Health shorts...

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1 Unrestrained dogs in the car can endanger them and you by falling on you in an accident or distracting you from driving. If you want to travel with your dog, seat it in the back seat with a seat belt.

2. Is Cymbalta, originally sold as an anti depressant, safe and effective for pain? Lilly which manufactures it is seeking FDA approval for more uses than depression, fibromyalgia and diabetic nerve pain. Lilly would like approval for general pain. Cymbalta, besides a host of side effects including nausea, nightmares, insomnia, can also cause liver damage with long term usage. There are 14.6 million taking Cymbalta. Since Lilly stock dropped in value after a trial for a new Alzheimer's drug in which those not taking the drug did better than those taking it, perhaps, Lilly wants to make up the loss.

3. A new study found 3000 children from 12-18 with hearing loss. Loud music and blaring Ipods are a suspected factor.

4. Acai berries do not help you lose weight, say experts - but only work as a laxative. The FTC is going after a couple of internet places making claims for the product which the FTC expert says are false. Additionally, taking these herbs can cause damage on a longer term basis. Just because it's a herb doesn't mean it's safe.