Customer Reviews

Physicians' Desk Reference 2000 (Physicians' Desk Reference (Pdr))

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What I really love about this book is that it lets me look at all of the available drugs out there for a particular health problem. I can research the benefits and side-effects of drugs before I go to the doctor. So that when I get to the doctor's office we can discuss why he/she is picking one drug over another. (This way I also know that the drug was chosen because it is the best drug for me and not because the drug company's sales representative gives the best "perks".)

Also, when you get a prescription filled at a pharmacy they usually give you a little one-page list of how to take it and some of the most likely possible side effects. This book will give you details on all of the side-effects, not just the most common. (After all a side-effect that happens in only 1% of the population might not be important - unless you are in that 1%.)

The price of this book may be a little daunting, but don't let that stop you from purchasing it. Consider it making an investment in your health.

This book is a "must have" for anyone who wants to know what is going into their body. If you want to make an informed decision about what medicines you will or won't take, it is definitely worth the price as an addition to your home resource library.

This is without a doubt the last word in drug information. The danger , for me anyway, is that sometimes I have been known to "imagine" side effects if I know they are possible. I think that the PDR is invaluable at times and I will seek to consult it but usually only AFTER I suspect I may be having a problem....that way I am sure I am not imagining side effects because I know they are possible. The book is expensive to buy and is updated yearly so a volume is outdated almost at publication...that is why I question the people who put so much stock in it. There are so many good alternatives. For example, the internet has many many many drug information sites...including a PDR site. There is a site for people with palm computers called "epocrates" that is free and infinately updateable...and has wonderful features! It is also much more portable than the PDR book. The pharmacies give out drug information and most will give you a package insert if you ask...and if you push your MD you may even be able to get the office to photocopy the pdr page for you. All of these things are probably better because you will be assured of getting the most up-to-date information...