An Ethical Dilemma: Commentary: Treatment was not unethical

Some features in this report are puzzling and disconcerting, but there are also grounds for reassurance for both patients and clinicians. The problem described is one which, in general terms, will be familiar to many doctors. Accepting that there are occasions when all measures short of drug administration may fail, is it permissible to administer such drugs against the patient's will, and if so should they be given by force or is deceit sometimes an allowable and preferable alternative? For mentally competent patients it is clear that in common law no treatment can be given without valid consent. However under part IV …