Kõrvaltoimelisi

Kõrvaltoimelisi is an Estonian term that translates to "side effects" in English. It refers to any unintended or undesirable effect of a drug, medication, or medical treatment that occurs in addition to its intended therapeutic effect. These effects can range from mild and temporary, such as a headache or nausea, to severe and life-threatening.

The occurrence and intensity of side effects can depend on various factors, including the dosage of the substance, the individual's health status, age, other medications they may be taking, and genetic predispositions. Healthcare professionals carefully weigh the potential benefits of a treatment against the risks of side effects when prescribing medications or recommending therapies.

Information about known side effects is typically provided to patients through package inserts or by their doctor or pharmacist. Patients are often advised to report any unusual or concerning symptoms they experience after starting a new medication or treatment to their healthcare provider. This allows for proper management of the side effect, which might involve adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or providing supportive care. Understanding potential side effects is a crucial part of responsible medication use and patient safety.