A webchat on the benefits and harms issue took place on 8 July 2004.1 The editors of the theme issue began by raising several topics for discussion.

1. Should complementary and alternative medicine have featured as much as other aspects? Would their recognition improve evidence about their benefits and harms?

2. How will the European Trials Directive affect trials focusing on the safety of treatments?

3. Has anyone tried to report adverse effects in a developing country?

4. What is the role of consumers (patients) in determining an acceptable ratio of benefit to harm?

5. Should vulnerable populations in whom drugs are not licensed such as pregnant women, children, and elderly people be considered?

The topic that dominated the …