Importance of Knowing Medication Side Effects

According to MedTerms, a side effect is anything a medication does that is not its prescribed purpose. Knowing side effects of all the medications you take will help you stay alert in the event that they occur so that appropriate action can be taken.

Impact

• When a person knows the side effects of the medication she is taking, she is better equipped to make a decision about whether this is an appropriate medical treatment for her. The side effects of some treatments may make some people decide not to take the medication or to pursue another treatment option.

Effects

• If a medical emergency or serious complication arises as a result of medicinal treatment, a person who is aware that this is a possible side effect of the medication can more quickly seek appropriate medical treatment.

Management

• People who are taking medications that have chronic but not necessarily serious side effects can learn strategies to manage the side effects.

Monitoring

• Some side effects require monitoring, such as additional testing, to detect. When doctor and patient are aware of these side effects, appointments can be made to monitor for the presence of these side effects, according to Arthritis Today.

Considerations

• Knowing the possible side effects of a medication is a consumer's right. This is outlined in the Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities created by the Advisory Commission on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Health Care Industry, according to Medline Plus.