Side effects and interactions

Understanding side effects

All medicines have possible side effects, but not everybody will experience them. When you are recommended a medicine, it’s important to ask questions about side effects and what this means for you. Read more about where the information on side effects comes from and how to deal with problems.

When you are thinking about the risk of side effects with a medicine it’s important to also keep in mind its benefits — see What will the medicine do for me? and Making wise choices about medicines.

Understanding interactions

Sometimes one medicine can mix badly with another in your body, and changes how strongly the medicine works or change its side effects. This is called an interaction, and it can also happen when medicines mix with certain foods or drink (including alcohol). Read more about interactions, when they are most likely to happen and what you can do to avoid them.

For more information

• Medicines List
• What to do if you experience a side effect
• Adverse Medicines Events Line
• I’m pregnant – can I take it?