Benefits versus risks of drugs

[Sarah]

Every drug has the potential to do harm (an adverse drug reaction) as well as good. When doctors consider prescribing a drug, they must weigh the possible risks against the expected benefits. Use of a drug is not justified unless the expected benefits outweigh the possible risks. Doctors must also consider the likely outcome of withholding the drug. Potential benefits and risks can never be determined with mathematical precision.

When assessing the benefits and risks of prescribing a drug, doctors consider the severity of the disorder being treated and the effect it is having on the person