The myth of double effect confuses and muddles debate
Double effect is simply a philosophical and ethical contruct which
has no basis in the reality of medical practice or of clinical studies.
Used correctly morphine and other drugs used in palliative medicine do not
cause death. The concept should be confined to history as it's use causes
confusion & muddle and distracts attention from the very important
issues around end of life care that are under debate. brendan.amesbury@stwh.co.uk
Rapid Response:
The myth of double effect confuses and muddles debate
Double effect is simply a philosophical and ethical contruct which
has no basis in the reality of medical practice or of clinical studies.
Used correctly morphine and other drugs used in palliative medicine do not
cause death. The concept should be confined to history as it's use causes
confusion & muddle and distracts attention from the very important
issues around end of life care that are under debate.
brendan.amesbury@stwh.co.uk
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests