The black list of the 106 drugs to avoid in 2025: they have more side effects than benefit, according to experts

The prescription magazine has updated its list of drugs to be avoided, identifying 106 medicines (of which 88 sold in France) with an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio, some of which have serious side effects or an effectiveness similar to placebo

For the 13th consecutive year, the Independent scientific journal Prescribemanaged by an independent NGO composed of doctors, pharmacists and other professionals in the health sector, has published his review of the drugs to be excluded. In the 2025 list, 106 active ingredients, of which 88 still on the market in France, many of which for decades, despite some European countries have already decided to ban them.

The drugs included in this sort of “blacklist” often present a Risk-breepy relationship ratio. In practice, this means that the risks associated with their use exceed potential benefits. In some cases, the drugs are considered too risky compared to safer alternatives, while in others, their effectiveness is so low as to be equal to that of a placebo, thus making their superfluous use.

Some drugs to avoid, according to French experts

Floroglucinolo, also known as Spasfon, is a drug available without prescription in France, but presents potential side effects Seriously, including allergic reactions and, albeit rarely, Lyell’s syndrome, a serious dermatological condition. Although it is used to treat intestinal disorders and gynecological or menstrual pains, its effectiveness is not supported by solid clinical tests and may not exceed that of a placebo. Although he is still marketed in France and Italy, he was withdrawn from the market in Belgium in 2010.

Another example of drugs to avoid concerns Some treatments for colds and flu. Drugs such as Dosmectitis (Smecta) and Hydrotalcite (Rennieliqui), although they are easily available as bench medicines, have risks due to a possible natural lead contamination, which can involve neurological dangers. Prescribe It suggests to opt for less risky alternatives, such as antacids based on sodium bicarbonate and sodium alginated, which offer similar effectiveness without the same risks.

During the winter, many people resort to cough syrups To relieve symptoms, but some of these drugs involve disproportionate risks. Oxomemazine (Toplexil), for example, is associated with numerous side effects, while Ambroxolo (Muxol) involves the risk of serious allergic and skin reactions, although it is no longer effective than a placebo. Prescribe It recommends using dextromettorfano as an alternative, although this drug also has limitations.

Other common drugs, such as Alfa-Damilase (Maxilasis), used for sore throat, do not offer any clinical efficacy demonstrated and can cause serious allergic and skin reactions. In these cases, natural remedies such as honey, sucking candies or paracetamol for intense pain are to be preferred.

Also drugs for the treatment of joint painlike Aceclofenac (Cartrex) and diclofenac (Voltarene), expose to cardiovascular risks, increasing the probability of heart attacks or heart failure. Some Miorilassanti, such as Metocarbamolo (Lumirelax), do not exceed the placebo effect and cause digestive and skin disorders. Prescribe Instead, it recommends the use of safer drugs, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or naproossene for the treatment of pain.

Finally, some antidepressant drugslike Agomelatine (Valdoxan), although not showing an effectiveness higher than that of a placebo in different studies, involve serious collateral risks, including hepatitis, pancreatitis and skin damage. SSRI antidepressants, such as Citalopram and Escitalopram, are also included in the list for the risks associated with overdoseness, which can lead to serious health problems, including dangerous cardiovascular effects.