Hospital pharmacy -sample case

You are the pharmacist covering the Medical Floor in an acute care community hospital. Patient JR on the Medical Floorhas requested to speak to you regarding two newly-started medications. The medications are Zytiga (abiraterone), which is used in the treatment of prostate cancer, and prednisone, which is given as adjunctive therapy to Zytiga. After prescribing these medications for JR, the physician gave JR an extensive pamphlet outlining all the adverse effects and instructions for use.

Upon discussion with the patient, you realize that he is uncomfortable starting these two new medications. He is worried about all the adverse effects, and the stringent instructions for use which could reduce his quality of life. He seems upset about starting these medications, but states, "I know I need to do what I'm told."

Your task:

Consider if this is an ethical dilemma

If this is an ethical dilemma, what are the key biomedical ethics principles involved?