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
Side effects are unwanted or unintended consequences that occur as a result of using a particular medication or treatment. They can vary in severity and may impact an individual's physical or psychological well-being.
Efficacy refers to the effectiveness of a treatment or intervention in achieving the desired outcome. Evaluating side effects helps determine whether the benefits outweigh potential drawbacks.
The placebo effect occurs when individuals experience improvements in their condition due to believing they are receiving an active treatment, even if it is actually inert. Understanding placebo effects is crucial when evaluating reported side effects.
Adverse Reactions: Adverse reactions refer to unexpected and harmful responses that occur after taking medication. Monitoring for adverse reactions is essential to ensure patient safety.