PHI-FPX3200 Ethical Theories and Moral Principles on Experimental Drugs

Applying the Principle of Informed Consent

The principle of informed consent reminds healthcare professionals to uphold a patient’s right to self-determination. Healthcare providers compare experimental drugs with recommended practice standards. The evidence allows them to make informed conclusions about the implications of the drugs on patients’ health (Millum & Bromwich, 2020). Informed consent requires healthcare professionals to share details of the clinical trials and the levels of efficiency and effectiveness. Acknowledging individuals’ decision-making ability promote shared decision on the safety and effectiveness of experimental drugs (Cunning, 2020).

Informed consent also prevents healthcare professionals from exaggerating benefits of experimental drugs. The accuracy and adequacy of information about the drugs help strengthen confidence and trust in using the medications for chronic conditions. Despite the commitment to upholding the informed consent principle, there are concerns about a patient failing to understand the conversations on experimental drugs. Language barriers may also trigger wrong expectations. Incidents of clinical ineffectiveness and potential side effects also allows patients to make informed decisions on avoiding experimental drugs.

Costs and Gains from Experimental Drugs

Patients with chronic conditions have an opportunity to improve symptoms and prolong life by using experimental drugs. The interventions also safeguard individuals against the extensive and time-consuming approval processes. The development of experimental drugs involves thorough investigations of efficacy and effectiveness, which takes time to complete (Mahant, 2020). Additionally, patients have the autonomy to make independent decisions on using the drugs to reduce complications and risk of premature death.

However, patients should access comprehensive information about the drugs to enable them make informed decisions. Failure to include patients in clinical trials also raises concerns about the viability and sustainability of experimental drugs (Mahant, 2020). Further, focusing on a trial population limits more people from participating in ascertaining accuracy and effectiveness of the drugs. Nonetheless, the opportunity to use experimental drugs gives hope to patients with chronic conditions and who require alternatives to improve their health and well-being.