About Medshadow

We provide evidence-based, straightforward information to help people better understand the risks and benefits of the medicines they are taking or may be prescribed. In this way, patients can take a more active role in their health care to preserve their quality of life.

• Our writers and editors have extensive experience covering health and medicine for national media.
• Our content is guided by a medical advisory board of doctors and pharmacists that are committed to our mission.
• Our articles are updated regularly and cover medical studies and other developments involving medications, supplements and the FDA.
• MedShadow is independent. We do not accept support from pharmaceutical companies or medical device manufacturers. This allows us to produce unbiased, trustworthy content.

You know there are a lot of deaths from automobile accidents, but did you know that there are more deaths every year from adverse drug events (ADRs)? The numbers are startling:
1. More than 8 million adverse side effects from medications were reported to the FDA from 2012 through 2018. This includes more than 1.7 milllion deaths. (Source: FDA – FAERS)
2. There are more than 2 million serious adverse drug reactions in hospitals yearly, leading to more than 100,000 deaths. (Source: Lazarou J et al. JAMA 1998;279:1200–1205)
3. In America, adverse events from prescription drugs are the 4th leading cause of death alongside stroke and ahead of diabetes, AIDS, pneumomnia and automobile deaths. (Source: Preventable Adverse Drug Reactions: A Focus on Drug Interactions)
4. Total number of drugs consumed by Americans has risen by 85% over two decades. (Source: Consumer Reports)
5. New prescription drugs have a 1 in 5 chance of causing serious reactions after they have been approved. (Source: Quintiles IMS)