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Strategies to address drug interaction side effects
Medications are utilized in various ways . Some people take medication to treat issues like headaches or the common cold , while medicine also may be used to treat serious diseases like cancer or heart disease . Each medicine is different , but all share one common trait : the potential to produce side effects .
The U . S . Food and Drug Administration notes that the side effects of medications can range from relatively harmful nuisances like a runny nose to potentially life-threatening issues like an increased risk for heart attack . When taking prescription medications or even over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen , it ’ s imperative that people discuss the side effects of such medicines with their physicians . Such discussions are especially important for people who are already taking other medications , as the
American Academy of Family Physicians notes that adverse drug reactions are more likely to affect people who take more than three medicines per day .
People who suspect they ’ re experiencing side effects from medications should contact their physicians immediately . Physicians may recommend a host of strategies to treat these common side effects .
• Constipation : The health care experts at Michigan Medicine note that drinking plenty of fluids and exercising can help people overcome constipation . Doctors also may recommend incorporating more bran and whole grains into your diet . Consuming fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber , including apples , beans , broccoli , and prunes , also may help people overcome constipation .
• Diarrhea : The U . S . National Library of Medicine notes that nearly all medicines can cause diarrhea . Foods like applesauce and rice are unlikely to lead to upset stomach , and these can be consumed when people are experiencing diarrhea . Avoiding spicy foods and foods that are high in fat also can help people overcome diarrhea .
• Headaches : Michigan Medicine indicates that headaches might appear as the body adjusts to a new medicine . As the body acclimates , headaches might lessen in severity and ultimately disappear . In the meantime , people can speak to their physicians about the safety of taking additional medicine to treat their headaches .
• Loss of appetite : The online medical resource Healthline notes that various drugs , including sleeping pills , antibiotics , blood pressure medications , and diuretics , have been known to cause loss of appetite . Eating healthy snacks between meals and choosing protein-rich foods at mealtime may ensure people get enough calories , vitamins and minerals each day , even if they ’ re not eating as much as they used to .
• Nervousness : A feeling of nervousness or of being on edge is another potential side effect of certain medications . This may occur as the body adjusts to a new medicine . However , patients may want to discuss lower doses or even alternative medicines with their physicians .
Medications can produce various side effects . If side effects appear , people should contact their physicians to develop a safe , effective plan to address them . n
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