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BMJ 2006; 332 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/sbmj.060288 (Published 01 February 2006) Cite this as: BMJ 2006;332:060288

Eyespy brings you the latest quirky medical stories from around the world

Eyespy was devastated to learn that alcohol hangover has no cure, but will continue to order a Bloody Mary with Sunday brunch. A Google search showed that you agree, but you also think that cabbage, pizza, and marmite on toast help to soothe throbbing heads and settle churning stomachs. Alas, a systematic search of the medical literature found just eight relevant, randomised, and controlled trials. The substances tested were the drugs propranolol (a b blocker), tropisetron (a drug for nausea and vertigo), and tolfenamic acid (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug); fructose or glucose; the dietary supplements borage, artichoke, and prickly pear; and a preparation containing dried yeast. Most trials reported no beneficial effects. Hangovers account for about £2bn in lost wages each year in the UK, and symptoms include impaired memory, nausea, headache, and lack of concentration (BMJ 2005;331: 1515-8).

Funny films might increase blood flow by as much as 50%. Twenty healthy adults watched 15 to 30 minute clips of sad films, like the opening scene of Saving Private Ryan, and amusing films, such as There's Something About Mary, with at least two days …

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