Medications are created to treat and heal illness. However, these drugs sometimes produce negative side effects. It is important to understand all possible side effects of a medication prior to taking it.
As well, a person should compare the benefits of the drug to the harm it may cause. Below is some information on drug side effects which you may find helpful.
What are drug side effects?
Drug side effects are any medical problems or ill symptoms which occur as a result of taking a medication.
The symptoms of drug side effects vary greatly from person to person. Possible side effects may include, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, headache, muscle aches or pains, dry mouth, itching, rash, hives, irritability, hallucinations, bad dreams, insomnia, confusion, depression, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, memory loss, poor coordination, swelling, palpitations, among others. These symptoms may range from mild to severe.
How many people are effected by medication side effects?
Most side effects have a possible side effect ratio listed on the paperwork which comes with them. This labeled ratio may either say common, uncommon, rare, or very rare. Below is a description of each.
- Very common: There is a good chance that greater than one out of ten people using the medication will experience a side affect.
- Common: Common is one in ten and one in 100 people being affected.
- Uncommon: one in 100 and one in 1,000 people may experience side effects.
- Rare: Rare indicates that one in 1,000 and one in 10,000 people using the medication may be effected.
- Very rare: Less than one in 10,000 users may be effected.
What factors increase a persons chance of experiencing side effects?
- There are several factors which may increase a persons chance of experiencing drug side effects. Here is a list of risk factors.
- Age may increase risk factors of medication side effects. The very young or elderly may be at greater risk of side effects.
- Those taking other medications may be at increased risk of side effects. Often, medications may not mix well.
- A low or compromised immune system may increase the chances of side effects.
- Individuals with a history of allergies may be at increased risk.
Do all medications cause side effects?
All medications have the possibility of creating side effects. However, not all people taking these medications will experience such effects.
What is the FDA’s role?
The FDA evaluates the benefits of a drug in comparison to side effects. If the risks are found to be far greater they may not approve a medication for consumer use. As well, this administration mandates that possible side effects must be listed for consumer knowledge. It is the FDA’s responsibility to protect the health of society by enforcing regulations on drug manufacturers.
Where may I go to find information of drug side effects?
A person may visit the manufacturers website to find a list of possible side effects. Also, each medication should come with a label or paperwork which tells about side effects. There are many online resources for educating ones self on drug side effects such as Drugs.com, AdverseEvents.com, PatientsLikeMe and others.
Another resource to learn about your drug side effects or safety concerns is located at Drugsdb.com. They are unique in that the information they offer is written in easy to understand language.
What to do if you experience drug side effects
If the symptoms of side effects are mild speak to your doctor. He or she will advise you to continue or stop use of the drug. However, if the side effects are extremely bothersome or serious you should stop use of the drug immediately. In severe or life threatening situations seek emergency care at once.
Use MedWatch, the FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program, to report a suspected drug side effect.
Can food increase potential side effects of a drug?
Yes. Some foods may not be consumed while taking a particular medication. Read medication labels carefully and avoid any foods which are listed as causing interactions with the drug.
Can the sun prompt drug side effects?
Yes. Many medications warn against sun exposure. In this case the person using such medications should avoid being outdoors in the heat of the day.
For the most part most medications do more good than harm. However, drug side effects do exist. These complications can be severe or even life threatening. They should not be taken lightly. If you do experience a severe side effect seek medical attention immediately.