Viagra is being trained to do some new jobs

In the majority of cases, the grant of a patent captures the chemistry and purpose of a drug and locks it away for the given number of years. This is the monopoly given to the manufacturer who will police the drug market and sue anyone who comes too close for infringing the patent. The very act of protection discourages future research to develop the drug for new and different purposes. Yet, in one or two cases, research does go on. Most of the time, this represent unofficial interests where physicians experiment with off-label uses, or there is just a simple change so that, what comes in multiple doses, may be spread out through an extended release capsule. Only in quite rare cases is the research real and sanctioned by the original manufacturer. So it is with Pfizer and its now famous little blue pill.

In every way, this pill broke the mold. It was a literal game changer. Under development for one purpose, its accidental power to inspire men is now the stuff of legend. But that left Pfizer with an interesting choice. It had already invested millions to develop a drug to help relieve pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Should it just throw all that money away? Although tempting, given the billions of revenue now flowing into its bank account, Pfizer decided to continue developing the drug for PAH. The result is Revatio, the same basic PDE5 inhibitor applied to the arteries in the chest rather than those leading into the penis. It has become a lifesaver. What is interesting is the change of name. Apparently Pfizer did not think patients would believe in the effectiveness of the drug if it continued under it erectile dysfunction name. A whole new brand identity had to be developed.

In a desire to prove the chemistry is applicable to an ever wider range of conditions, there are now trials underway to test whether it is an effective treatment for cancer, multiple sclerosis, strokes and, somewhat surprisingly, some aspects of mental disability. In all cases, the common feature is the ability of the drug to dilate arteries to improve the circulation of blood throughout the body. One of the consequences of improved circulation is a boost to the body's immune system. If blood moves only slowly, it is possible for the immune response to drop quite dramatically, say in the area of a tumor. Hence the current trial to determine whether local administration to cancer of the throat will have beneficial results. Apparently, the early results look promising.

There is something faintly strange about the idea that people will buy viagra as commonly as an aspirin. What had once seemed so uniquely particular to the male need seems to have a potential relevance to almost everyone. Given that there are eleven different forms of PDE in the human body, this gives us the prospect there may be eleven different uses for viagra. Perhaps other drugs are always going to be less flexible. A painkiller, for example, really only has one reason to exist (ignoring the abuse for pleasure). Yet who is making this decision? Who decides a drug only has one use? For all we know, the majority of drugs licensed for use for one purpose may actually have multiple purposes. Ah, wait! That is the problem. If one drug could treat multiple diseases and disorders, there would be no need for multiple different drugs and pharmaceutical companies would make less money. Let us leave it that there shall only be the brand and generic viagra. For any other disorder, there must be a new and expensive drug.

How much is too much?

Should your child go for the football practice 5 days a week? Are 3 days enough? It is common for parents to be a little confused when it comes to deciding how much is too much with reference to after school activities. They argue that since most of the activities are fun (as different from studies), children will simply lap up these classes. But, too much of fun can also make a child sick. Here is a simple guide that will help you decide how much is too much for your child. Kindergarten: Your child is just beginning to learn to interact and get used to discipline. His or her after-school life should be simple and carefree. One or two classes per week are enough at the beginning. Once the child settles down, look for more challenging activities like a music program. Grade 1: One or two activities per week, play dates and playground visits are recommended. Avoid competitive sports activities. The child is still too young to have to worry about winning and losing. After the rigors of a full day at school, he or she needs a healthy outlet for pent up energy. Physical activities and noncompetitive sports are best for this age. Grade 2: Your child is old enough to voice opinions on what activities he or she wants. Sports, skating, swimming or computers - steer him towards things he likes. Many children begin lessons on a musical instrument around this age. But, allow your child some 'alone time' during which he can unwind and just do whatever he wishes. Grade 3: Socialization begins to take center stage. Team sports are a good choice. Developing motor skills, painting, drawing etc are good too. Let the child explore areas of interests. But leave aside enough time for the family and for fun activities. Grade 4: At this age, the child will tell you what he likes. He needs to get involved in activities that will boost his confidence. This will also help him manage stress as this is the time when social pressure is beginning to build. But, beware of the homework demon. Your child needs more time with his studies. Balancing his schoolwork with other activities is very important. Grade 5: The fifth grader is bubbling with energy and will want to do just about everything. But she or he may conveniently push studies to the background. So, close supervision is needed. Keep one or two days free for family time and other activities. Now is a great time to get your child interested in community service. Middle school: Steer him away from TV. Get him engaged in activities that reinforce learning. Academic performance can be improved by encouraging your preteen to join clubs like the Girl/Boy Scouts program, language clubs, chess clubs etc. As a thumb rule, 16-20 hours a week of extra activity should be more than enough. But look out for signs of burnout. What you select for your child and how long he should work at it is basically decided by the child's temperament. As a parent, you should closely observe your child and base your decisions on feedback from the child himself. (word count 525) PPPPP