This is Insidermedicine in 60. From Chicago - Statins do not appear to prevent development of Alzheimer's. While some previous research has suggested that cholesterol lowering medication may also lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's, a new study of nearly 1000 subjects followed for 12 years showed that these medicines did not have a beneficial effect on cognition and did not result in a lower risk for the disease. From Maryland - The FDA has issued a strong warning against the use of over the counter cough and cold medicines for children between 2 and 6 years of age. The medicines can cause rapid heart rate, convulsions and even death in some patients. While many manufacturers have voluntarily withdrawn infant products from pharmacies, a recent study found that over 40% of parents are unaware of the risks associated with the use of these over the counter products in infants and young children. And finally, from Pittsburgh - A virus has been implicated in the rare and frequently lethal Merkel cell carcinoma. A study evaluating both Merkel cell carcinoma and control lesions, found that the presence of polyomavirus in 80% of Merkel cell lesions compared to only 8% of controls. The cancer occurs in 1500 patients per year in the US, most of whom have AIDS or are immune suppressed. For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.