Common Side Effects of Medications and How to Manage Them

New medications can cure your ailments but can also have unexpected side effects. Everybody reacts differently to different substances, and these side effects can range from mild discomfort to more severe symptoms.

Some people experience mild and manageable side effects with most OTC medications. You might experience nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, or dry mouth. The medications interact with your body’s natural processes and make you feel distinct physiological changes. For instance, your blood pressure medication can rapidly change your blood pressure levels, which naturally leads to dizziness (the same sort you feel when standing up too quickly).

In more serious but manageable cases, you might have an allergic reaction to your medication. Talk to your healthcare provider if you develop rashes or swelling or if you find it difficult to breathe.

How Can You Manage Common Side Effects?

How you manage side effects depends on your symptoms. If a medication makes you nauseous, try taking it with food to ease stomach irritation. If your meds make you dizzy, avoid activities that require your full attention, such as driving.

Drink water, electrolyte solutions, or mouth moisturizers to manage dry mouth. If your healthcare provider gives you the green light, increase your fiber intake or try a stool softener if you experience constipation.

Talk to your doctor if side effects significantly interfere with your daily life. They may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication, but do not stop taking a prescribed one unless your provider advises.

When Should You Be Concerned About Drug Interactions?

If you take multiple medications at once, including OTC drugs, supplements, or herbal products, the interactions between your medications can worsen your felt side effects or create new ones. For instance, if you mix some pain relievers with blood pressure medications, you could accidentally lower your blood pressure too much and cause yourself to faint.

When you go to a doctor for a new medication, always tell them about current medications and supplements so they can anticipate any interactions.

Managing Medication Side Effects in Stevensville and Kent Island With Chesapeake Rx

A local pharmacist at Chesapeake Rx in Stevensville has an in-depth understanding of common side effects. They can give you all the information you need about drug interactions and symptom management so you can make an informed decision. Call our pharmacy today at 443-249-3134 or complete our online form. We have helped many patients find the medication they need to feel their best without harmful side effects, and we are confident that we will do the same for you. Located in Stevensville, Maryland, we serve residents in Chester, Maryland, and all located on Kent Island.