When we talk about side effects, we mean any adverse and undesirable effect of a drug that occurs in a patient during or shortly after treatment. Often this term is confused with a side effect, but they are not entirely the same. How to recognize an adverse reaction and what to do next?

- Side effect is a somewhat broader term than adverse effect. It means any documented and known effect of a drug beyond those desired and expected. Thus, it does not always have to be a negative effect," explains Damian Kuraś, spokesman for the General Pharmaceutical Inspectorate.

- We want to persuade patients that when they reach for a drug and start treatment with a new agent, they should read the leaflet. All side effects are written out there. If we have any doubt, we should immediately contact a doctor or pharmacist," advises Damian Kuraś.

Side effects can occur depending on a number of factors, such as the properties of the drug substance, the form of the drug, its dosage and interactions with other drugs.

- Their incidence varies from frequent to very rare, which is also indicated in the leaflet. Of course, before being marketed and approved, every medicinal substance undergoes long and complex clinical trials. During them, possible side effects are also determined. After marketing, the drug is constantly under observation and such effects are recorded all the time, the spokesman adds.

If you notice any adverse reactions in yourself, you can report them by filling out the appropriate form, available on the website of the Office for Registration of Medicinal Products, Medical Devices and Biocidal Products. It should be printed out and sent to: [email protected]. This can be done either by the patient, doctor or pharmacist. The application can also be made ONLINE.