An unexpected side effect

Q. I just read a question about whether bupropion could serve as a sexual stimulant for healthy people. I'm only one person, but I can answer: For one healthy woman the answer is yes. A thousand, happy times yes.
I'm taking this drug to quit smoking. I have always had what I would consider an average libido. Now, however, I have an above-average libido -- physically and mentally. I figure maybe it's because the drug takes away any of those long-standing inhibitions that would otherwise impede and affect sex.
A. Bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) is prescribed both as an antidepressant and an aid to quit smoking. We don't know exactly how it increases sexual desire, but this side effect has been known for years. Although bupropion is definitely not an aphrodisiac, it is sometimes a helpful substitute when other antidepressants cause sexual difficulties.
For those who would like to know more about this reaction, as well as other strategies for dealing with sexual problems, we offer our Guides to Female Sexuality and Treating Sexual Dysfunction.
Q. What happens if the body doesn't get enough potassium? Twice when I had unrelated surgeries during the past decade, tests found that I was deficient in potassium. I try to eat potatoes and bananas, but fear I still may not be getting enough. What are the symptoms of potassium deficiency? Could my blood pressure medication be contributing to it?
A. Potassium is a mineral essential for normal cellular function. If levels get too low, symptoms may include weakness, muscle cramps, irregular heart rhythms, breathing difficulties and fatigue. Too often, though, there may be no warning signs.
Some diuretics used to treat high blood pressure can deplete the body of potassium. Your pharmacist and physician can advise you if you are taking such medicine.
A new study (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, June 2006) suggests that substituting potassium-enriched salt (containing potassium chloride) for table salt (sodium chloride) can reduce the likelihood of heart attacks. Other research suggests that such low-sodium salt also can help lower blood pressure.
Q. I seem to recall something about pills to neutralize the acid in beverages. This would be helpful for those of us with sensitive or dry mouths who choose to drink coffee, wine or tea. Is there such a product on the market?
A. There are both tablets and powder to counteract the acid in foods. Both products contain calcium glycerophosphate and are sold under the brand name Prelief. More information is available at (800) 994-4711.
Q. You recently wrote about the dangers of old-fashioned mercury thermometers. What's all the fuss about?
I remember playing with mercury by the hour when I was a kid. My big brother and I would hold it in the palms of our hands. It was so beautiful, round and cool to the touch. I am in my 80s and going strong.
A. Glass thermometers can break, releasing mercury into the environment. Despite your experience, vapors released from liquid mercury are toxic, especially for pregnant women and young children.
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.Peoples-Pharmacy.com.
& copy; 2006 King Features Syndicate Inc.