What distinguishes consumer medication information (CMI) from MedGuides?

The distinction between consumer medication information (CMI) and MedGuides lies primarily in their intended purpose and regulatory requirements. MedGuides, which are a specific type of patient information provided by manufacturers, are designed to address serious public health concerns associated with certain medications. This includes information about risks that patients should be aware of before starting a medication, which makes MedGuides crucial for ensuring patient safety.

CMI, on the other hand, is generally a broader informational tool that provides patients with necessary details about their medications, such as dosage, potential side effects, and storage information, but it is not mandated for every prescription and does not specifically target serious public health issues. While both serve important roles in patient education, MedGuides have a unique requirement tied to their focus on significant health concerns, which justifies the distinction highlighted in the answer. Therefore, understanding this specific function of MedGuides helps clarify why the answer correctly emphasizes their role in addressing serious public health issues.