Learning library · Medication education
Side effectsWhat's expected, and when to call
Which early effects usually settle, which are worth a message, and the difference between a nuisance and a reason to call right away.
What side effects are
A side effect is an effect of a medicine that you didn't take it for. Most are mild, and many ease within the first few weeks as your body adjusts.
Each medicine's label lists its own. This video is about sorting what you notice: what often settles, what's worth a message, and what needs help right away.
What often settles
When you start a medicine, mild effects like an upset stomach, a headache, sleepiness, or trouble sleeping are common. Many of these fade within the first few weeks.
Write down what you notice, and when. The Daily log in your portal is a good place. It helps you and your provider see whether something is fading or sticking around.
Worth a message
Send your care team a message when a side effect doesn't fade, gets in the way of your day, or worries you. That includes changes in sleep, weight, or sexual function. They're common, and often manageable.
There's usually something to try, so there's no need to put up with it quietly. But don't stop or change a medicine on your own to get rid of a side effect. Some medicines need to be lowered slowly.
Get help right away
Some reactions are emergencies. Trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or hives with dizziness can be signs of a serious allergic reaction: call 911.
Contact your provider right away, or get urgent care, for a new rash, especially with fever or blisters, or for agitation, a racing heart, fever, and muscle twitching, which can be signs of a reaction called serotonin syndrome.
And at any time, reach out right away about new or worse depression, anxiety, or agitation, or thoughts of suicide. If you're in crisis, call or text 988, any time, day or night.
Working together
Your pharmacist can help, too. Keep a list of every medicine and supplement you take, and bring it to each visit. You can also report a side effect to the FDA through its MedWatch program.
Everything here is general information, not medical advice for you. Talk with your provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medicine.
3 min · captions with the CC button · 5 chapters · animated diagrams