Valium: Mother’s Little Helper American Innovations
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- Science
This episode is available exclusively for Wondery+ subscribers.
Within 10 years of Valium’s introduction, people are starting to realize it’s not quite as harmless as they had been led to believe. Patients are building up a tolerance to it, taking stronger and stronger dosages, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they quit. Women, who have been prescribed Valium at twice the rates men have, spearhead the fight to increase regulation.
When former First Lady Betty Ford announces her own addiction to Valium, the public outcry against the drug finally causes the government to act. They hold days of hearings and tighten up the rules around prescribing the medication, but more importantly, Valium’s reputation is severely damaged.
But decades later, doctors start to wonder if the backlash went too far….
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This episode is available exclusively for Wondery+ subscribers.
Within 10 years of Valium’s introduction, people are starting to realize it’s not quite as harmless as they had been led to believe. Patients are building up a tolerance to it, taking stronger and stronger dosages, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they quit. Women, who have been prescribed Valium at twice the rates men have, spearhead the fight to increase regulation.
When former First Lady Betty Ford announces her own addiction to Valium, the public outcry against the drug finally causes the government to act. They hold days of hearings and tighten up the rules around prescribing the medication, but more importantly, Valium’s reputation is severely damaged.
But decades later, doctors start to wonder if the backlash went too far….
Support us by supporting our sponsors!
Policy Genius - To compare life insurance policies, visit policygenius.com and see how much you could save.
Peloton - Learn more about Peloton’s 30-Day Home Trial at onepeloton.com. You’ll also get $100 off accessories with the purchase of the Peloton Bike if you use promo code INNOVATIONS.
SimpliSafe - Visit SimpliSafe.com/INNOVATIONS. You’ll get FREE shipping and a 60-day risk free trial.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.