Health Issue: A Pill to get rid of bad memories

Now, a pill to get rid

 of bad memories

London: Imagine popping a pill to erase painful memories after a break-up or a traumatic mishap. Your imagination may soon turn into reality, thanks to scientists who claim to have moved a step closer to developing such drug.

        An international team, led by the University of Puerto Rico, has discovered a drug that helps numb the pain of bad memories by flooding the mind with feelings of security and safety.

        In laboratory tests, the scientists harnessed effects of a natural chemical which works on the brain to reduce fear and anxiety. They gave laboratory rodents a protein known as called. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor to help them relearn painful association from stressful situations.

        The scientists managed to create stress "triggers" in rats by giving them small electric shocks which loud music was played. They came to associate thye music with the pain and froze when they heard it. But the effect was reversed when they were given doses of BDNF.