In a 1965 episode of “The Beverly Hillbillies,” we learn that Granny, who fancies herself a doctor, has a secret cure for the common cold. At the end of the episode, Jethro brings a traveling pharmaceutical salesman to the Clampett mansion.
After hearing about Granny’s cold cure and announcing that he has the exclusive right to market it on the West Coast, he asks for the directions. Granny tells him, “Take one spoonful of cold cure, eat sensible, get lots of rest, and drink plenty of water,” to which Jed adds, “And in a week or 10 days, your cold will be gone.”
This is why properly designed drug studies are essential.
Aharon D. Shulimson, Salt Lake City
