Side effects fall into several categories. Allergic reactions can happen with any drug and can range from itching and rash all the way up to a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction.
Other side effects simply –come with the territory.†Some drugs can't help but trigger side effects because of their chemical structure. One example is the common allergy drug diphenhydramine (also known by the brand name Benadryl). Though it eases allergy symptoms, it also suppresses the activity of the body chemical acetylcholine, and that leads to drowsiness and a host of other side effects, including dry mouth.
Some drugs have barely noticeable side effects when dosed properly. For example, Warfarin (Jantoven, Coumadin) used to prevent blood clots, is usually well tolerated, but serious internal bleeding can occur.
Side effects may only pop up when certain drugs are mixed with certain other things. These might also be...
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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
Headache, chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, or muscle aches may occur during the first weeks, but then subside as your body adjusts to this medication. Pain, acne, backache, weakness, or flu-like symptoms may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: joint pain or swelling, swelling of hands or feet, unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual lumps, swollen glands, changes in skin appearance other than psoriasis-affected areas, yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine, dizziness upon standing, sudden numbness/tingling/weakness, mental/mood changes (e.g., changes in thinking).
A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but get medical help right away if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current infections (e.g., PML), blood problems (e.g., thrombocytopenia), history of cancer, immune system problems, currently on phototherapy.
Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor while using this medication. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant while using this medication, or if you become pregnant within 6 weeks of stopping treatment.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Raptiva sorted by most helpful.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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