Mastering Medication Side Effects: Your Guide to Management Strategies

For minor cuts or wounds, apply direct pressure using a clean cloth or bandage to control bleeding. Elevating the injured area can also help

Report any type of unexplained bleeding needs to be seen to by a healthcare professional, make sure you inform them of type, duration and severity of the bleeding

For single bleeding episodes that go away themselves, see your GP clinician

For prolonged, recurrent or severe bleeding (bleeding that doesn’t go away with direct pressure), seek urgent medical attention via calling 999 or attending A&E

Be vigilant for symptoms of internal bleeding, such as unexplained bruising, blood in stool or urine, abdominal pain, or dizziness. Report these symptoms promptly to your GP clinician

Some drugs such as aspirin and NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) drugs such as ibuprofen, can make you bleed more easily

If you have accidentally cut yourself, e.g. a razor blade cut during shaving, then it may be noticeable

Inform your GP clinician promptly if you experience bleeding that lasts longer than usual and you are worried about this

If the prolonged bleeding is severe or uncontrollable, seek urgent medical attention via calling 999 or attending A&E

Maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise

If you find you have lost your appetite, try to eat when you think you would be hungry. For example, typical meal times; morning, lunch and tea time

Monitor your appetite and weight regularly and discuss any significant changes with your GP clinician. They can help determine if the medication is contributing to this

Increase fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Regular physical activity can help promote regular bowel movements

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids

Over-the-counter remedies may help, it is best to consult with your GP clinician or local pharmacy before trying any

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated

Avoid spicy, greasy, or high-fibre foods

Over-the-counter remedies may help, it is best to consult with your GP clinician or local pharmacy before trying any

If you have diarrhoea and become dehydrated, speak to your local pharmacy, GP clinician or NHS 111 for advice

There are certain medications that have ‘Sick Day Rules,‘ when you become dehydrated. Click here for more information

If diarrhoea persists, contact your GP clinician, local pharmacy or NHS 111

Take your time when urinating; don't rush the process

Ensure a relaxed environment, and try to empty your bladder completely

If you cannot urinate, try again after a short break

Schedule regular bathroom breaks, even if you don't feel the urge

Inform your GP clinician if you experience persistent difficulty in urinating and seek urgent medical attention if you cannot urinate at all

You can feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand or sit too quickly, hence try getting up slowly

Avoid any sudden movements that can trigger dizziness

If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, then just lie down until you feel better and then sit up when you feel better

Drink plenty of fluids and avoid any alcohol or anything else that can make dizziness worse

Avoid cycling, driving or operating heavy machinery whilst you have these symptoms

If this persists, speak to your GP clinician, local pharmacyi or NHS 111

Trial taking the medication that is causing drowsiness or fatigue before bedtime if possible

Avoid cycling, driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you

Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as these can exacerbate drowsiness

Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water

You can stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free sweets or oral moisturisers such as artificial saliva

Try using a humidifier in your bedroom, especially during the night

Stay cool and well-hydrated, as heat can exacerbate flushing

Identify and avoid triggers, such as hot drinks especially those containing caffeine, spicy foods or alcohol

Use a cool compress, spray your face with cool water, keep your room cool or take a cool shower to alleviate flushing

If flushing is a recurring issue, discuss it with your GP clinician

Try to rest and practice relaxation techniques

Drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated

Avoid alcohol or anything else that seems to trigger or make your headaches worse

Try some over-the-counter pain killers advised to you by an healthcare professional (e.g. your local pharmacist)

If the headaches are severe, persistent (last over a week) or are bothering you, consult your GP clinician

Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones

Avoid lying down right after eating; wait at least 2-3 hours before bedtime

Identify and limit trigger foods that worsen indigestion, such as spicy or fatty foods

Over-the-counter antacids may provide relief; consult your GP clinician or local pharmacy before using them regularly

If this persists, speak to your GP clinician, local pharmacy or NHS 111

Take medications in the morning or as advised by your healthcare professional

Establish a relaxing and consistent bedtime routine

Avoid stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime

Report any significant mood changes to your GP clinician

They can assess whether adjustments to the medication are necessary

Take medication with food or a full glass of water to reduce stomach irritation

Try to avoid fatty and spicy food

Try to have small sips of water frequently

If you are sick and become dehydrated, speak to your local pharmacy, GP clinician or NHS 111 for advice

There are certain medications that have ‘Sick Day Rules,‘ when you become dehydrated. Click here for more information

Get plenty of rest and prioritise a good night's sleep

Pace yourself and don't hesitate to take short breaks during the day

Ensure a balanced diet with nutritious foods and stay hydrated

If the tiredness persists, discuss it with your GP clinician

Keep the affected area(s) clean and dry

Avoid scratching the affected area(s) as it may worsen the reaction

Consult with your GP clinician or local pharmacy to see if the reaction is severe or persistent as it may worsen it

If the reaction is mild, you may be advised by a healthcare professional to use topical treatments or to take an antihistamine

Consider eating smaller portions and chewing food thoroughly

Get plenty of rest

Apply a warm compress such as a hot water bottle to your stomach for comfort

If the pain is severe or persistent, contact your GP clinician

This includes having blurred vision and not being able to look at bright lights

Avoid activities that require clear vision until your eyesight returns to normal, for example driving. cycling or operating heavy machinery

If the issue persists (lasts longer than two days), consult with your GP clinician