Side effects

Side effects or Risks of a drug refer to what can go wrong when the drug is used. A drug’s prescribing information states these risks, which can include:

• What groups of patients should not use the drug because it may do them more harm than good
• When the drug should not be used
• Serious side effects
• Side effects seen in special populations, such as children, pregnant women, or older patients
• Commonly occurring side effects
• The chance of the drug causing abuse or dependence
• The chance of the drug causing withdrawal effects