Citation

Ernst E. Eval. Health Prof. 2009; 32(4): 335-342.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0163278709346812

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The current popularity of complementary/alternative medicine (CAM) generates many challenges to medical ethics. The one discussed here is the advice offered by CAM practitioners. Using selected examples, the author tries to demonstrate that some of the advice issued through the popular media or provided by acupuncturists, chiropractors, herbalists, homeopaths, pharmacists, and doctors is misleading or dangerous. This, the author argues, can impinge on the main principle of medical ethics: beneficence, nonmaleficence, and autonomy. We should work toward correcting this deplorable situation.