Adverse effect

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Adverse effect[edit | edit source]

  • An adverse effect refers to a harmful or unintended response to a medical treatment or intervention, such as a medication, surgery, or therapeutic procedure.
  • Adverse effects can range from mild discomfort to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.
  • Understanding adverse effects is essential in healthcare to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatments.

Classification of Adverse Effects[edit | edit source]

  • Adverse effects can be classified into several categories based on different criteria.

The following classification system is commonly used:

Type A (Augmented)[edit | edit source]

  • Type A adverse effects are the most common and predictable.
  • They occur as a direct result of the pharmacological actions of a medication or treatment.
  • Type A adverse effects are dose-dependent and related to the primary intended action of the intervention.
  • For example, the sedative effect of certain antihistamines or the gastrointestinal upset caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are type A adverse effects.

Type B (Bizarre)[edit | edit source]

Type B adverse effects are unpredictable and unrelated to the pharmacological actions of the treatment. They often occur infrequently and may be severe or life-threatening. Type B adverse effects are typically not dose-dependent and can vary between individuals. Examples include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), drug-induced liver injury, and hematological disorders such as aplastic anemia.

Type C (Chronic)[edit | edit source]

  • Type C adverse effects occur after prolonged or repeated exposure to a treatment.
  • These effects may develop gradually over time and are associated with the cumulative effects of the intervention.
  • Examples include drug-induced osteoporosis, tardive dyskinesia caused by long-term use of antipsychotics, and endocrine disorders resulting from chronic [[]]corticosteroid use.

Type D (Delayed)[edit | edit source]

  • Type D adverse effects occur after a significant delay following treatment.
  • They may manifest weeks, months, or even years after the intervention.
  • Examples include certain drug-induced cancers, such as secondary malignancies following chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Type E (End-of-Treatment)[edit | edit source]

Factors Contributing to Adverse Effects[edit | edit source]

  • Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of adverse effects.

These include:

  • Individual Variability: Each person may respond differently to a treatment due to factors such as age, sex, genetics, underlying health conditions, and concomitant medications.
  • Dosage and Treatment Duration: The dosage and duration of treatment can influence the likelihood and severity of adverse effects.
  • Drug Interactions: Concurrent use of multiple medications can increase the risk of drug-drug interactions, potentially leading to adverse effects.
  • Patient's Health Status: Pre-existing medical conditions, organ dysfunction, or compromised immune function can make individuals more susceptible to adverse effects.
  • Administration and Technique: Improper administration or technique during medical procedures or surgeries can contribute to adverse effects.

Prevention and Management[edit | edit source]

  • Prevention and management of adverse effects involve various strategies:
  • Proper Assessment and Screening: Healthcare professionals should carefully assess a patient's medical history, perform necessary screenings, and consider individual risk factors before initiating a treatment.
  • Appropriate Treatment Selection: Healthcare professionals should select treatments based on a patient's specific characteristics, including age, comorbidities, and potential drug interactions.
  • Dose Optimization: Individualized dosing based on factors such as age, weight, renal and hepatic function can help minimize adverse effects.
  • Monitoring and Surveillance: Regular monitoring of patients during treatment can help detect and manage adverse effects promptly.
  • Patient Education: Patients should receive thorough education about the potential risks, benefits, and possible adverse effects of a treatment. They should be encouraged to report any unusual symptoms promptly.
  • Pharmacovigilance: Healthcare systems and regulatory authorities play a crucial role in monitoring and reporting adverse effects at a population level. This helps identify potential safety concerns and take appropriate regulatory actions if needed.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Adverse effect Resources

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