Hello all,
I was hoping someone might be able to fill me in on some of the current
research into prescription medications and their effects on the singing
voice (Dr. Messmer?). In particular, I am interested in
anti-depressants (Prozac and Adavan (sp?) to be specific) and
birth-control pills. I have students who have asked me about both and
have previously read articles about their, but I seem to have misplaced
the bibliographic info.
This also leads me to a question about ethics.....when should a voice
teacher advise students about such things? Most of the general
practioners I have run into don't know much about medications and
effects on the voice and so have not been very helpful when I have
enquired in the past. Should I just direct the students to the
appropriate information and let them discuss it with their doctors?
This seems to be an issue that I have run into fairly frequently of late
and I'd rather err on the side of caution. Also, what about students
who are self-medicating with herbal remedies? And, what about the more
mundane sorts of medications, such as cough and cold remedies? Should a
voice teacher enter into this, or should one just keep their hands clean?
Opinions, advise? And, thanks in advance!
Catherine Knutsson
PS Just wanted also pass along a belated thank you to everyone who
contacted me regarding abdominal surgery! Your thoughts and advice made
the process a great deal easier.
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