Although many people think that side effects should be eliminated, all medicines have side effects. The causes of side effects include (1) medicinal properties, (2) medicinal usage, and (3) patient constitution.
2. How to prevent side effects
The most common type of medicinal side-effect is the allergic reaction, such as a skin eruption, followed by gastrointestinal symptoms. Improper medicinal usage, such as taking a double dose after forgetting to take the first dose, may induce side effects. Side effects may also develop in reaction to a medicine when you are overworked and tired when sick.
Patients can prevent side effects through early discovery and treatment, among other means.
3. Side effects differing from each other
Reactions to a medicine may differ. For example, a patient with a genetic deficiency of a certain metabolic enzyme who takes a normal dose may have the same reaction as commonly seen in those who take an excessive dose.
Side effects are also likely to develop in those with a weakened liver or kidneys, as a result of reduced medicinal dissolution and excretion. Awareness of your own physical condition is important in preventing side effects.
4. Medicinal interaction
The interaction of multiple medicines may cause side effects. It isn't necessary to worry about this when your medicines are prescribed in a hospital, but be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist (including medical telecommunication) before taking medicines from more than one hospital or taking a prescribed medicine together with a commercial medicine.
(2)Slight side effects
1. Side effects not requiring attention
The color of your urine may change after you take a medicine. However, this is due to medicinal excretion, and does not require attention. The same thing applies to the smell of rice bran on your breath or from your urine after taking a vitamin B1 supplement. Although some antihistamines and antidiabetics may cause drowsiness, you should simply avoid driving a car or operating machinery.
(3)Side effects of over-the-counter and Chinese medicines
1. Special attention required for those with an allergic predisposition
Over-the-counter medicines may cause side effects in some people. Those with an allergic predisposition require special care because they are sensitive to medicines. If you have an unexplainable symptom, such as nausea, after taking a gastrointestinal medicine, discontinue its use immediately and consult your doctor, as there may be an underlying disease.
2. Side effects of Chinese medicines
Although some people believe that Chinese medicines do not cause side effects, this is a mistake. When you have a symptom suspected of being a side effect, consult your doctor or pharmacist. underlying disease.
3. Risky long-term administration
Many over-the-counter medicines, including those for colds or gastrointestinal symptoms, are intended to transiently suppress symptoms. Avoid taking them for extended periods, as may affect the liver or kidneys. Discontinue their use when they become ineffective.
