FDA approved drugs are not always equal

Many people believe that when they see the FDA approved seal that it means there is a level of security that if they purchase the product it will work and meet their expectation.  Unfortunately, that is a stretch for many FDA approved drugs and devices.For example,there are many liposuction alternatives that are are approved,this means that they will remove some fat.  It does not mean that they will  remove the amount of fat a patient may expect. A recent report pointed out that FDA approved drugs are not equal in their effectiveness as it relates to the purpose they were prescribed to treat.Dr. Kim prescribes certain medications for use after surgery.  For procedures including breast augmentation and abdominoplasty, Dr. Kim may prescribe both a narcotic pain reliever as well as a muscle relaxant.  For most procedures he will prescribe an antibiotic, antinausea medication, and in some cases, medications to avoid swelling.  It is best for patients to check with the pharmacist and Dr. Kim prior to accepting substitutions for the prescriptions Dr. Kim has written. According to the Los Angeles Times U.S. consumers might put a little too much faith in the FDA’s role as a gatekeeper for marketable drugs, according to a new study — but giving patients a little bit of information about such drugs can actually help people make better treatment choices.