Drug Gives Couch Potato Mice Benefits of a Workout

Don't we have enough people in the world on medication?

If this actually becomes available for humans, I'd be surprised (and worried). I understand this being used if people have a medical condition that restricts their movement somehow. However, I can just picture this pill is the hands of people who are quite capable of exercising but are just plain lazy.

I think this paragraph says it all, really:

The no-exercise drug is called AICAR. Previous experiments suggest that it might protect against gaining weight on a high-fat diet, which might make it useful for treating obesity, Evans said. But it would have to be taken for a long time, he said, so its safety in people would have to be assured.

If you gain weight, or are obese because you choose a high-fat diet then I don't think you should be able to use this drug. I'm sorry, but people can't complain that there is an "obesity epidemic" if people aren't willing to take care of themselves. Enabling people to continue to live unhealthy lifestyles is not the answer.

Just my two cents...

"Enabling people to continue to live unhealthy lifestyles is not the answer."

I think you hit the nail on the head with this one, Sharkles-- This could really feed the already alarming mentality of folks who aren't willing to take responsibility for their actions.

You had an interesting point about the drug being used if people have a medical condition that restricts their movement; that could certainly be a good application of the drug.

What I'd really like to know is why there are so many sedentary mice out there that need this drug-- they should be exercising more! ^_^

More of these

Less of this

A moderate amount of exercise.

That's the need.

Kind Regards....

The need, yes.

The reality? Apparently not. And with most people reporting that they are working more than ever, I don't see it changing anytime soon.