How many adverse side effects can fit on a drug information flyer? You might be amazed.
One time, years ago, I unfolded a drug information flyer, and I actually laughed out loud.
It was ridiculous. It was the size of a small newspaper page. And the font size of the print was so tiny it was almost unreadable.
This is common with drug info fliers. And now researchers at Indiana University have uncovered the primary problem…
Too many adverse side effects.
Anyone surprised? I doubt it. And yet, two of the IA team’s results are shocking…
* The 200 most-prescribed drugs in the U.S. average more than 100 adverse events EACH
* One of those info fliers listed 525 potential side effects
There is no question that something with that many side effects is much more likely to make you sicker than to cure you. So keep this in mind: If you can’t read the flyer, the effects will be dire.
Sources:
“The Problem With Labeling: Too Many Side Effects” Ed Silverman, Pharmalot, pharmalot.com
