| Prilosec as Effective as Expensive Prescriptions, Study Finds
A widely available nonprescription drug -- Prilosec OTC -- is as effective a treatment for heartburn and acid reflux disease as prescription drugs costing almost 10 times more, according to an analysis from Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs, a public education project of Consumers Union. "Many people with heartburn and acid reflux could save $1,000 to $2,000 a year by taking an over-the-counter drug that's just as effective as high-priced prescription drugs," said Gail Shearer, director of the project. "These are dramatic savings, and illustrate why consumers should talk to their doctors about identifying effective, lower-cost medicines," Shearer added. The over-the-counter drug Prilosec costs $19 to $26 a month on average nationwide, and can be even cheaper at large discount stores.
Garcia: The appointment game's just beginning, for those keeping score
For a rookie senator — and a Democrat to boot — Kirk Watson did well in committee assignments, but his is not the only chapter in the book. Yet to be written are House committee assignments that tell the story of how Central Texas will fare at the hands of this Legislature. Committee picks can be high drama, but are of low interest to most Central Texans. Yet, the effectiveness of legislators can be predicted — and fairly accurately — in the committees they draw. .
7 Surprising 5-Star Stocks
Seventy-seven companies are reporting earnings today, and the rest of the week will be even more aggressive. That's right, we're knee-deep in earnings season. What this means is that phrases such as "less than expected," "missing analyst estimates," and "lowered 2007 guidance" are giving many investors restless sleep and indigestion. What's a long-term investor to do? In his book The Intelligent Investor, Ben Graham introduces readers to a charming but manic-depressive fellow who goes by the name Mr. Market. Mr. Market's game is to pay you house calls on a daily basis to persuade you to buy or sell the stocks of businesses he owns or wants to own. Because of Mr. Market's bipolar affliction, he will sometimes show up at your door fantastically excited about the prospects for the future, will want a sky-high price for his stocks, and will similarly offer you premium prices for yours.
Oceanside fits Chargers' game plan
As president of the San Diego Chargers, you play the toughest position. Watching the tragedy of errors against the New England Patriots must have given you near-fatal heartburn. (Me, I still can't eat solid food. Just beer and Jell-O.) It can't be easy refereeing the feud between your general manager and coach. (Just a thought: Hire Dr. Phil for a day to shrink their extra-extra-extra-large egos.) Plus, finding a stadium location in San Diego County, as you've said you ardently desire to do, will require a genius game plan. That's why I'm writing, Mr. Spanos. I can attest that Oceanside is fired up over the team possibly moving to Junior Seau's hometown. City Councilman Jack Feller estimates that a nonbinding advisory vote on an O'side stadium, if it were to be held today, would win with 60 percent.
|
