Is it permissible to use medicines containing poisons?
Chapter on Prayer Times
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The permissibility of consuming medicine containing poisons depends on the likely outcome. If the prevailing effect of consuming or using the medicine is destruction or insanity, its consumption is not permitted. However, if safety is the prevailing outcome and benefit is expected, its consumption is permissible to avert a greater danger, similar to other medicines. This view is considered the soundest because many medicines carry a risk, yet they are permitted to repel something more harmful. If we rule that it is forbidden, it equates to prohibited things like intoxicants. If we rule that it is permissible, it is treated like other permissible medicines.
Supporting text
It is arguable that consumption is not permitted because the individual exposes themselves to destruction, which is impermissible, similar to consumption without the intent of treatment.