Challenge Activity
Medicine: What is Safe?
A
WebQuest Mini-Discussion
Menu
- Introduction
The Task
Resources
The Process
Conclusion
Evaluation
Introduction
Herbal and natural remedies and medicines are becoming increasingly popular
as alternatives to more mainstream drugs. Some perceive natural remedies to be
safer than modern drugs, while others question the effectiveness of so-called
"alternative remedies." In this module we have tried to explore the
relationship between natural remedies and modern drugs. The development of
aspirin from willow bark is one example. Also on the modern scene is a vast
array of over-the-counter remedies (those that do not require a prescription
from your doctor) like acetaminophen as well as medicines prescribed by a
doctor.
The Task
How can you decide which of these is safer for you to use? Are all these
drugs safe to use? Are they all effective? Your mission is to attempt to
unravel the tangled mess of conflicting information surrounding drug choices,
and come to an understanding of how to safely choose the best remedies for
you. Even though this activity is part of your study of aspirin and other analgesics, what you discover in this WebQuest will
likely apply to the choices you make about all medicines.
Resources
Read Before
Aspirin and Something
New at the Apothecary Shop as you begin your research. These locations on
the Web might also be helpful:
The Process
In this activity your class will be divided into groups of four. In your
group, two of you will be assigned to research alternative remedies. Examples
of terms this group will want to look for are alternative remedies,
alternative medicine, and herbal remedies. The other pair will be gathering
information about modern medicines. Examples of terms for this group are
prescription drugs, prescription medicines, and generic drugs. The term
over-the-counter medicines might mean either alternative or modern medicines
but is usually associated with modern medicines.
In carrying out your research, keep in mind the following questions:
What risks are involved with these medicines?
Who might be at risk from a particular medicine?
Are there safer alternatives to a given medicine? to develop your opinions on the best way to ensure your own safety and
health when it comes to choosing medicines.
Your assignment is to:
As you present your findings in your group, keep in mind the guidelines
listed below.
Your Rules of Behavior for this Activity
Conclusion
Each group of four will present its consensus answer to the entire class
for discussion.
Evaluation
Your teacher will observe the behavior listed above. Your grade for this
activity will depend in part on how well you meet the Rules
of Behavior in addition to how well you do your research and make your
presentation.
RxList
generic drug monographs
RxList —
Alternatives
An
FDA Guide to Dietary Supplements
Over-the-Counter Medicines: What's Right for You?
"Researchers Complete Ginkgo Review"
From Test Tube to Patient: Protecting America's Health Through
Human Drugs
MedWatch: FDA's "Heads Up" on Medical Product Safety
National Center for
Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Medicines by
Design: The Biological Revolution in Pharmacology How effective are these medicines?