Bruce Schultz Healthy Lifestyle Coach

09/29/2025

Exendin-4 is a bioactive polypeptide of 39 amino acids that is isolated from the saliva or venom of the Gila monster, a lizard species known scientifically as Heloderma suspectum. It acts as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, enhancing insulin secretion in response to glucose. A synthetic version of exendin-4, called exenatide, is used as a medication to treat type 2 diabetes due to its longer activity compared to the natural human GLP-1 hormone [1][2][3][4][5][6][7].

Sources
[1] Exendin-4 | C184H282N50O60S | CID 56927919 - PubChem https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Exendin-4
[2] Exendin-4: From lizard to laboratory...and beyond https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/exendin-4-lizard-laboratory-and-beyond
[3] Diabetes drug from Gila monster venom - Research.va.gov https://www.research.va.gov/research_in_action/Diabetes-drug-from-Gila-monster-venom.cfm
[4] Exendin-4 - Enzo https://www.enzo.com/product/exendin-4/
[5] Exendin-4 - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/exendin-4
[6] Exendin‐4 from Heloderma suspectum venom: From discovery to its ... https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bcpt.13169
[7] exendin-4 | Ligand page | IUPHAR/BPS Guide to PHARMACOLOGY https://www.guidetopharmacology.org/GRAC/LigandDisplayForward?tab=biology&ligandId=1135
[8] Release of exendin-4 is controlled by mechanical action in Gila ... https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1095643305003685
[9] Exendin-4 Decelerates Food Intake, Weight Gain, and Fat ... https://academic.oup.com/endo/article-abstract/141/6/1936/2988298
[10] Wegovy was inspired by Gila monster venom – here are some other ... https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/wegovy-was-inspired-gila-monster-venom-here-are-some-other-drugs-surprising-origins

Here is a comprehensive list of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, including those based on exendin-4 and others used primarily for type 2 diabetes and obesity:

Drugs with human GLP-1 backbone:
- Dulaglutide (brand name Trulicity)
- Liraglutide (brand names Victoza for diabetes, Saxenda for weight loss)
- Semaglutide (brand names Ozempic for diabetes, Wegovy for weight loss)
- Albiglutide (discontinued)

Drugs with exendin-4 backbone:
- Exenatide (brand names Byetta - twice daily injection, Bydureon BCise - once weekly injection)
- Lixisenatide (discontinued)

Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist:
- Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro)

Other notes:
- Exenatide (Byetta and Bydureon) is directly based on exendin-4.
- Rybelsus is an oral form of semaglutide.
- Some drugs like Lixisenatide and Albiglutide have been discontinued.
- Newer agents like Orforglipron are nonpeptide oral GLP-1 receptor agonists in trials.

These drugs are FDA approved for type 2 diabetes and some for obesity, with varying dosage forms and frequency of administration[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9].

Sources
[1] Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists - StatPearls - NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551568/
[2] Comparing Ozempic, Wegovy and Other GLP-1 Drugs - GoodRx https://www.goodrx.com/classes/glp-1-agonists/glp-1-drugs-comparison
[3] GLP-1 Agonist List: An Overview of Common Brands & Uses https://www.joincalibrate.com/resources/glp-1-agonist-list
[4] GLP-1 Agonists - Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/13901-glp-1-agonists
[5] [PDF] Antidiabetics – GLP-1 Agonistshttps://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/billers-and-providers/antidiabetics-GLP-1-agonists.pdf
[6] GLP-1 Drugs (Incretin Mimetics) - List of Brands & Generics https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/incretin-mimetics.html
[7] GLP-1 Receptor Agonists - The Johns Hopkins Patient Guide to ... https://hopkinsdiabetesinfo.org/medications-for-type-2-diabetes-glp-1-agonists/
[8] Popular Gip Receptor Glp 1 Receptor Agonists List, Drug ... - GoodRx https://www.goodrx.com/classes/gip-receptor-glp-1-receptor-agonists
[9] Diabetes drugs and weight loss - Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/expert-answers/byetta/faq-20057955

From rat poison to explosives, many of the drugs we use have interesting origin stories.

09/29/2025

Ni****ne patches are now being explored as a treatment for long COVID, with recent studies and anecdotal reports suggesting that they may help relieve persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and cognitive impairment. Researchers think ni****ne works by acting on the cholinergic system and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which the SARS-CoV-2 virus may disrupt, causing inflammation and nervous system imbalance. Some small studies found that applying low-dose ni****ne patches led to rapid improvement in certain long COVID patients’ fatigue, weakness, and mental clarity, sometimes within days. These promising results have caught the attention of the medical community, and some doctors are cautiously recommending ni****ne patches to certain long COVID patients, although the science is still new and further research is needed to confirm these benefits and identify any long-term risks.

Apart from their new role in COVID-related conditions, ni****ne patches have also been studied for other medical issues, such as chronic lung diseases, Parkinson’s disease, early-stage dementia, ADHD, ulcerative colitis, Tourette syndrome, and major depression. Most of these uses remain experimental and are typically managed within clinical trials. For all alternative purposes—including long COVID—experts recommend a cautious approach and supervision by a healthcare provider, as ni****ne can have side effects and risks even in patch form[1][2][3][4][5][6].

Sources
[1] Is the post-COVID-19 syndrome a severe impairment of ... https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9845100/
[2] Some people are turning to ni****ne gum and patches to treat long ... https://theconversation.com/some-people-are-turning-to-ni****ne-gum-and-patches-to-treat-long-covid-brain-fog-259093
[3] Could Ni****ne Patches Help Treat Long COVID Symptoms? https://www.verywellhealth.com/ni****ne-patches-long-covid-treatment-8705089
[4] The Ni****ne Patch Long COVID, ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia https://www.healthrising.org/blog/2023/12/07/ni****ne-patch-long-covid-chronic-fatigue-fibromyalgia/
[5] Ni****ne Patch Protocol https://covidinstitute.org/ni****ne-patch-protocol/
[6] Ni****ne and Its Potential Role in Treating COVID-19 and Long COVID https://www.eds.clinic/articles/ni****ne-long-covid-treatment
[7] Evaluation of the Efficacy of Ni****ne Patches in SARS-CoV2 ... https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04608201
[8] Is the post-COVID-19 syndrome a severe impairment of ... - PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36650574/
[9] Transdermal ni****ne in non-smokers: A systematic review to design ... https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2590041221000337

Ni****ne patches are being studied for several medical conditions outside of smoking cessation. Research teams have found that the patches may help with chronic lung diseases like sarcoidosis, where they relieve fatigue and may slow down inflammation, as seen in ongoing clinical trials at Ohio State University[1]. Scientists have also looked into using ni****ne patches for post-surgical pain, early-stage dementia, ADHD, and mild cognitive impairment, with studies showing improvement in memory and attention among older adults[5][2]. Other potential uses being explored include Parkinson’s disease, ulcerative colitis, Tourette syndrome, and major depression. Most of these experimental uses are still being tested in clinical trials, and the safety profile in non-smokers is considered acceptable for short-term trials, but routine use outside of approved indications isn’t recommended yet[5][2].

Sources
[1] Clinical Trial Uses Ni****ne Patches to Treat Chronic Lung Disease https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM7U3aUr6pw
[2] Development of the ni****ne patch for smoking cessation https://www.research.va.gov/research_in_action/Development-of-the-ni****ne-patch-for-smoking-cessation.cfm
[3] Long-term Ni****ne Replacement Therapy: A Randomized Clinical ... https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4410859/
[4] Study Shows Longer Ni****ne Patch Therapy is Safe and Effective https://news.feinberg.northwestern.edu/2015/02/23/hitsman-ni****ne-therapy/
[5] WhyNi****ne | Vanderbilt Center for Cognitive Medicine https://www.vumc.org/ccm/whyni****ne
[6] The effectiveness of the ni****ne patch for smoking ... - PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8201739/
[7] Transdermal ni****ne in non-smokers: A systematic review to design ... https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2590041221000337
[8] Ni****ne Patch: How to Use & Side Effects - Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19145-ni****ne-patches
[9] Adaptive Smoking Cessation Using Precessation Varenicline or ... https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2809121
[10] Study Shows Cigarette Makers Shifted Stance on Ni****ne Patches ... https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2017/08/408086/threat-opportunity-study-shows-cigarette-makers-shifted-stance-ni****ne-patches

A new study reports that to***co companies have known for decades that, without counseling, ni****ne replacement therapy hardly ever works, and that consumers often use it to complement smoking.

09/14/2025

Chocolate lovers watch this video.

09/10/2025

Many people a ni****ne patches

Some researchers, doctors, and patients say there's growing momentum behind ni****ne patches as a long COVID treatment. Here's what you need to know.

09/10/2025

In 2016, Joe Tippens was facing a devastating diagnosis: terminal small-cell lung cancer with just months to live. With conventional treatments offering no hope, he took a bold and unconventional route that stunned both doctors and patients alike. Tippens began taking fenbendazole, a common dog dewormer, along with Theracurmin (a potent form of turmeric) and CBD oil.

Within just three months, PET scans revealed no detectable cancer in his body. While no one can say definitively that this combination cured him, his recovery sparked viral attention and interest in a possible link between anti-parasitic drugs and cancer remission.

Fenbendazole is part of the benzimidazole class, which also includes ivermectin and mebendazole, all low-cost, widely available medications usually used to treat parasites. Lab studies suggest these drugs may interfere with cancer cell functions, such as energy production and division. Though mostly anecdotal, some integrative doctors are cautiously exploring these drugs as part of experimental protocols in tough cases.

Tippens's case is not proof of a cure, but it highlights an area of cancer research that is gaining momentum. Scientists are now taking a closer look at these overlooked medications that might hold unexpected promise for the future of cancer treatment.

08/22/2025

BYE TO GLASSES? A California company has created a first-of-its-kind eyedrop that corrects a certain type of vision impairment and could allow many Americans to ditch their corrective eyewear. bit.ly/45TTSBz

08/21/2025

07/27/2025

A surprising discovery from Canadian researchers has revealed that dandelion root extract can kill up to 95% of cancer cells within 48 hours—specifically leukemia and colon cancer cells—while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

This herbal extract triggers apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells without toxic side effects like chemotherapy. It’s currently undergoing further clinical studies to determine its potential as a natural, accessible cancer therapy.

Nature continues to prove its healing power. The humble w**d we overlook may be hiding some of the most powerful cures on Earth.
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Photo credit: unknown

07/26/2025

Reposted
Research *strongly* suggests that chemicals in cosmetics contribute to the development of cancer.

Specifically, parabens and phthalates have been linked to breast cancer.

While cosmetics and personal care products are often seen as tools for beauty and self-care, emerging research highlights a potential hidden cost: chemical exposure linked to cancer risk.

Studies strongly suggest that certain chemicals found in cosmetics, particularly at high or repeated exposure levels, may contribute to cancer development.

Two major groups under scrutiny are parabens and phthalates—common ingredients in makeup, moisturizers, hair care products, nail polish, and fragrances. These chemicals are known hormone disruptors, capable of interfering with the body’s hormonal systems by mimicking or blocking estrogen and other hormones.

This is particularly concerning when it comes to breast cancer. Estrogen can fuel the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers, and both parabens and phthalates may throw off the body’s hormonal balance.

Parabens, which act like a weak form of estrogen, have been found in breast tissue, though this alone doesn’t confirm a direct link. Phthalates don’t mimic estrogen directly but still disrupt hormone systems, including testosterone’s interaction with estrogen.

For those looking to reduce their risk, reading ingredient labels and choosing products free of these chemicals is a proactive step supported by current science.

Also, research shows that switching to products that don't use these chemicals turns off breast cancer genes in just 28 days.

Source: Breast Cancer Org. (2025, February 1). Exposure to Chemicals in Cosmetics.

07/26/2025

This is not posted because it’s promoting lawsuit. But to show the dangers of using GLP-1.

07/21/2025

A common cough syrup ingredient just showed it can protect the brain from dementia seriously

In a surprising twist straight from your medicine cabinet, a widely used cough syrup ingredient called Ambroxol is now showing serious potential in the fight against Parkinson’s-related dementia. A 12-month clinical trial, published in JAMA Neurology and conducted by researchers at Canada’s Lawson Research Institute, tested Ambroxol on 55 patients with Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD). The results were eye-opening: the drug not only reached therapeutic levels in the brain but also appeared to slow brain cell damage and stabilize psychiatric symptoms.

How? Ambroxol boosts levels of glucocerebrosidase (GCase), an enzyme responsible for clearing out cellular waste in brain cells. In many Parkinson’s patients, low GCase levels lead to toxic buildup and accelerated brain degeneration. Ambroxol helps restore that cleanup system. Blood tests from the study revealed that those on Ambroxol maintained stable levels of GFAP a key marker of brain cell injury while those on the placebo saw GFAP levels rise along with worsening symptoms.

Although Ambroxol is currently sold over the counter in parts of Europe for treating coughs and respiratory conditions, it hasn’t yet been approved for neurological use in the U.S., Canada, or Australia. Still, researchers are moving forward with larger trials and with results this promising, Ambroxol could soon go from treating sore throats to protecting the brain against neurodegeneration.

Sources: JAMA Neurology (2025), Lawson Health Research Institute, SciTechDaily

06/26/2025

Scoliosis, How to Self-Mobilize at Home to Improve Posture Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/physicaltherapyvideo Website: https://bobandbrad.com...