The heart drug with an unusual side-effect... it could make you less RACIST

[dipsydoodle]

A common heart disease drug may have the unusual side-effect of combating racism, a new study suggests.

Volunteers given the beta-blocker, used to lower heart rates, scored lower on a standard psychological test of 'implicit' racist attitudes.

They appeared to be less racially prejudiced at a subconscious level than another group treated with a 'dummy' placebo pill.

Scientists believe the discovery can be explained by the fact that racism is fundamentally founded on fear.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2111600/heart-drug.html#ixzz1oTyBXbwA

[cbayer]

1. Beta blockers effectively treat the symptoms of anxiety.

Lower heart rate, blood pressure, etc.

I think the conclusion that fear can drive bigotry is likely correct.

[Enrique]

2. i love the picture they used

i guess this was the AFTER picture

[Warpy]

3. We gave propranolol to patients with uncontrolled anger from a neurological insult

30 years ago. The effect of that particular drug on free floating anger has been known for a very long time, as well as the side effect some non anger junkies feel, depression.

It's an old and safe drug. I just hope docs start prescribing it to dittoheads. Without Jabba to fill the emptiness, they're going to have a tough time and take it out on the rest of us if something isn't done to help them through it.

And no, I am not joking about this.

[Mopar151]

4. My teabagger neighbor needs it bad!

Already 2 heart attacks - every time I see him, he's boilin' over about somethin'.

[jaysunb]

5. Agreed

I've been thinking the same thing myself. And on the upside, w/o the Rush bombast everyday, there'll be less people drawn into this kind of thinking. (newbies)

[Thor_MN]

6. Wouldn't this drug also make one less Republican?

[Gman]

7. It may be a miracle cure

[a simple pattern]

8. They could call it Liberalis!

Side effects may include critical thinking, diminished rage capacity, and a sudden increase in your ability to spell. Be sure to ask your doctor if you are healthy enough for sexual activity. If you experience an erection measuring more than 4 inches, do not call your doctor, you have been radicalized.

[saras]

9. Probably - that's why big pharma is working drugs to cure anti-authoritarianism

[Historic NY]

10. Need to pass them out like candy to some folks......