Online teleprescribing platforms promise fast access to medication. Critics say the model can bypass safeguards and leave patients in the dark about risks
We seek to create a world where there are safer medications for all and where all people are fully informed about their medication benefits and side effects, using our explanatory and investigative journalism to both inform and stimulate public discussion to drive toward solutions.
Although millions of older women face bone loss, decisions about screening and medication remain clouded by conflicting evidence and inconsistent guidance
Diphenhydramine is linked to severe and sometimes fatal side effects, yet remains widely sold over the counter. Physicians argue that safer alternatives exist, and question why the drug is still so easy to buy
Despite its widespread use, vitamin D remains one of the most hotly debated nutrients in medicine, especially when it comes to dosing, safety, and benefits
While marijuana can provide relief from pain and sleeplessness for many, its side effects are deeply nuanced, shaped by factors such as potency, duration of use, methods of consumption, and the risk of dependence
Yes, many people can safely take Tylenol and Advil together to treat short-term pain or fever. But before combining them, ask yourself: Do I really need both?
The FDA’s drug recall system is meant to protect consumers, but inspection blind spots, manufacturing lapses, and slow communication can leave dangerous medications in circulation for months
Like prescription drugs, supplements have side effects — but without FDA oversight, consumers are often left to assess the risks on their own.
March 27, 2025
From Our Founder
I started MedShadow Foundation in 2013 because I was harmed by a medicine called DES (diethylstilbestrol) that was given to my mother when she was pregnant with me. When I was 13, I learned that I would not ever be able to get pregnant because of the side effects of DES. The FDA told doctors to stop prescribing that drug to pregnant women in 1971, but between five and 10 million pregnant women had already been given it.
I’ll take medicine when I need to, but because of DES, I’m very hesitant. Instead, I pay close attention to eating whole foods and exercising regularly so that my immune system and my body are healthy. Not taking any drugs (when possible) is the best way to avoid harmful side effects.
Soon after I started MedShadow, DES Action approached me about taking over the management of their member organization. DES Action USA has been the leading advocate for those exposed to DES for more than 40 years.
Because of my work with MedShadow, I’ve learned a lot about how the FDA approves drugs. In 2017 I applied to and was appointed to the FDA Advisory Committee on Drug Safety and Risk Management. I joined a panel of doctors and pharmacists as the lone consumer representative. I’m so excited to have a seat at the table when the FDA is deciding if a drug is safe and effective enough to approve.
Shedding Light on the Risks
& Benefits of Medications
GLP-1s
FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings
Supplements
Cardiovascular Disease
Osteopenia/Osteoporosis
Can I Take This With That?
Allergies
Supplements
Antidepressants
cannabis
vaccines
FDA Side Effect Updates
FDA Side Effect Updates
FDA Side Effect Updates
FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings
FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings
FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings
Pain
Drug Safety
Drug Safety
Drug Safety
Female Sexual Dysfunction
Statins
GLP-1s
Supplements
