[Drug-induced complications and professional responsibility]

The authors collated the drug-induced side effects reported by subscribers to the malpractice insurance company, Sou Medical. The figures give an idea of the frequency of such events but their reflection of reality should not be overestimated. These presumed incidents represent only 9% of the reports filed (approximately 300 in 20 yr), thus showing their relative rarity. Radiological dyes and general anesthetics comprise two separate groups, as do the exceptional reactions to vaccines. Antibiotics, neuroleptics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticoids are most frequently implicated, while anticoagulants are rarely cited. These findings underline the rarity of litigation for drug-induced side effects.