US Pharm. 2013;38(8):6.
Jupiter, FL—Researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in Jupiter, Florida, are developing a drug that mimics the benefits of exercise with no actual workout required. According to a study published in Nature Medicine, obese mice were injected with a compound that increased production of the muscle protein REV-ERB, which is known to partially control circadian rhythms and internal biological clocks. These animals lost weight, improved their cholesterol levels, and expended 5% more energy compared to mice in the control group, even though they were not exercising more. While it is still unclear whether or not the drug can be safely used in humans, the fundamental goal is to help disabled people experience some of the health benefits of exercise, not aid those who want to avoid physical activity.
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