In a debate over an amendment that would have extracted billions of dollars from major drug manufacturers, Senator Charles E. Schumer, Democrat of New York, decided Thursday to share his personal experience in fighting high cholesterol.
Mr. Schumer said his doctor had directed him to take Lipitor, which is manufactured by Pfizer, and then, after his cholesterol levels had dropped, suggested that he try a less expensive, generic medication instead. But he switched back after his cholesterol levels went back up. “I’m taking Lipitor even though it’s more expensive,” Mr. Schumer said.
Mr. Schumer also hastened to add that Pfizer has its headquarters in New York -– a local shop, in other words.
That prompted Senator Charles E. Grassley, Republican of Iowa, to suggest that Mr. Schumer try a more natural remedy: red yeast rice. “I’ll bring the pills for you tomorrow,” he told Mr. Schumer.
Red yeast rice contains cholesterol-lowering compounds, called monacolins, and has been a dietary staple in China for more than 1,000 years. It is made from yeast, grown on rice, and is the ingredient used to give the popular dish Peking duck its trademark red tint.
Presumably, Mr. Grassley who hails from a state famous for corn, had no geographic interest in promoting a rice product. (The federal Food and Drug Administration has also banned some versions of red yeast rice supplements because of concerns that they can cause kidney and muscle problems).
The exchange between Mr. Schumer and Mr. Grassley inspired Senator Bill Nelson, Democrat of Florida, who was the sponsor of the amendment under debate, to make a pitch for his own locally grown remedy for high cholesterol. “Grapefruit might do the same thing for you,” Mr. Nelson said.
“How about a pastrami sandwich?” Mr.Schumer replied. “How would that do?”
It’s unclear if any senators will be changing their breakfast habits, but Mr. Nelson’s other pitch, for his amendment, failed by a vote of 13 to 10.
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