Sir, The fact that GPs are prescribing Prozac for teenagers
experiencing stress, anxiety and depression at exam time (report,
August 21; feature, August 26) confirms the power of the
pharmaceutical industry.

Recent non-randomised clinical trials on the herb St John's wort
indicate it to be as effective as Prozac, but with none of the
side-effects. In addition, a recent paper published on the effect of
psychological intervention on immunity during exam stress has shown
that hypnotherapy prior to examinations increases both calmness and
energy and improves mood.

As there is no patent on hypnotherapy or St John's wort, it is not in
the interests of those who command marketing budgets to publicise
these facts.

Yours sincerely

BARBARA BUTCHER The Orchard Clinic 4 Orchard Lane, Amersham,
Buckinghamshire HP6 5AB. bb@purpose.demon.co.uk August 27.