The U.S. Congress was urged in testimony before the House Government Reform Committee, Dan Burton (R-Ind.), chairman, full committee hearing ("Comprehensive Medical Care for Bioterrorism Exposure - Are We Making Evidence-Based Decisions? What are the Research Needs?") November 14, 2001, to consider the use of homeopathic medicines for both viral and bacterial illnesses associated with bioterrorism.

In testimony from Wayne B. Jonas, MD, former director of the Office of Alternative Medicine at the U.S. National Institutes of Health and current director, Samueli Institute for Information Biology, Alexandria, Virginia, and associate professor, department of family medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, the panel learned that: * Homeopathic medicines have a 200-year history of safe and successful use in epidemic disease of both viral and bacterial origin; * Homeopathic drugs are recognized by the FDA; * Homeopathic medicines are generally inexpensive and widely available in the United States; * Current clinical research and historical use suggest that the medicines could be useful, although study populations are typically small; * Increased research funding and governmental institutional support are necessary to accelerate the pace of clinical research.

In addition to their use against infectious disease, homeopathic medicines are being commonly used for stress related symptoms following trauma. Many patients are seeking out their physicians or using over the counter homeopathic medicines for sleeplessness, fatigue and mental clarity, and focus symptoms following the September 11, 2001, events.

The Congressional panel was urged to look at all medical possibilities, including homeopathic medicines, to help protect the health and welfare of Americans. This article was prepared by TB & Outbreaks Week editors from staff and other reports.

From Newsrx.com