Preliminary results of a clinical study showed that a hangover-prevention supplement from Mercy Nutraceuticals, Inc., reduces symptoms associated with alcohol consumption.

Mercy offers uniquely high levels of functional nutrients that encourage the body to produce glutathione, a naturally occurring antioxidant that eliminates toxins and enhances overall health.

The clinical work conducted by Medicus Research of Agoura Hills, CA, is a testament to the company's mission. The research firm's preliminary findings suggest that Mercy, when consumed at the end of the night, may help protect users from reduced cognitive function and attention. Its data also showed a lower frequency of hangover symptoms, such as nausea and headache.

Medicus Research is one of the nation's top firms in studying the safety and efficacy of nutritional products and supplements. It has conducted more than 125 Phase I-IV trials, ranging from pilot tests to studies involving hundreds of participants. Researchers employed a cross-over study to best test the effects of Mercy. Subjects were given alcohol and Mercy, then evaluated for symptoms. Later, on a separate day, subjects were given alcohol and a placebo.

Dr. Jay Udani, a board-certified internist, led the pilot phase of the study, which highlighted Mercy's positive impact on cognitive function in the 10th hour after participants consumed alcohol. Dr. Udani received his training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills, followed by specialized training in clinical trials at UCLA. He has 14 years of experience conducting clinical trials on supplements and functional foods.

Preliminary results from the clinical trial – which was randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled – showed improvement on a series of tests measuring several areas of mental acuity. "Processing speed and executive function in those taking placebo declined while those in the Mercy group improved," Udani noted.

The findings achieved statistical significance, a standard research measure to indicate they are not likely to be due to coincidence.

Other hangover symptoms were found to be reduced when participants drank Mercy. These included the severity of nausea, headache and other symptoms in the hours after alcohol consumption. Medicus is continuing the study on a larger number of subjects to verify the statistical significance of its findings.

Reduced cognitive function from alcohol consumption is a consistent problem in the workplace. Hangovers cost the U.S. economy an estimated $223 billion in lost productivity, according the Centers for Disease Control. Mercy Nutraceuticals believes that its preliminary study results are a first step toward combating this epidemic.

"We've long known from our consumers that Mercy works," said company CEO David Racicot. "This initial research helps support what we've been hearing for years. And as we move forward, we are eager to provide health benefits to more people."

Dr. Richard Firshein, founder of The Firshein Center for Comprehensive Medicine in New York City and a leading authority in preventive and nutritional therapies, has advised Mercy as an independent consultant.

"The Medicus test suggested that Mercy, in conjunction with safe and moderate alcohol intake, provided increased health-related benefits compared with those individuals who did not consume Mercy," said Firshein, an author and noted expert in the field of nutraceuticals. "This was particularly true in regard to hangover symptoms and decreased cognitive function associated with alcohol consumption."