What are the dual nature and safety concerns of prescription drugs?

Prescription drugs present a critical duality in healthcare - they can save lives while simultaneously posing serious risks. As Melber emphasizes, these medications can prove addictive or potentially fatal if not properly vetted for safety considerations. The transcript highlights the essential balance required in pharmaceutical regulation, where thorough safety vetting processes are necessary before medications reach patients. Melber points out that without proper oversight, prescription drugs that could benefit patients might instead cause harm, underscoring why rigorous FDA evaluation and continued monitoring are fundamental to public health protection.