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Adverse reactions to medications

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By Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS

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Adverse medication reactions include side effects, reactions between two or more medications or herbal supplements, reactions between a food and a medication, overmedication, and addiction. Any of these may cause:

  • Indigestion, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Constipation or diarrhea.
  • Problems with urination.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Headache, dizziness, or ringing in the ears.
  • Blurred or double vision.
  • Confusion, forgetfulness, disorientation, drowsiness, or depression.
  • Difficulty sleeping, irritability, or nervousness.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Rashes or bruising.
  • Bleeding problems.

Don't assume any symptom is a normal side effect of a medication. Call your health professional or pharmacist anytime you suspect that your medications are making you sick. Make sure that your health professional and pharmacist have a complete list of all the prescription and nonprescription medications and herbal supplements you are taking.

Credits

Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 1, 2008
Author:Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Last Updated: 05/01/2008