Pharmaceuticals

Popular: Side Effects | Prescription Medications

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Side Effects

Almost all medications have side effects.

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According to WrongDiagnosis.com, an estimated 2.2 million people per year suffer an adverse reaction to an FDA-approved drug, and approximately 100,000 of these people die as a result. Even if you are taking a well-known over the counter medication or using a drug prescribed by your doctor, side effects can become a problem. When a person takes more than one medication at a time, the probability of an adverse reaction is increased due to the potential for drug interactions. In order to prevent drug-related health problems, it's important to understand the potential side effects and interactions of any medications you are taking.

How to avoid medication side effects

by Sergio Silva, M.D.

The frequency and intensity of side effects are directly proportional to the amount of medication taken (dosage, especially relative to an individual's body weight) and the rapidity with which it is absorbed. The more milligrams you take at one time... More>

Side effects of Concerta

by Amanda Grace

Concerta is an FDA approved medication prescribed for the treatment of ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). It is used to treat the disorder in both children six years of age and older and in adults. The medication may be presc... More>

Side effects of caffeine

by Kris Kennedy

Caffeine Some individuals who claim to be drug free might actually be living on the most common stimulant, caffeine. Caffeine appears most commonly in coffee, but is also in soda drinks, energy drinks, tea and even chocolate. The body can process 25... More>

Side effects of antidepressants

by Amber Hilton

These days, many Americans are taking antidepressants to deal with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Some may be dealing with seasonal or situational depression (such as the loss of a loved one), while for others depression and anxiety are chronic... More>

Side effects of amoxicillin

by William Menna

The generic prescription medication amoxicillin is a derivative of the iconic antibiotic penicillin. Also marketed under such brand names as Amoxil, Prevpac, and Trimox, amoxicillin can treat a variety of bacterial infections including bronchitis, H... More>

Side effects of Benadryl

by Dr. Manura Nanayakkara

This is the popular brand name of the over the counter generic drug Diphenhydramine. This medication is a first generation antihistamine. It is used in symptomatic relief of allergies such as colds, sneezing, coughs, hay fever, watery eyes and aller... More>

More websites about side effects.

Recalls and safety alerts.
The FDA keeps this page about recalls and safety alerts up to date.
Black-box warning
A black-box warning is reserved for drugs with highly dangerous side effects.
Food and drug interactions
Drugs can interact with each other, but they can also interact with certain foods and beverages.

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Quick facts.

The following facts are from the CDC:

Approximately 46.5% of people take at least one prescription drug
71% of physician office visits involve drug therapy
The most frequently prescribed drugs are: analgesics, antihyperlipidemic agents, and antidepressants

Official Websites

Learn about side effects from the FDA
Drug interactions checker
Type in the names of the medications you are taking and check for interactions.
Herbal supplement side effects
"Natural" does not mean the same thing as "safe". Be sure to understand the risks associated with any herbs you are taking.
MedWatch
Report serious side effects to the FDA or search the MedWatch site for information.

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Avoiding Drug Interactions (Consumer Update)

This FDA Consumer Update video provides helpful tips to avoid the three main types of interactions: drugs with food and beverages, drugs with dietary supplements, and drugs with other drugs.

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