>    Regarding pharmaceuticals that, over time, become dangerous, I
>    would be most interested to know if anyone knows more on this.  I
>    work with a medical collection and have consulted several
>    physicians who, in their opinion, say there is nothing to worry
>    about as far as off-gasing, etc.
>
>    John Handley
>    San Francisco

I read an article published within the last eight years (in Scientific
American? American Scientist?) on a quack nostrum that contained
dangerously high levels of radium, and which killed at least one person.
Because of breakdown products, the drug actually became more radioactive
over time.  The author was a medical historian who found several bottles
containing residues of the stuff in antique stores.


Andrew K. Rindsberg                     Telephone (205) 349-2852
Curator, Paleontological Collection     Telefax (205) 349-2861
Geological Survey of Alabama            <[log in to unmask]>
P.O. Box O                              "I never let my schooling interfere
Tuscaloosa, AL 35486-9780, USA          with my education"--Mark Twain.