Adverse reactions to drugs

Adverse reactions to drugs

Any drug may produce unwanted or unexpected adverse reaction. Detection and recording of these is of vital importance.

Only limited information is available from clinical trails on the safety of new medicines. Further understanding about the safety of medicines depends on the availability of information from routine clinical practice.

Prevention of adverse reactions

Adverse reactions may be prevented as follows.

• Never use any drug unless there is good indication. If the patient is pregnant do not use a drug unless the need for it is imperative.
• Allergy and idiosyncrasy are important causes of adverse drug reactions. Ask if the patient has previous reactions.
•  Ask if the patient is already taking other drugs including self-medication drugs, health supplements, herbal and complementary therapies, interactions may occur.