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.
Marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, Zyn and other oral nicotine pouches are hooking a new generation of users, and may be causing side effects not yet fully understood
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
Outdated studies, variations in doses and formulations, and individual health factors all play a role in the absence of a straightforward answer about the risks of HT
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?
Before combining Excedrin and Wellbutrin, it’s crucial to consider potential side effects, such as increased irritability, nervousness, and seizures in susceptible individual
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
From breakthrough results to difficult side effects, real patients share what it’s like to use GLP-1 medications
May 15, 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
FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings
Supplements
FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings
Sleep Disorders
Drug Safety
Supplements
Drug Safety
Antidepressants
Hormone Therapy
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
Supplements
Drug Safety
Drug Safety
Drug Safety
Drug Safety
Female Sexual Dysfunction
Statins
Obesity
