Former NBA and reality TV star Lamar Odom found Tuesday, October 13, when authorities were called at about 3:15 p.m. to Love Ranch in Crystal, Nevada, about 70 miles outside of Las Vegas. It was reported by Love Ranch staff that Odom had been observed taking “herbal Viagra”and drinking cognac during his party binge. A toxicology report confirms cocaine was found in his blood.
Currently, Odom is hospitalized in Las Vegas, where latest reports state he has regained consciousness and is speaking.
The combination of cocaine and alcohol is widely known to be a recipe of disaster but now coupled with herbal Viagra, as in Odom’s case – has shown to be catastrophic.
Herbal Viagra contains substances reported to enhance sexual performance. It is sold in a variety of stores and over the internet. The ingredients vary and often are not even listed on the package. Herbal Viagra is supposed to mimic the effects of real Viagra, a prescription drug given to treat erectile dysfunction or to prolong an erection for sexual pleasure.
The supplement does not require the same standards or safety regulations the government imposes on prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications. According to the Mayo Clinic, “some products sold as ‘herbal viagras’ have been pulled off the market because they contain undeclared prescription medications. It can be dangerous to take supplements that contain unknown amounts of prescription medications or other unidentified ingredients.”
The FDA has repeatedly warned about the dangers of such products. One brand that Odom took, Reload, was the subject of a 2013 warning from the FDA. The agency, which is responsible for testing and ensuring the safety of drugs and medical devices, has issued 20 public notifications this year concerning what it says are “tainted” internet products with names like “Weekend Warrior” and “King of Romance” that promise male sexual enhancement.
Drugs & alcohol – a deadly cocktail
Herbal Viagra can cause dangerously low blood pressure and may restrict blood flow to vital organs. Some drugs of this class can even be toxic if taken in large doses. And the potential for lethal side effects is increased if taken with other blood pressure and heart disease medications, or some antidepressants. Try coupling these drugs with binge alcohol drinking and cocaine, and prepare for disaster.
Also note that individuals who partake in these substances usually aren’t eating well, staying hydrated or getting enough rest. So these substances combined especially in someone who isn’t in optimal health can cause the heart to beat rapidly and irregularly making you feel breathless and causing blood pressure changes increasing the risk of a heart attack and sudden death.
The heart’s most important function is to deliver oxygen rich blood to vital organs. When the heart is unable to function properly it is not uncommon for people to experience a lack of oxygen rich blood to the brain and other organs. So the reported brain damage and failing organs Odom has are unfortunate but not medically surprising findings.
Odom definitely has a long road and uphill battle ahead of him as he currently fights for his life. Is his condition one that he can overcome? Unfortunately, textbook medicine cannot answer that question. Let’s hope for the best and pray for a medical miracle.
Nurse Alice is America’s favorite nurse. She is a nationally board certified cardiac clinical nurse specialist and a reoccurring television & radio health expert and contributor. She hosts The Check Up with Nurse Alice, and has appeared on several national shows including HLN’s Dr Drew, The Doctors, The Tom Joyner Morning Show and FOX News Radio. Follow her on Twitter, IG & Facebook at@AskNurseAlice
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