Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Medication side effects are unwanted or unexpected reactions that occur as a result of taking medication. These reactions can range from mild to severe, and can impact the physical or mental health of an individual.
Related terms
Adverse Reactions: Adverse reactions are negative responses to medication that can be harmful or dangerous. They may include allergic reactions or severe side effects.
The placebo effect refers to the phenomenon where a person experiences improvement in their symptoms even though they received a treatment with no active ingredients. This highlights how our beliefs and expectations can influence our perception of side effects.
Risk-Benefit Analysis: Risk-benefit analysis involves evaluating the potential risks and benefits associated with a particular course of action. In this case, it would involve weighing the potential benefits of taking medication against the possible side effects for an individual with acute stress disorder.