
responding to their other suggestions.
Maybe, but I don't want to take a chance going off meds, getting
another horrendous flare and going back on meds. It doesn't make sense
to me.
BTW I am glad you are ANA neg. and the dietary aspect works for you!
Take Care

Hello Mia,
My name is Jeff Roberts and I have RA. I have gotten a lot of useful information

Just want to say HI
Will work my way thru files and messages soon
Anyone else from Australia (Tasmania) here?
I am UN diagnosed....... seeing a Rheumy in MAY
In serious pain, discomfort and fed up feeling like a hypochondriac!
Thanks for allowing me to join..
Cheer's from Clare in Tassie

Hi Dolores,Yesenia
I agree that ideally the doctor is the best option. But during my
last pregnancy I was in a different job with a differrent insurance
in a different country.
My then rheumy ( from kaiser permanente) who suggested minocin to
me - did not do so because she was convinced of its good points - but
because she read that it was a good and CHEAP option for people with
moderate RA . In fact when I did not get results within a month she
suggested that I switch to planequil/methodextrate.
Luckily by that time I had noticed improvements and I had
read "The Road Back" and I stuck it through - and I am so much better.
My current rheumy does not believe in minocin ( and infact I hardly
see him - and knock on wood I havent needed to see him).
My GP read the RoadBack and saw my reports before after monocin and
prescribed minocin for me. However he is not aware of the
alternatives to minocin. If any of you can point me to a URL which he
might go through - that would be great.
Yes I know it would be ideal if I go into remission- but that usually
does not happen before 2nd trimester. In the mean time I havent taken
Mino in the last 6 days ( which is when I suspect I might have
conceived ). So lets hope I dont get an unmanageable flare right now.
Regards
Madhupa

Doing a recent Google search of "Canadian Pharmacies" I found prices for 100
capsules of Minocin 100 mg. anywhere from $135.78 to $212.03, with generics
averaging $20 cheaper.
U.S. postal inspection is no longer confiscating drugs from Canada.
Ethel
.

<<If you can't afford to buy Minocin in the U.S., buy it from Canada
Is the Canadian that much cheaper?

I was diagnosed with RA 4 years ago and immediately found a Dr. who
was familiar with this approach here in Asheville. I am grateful to
say that it has worked well for me. Now my sister, who was diagnoesed
decades ago and has been going the conventional route has asked me if
there is a doctor in her town, Colorado Springs, who she could work
with. Hooray!! Can you folks reccommend someone? Where do I find
the list? thanks in advance for your response. Mel

Melissa,
RA symptoms are reduced by certain foods and aggravated by others.
There are hundreds of good web pages on the subject. One of the ways
to find these pages is to go to www.google.com and enter the
following expression into the search field:
+"rheumatoid arthritis" +diet +beef +salmon
You should also do a google search on
+"rheumatoid arthritis" +gluten
All wheat products include gluten, which aggravates RA symptoms for
many people. Rice is safe because it does not contain gluten. Dr.
Mercola writes, "... I have seen a substantial percentage of the over
2,000 patients I have treated for RA improve quite dramatically once
they stopped eating gluten. I have seen many go into complete
remission by doing this."
Twenty percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis react to one or
all nightshade foods, which include tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants,
peppers, and chewed tobacco. Beef is on the poison list. Salmon and
other cold water fish act like a healing wonder food.
Sincerely, Harald

I was diagnosed with lupus and then, later, another doctor told me it
might be Lyme. I had the Western Blot test done and it was borderline.
So, he started me on antibiotics. But the protocol was quite different
than Dr. Brown's. The lyme doc (a family practitioner who became a
Lyme expert after treating many Walnut farming Lyme patients in the
Ozarks, where the Lyme tic loves the Walnut trees)) would give me
various antibiotics -- but only for 4-6 weeks and then switch to
another. He included doxycicline (minocin not being good in cases of
lupus) and Zithromax, but I didn't respond to them. I finally told him
if he'd just keep me on doxy, I thought I'd respond because I had
before (I was on doxy about 4 or 5 years ago and after about 4 months,
I noticed a difference. But then, after a few more months, my doctor
retired and I couldn't get another one to prescribe doxy. I have
recently moved to AZ and can now get it in Mexico with ease so I am
starting again.)
I am really convinced that there is an underlying infection in lupus.
One drug that you are traditionally treated with is Plaquenil, which
is an antimalarial. All the literature says they don't know why it
works (they discovered that it helps accidentally). Interestingly,
doxy is also an antimalarial. I am not, of course, saying that lupus
is related to malaria -- only that I believe whatever it is, it
sometimes responds to the same drugs as malaria does.
BTW, the lyme doc I went to also believed that there were other
infectious agents causing supposedly autoimmune diseases and fms and
was familiar with Dr. Brown's work. If anyone happens to live in SW
Missouri, where I used to live, it might be worth it to you to see him
-- www.drcharlescrist.com.
Lindi

I too have this problem. don't know if it's Polymyalagia Rheumatica or
meds I'm taking. I'm still on 10 mg./da Prednisone and Digitek and
Warfarin for heart problems. Since I've had this I knock things over,
drop and spill things often. I reach for my coffee cup and knock my
water glass over, reach for my pills and drag my sleeve through my food
and knock my fork to the floor It's very embarrassing and annoying.
Also I get "woozy" quite often. Can't finish a sentence because the
words won't come. I even bump into the wall at times. Today I was
walking on the track at our rec center and it felt like I was tilting to
the left all the time. I was worried I was leaning over into the next
lane and taking up someone else's space.
It could be the disease. But when I read the handout from the pharmacy
on Prednisone and my heart meds, it could also be them. the side
effects on any of them are almost a page long, single space small type.
Anyway, I'm happy to know it isn't just me.
Bev in IA

I drop things all the time, too. It is so frustrating. But I am very
blessed in that I have a husband who, because he knows how much it
bothers me when this happens, always cleans up my messes for me just
to be supportive! Still, I was moving the other day and managed to
drop and break three glasses and a jar of gravy within an hour or two!
Argh. After the gravy, I gave up and let a housecleaner we hired do
the rest of it!
I also trip a lot when I'm flaring, but I don't have to be flaring to
drop things.
At first, I thought the dropping things was due to arthritis in my
hands making my grip weaker but I also have had some lupus cerebritis
so maybe it is that. At any rate, in my case, what meds I'm taking
doesn't seem to make any difference whatsoever.
Lindi

I have been buying Skip's from: e-mail: www.buylowdrugs.com
<http://www.buylowdrugs.com/
, in Canada Phone :1-866-596-4364.
It is super fast service, the price is 100, 100mg. pelleted capsules for
$135.00 and I think that is the shipping too. When I call for a refill
it is here in the Southwestern corner of Southern Mich. and it is here 2
days later in the mail.
Hope this helps someone.
Den and Skip

This is a Non religious group, and for those who do not have family,
have no support of their family, or their family is hundreds of miles
away. We are a support system hoping to bond as a family, and in hopes
of developing life time friendships.

Hello everyone,
I wanted to know if anyone could give me infomation about a safe
detox/fast for the body?? I have heard of all types, but when you have
a autoimmune disease you have to be careful. I am currently doing AP
therapy and taking 10mg of prednisone a day. Is there a safe fast out
there that anyone knows of? Any suggestions or help in the right
direction would be appreciated greatly.
Jenny

The late John R. Lee, MD wrote "What your doctor may not tell you about
Menopause" and "Natural Progesterone, the multiple roles of a remarkable
hormone" (among others). www.warnerbooks.com or www.johnleemd.com
(?) I imagine they are available elsewhere too.
In the latter book, p. 18, he is writing about natural progesterone,
testosterone and estrogens...
"Interestingly, though all 3 of these hormones compete for the same
receptors within osteoblasts, the actions they induce are strikingly
different. Both progesterone and testosterone stimulate new bone
formation by osteoblasts; /corticosteroids*, however, turn off
osteoblast-mediated new bone formation./ Just as specific keys operate
specific locks, the function of any given hormone is dependent upon its
specific molecular configeration. Minute differences in molecular
structure convey vastly different biological effects..."
*example: Prednisone
on p. 81, he is writing about one of his patients:
"I recommended she avoid Fosamax because it can have serious side
effects. Another little-told fact is that the drug has a 10-15 year
half-life in the body. Because it is chemically bound to protein, it
becomes incorporated into the bone itself and blocks bone resorption,
which is the process by which old, weak bone is removed to make room for
new bone. Your goal is not to block bone resorption, it's to balance
bone resorption and bone-building."
Dr. Lee recommended bio-identical Progesterone, which he believed helped
rebuild bone tissue (not Progestin, the synthetic hormone). He
contended that persons using Fosamax or equivalent, had MORE hip
fractures than those not using it.
I have my Rx Progesterone cream compounded by a pharmacist. It costs
about $17 a container for one month. A friend's Fosomax costs $70/mo.
My bone scans showed a slight increase in hip bone density, but that was
before I was put on 80 mg. da. Prednisone for my illness. I don't know
what a bone scan will show now. My insurance plan will not cover
compounded bio-identical Progesterone cream.
Dr. Lee lists over the counter Progesterone creams which have been
tested and contain amounts of progesterone advertised (p. 271 in "What
your Dr. May Not Tell You...) Two that I see often are FemGest by
Bio-Nutritional Formulas, Mineola, NY and ProGest by Emerita, Portland,
Or. Some over the counter progesterone creams do not contain sufficient
amounts of progesterone according to Dr. Lee.
Bev Hannon, IA

Yes, they do.
Den and Skip

Dear Group,
The following is from the well-written web article
http://www.stonyfield.com/Wellness/MooslettersDisplay.cfm?moos_id=28
"A food allergy is an inappropriate or exaggerated reaction of the
immune system to a food. Technically, a food allergy occurs when
there is an immunological response by a specific antibody to the
presence of a food or food component, usually a protein in the bloodstream...
Most food allergies produce immediate reactions, occurring within an
hour or sometimes minutes of eating the trigger food. These can
include hives, muscle cramps, runny nose, sinusitis, earache, watery
eyes, eczema or shortness of breath. An allergic reaction can
sometimes be life threatening. For example, the swelling can occur in
the throat, closing the airway and making it difficult or impossible
to breathe...
Food allergy reactions can also be delayed, appearing days or even
weeks after the food was consumed. Symptoms can be subtle and
chronic. Many diseases may be involved such as: asthma, attention
deficit disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, psoriasis, irritable
bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, Celiac disease,
migraine headaches, chronic ear infections, colic, yeast infections,
canker sores and chronic sinus infections and congestion....
One theory as to why food sensitivities develop is related to a
"leaky gut." This is a condition where the intestinal lining allows
partially digested foods to enter the bloodstream. Once in the
bloodstream, the body recognizes these foods as foreign proteins and
develops antibodies specific to the allergens. A leaky gut is
believed to occur when the body experiences stress, exposure to
infectious agents--viral, bacterial and protozoan (resulting from
decreased beneficial bacteria in the intestine), chronic alcohol use,
malnutrition (which can be associated with fasting and crash
dieting), chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
(like ibuprofen with arthritics), and other cytotoxic drug use that
can affect the liver...
Sincerely, Harald

Hi Cooky....yes, please send me a list of wrinkle creams. Thanks for
the info.
Susie in Oklahoma

Hi -
I have been on methotrexate for almost 3 years, for RA. Early
July I visited the shore area . We ate at a restaurant which was
outdoors, but in a shaded area. I managed to get a mild sunburn
although I was dodging the sun that day. I realized it was the
methotrexate that caused my increased sun sensitivity. Strangely,
the burn would not go away ! I had continued burning skin, dry, cracky
feeling, and reddish, exasperated by heat, sun, light.
I had to stop the medicine and it's been FOUR MONTHS and I still have
this reaction and still need to dodge the heat, sun. My skin is
still tender and inflamed. I am SHOCKED how long it is lasting.
Can anyone tell me if they have had a similar experience?
Much Appreciated!!

Hi Lynne, Almost forgot to tell you my hotmail folder got a bug in it and I

Hey Jen,
What is AP therapy? I'm afraid I haven't been in here for awhile so I am
unfamiliar.
On your other question regarding detox, there is a book by Dr. Giraud W.
Campbell D.O. on the subject called "A Doctor's Proven New Home Cure for
Arthritis" that you will find to be an interesting read. I have recently began
this program myself and I am very excited about the possibilities.
I have RA and have had it for 30 years. In all that time I have used just
about every medication available without much in the way of success. The best
that conventional medicine has had to offer me has been symptomatic relief.
With the above named book, I have found new hope for an actual CURE for this
awful affliction and hope is a very powerful weapon to add to your arsenal.
Good luck,
Steve Kroll

-hi all,
I have RA since last 5 and half years and am on Methotrexate since
last 2 and half years.MTX has been a life saver for me and has
really helped me come through what I had considered the end of a
active and healthy life.I am aware of the side effects but I think
its worth a try.I have experienced low Hb,and take utmost care of my
liver and digestive track and keep a check n it.But now I think I
want start my AP very soon and think that soon I'LL be able to wean
off it.
I am not sure of Predisone as I never tried it but have read quite
good remarks about it as far as pain is concerned.anyone who can
elaborate on it is welcome pls.
bye,take care

Bev,
To learn the name of the manufacturer of your minocycline, you will
have to ask your pharmacist. A simple phone call should do.
It is important to know the name of the manufacturer, since
minocyclines by different manufacturers are said to have different
degrees of effectiveness for RA. I am reporting feedback form our
group on the web page
www.tmgp.com/generic-mino.htm
Sincerely, Harald

Hi,
I've had great improvement in my knee with minocin (it was diagnosed
through biopsy with inflammatory arthritis). However I'm a person
that doesn't tolerate minocin very well, even 50 mg doses. I still
have some symptoms in my fingers and toes at this time. Dr. Chiu
recommended doxycycline. Does anyone have experience with using that
instead of minocin?
Also, I saw a podiatrist who treats the NW Ballet Company. He
recommended using a topical anti-inflammatory called keto cam
(compounded) 4x a day. I've been using it less frequently and am
relatively sure it does help. I purchased the maximum strength. If
you are interested, contact Key pharmacy (via google) in Washington
state.
ew

Melanie
I read your post. I have RF positive RA - diagnosed 4/03. Started
on prednisone then added plaquenil, methotrexate and sulfasalazine
taken together (3 different meds) - I was functioning well - but did
have moderate swelling my fingers - otherwise ok - I could take a
walk and walk fast. That all changed in 9/05 - I had to stop all
those drugs becuase of 2 year so up/down liver enzymes. I had to go
back on prednison (I hate pred). I asked my rheumotologist for
Minocin he reluctantly agreed. After taking 5 mg pred and 200 mg
daily of minocin on New Years Day '06 I crashed hard - had severe
debilitating pain/swelling in joints I had not had problems with -
both knees/shoulders/elbows/wrists. I could barely function - could
not raise my arms up at all - I kept them tucked at my side. Slept
in a recliner at night - but that did not help much - my should pain
was horrible. I was also taking ibuprofen 1600 mg daily - and that
was not helping much.
On May 9 I saw Dr. Joseph Sentef in Chattanooga, TN. (5 1/2 one way
drive) He added Nizoral and Flagy to my Minocin/Prednisone. I
didn't want to overload my system so I started taking the Nizoral
first 200 mg daily. Within 5 days my pain/swelling melted away and
I could function - I could sleep at night/walk up right/open bottled
water. All the pain/swelling in my shoulders/elbows/wrists/hands
went away - my knees were still swollen but no pain. I was so
relieved. I still don't understand what the Nizoral did. Everyone
told me "it could be yeast" and I read the Yeast Connection - but
really didn't believe yeast could be so debilitating - although my
sister swears by the Yeast Connection - she was in bad shape and 10
years age she went on the yeast free diet and she is fine now. I
have spoken by email with a women who used to do research with the
CDC she is very knowledgable about drugs her daughter has JRA - and
is in remission by using a combo of antibiotics including
Minocin/Flagyl/Nizoral and or diflucan/zithromax. She told me that
yes some folks with rheumatic disease benefit greatly from an anti-
fungal like Nizoral or Diflucan and it will get rid of swelling most
notably finger swelling. This is my experience. I think looking
back I was on Minocin for 3 months before the real big pain set in -
when you are on an antibiotic it kills all the good bacteria and
yeast infections can set in and cause additional problems
ie/swelling pain. I take a probioitic daily now.
I am at this one year now and I am much better than before I took
the Nizoral. I still have a good bit of knee swelling and had both
knees injected earlier on October. Over all I am pleased with AP.
Different doctors take different approaches - my AP doc said that
for most people need a combo of antibiotics and antifungals to get
better. I believe that now from talking to others.
I guess I would say - Find out if you AP doc will try a combo of
antibiotics - take a daily probbioitc (this is very necessary when
on antibiotics) other things to control inflammation - I use Carlson
Fish Oil (great antiinflammatory) bromelain to increase the
absorption of minocin.
I hope this helps

Jeff,
My daughter and her daughter(my granddaughter) are both being treated for Lyme
disease. They both have to travel to doctors to treat them because there are
not any locally that specialize in Lyme. The doctor my daughter goes to treats
over 7,000 people over 18. My granddaughter has to go to Conn. to be treated
there for the juveniles. It really is a pandemic but people don't realize it.
Just this past week we were at a softball game and my daughter had a tick
crawling on her foot. Luckily we noticed before it attached itself.
jan

I forgot to mention on my earlier posting that I originally found the
late Dr. John Lee's "/What Your Dr. May Not Tell You About Menopause/,"
book in the library of the Women's Center at St. Luke's Hospital in
Cedar Rapids, IA. I also attended a one time class there taught by one
of their nurses. The Women's Center/hospital seemed very supportive of
bio-identical hormones. My pharmacist gave me the names of an ARNP and
Gyn. who would prescribe them.
Bev Hannon, Iowa

Sally,
Hi, my name is Serena and I live in Harrison, AR. I don't know if
you have read my past posts but to give you a short version..... I
became 'sick' a year and half ago. I came down with severe joint
pain on both sides of my body.... starting first in my knees and
fingers. Same joint on both sides. Tests and more tests
revealed... I'm normal. I was dx with synovitis. I've been put on
plaquanil and an NSAID. I'm sooooooooooo much better since I've
been on plaquanil. However, I know that it doesn't stop joint
damage so I'm looking into the AP. First, I feel like I need some
kind of dx. As of now, my tests are fine. I was last tested a year
ago, but I feel so much better so I can't imagine having positive
labs now - unless the plaquanil masks symptoms that well. My
question for you.... what AP doctor do you use in AR. LR is just
about 3 hours from Harrison.
I must admit, since I'm doing so much better, it's hard to consider
changing my meds. And of course, we don't have a true dx yet
either. How long did it take to dx you?
Thanks for all the info.
Serena

Hi,
I am new to the group. I just signed on to this because my three year old son
was diagnosed with JRA, his Rheumatoligist is in the process of determining
which type. I guess I don't know where to begin to learn about RA period. Any
thoughts?

International Phase II trial of novel non-opioid FM pain drug to
recruit female Patients - in UK and Australia
http://www.immunesupport.com/library/showarticle.cfm/ID/7443

Here is a link for general information on JRA at the Mayo Clinic website:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00018
Linda

I have not posted here in a long time. On AP 15 months now and I
will say it has been a rocky road. Started Minocin 10/05 200 mg
daily - Crashed hard Jan 06 and went to MWF 200 mg day dosing
thinking I was herxing. I was in terrible shape with
knees/elbows/shoulders/wrists/fingers/toes involved - I hobbled
around like an old woman, couldn't do much - had to sleep in a
recliner because the pain was so intense and even that didn't help
much. Saw Dr. S (Chattanooga) on May and added Nizoral 200 mg daily
to my Minocin within 5 days the swelling in my
fingers/toes/shoulders/elbows/wrists diminished greatly. But not in
my knees they were still really swollen - so I still hobbled around
on those - couldn't walk very far, couldn't stand longer than 10
minutes - I was off my feet by 7 and in bed by 9 - It was terrible.
I slowly tried to get up to 200 mg daily and I was terribley afraid
of herxing so took it slow. Around Thanksgiving I got a uniary tract
infection and my PCP prescribe 14 days of Cipro - It was after
taking this I notice the swelling in my knees improved somewhat, not
much but enough to notice - it was then that I realized I probably
need more abx so on December 1 I was at 200 mg 5 days a week - I
just decided to "go for it" and add the other 2 days "all at once" I
figured, if I herxed, I would back down. I did get very dizzy with
the PM dose for 4-5 days but "rode it out" and it subsided. By the
end of December the swelling my knees was greatly improved, not
normal but a whole lot better because I can stand longer, walk
farther and my energy level is great. I spent Christmas standing an
baking late (before I was off my feet by 7pm) I rode my bicycle for
the first time in over a year - Boy am I out of shape - but I did
it. Looking forward to hopefully getting better. I am now dealing
with a positive streptzyme lab test and will probably be taking zith
for that - My doc has to call me.
Janie