Medication Side Effects | Department of Human Services | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Detecting Medication Side Effects
Supports coordinators have a valuable role in the health care team. As non-clinicians, supports coordinators are not expected to know all of the side effects of various medications. However, some knowledge about medications and their potential side effects is necessary to help individuals access needed services.
This information guide provides a strategy that will help supports coordinators answer questions and decide if a change in an individual’s behavior or physical condition may be the side effect of a medication.
Anyone who is taking medication, but especially:
People on multiple medications
People with changes in behavior
People with changes in physical conditions
Any medication can produce side effects, but pay special attention to:
Interactions with other drugs
Interactions with over-the-counter drugs
Interactions with food
Interactions with "natural" supplements
Side effects can occur at any time, but pay special attention when:
An individual is starting a new medication
An individual is changing the dose of a medication
An individual is suffering from an additional illness (e.g., cold)
Pharmacists
Drug references (e.g., books, online)
Prescribing practitioners
Health care quality units (HCQU)
Side effects caused by medications can:
Be annoying and affect everyday functioning
Be dangerous and affect health and safety
Assist individuals and caregivers in referring questions/concerns to the prescribing physician or the primary care practitioner