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<\/a><\/p>\nSome drugs or medicines have both adverse events and side effects. These two
\nterms are usually interchanged or used instead of the others. Thus, we may not be aware of
\nthe difference between adverse events and side effects. However, there is ample difference
\nin the meaning of both terms.<\/p>\n
An adverse event is an undocumented therapeutic\/pharmacological event that is
\neither unpredictable or a dangerous reaction to the medication. They cannot be studied
\nduring drug development because they are unique to dose, patient and possible interaction.
\nThe dose-dependent adverse event can be mild, moderate or severe. The patient-specific
\nsusceptibility factors such as drug allergies, intolerance will also cause adverse events.
\nA side effect is a documented therapeutic effect that occurs when the treatment
\ngoes beyond the desired effect or a problem occurs in addition to the desired therapeutic
\neffect. Unlike adverse events, side effects are predictable by healthcare professionals. This is
\nbecause they can be studied during clinical trials and drug development to identify the
\ndistinctive advantages of the drug versus the risks. Thus, patients are told to be aware of the
\nside effects that may occur after taking the medication. Fortunately, side effects are able to
\nresolve on their own after taking several weeks.<\/p>\n
Knowing the difference between these two terms is important for healthcare
\nprofessionals so that we can consult our patients correctly. For instance, side effects will go
\naway with time and should not be too concerned about it while adverse events should seek
\nmedical treatment immediately.<\/p>\n