This information guide provides a strategy that will help supports coordinators answer questions and decide if a change in an individual’s behavior or physical condition may be the side effect of a medication.
Anyone who is taking medication, but especially:
- People on multiple medications
- People with changes in behavior
- People with changes in physical conditions
Any medication can produce side effects, but pay special attention to:
- Interactions with other drugs
- Interactions with over-the-counter drugs
- Interactions with food
- Interactions with "natural" supplements
Side effects can occur at any time, but pay special attention when:
- An individual is starting a new medication
- An individual is changing the dose of a medication
- An individual is suffering from an additional illness (e.g., cold)
- Pharmacists
- Drug references (e.g., books, online)
- Prescribing practitioners
- Health care quality units (HCQU)
Side effects caused by medications can:
- Be annoying and affect everyday functioning
- Be dangerous and affect health and safety
Assist individuals and caregivers in referring questions/concerns to the prescribing physician or the primary care practitioner