Treatment purpose and schedules & Benefits do not mean zero risk

Treatment purpose and schedules

Medicines treat disease and improve health. Some are taken daily; others only occasionally. Appropriate use begins with intended benefit and a suitable schedule rather than assuming all medicines need daily use. Different needs require different plans. A prescribed schedule is part of the treatment, and using another person’s experience as a substitute can be misleading. Questions about purpose or timing should be clarified with an appropriate professional.

Benefits do not mean zero risk

FDA oversight addresses safety and effectiveness of prescription and nonprescription medicines in the United States. Safe does not mean incapable of harm: unwanted side effects can still occur. Risks need consideration alongside expected benefits. People can respond differently, and a medicine appropriate in one situation may not suit another. Knowing its intended role is therefore only part of deciding how it can be used safely.

Key concepts

Treatment purpose and schedules

Medicines treat disease and improve health.

Benefits do not mean zero risk

FDA oversight addresses safety and effectiveness of prescription and nonprescription medicines in the United States.

Interactions beyond other prescriptions

Interactions can involve another medicine, food, or alcohol.

Correct use and special situations

Correct use reduces risk and supports the intended benefit.

References

• MedlinePlus en español — How Medicines Work and Are Used Safely