Frequently Asked Questions
- What data does the FDA Safety Explorer show?
- It shows the most-reported side effects from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and any recalls, drawn from openFDA public data.
- Do reported side effects mean the drug caused them?
- No. FAERS reports are voluntary and do not prove the medication caused the effect. They show what has been reported, not confirmed cause and effect.
- Is the FDA Safety Explorer free?
- Yes, it's free to use and requires no login.
This information is educational — not medical advice.
This page is provided for general educational purposes and summarizes publicly available data from sources such as the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. It is not a substitute for the judgment of a licensed clinician and should not be used to start, stop, or change any medication. It may be incomplete or out of date, and individual circumstances vary. Always talk with your prescriber or pharmacist about your specific medications and health conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.