Side effect

A side effect is an unwanted effect that occurs while using a medicine. It can be mild or serious, appear soon after starting or develop later. A symptom occurring during treatment is not automatically caused by it, so a clinician considers timing, other conditions and the full treatment list before deciding what to do.

Is a side effect the same as an allergy?

No. An allergy is a particular immune reaction, while side effects include a broader range of unwanted effects. Describe exactly what happened rather than simply recording every unpleasant symptom as an allergy. Serious reactions should be clearly documented and discussed with future clinicians.

Note when the symptom started, any dose change and what else was taken. Include non-prescription products, supplements and alcohol. Packaging or a current medicines list can help the doctor or pharmacist identify the relevant products accurately.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Side effects of medicines - Healthdirect Australia.

Should I stop taking the medicine?

Do not make a routine treatment change without advice, because stopping some medicines abruptly can be harmful. Contact the prescriber or pharmacist to discuss the symptom and urgency. Follow any specific emergency instructions you have already been given.

Ask whether the effect is expected, whether it may settle, and what monitoring or alternative approach is appropriate. A treatment review considers both the unwanted effect and the condition being treated. Do not simply add another product to manage the symptom without checking for interactions.

When is it an emergency?

Call 000 for severe breathing difficulty, throat swelling, collapse, reduced consciousness or another life-threatening reaction. Widespread blistering, significant bleeding or marked deterioration needs urgent assessment. For suspected overdose or poisoning, contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26, or 000 for severe symptoms.

Doccio's prescription service may support an appropriate review, but serious reactions need urgent care. A doctor decides whether continuation, adjustment, testing or another treatment is appropriate.

Where to go next

Read prescription consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.