The side effects of prescription drugs are undesirable physical effects of the medication. When prescription medication is ingested, it often affects the body in more ways than treating the condition that is prescribed to treat.
Prescription drugs can affect many different organ systems. A prescribed medication designed to improve the functioning of one body organ may have a negative impact on other parts of the body. Many times, side effects will lessen after the body has adjusted to the medication.
Doctors consider the risk of side effects with the patient's need for the desired effect when prescribing medication. Patients should feel free to ask their doctors about the possible side effects and risks of the medication being prescribed.
Gastrointestinal problems slight nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or flatulence are a common type of side effect of prescription drugs. Some gastrointestinal side effects are more troublesome than others. A person may be willing to tolerate mild nausea but not more severe gastrointestinal side effects like anal leakage.
Some of side effects of prescription drugs are caused by the medication affecting the brain and nervous system. Headaches, blurred vision, muscle spasms, tremor, lack of coordination, and difficulty sleeping are examples of nervous system side effects.
Many prescription medications can cause side effects of skin problems. Possible in side effects include rashes, hives, skin discoloration, and skin dryness.
When prescription drugs are filled, they often come with fact sheets that include information about possible side effects. People seeking more information about possible side effects can often find such information on prescription medication websites.
Though drug interactions are not regular side effects, they are negative effects of taking a combination of medication. Some drug interactions may be mild, but some can be life-threatening.
Before a doctor prescribes any new medication, the patient should inform the doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication and supplements that the patient is taking. Some pharmacies also have computer systems that check for possible drug interactions.
If side effects are problematic, the patient should discuss the side effects with their doctor. Side effects may be lessons with a change in dosage. The doctor may also prescribe a different medication that offers the same benefits.
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