CONy 2022 | Should all adverse effects of a medication be discussed to a patient?

Morris Levin, MD, University of California, San Francisco, CA, comments on whether a patient should be informed of every side effect upon prescription of a certain medication. Despite the perceived moral obligation to discuss all potential adverse event, studies suggest that this may lead to increased incidences of side effects occurring as well as lower patient medication adherence. Whilst common and expected side effects should be mentioned, certain adverse events may best be mentioned only when necessary. This interview was conducted during the 2022 World Congress on Controversies in Neurology (CONy) meeting.