Dealing With Medication Side Effects

What Are Side Effects?

Side effects, also called adverse reactions, are unwanted effects related to taking a medication. They can occur with prescribed or over-the-counter medications, vitamins or supplements. You may experience side effects when you start taking a new medication, change the dosage amount of a medication or stop taking a medication.

Side effects can range from mild (e.g., nausea or headache) to life-threatening (e.g., difficulty breathing or throat swelling). While side effects can vary from medication to medication and person to person, some common side effects include upset stomach, dry mouth, nausea, fatigue and dizziness.

How Can I Find Out More Information About Potential Side Effects?

When stopping a medication, starting a new medication or changing the dosage of an existing one, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential side effects you may experience. Your provider may also have suggestions on some things you can do to help ease side effects.

You should also discuss if there are any activities to avoid temporarily to make sure you do not experience any side effects. For example, medications that may cause drowsiness will warn against operating heavy machinery. Also, be sure to discuss any other medications, either prescription or over the counter, that you regularly take as they may increase the likelihood of having an adverse reaction.

When you pick up your medication or buy an over-the-counter medication, you should be provided with an information sheet about the medication including common side effects and serious side effects to watch for. You can also request additional printouts of the information from your healthcare provider or pharmacy, or search for a medication on the FDA Label website to view additional information.

What Should I Do If I’m Experiencing Side Effects?

If you are experiencing a non-serious side effect, speak with your healthcare provider to discuss the side effect and any concerns you have before you stop taking the medication. Together, you can determine whether to continue the medication or look into alternatives. Some side effects may be temporary and will go away after taking the medication for a few days to a few weeks.

If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening side effect including a severe allergic reaction, you should stop taking the medication immediately and seek emergency care.