Risks of Side Effects

Side-effects are unwanted effects on the body that happen alongside the main and intentional effect of a medicine. Most medicines have side-effects – you only have to read the patient information leaflets that come inside every box or packet to see that, but whereas some side-effects can be minor or virtually unnoticeable, others can be extremely troublesome and even dangerous.

For safety critical workers or members of the public driving or operating machinery, medicines which have side-effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, visual disturbances and nausea amongst others, could obviously have extremely serious consequences. Even apparently simple or innocuous medicines that you can buy over-the-counter (OTC) in supermarkets or from your local pharmacist to treat minor ailments may cause side-effects so you must always check before you take anything.

It is vitally important that you read the patient information leaflet (PIL) that comes with your medicine - whether OTC or on prescription. If the medicine you get from your pharmacist doesn't contain a PIL then you must make sure to ask them for a copy as it is a legal requirement for them to issue one with each medicine they dispense. The PIL contains a lot of information about your medicine, how to take it correctly and what side-effects you may experience. If you do experience any side-effects, they may disappear after a day or so as your body becomes accustomed to the treatment. If however, the side-effect is particularly severe or troublesome you must speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Medication - Railway Risks

In the rail industry, even seemingly trivial side effects of medications such as drowsiness, dizziness or visual disturbance could have a catastrophic outcome for employees and the general public if workers are unaware of the dangers. To read more about the specific risks for the rail industry, click here.