Prescription drugs can cause adverse mental and physical reactions at any time during usage. Dr. Lewis A. Opler, chief medical officer and director of the Research Division of the New York State Office of Mental Health, reports that "...about 300 people a day die from an adverse reaction to a drug that had been administered to help them." More than 2 million people experience drug reactions so severe that admission to a hospital is required, Opler notes.
Skin Problems
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology lists rashes, hives and itching as the most common adverse symptoms to medications. These physical responses happen when the body's immune system reacts to the drug. These symptoms also occur in the more dangerous anaphylaxis reaction. Flushed face and skin, hives and warm skin sensations are commonly felt in this reaction.
Sores
Deep skin welts and sore patches of red skin may occur when the adverse prescription drug reaction involves an allergic response from the body, the Mayo Clinic says. These symptoms will gradually fade when use of the medication is stopped. Mouth sores may occur within the first few hours, or even minutes, by prescription medication in patients with extreme allergies to the drug, explains Anne Lee, principal pharmacist of the Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Stomach Problems
AAAAI lists increased changes for reactions if the drug is not matched to the patient's gender, age, size and body chemistry. Upset stomach is a common adverse reaction when the drug does not match the personal criteria listed by the AAAAI. While a general upset stomach may not require a visit to the doctor, severe nausea that may be accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea should be investigated by a professional.
Breathing Problems
Breathing difficult because of throat swelling is a common adverse condition related to an anaphylaxis drug reaction, the AAAAI notes. This condition can be fatal, so emergency treatment should be sought immediately with the first signs of the reaction. Wheezing and mild breathing difficulties also are common allergic reactions to prescription drugs. The prescribing doctor or issuing pharmacists should be consulted immediately when these reactions are noted. It may take time for the body to react to the drugs, and the reaction may occur near the end of the prescription dosage.
Heart Problems
A reaction to some prescription drugs may include an irregular heartbeat. Any new heart-related issue requires a doctor visit. Heart palpitations are usually linked to breathing problems and will subside when an epinephrine is given to reduce tissue swelling and improve breathing, the AAAAI notes.
Mental Problems
Adverse reactions to drugs can happen to anyone, but the Academy of Family Physicians states, "...people who take more than 3 or 4 medicines every day are more likely to have an adverse reaction." Prescription drug interaction is a common cause of mental problems, including confusion, forgetfulness and an inability to recall common information.
