Side effects

Definition

Side effects are unintended reactions or consequences of taking a medication, including antimicrobial drugs. These effects can range from mild to severe and may impact the overall effectiveness of treatment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Side effects can include allergic reactions, gastrointestinal issues, and organ toxicity.
2. Some side effects result from the disruption of normal microbiota, leading to secondary infections like Clostridioides difficile colitis.
3. The severity of side effects varies based on factors such as dosage, duration of treatment, and individual patient conditions.
4. Antimicrobial resistance can complicate side effect management by limiting alternative treatment options.
5. Monitoring for side effects is crucial in clinical settings to adjust therapy and ensure patient safety.

Review Questions

• What are some common side effects associated with antibacterial drugs?
• How can the disruption of normal microbiota lead to secondary infections?
• Why is monitoring for side effects important in antimicrobial therapy?

Related terms

Adverse Drug Reaction: Any harmful or unintended response to a medication administered at normal doses.

Antimicrobial Resistance:

The ability of microbes to resist the effects of drugs that once killed them or inhibited their growth.

Normal Microbiota: The community of microorganisms that normally reside on and within the human body without causing disease.