Understanding Medication Side Effects: Your Guide from Broadway Pharmacy

Navigating your health journey often involves taking medication. It's common to have questions about what to expect, especially regarding medication side effects. While the term can sound concerning, many common drug side effects are minor and manageable. Knowing what to look for and how to handle them can empower you to feel more confident and in control of your health.

Here’s a comprehensive guide from the team at Broadway Pharmacy to help you understand and manage some of the most frequent medication side effects.

Common Medication Side Effects & How to Manage Them

Digestive Discomfort

Many medications can impact your digestive system, leading to common side effects like nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.

• Nausea or Upset Stomach: This is often caused by stomach lining irritation. To help, try taking your medication with food.

• Constipation: Some pain relievers and antidepressants can slow down your digestive system. Increase your intake of fiber and water, or consult a Broadway Pharmacy pharmacist about effective, gentle stool softeners.

• Diarrhea: Certain antibiotics and other drugs may cause diarrhea. We can advise you on using probiotics to help restore a healthy gut balance.

Drowsiness and Dizziness

Medications that affect the central nervous system, such as allergy medications, sleeping pills, and certain blood pressure drugs, can cause drowsiness or dizziness.

• Drowsiness: Be cautious if you need to drive or operate machinery. Pay attention to how your body reacts to new medications.

• Dizziness: This can occur when you stand up too quickly. Move slowly and deliberately to prevent any loss of balance.

Skin Reactions

A skin rash, itching, or hives can be a sign of a medication side effect or an allergic reaction.

• Mild Rash: A small, non-itchy rash is often a minor side effect.

• Allergic Reaction: If a rash is accompanied by severe itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a very common side effect of many medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and some blood pressure pills.

• Sip water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva production.

• Our pharmacists at Broadway Pharmacy can recommend over-the-counter products specifically designed to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Your Partner in Health: Talk to the Pharmacists at Broadway Pharmacy

Navigating medication can be complex, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you experience any medication side effects, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the professional team at Broadway Pharmacy. We are your trusted partners in health. Our expert pharmacists can provide personalized advice on how to manage side effects, and we can also consult with your doctor to explore potential dosage adjustments or alternative medication options. We are here to help you get the most out of your treatment plan, safely and comfortably.

Always read your medication labels carefully, and never stop taking a prescribed drug without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Your health is our priority.