What is an example of a side effect?

A side effect refers to an unintended reaction to a medication that occurs in addition to its desired therapeutic effects. Dizziness is a common side effect associated with various medications, indicating that the drug is causing a physiological reaction that can alter the patient’s usual state of well-being. It is important to recognize side effects as they can significantly affect a patient's adherence to medication and their overall health management.

On the other hand, fever can result from many factors, such as infections or other health issues, and is not specifically tied to medication use unless it is a known response to a drug. An allergic reaction, while it can occur due to medications, is classified more specifically as a hypersensitivity reaction rather than a typical side effect. A chronic condition, on the other hand, refers to long-standing health issues that may not be directly related to individual medication intake, making it distinct from the immediate effects observed with medication side effects.