The main difference between side effect and adverse effect is that a side effect can be either harmful or beneficial, while an adverse effect is typically harmful and undesirable. In addition, adverse effects are more severe and life-threatening than side effects.
Side effect and adverse effect are two terms that are often used in the field of medicine. Though these two terms look similar, there is a distinct difference between side effect and adverse effect.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is a Side Effect
– Definition, Features
2. What is an Adverse Effect
– Definition, Features
3. Difference Between Side Effect and Adverse Effect
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Side Effect, Adverse Effect
What is a Side Effect
A side effect is an effect of a drug, chemical, or other medicine that is in addition to its intended effect. This effect can be harmful or beneficial, but a side effect is generally considered to be an adverse or harmful effect. For example, metformin which is used to treat type 2 diabetes, can cause side effects such as muscle aches or pains, dizziness, confusion, increased hunger, etc. However, some drugs also cause therapeutic effects. For example, Carbamazepine, which is an approved treatment for manic depression, has side effects useful in treating conditions like schizophrenia and neuromyotonia. A medicine can also have both harmful and beneficial side effects at the same time. Side effects may vary for each individual depending on factors like the person’s age, weight, gender, and general health.
Generally, these side effects are foreseen by the person who prescribes the medicine, i.e., the doctor, though the patient might not be aware of them. Most of the medicines or drugs we take have side effects, and generally, these side effects are listed on the packaging of the medicine though many people do not pay any special attention to it. Therefore, it can be said that side effects are known and expected secondary effects of a drug or a chemical; although the general public is not aware of these effects, those in the medical field and the relevant pharmaceutical companies are aware of them.
Another significant characteristic of side effects is that side effects are mild in nature and self-resolving when compared to adverse effects.
What is an Adverse Effect
In the medical field, an adverse effect is a harmful, undesirable effect that results from a medication or other intervention such as surgery. Incorrect dosage or medical procedure, an allergic reaction, etc, can cause them.
Adverse effects may cause complications in a disease or procedure and negatively affect its prognosis. Additionally, adverse reactions are rare and more severe than side effects and can be life-threatening. Adverse effects can be stopped by either adjusting the dosage of the medicine or completely stopping the drug. However, by then, adverse effects may have caused irreversible damage.
Difference Between Side Effect and Adverse Effect
Definition
A side effect is an effect of a drug, chemical, or other medicine that is in addition to its intended effect, while an adverse effect is a harmful, undesirable effect that results from a medication or other intervention such as surgery.
Effects
Side effects can be both therapeutic and harmful. Adverse effects are generally harmful and undesirable.
Prior Knowledge
The doctor usually expects side effects, but the doctor does not expect adverse effects.
Effect on the Treatment
Generally, side effects do not hinder the main effect of the drug, whereas adverse effects can hinder the treatment and lead to more complications.
Severity
Side effects are mild and self-resolving when compared to adverse effects, which are more severe and life-threatening.
Conclusion
The main difference between side effect and adverse effect is that a side effect can be either harmful or beneficial, while an adverse effect is typically harmful and undesirable. In addition, adverse effects are more severe and life-threatening than side effects.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Main side effects of nicotine” (CC0) via RawPixel
