Happy New Year, Redux

Last year I posted a short piece about hangovers.  Maybe it's worth repeating before this New Year's Eve, when many may be anticipating one.  Here it is:

Some British scientists have conducted an exhaustive research into possible ways of avoiding or treating a hangover, and published their findings in the British Medical Journal. This seems appropriate, given the current English propensity for binge drinking.

All published randomized controlled studies of any medical intervention for hangover were analyzed – there weren’t very many. The following treatments were included: propranolol (a beta-receptor blocker), tropisetron (a serotonin blocker used to treat nausea and vomiting), tolfenamic acid (an anti-inflammatory painkiller used in migraine), fructose, glucose, borage, artichoke, prickly pear, and a yeast-based preparation. None of them was effective in preventing or treating hangover, although in one or two instances reduced severity of symptoms were reported.

So, what’s the best way to avoid a hangover? Practice abstinence or moderation!  But have fun . . .