Medication Side Effects Explained

The way our bodies process medication often affects other parts of our system's inner workings in addition to the medicine's original therapeutic target. This secondary effect, or side effect, can vary for each individual depending on age, weight, gender, ethnicity, and general health.

Interestingly, one person may experience troublesome side effects, while another taking the same drug at the same dosage may experience nothing more than the medicine's benefits. A rather mild but typical drug-induced side effect that many people experience is the drowsiness caused by the antihistamine in a cold remedy.

Many prescription medications will deliver a secondary reaction. If the side effects become too severe, your doctor may adjust the dosage or prescribe a better-tolerated medication.

At Kelsey Pharmacy, our goal is to help the patient and physician find the most appropriate therapeutic medication with the fewest side effects. Our pharmacists are patient-care professionals, dedicated to promoting the health of our patients, including the counseling needed for them to properly manage their medication's side effects.

Everyone should be well-informed about the medication they take. For safety's sake, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider before taking any medication.