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Medical Conditions and Side Effects

When a drug is identified as potentially useful in treating a medical problem, researchers study the drug in a series of laboratory tests, called pre-clinical trials. These studies are designed to measure the drug's mechanism of action, effectiveness, toxic and adverse effects, and effect on reproduction and healthy offspring. If a drug is considered promising, its maker will file with the FDA and the drug undergoes more studies. These studies focus on the initial inquiries as well as the extent and frequency of adverse reactions and what might predispose a patient to developing these side effects. Based on medical evidence, the FDA must determine whether the drug will be approved for use. A drug is typically approved if experts determine that its benefits significantly outweigh its side effects.

Once approved, drug marketing is not without restrictions. By law, drug labeling must clearly communicate to consumers all possible side effects and adverse reactions associated with the drug. Drug companies must monitor the drug's post-marketing use and be forthright about the effects of their product. Pre-marketing clinical trials, however comprehensive, often miss important side effects that may be caused by a drug. Pharmaceutical companies and have a responsibility to investigate these side effects, inform consumers about their findings, and provide only safe and effective drugs.

This is the theoretic basis of drug approval in America. In practice, some defective drugs are made available to consumers and side effects are concealed from the public. Recent drug recalls have highlighted the gap between the theory and practice of drug regulation. The highly-publicized Vioxx recall in 2003 uncovered the scary truth that popular drugs may have serious consequences that are hidden from consumers. The makers of this drug knew that Vioxx posed significant cardiovascular risks but failed to adequately warn patients and doctors about these risks. Vioxx is not the only example of this problem.

There are also families of drugs and individual drugs which, though approved by the FDA and allowed to remain on the market, pose significant health risks to some patients. Hundreds of drugs are known to cause allergic reactions, adverse psychological side effects, cardiovascular disorders, immune disease, diabetes, organ failure, skin disease, infection, gastrointestinal problems, and more. Though these side effects are well documented, medical experts have determined that the benefits of these drug still outweigh its risks. They are intended to be prescribed with caution and consumers are to be informed about the possible risks associated with their medication. Arguably, this is another example of the discrepancy between theory and reality.

The following section is designed to inform consumers about the possible medical conditions that can be caused by drug side effects. As a general rule, any strange or unexplained symptom that develops after starting a new drug treatment should be discussed in greater detail with a qualified physician. As a consumer, it is also wise to gain as much information as possible about any drug that has been prescribed before treatment commences. Use of a prescription drug should not be changed or stopped without first speaking to a medical professional, as withdrawal of a medication can also cause undesirable effects.

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