Book excerpt: In this book, "All Medicines are Poison!," Melvin H. Kirschner, MPH, MD, sets out to remove the fog of confusion that clouds the landscape patients are required to navigate in their search for health care today. This book describes the risks and benefits associated with the use of medicines, and explores the validity of other treatment modalities referred to as "Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). He discusses the numerous failings and backroom dealings in the pharmaceutical and insurance industries, and highlights possible solutions to many of these current concerns. Dr. Kirschner has had an extensive career in the healthcare field. He has championed patient's rights throughout his career. As one of the key physicians instrumental in the enactment of the first biomedical ethical guidelines in the world, he has always strived for close doctor/patient relationships where the patient's concerns always come first.