Get Author's discounts by ordering a copy now. Once you have completed the purchasing process through Paypal.com, e-mail the author to speed up the process.

This book is an eclectic collection of poems and short essays on California's people and landscape, wine, beach and car culture. Wordsworth summarizes Mr. Charles's poetic affinity, "Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings; it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquility."

"California Blossoms and Harvest Delights" deals with this expansive, rich and fertile landscape in a way that readers will quickly recognize the important landmarks, features and attributes of the Golden state. It pinpoints areas of appreciation and highlights important cultural contributions and activities of the various ethnic and minority groups forming this new frontier, Central California. The Silicon Valley's high-tech boom is soon followd by the housing market boom up and down the state and specifically in Central Valley places such as Fresno County, Clovis, Madera county, Visalia, Modesto, Turlock, Sacramento, Tulare etc. This may be why an astute observer of the Valley once said, "Our hills and farmland are blooming with new houses and commercial buildings bordering fields of grazing cows." This is an uplifting, eye-opening and thought-provoking work.

Book Sample

Temporary Troubles, Eternal Glory

Christmas time is the time to be together with loved ones and with those who matter to us a lot. This year's Christmas season will be more meaningful for many of us in this country and around the world. It's a time when we can truly count our blessings in light of all the conflicts, acts of violence, war, diseases, the terrorist spread of anthrax in our mail system, talks of WMD and bioterrorism.

The tragedy of Sept. 11 is still fresh on our collective minds. There is no way we can't forget those who laid their lives at the great altar of service. The first celebration of Christmas after those horrible acts finds us more meditative and mindful of our position in the larger community. Many other Christmas celebrations will follow in the years ahead. We are the keepers of our brothers and sisters. We become more united than ever before despite all the things that existed out there to divide us. The enemies might have tried to divide us, but we did not get into their traps. We stood tall and united in the midst of our calamities and tribulations.

The temporary troubles of our lives are nothing in comparison with the eternal glory we are called to have in the Father of all comfort (2 Corinthians 2:3-4). In these days of tremendous pain, it is good to go back to the things that bring us comfort, the things we are familiar with. Family, friendship, religion, strong sense of community, flag, storytelling and patriotism are all the things that become important in our lives since Sept. 11. This is why our officials encouraged us to go back to our normal routine despite all the changes that suddenly became part of our world. Our world changed on 9-11. Now we can talk about pre-911 and post-911. They will be for ever known as historical markers or landmarks.

No matter how much change we have lately witnessed, we want to stick to the constant points of our life. There is no doubt that we were truly shaken by the anthrax scare. We knew that we had to be careful with something that has become part of our lives. For far too long, we have taken our snail mail for granted. When we saw that our mail men and women start becoming victims of the terrorist acts, we knew that those changes would affect us personally. This is why we need to be more appreciative and thankful for these people in our lives. How many times have we taken the time to purposefully say a few words of thanks to these brave men and women who deliver our mail to us in good and bad times? How many times have we personally thanked our dry cleaner workers? How about the men in uniform, the firefighters, rescue workers, police officers, emergency medical workers and even the rescue dogs? It makes sense that these people did not think twice to rush to the burning towers to help, guide, comfort others who were facing certain death? They rushed in to humanize and diminish the suffering of complete strangers. They REACHED out to them. They did something to alleviate their excruciating pain. As a grateful society, we respond by recognizing their heroic acts. In a matter of minutes, days and months, they have reclaimed the title that surely belongs to them.

These ordinary men and women did not become our heroes because of their excellent beauty (even though most of them are beautiful), they became our heroes for their unselfish, altruistic acts on behalf of thousands. Even on earth, their recognition and rewards are greater than most others.

From the smoldering rubbles rose goodness. It's true that the hearts of many people in this country and all over the world ache, they have become witnesses of history. It has been history in the making ever since these tragic, horrific days befell our country. Goodness surely germinated and rose from the ruins of such major losses of lives and property. Grief took over our mind. The level of atrocity is unimaginable. Men have become their own fiercest enemies. They are bent on destroying themselves for each time a man dies, a part of another man also dies. If anything, the heinous acts of Sept. 11 make us realize the value of being connected to our community and the value of interdependence.

All over the world, prayer vigils were held. Churches saw an upsurge in attendance. Neighbors who never said hi to each other finally realized that they had so much to share. They are talking. Even major cities' crime rates decline for the few days after the tragedy. Once for all, people matter. Relationships matter. It's ok to grieve. It's ok to look for public comfort and inspirational or spiritual matters. The stock market becomes less relevant. Our materialistic ambitions are set aside for a while. Our selfish ways become the antithesis to this kind of 1-for-all sense of community.

Compassion becomes more than a simple word. Seize the day. Live today and forget the past and even the future. How many of us wouldn't like to sustain this kind of spirit of America at its best? Even on busy streets, complete strangers take time to say hi. They don't seem to be peering down your throats without even nodding your way or recognizing you are around. Our hearts become open to the needs of our neighbors. That's how it should have been all along! We may have finally realized that we are all on the same boat of life. Life is too short for us to waste it. Let's use it to contribute to our world and matter to others. Our life is like a flower. Job 14:2. No matter what may have come our way, we know that victory, glory awaits in the near future. 2 Corinthians 4:1, 7-8, 17-18;

Please meditate over this passage: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.." Psalm 46: 1-2. Let's sustain the spirit of America at its best! We are a nation of strong faith, conviction and determination

Mr. Charles's first book "The Long Lost Garden of Eden" was well-received.
It can be purchased below:

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Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 11:01 PM

Updated: Wednesday, 25 January 2006 8:23 PM

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The domination of the iPod music player may not be for long. Is that so? RealNetworks has announced that it has come up with a technology, named Harmony, that can let users of RealNetworks' RealPlayer Music Store to transfer songs to the iPod. Now that's huge!. Consider how the Cupertino, California's company's iPod has been so dominant on the market, you'll realize the fight that was on to obtain a piece of this rich market. While Steve Jobs was dealing with some personal issues (surgery to remove a tumor according to the news), the engineers of RealNetworks were rejoicing. While the iPod technology is highly guarded secret, a closed system, these guys managed to create access to it. In other words, they are accused of using a hacker's technique to break into the iPod. For now, the party goes on for RealNetworks. How about a giant B-B-Q to celebrate the achievement?

All the Apple enthusiasts and iPod fans must be furious over this news. Maybe not all of them. After all, they are consumers who want to be able to make decisions based on comparision shopping tools. The computer maker may have its own move down the line. If its own engineers can verify or spot the access source, it is likely to be plugged to prevent Harmony from working.

The iPod Craze got fueled by Newsweek article, July 26 and the online media
How has the fight become so ugly?

In the technology world, this new development has been major news feed. Consumers acquire a new choice. Whether it's better than the iPod or not, no one can tell. What's a given is that the songs purchased from the iTunes Music Store can be played on a new music player. Money is at the foundation of RealNetworks'development. More songs from their RealPlayer's Music Store can be purchased by consumers who can transfer them to their iPod.

What's clear is that copyright lawyers will have a field day. They'll be able to refer to precedents such as PCs of the former Compaq corporation that were found to be compatible with IBM There is no doubt that Apple has the lion share of the download music market. Whether RealNetworks will be a viable competitor rests to be seen. It may come down to a question of taste for the consumers. They'll be able to pick whatever flavor they want.

This fight between these two companies is only at the beginning stage. Apple will try to settle the score and even beat RealNetworks in the end. No one can predict the final scores at this time. Once Steve Jobs is recovered, he'll be right back in the middle of the actions.

Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 11:01 PM

Updated: Saturday, 5 November 2005 6:10 AM

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Mood:  celebratory

Listen to You Sexy Thing

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Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 11:01 PM

Updated: Thursday, 2 February 2006 3:12 AM

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Mood:  lucky

There is no doubt that Sony has come to symbolize versatility, high-end consumer products, reliability and a touch of luxury in the fields of digital cameras, camcorders, photogray and moviemaking. What's clear about Sony is that its products stand for high quality and technological advances. It appears that Sony ingenieurs, designers and marketers have not been sleeping on the wheels. Through their R&D, they try to find out and anticipate what the regular consumer will want. Based on the following products, one can reasonably say that this company is on the right tracks with its large variety of products.

Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 4:33 PM

Updated: Thursday, 17 November 2005 5:02 AM

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Mood:  cool

Homeownership is one of the keys to the American dream. With the recent low interest rates, more and more US residents have become homeowners. By historical standards, current mortgage rates are very low. For many, it's a dream come true. Knowing that a house in this country appreciates about 4% to 5%, one can clearly see the advantages of homeownership. After the crash of the New Economy, many multimilionaires from the Bay Area of California, Southern and Northern California and many rich pockets of the country have been moving their assets into the housing market. For them, the housing market is a safer long-term investment.

Go anywhere in California and other states, for sure, you'll find a lot of building activities. Commercial building has taken off. Many agents are reporting that commercial buildings don't usually take a long time to sell. Many investors are all too happy to pour their money in this industry. The retail industry has hugely benefitted from the low interest rates in that business owners have been able to add to their existing buildings. Warehouses are springing all over the floor of the Central Valley of California.

What are the benefits of homeownership?

According to a study conducted by some educators, homeownership contributes to the intelligence, education and welfare of children. The gist of the study is that students who are raised in homes fare better than those raised in apartments and other similar living conditions. The premise of this finding is that homeownership contributes to stability which is a requirement for any kids to progress in their studies. Despite the headache of coming up with monthly mortgage payments, a homeowner feels better about these payments because they are going toward something he/she'll eventually own. In the end, the interest on the mortgage and the property taxes come in handy. Knowing how hard it is to save in this country where shopping has become sort of a therapeutic session and a sports activity, buying a house has been regarded as forced savings plan. It's a fact many people can't save either because they don't make much to be able to save or their buying habits get the best of them.

When buying a new home, what are some of the things to keep in mind? High Expectations in the countryside?

Whether you are going for duplex, triplex or multiplex, apartment, condo, co-op or any other derivative, keep in mind that the real estate agents will have a commission of about 6%. Keep in mind that closing costs will also take a chuck out of your new found treasure. Now if the seller wants to assume all or share in the closing costs, you can consider yourself lucky. A new phenomenon has surfaced. Many former homeowners who decided to cash in on the appreciation of their house by selling may never be able to afford the same type of house in the same neighborhood. This gives rise to the coinage of "Equity refugees." They sell high, relocate to a new area with low or affordable housing. They usually can afford a minimansion with the loot they brought with them. The Central Valley of California, considered the last Western frontier has seen many of these people with big city taste and no tolerance for farming activities and cattle raising in the neighborhood. Local city councils have been receiving many complaints from them. D'uh! You moved into dairy territory! What did you expect?

Here is what to remember when buying a new home.

In real estate, think location, location, location! The right location of your new home will contribute to its resale value. Think about the overall quality of life, the type of construction, amenities and neighborhood. It's important to know where the parks, shopping centers and recreation sites are located in relation to your residence.

Summarize: Decide where to live. Pick a real estate agent. Find a mortgage lender. Set your goals and requirements up. Hunt for the right property. Narrow your choices. Feel free to take the plunge. Make up your mind. Hang in there. Become a handyman or know a good one.

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Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 4:32 PM

Updated: Wednesday, 25 January 2006 8:26 PM

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For all its 27 years, the Honda Accord line has not ceased to wow car enthusiasts and competitors. The American Honda Motor Co is not ready to cede their position of status to any other manufacturers either. Even when the Toyota and Passat engineers have been bringing on the market vehicles that become sudden eye-catchers, Honda Accord keeps its loyal band of enthusiasts. These two previously mentioned car manufacturers have become leaders and standards in the Sedan market, that did not prevent Honda Accord from being the best-selling car in America in 2001. And the Accord line is not ready to rest on its laurels either. This is why we have the all-new 2003 redesign. Just a few looks at the Sedan and the Coupe will let you realize that the Honda engineers are dead serious about clutching to their traditions of pleasing the American car buyers. With all the bells and whistles added to this year's models, the Accord is poised to lead once more in this competitive category.

Back up this stuff: Test-driving the EX Sedan

This great sedan of the American household comes in the following trim lines: DX, LX and EX. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to test-drive the EX on a junction of our increasingly busy freeway. The following review will be purely based on my impressions and observations. To tell you the truth, I remained breathless once my time was over. Having been in the Honda family for a long time, I have secretly made up my mind to upgrade to this year's model. All that is needed is the go-ahead from my spouse and kids. Aren't we all in this situation, guys! Truly, buying a car has become a family affair.

Any way, on a typical overcast Fall afternoon in the great Central Valley of California, I set out to explore the 2003 Honda Accord. I was ready for the driving after going to lunch with a colleague of mine. It was unfortunate that the Vietnamese restaurant was not too far away from our office. So I promised myself to find out more about this new sedan.

How does this Accord drive?

All the additions to this year's model have made the sedan very responsive on the road. I am referring to the EX Sedan's 2.4-liter four cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic transmission. It is my finding that the shifting is smooth and responsive. In the end, the sedan provides a superb performance. Some of the equipments you may find on this year's model are anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, tilt and telescopic steering wheel.

How about the interior of the new Accord?

There is no doubt that the interior of the Honda Accord features a blend of driver-focused features and information-oriented technologies. All of this starts with a new seat design that will provide maximum comfort and support. After all, you will be on the seat for the longest time possible. Even after stopping the car at the end of my test-drive, I did not want to get off the seat. I had ample time to check a few other things inside the cabin. There is enough front shoulder, front leg, rear shoulder room. Ample visibility has become a staple of the Honda. It's a feature you can find in practically all of the company's vehicles. Here is a list of other features you can find in this year's model, the EX Sedan:

Safety, dependability, quality, durability and reliability

For the first time on any Honda, the Accord offers a side curtain airbag system that is available on the EX V6 models. This year's model is true to its past record of safety and reliability. There are sensors in the front passenger seat that automatically disable the side bag in case a person leans into its deployment path. That's the Occupant Position Detection system for passenger seat side airbag.

The EX already has the next generation of Satellite-linked Honda DVD Navigation Systems which offer enhanced features and the "Touch by Voice" voice recognition system. This is a first on the Accord. Other features include a larger touch screen display, an expanded database covering virtually all U.S. roads and with seven million points of interest. Compare this with the one million points of interest that are currently available on the market. That's a huge head start! The new split screen design enhances the on-screen information with "3-D" route visualization for easier use.

Final thoughts on the EX

Short and tall people will enjoy this sedan. It has a great driving position. The display, instruments and controls a very accessible. Yes, the trunk of this sedan can hold lots of luggage. It will hold more than your grocery bags. If you are going on a trip, it will hold all your suitcases and other equipment. Keep in mind that the trunk has a glow-in-the-dark emergency release handle. If you are inclined or have to carry long items, there is a pass-through behind the armrest that lets you do just that.

This year's model is a great investment in the family's safety and reliability on the road.

Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 4:26 PM

Updated: Wednesday, 25 January 2006 8:36 PM

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Go ahead, GM! Give them something to talk about for many months and years to come. Something huge, similar to a quiet revolution in the SUV industry is happening. Those who are riding the waves of these changes just continue to love every single minute of it. Go to Beach Boulevard, Bel-Air in Los Angeles and you'll see something strange happening. For that matter, go to any major cities of this country where their residents care about their public images and are in a high economic bracket. You will see that most of them are driving in high class. They are driving gas-guzzling SUVs. If this is only one of the reasons most people rebuke them, a large group of truck drivers who are your neighbors, parents, and colleagues love SUVs for their practicality and the sense of power and control they exude. Right now, there is one truck that offers more than those qualities. 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT is the ultimate luxurious SUV that anybody who is anybody covets out there. Who would resist taking a few rides in such a luxurious truck? I seized the opportunity to test-drive it a few days ago. I have come out of this experience with lots of goodies to share with you.

Stars, rap moguls, various sports athletes and ordinary consumers with a pretty nice pocketbook are driving large in the Escalade

What is clear is that GM wants to lead in the richly profitable SUV market. Who would not like to align him/herself with a winner?

It's the new sign of the times. It's everywhere you go. Most of the local dealers I have talked to can't seem to hold them for too long. The Cadillac folks know a few things about bringing these robust, rugged but slick vehicles to the market. Now, life has not been all rosy for that brand all along. For what seemed to be an eternity, the Cadillac brand was being bombarded by the various products from Japan and Korea. These engineers and all the ensemble had to generate something that would capture the fancy of not only the most coveted up and mobile young people but also their core consumers, the mature Cadillac die-hards. They hit the jackpot with the arrival of the SUVs. GM engineers decide to base the Escalade on the well-known chassis of the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. Besides the Chevrolet Avalanche which the Escalade is adapted from, Escalade is the only full-size truck on the market which can go from a full-size SUV to a full-size pickup with a protected eight-foot cargo box. There is no doubt that GM has built a great momentum in the truck market since the inception of this superluxurious truck. It is fitting that they want to take advantage of every opportunity to put the results of their creative juice on the market. I remain a firm believer in the body-on-frame ruggedness, utility and versatility of the truck.

Tell me more about the 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT
The Escalade is seen as the company's flagship SUV

Introduced to the Cadillac brand as a 2002 model, Escalade has quickly grabbed the hearts of the die-hard SUV fans. Young as well as mature drivers seem to give a thumbs up. With its edgy style found mostly on the Escalade SUV and CTS sedan, the 2003 Escalade EXT is a sure attention grabber on the roads of this country. That's what happened to me and my salesperson when I took it out for a spin around town. The sheer beauty and size of the truck command respect. I had no problem negotiating the ramps to the freeways. A 6.0L V-8 engine powers the beautiful beast. It sports a smooth shifting four-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission with tow/haul modes.

What are some of the Escalade's features?
Convert-a-cab allows owners to do whatever they need to.

Let's say you have a large and long load to haul. The Escalade can meet your needs in a heart beat. This is where the convert-a-cab feature comes handy. It allows you to convert the truck to meet your needs as they arise. In this case, all you need to do is to make sure the split rear passenger seat is folded (the midgate can be folded down to allow longer and larger cargo). The 2003 Escalade is a very versatile truck. Bear in mind that the EXT's rear window can be removed and stored on the midgate. If you want, you can keep the midgate upright with the window removed to create an open air feel without the wind noise which is common in convertible vehicles.

The bed and tailgate of the EXT are made of a combination of steel. This is where GM can be proud of its PRO-TEC composite and other materials. It's new but it's efficient and effective. The composite will resist dings and scratches. So you don't have to worry about hauling your materials.

How does the EXT drive?

It's as smooth as any car despite its size. Handling and performance are its hallmarks. I had more space sitting behind its wheel than I have on a Cessna. The EXT has great display and control graphics. For this year's model, they have been upgraded. You can find these upgrades in the following areas: analog speedometer, tach, odometer, fuel, water temp, oil pressure and a digital message center. Visibility is a big plus. It's so amazing to be able to see everything in the environs. There is no mention of the head, leg and hip room that exists on this truck. It has comfortable type of living room chair front bucket seats with armrests and deep center console capable of swallowing almost anything.

If you want to decide on this vehicle, I would recommend that you test-drive it on a few occasions to better appreciate it. Then, make up your mind. Anybody who receives this truck as a gift will be blown off his/her feet. It's such a gorgeous and big SUV! GM makes them big and better!

Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 4:26 PM

Updated: Monday, 30 May 2005 7:14 PM

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Mood:  celebratory

Ford Mustang is one of the most recognizable Ford vehicles on the roads these days. From the inception of this brand to the current 2003 Mustang, many designs, improvements and features have been added to Mustang. No wonder that the 2003 model comes equipped with all the goodies that any serious car enthusiast has come to expect on this venerable brand. I had the opportunity to test-drive this year's model and came out very impressed by its smoothness, performance and simplicity. The 2003 model's improvements can be observed in the stiffer accessory drive brackets and bearings that tend to reduce variability. In addition, the Mustang sports a retuned suspension which includes new shock absorbers. I did not suffer from the poor conditions of the road where I was test-driving the 4.6-liter V-8 Mustang.

If you have driven any of the previous years' models of Mustang, you were perhaps annoyed by all the wind noise coming from the door handles and other areas. What this year's model has done is that it has the wind noise. With new shock absorbers and less noise on the road, you are set to focus your mind on the driving. The distraction is never needed when driving such an American classic brand.

The GT model and the Standard Mustang

While the standard Mustang engine is a 3.8-liter OHV V-6 which produces 190 horsepower at about 5,250 rpm and 220 foot-pounds or torque at 2,750 rpm, the GT models release way much more power. They have a standard 4-6-liter SOHC V-8 that produces 260 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 302 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. Now if you want more power as is the case for many of my friends, you can choose the Mach 1 model which has a standard 4-valve, DOHC 4.6-liter V-8 producing more than 300 horsepower.

Safety and other significant features in the Mustang

Test-driving the Mustang was a breeze. It was very responsive to my demands for more power as I got on the freeway and decided to go with the flow of traffic. I did not have to keep my fingers crossed before any positive reaction took place. Sporting 16-inch, polished-aluminium wheels, unique striping with "Mustang Stampede" graphics, the 2003 model leads to the "joie de vivre or conduire." The handling was great. One of the few things that caught my attention was the head-impact safety feature. It encompasses a new A-pillar, headliners, sun visors and a revised D-ring seat belt attachment. Four passengers can seat comfortably in the Mustang.

What are my impressions after all?

I had no problem getting in and out of the car. Once inside, I had enough head, hip and shoulder room. The subcompact coupe had nice leather seats an leather-wrapped steering wheel. While on the freeway, I had time to check the stereo system. The AM/FM stereo is, of course, standard. However, the CD player is optional. The Remote Keyless Entry is standard.

It's my opinion that the Mustang can only get better. It's a great car for anybody who wants to be perceived as being fit, sport-oriented and hip. This model will also appeal those who like driving irregular and uncommon vehicles. If you are looking for something that will distinguish you on the road, a Mustang is a must. It makes sense that this model is very popular among both sexes, young as well as more mature car enthusiasts.

The 2003 Mustang is a great ride you won't regret at all.

Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 4:25 PM

Updated: Saturday, 23 October 2004 6:25 AM

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Mood:  d'oh

A popular medication has been taken off the shelves of pharmacies and patients' cabinets. A new research shows it can cause stroke. Is Vioxx supposed to strike fear in us, consumers? Does it make use think about all the popular medications that are advertised in all media outlets these days? Will consumers have to suffer latent consequences in the future? Just name a few popular ones (they currently have no recalls on them): Viagra, Levitra, Cialis, Zoloft, Tegretol, Lipitor, Zestril etc. How can we cover ourselves? Read the following report submitted by a pharmacist. More than ever before, we buy medications online through names such as CanadaPharmacy.com, CanadianPharmacy.com, Prescriptionsonline, etc.

The manufacturer of Vioxx has taken the drug off the market because of new evidence that it can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The chance that an individual will suffer a heart attack or stroke related to Vioxx is very small. The studies do not show an increased risk until after taking Vioxx regularly for over 18 months. Millions of doses of Vioxx have been taken over the last several years and the vast majority of these patients have not suffered any of these problems. Any increased risk is likely to go away very quickly after stopping Vioxx. People who have stopped taking Vioxx should not have lingering concerns.

Pharmacists will no longer fill any prescription for Vioxx. People taking Vioxx should contact their prescriber to discuss discontinuing use of Vioxx and any appropriate alternative treatment. Vioxx is a prescription medicine used to relieve signs and symptoms of arthritis, acute pain, and painful menstrual cycles.

There are other drugs that can be used instead. Vioxx is called a COX-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Other COX-2 selective NSAIDs on the market are Celebrex (celecoxib) and Bextra (valdecoxib). Vioxx is also related to the nonselective NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Nobody knows for sure if the drugs that are similar to Vioxx can cause the same problems, but the news about Vioxx should not cause patients on these other drugs to make any change right now. Some people who have an allergy to sulfa drugs need to be careful about switching to another drug.

The biggest concern with all these drugs is stomach bleeding and also liver and kidney toxicity. If you need to use these drugs for longer than two weeks, you should be under professional care.

The problem related to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes was confirmed while Merck was testing to see if their product, Vioxx, was effective for some different use. They were trying to see if it helped prevent the recurrence of colon polyps, which can proceed to cancer. This trial was called the APPROVe (Adenomatous Polyp Prevention on Vioxx) trial. During this trial researchers saw the increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and strokes, after 18 months of continuous treatment with Vioxx.

If you think you or anyone you may know have had an adverse effect caused by Vioxx you can report it to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch (click on "How to Report") or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

You can also get more information from Merck at www.merck.com and www.Vioxx.com or 1-888-368-4699. To find out more about Vioxx from the FDA click on www.fda.gov.cder or call 1-888-463-6332.

Keep in mind that all drugs can have some side effects, but they can be very beneficial and sometimes life-saving when used properly. Always discuss any medications or other products you are taking with your pharmacist and prescriber.

Posted by Fashionista Shopping Analyst at 4:22 PM

Updated: Tuesday, 16 November 2004 4:47 PM

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