How to Deal With Side Effects of Medicine
How to Deal With Side Effects of Medicine
If you read or hear about another drug that may have fewer side effects, ask your doctor or pharmacist about it. Side effects of newer medications may not be as well-known as those on the market for years, so you might ask about switching to an older, more proven drug.
But never stop a medicine or change your dosage without your doctor's approval -- especially if you're being treated for a serious health condition. You need to take some medicines, like antibiotics, for a full course to avoid getting sick again. Others don't work as well if you skip a dose, cut it in half, or take it with or without food.
You may be able to tolerate some side effects, especially if they're temporary or if the pros outweigh the cons. But if a bad drug reaction puts you at risk for more medical problems or seriously affects your health, it may be time for a change.
Medications that cause dizziness, for example, can increase your risk of death or serious injury from falling -- especially if you're an older adult. And treatments that affect your ability to enjoy time with friends or romantic partners may not be your best option if alternatives are available.
"Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error," Liu says, "but a lot of times you can find a medicine that works without affecting your quality of life."
How to Deal With Side Effects of Medicine
Get Your Doctor's OK continued...
If you read or hear about another drug that may have fewer side effects, ask your doctor or pharmacist about it. Side effects of newer medications may not be as well-known as those on the market for years, so you might ask about switching to an older, more proven drug.
But never stop a medicine or change your dosage without your doctor's approval -- especially if you're being treated for a serious health condition. You need to take some medicines, like antibiotics, for a full course to avoid getting sick again. Others don't work as well if you skip a dose, cut it in half, or take it with or without food.
Decide What's Most Important
You may be able to tolerate some side effects, especially if they're temporary or if the pros outweigh the cons. But if a bad drug reaction puts you at risk for more medical problems or seriously affects your health, it may be time for a change.
Medications that cause dizziness, for example, can increase your risk of death or serious injury from falling -- especially if you're an older adult. And treatments that affect your ability to enjoy time with friends or romantic partners may not be your best option if alternatives are available.
"Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error," Liu says, "but a lot of times you can find a medicine that works without affecting your quality of life."
