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Sound Advice: August 26, 2026

Make sure to read the small print in drug commercials

The "small print" in prescription drug commercials isn't actually hidden—it's usually spoken quickly or displayed briefly during what's called the major statement of risks. The scariest parts are often rare, but they're included because the risks can be serious.

Some of the most alarming warnings commonly heard include:

  • Death: Some medications carry warnings about an increased risk of death in certain patients. For example, some antipsychotics have a boxed warning about increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
  • Suicidal thoughts and behavior: Many antidepressants, seizure medications, and other drugs warn about an increased risk of suicidal thinking, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults.
  • Life-threatening infections: Drugs that suppress the immune system (such as those for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease) may increase the risk of tuberculosis, fungal infections, and other serious infections.
  • Cancer: Some immune-modulating drugs carry warnings about an increased risk of certain cancers, such as lymphoma or skin cancer.
  • Heart attack, stroke, and blood clots: Some hormone therapies, migraine medications, and other drugs warn of increased cardiovascular risks in certain populations.
  • Liver failure: Certain medications can cause severe liver damage, sometimes requiring a transplant.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Commercials often mention anaphylaxis, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: These are rare but potentially fatal skin reactions that cause widespread blistering and skin loss.
  • Birth defects: Some medications should never be taken during pregnancy because they can cause serious fetal harm.

Why do they sound so frightening?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires that prescription drug advertisements present a balanced view of benefits and risks. Even if a serious side effect occurs in only a tiny percentage of patients, it may still need to be disclosed because the consequences are severe.

It's also important to remember that:

  • Many of the listed side effects are very rare.
  • The warnings often apply only to people with specific medical conditions or who take certain other medications.
  • The potential benefits of the drug may outweigh the risks for the patients it's intended to treat.

What should you pay attention to?

Rather than focusing on the long list of rare events, listen for:

  1. Who should not take the drug.
  2. The most common side effects.
  3. Symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
  4. Drug interactions and monitoring requirements.

The most dramatic-sounding warning in a commercial isn't necessarily the one most likely to affect you. Your healthcare provider can help interpret how those risks apply to your individual health, age, and medical history.

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