Healthy Skepticism Library item: 13490

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Bewley S.
Getting to the bottom of evidence based medicine
BMJ 2008;336(7647):764 (5 April), 2008 Apr 5; 336:(7647):764
http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/extract/336/7647/764

Abstract:

“Which way up should I put the suppository?” I’ve asked this question of countless junior obstetricians over the years as we administer rectal analgesia after a caesarean section.1 Despite thinking it might be a trick question, they all want to insert the pointed end of the bullet shaped object first.2 Surely that’s how they are designed, and it would be more comfortable? …

…A problem remains in persuading the drug companies to change the patient information leaflets and potentially lose 3% profits.

In the meantime, don’t let the multinational, global political issues stop you reflecting on and changing your practice.

susan.bewley@gstt.nhs.uk