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Answer:An adverse drug event (ADE) is the harmful or unintended effect of or reaction to a medication given in the accepted doses. These may include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, racing heartbeat, nausea and/or vomiting, diarrhea, feeling faint, or severe depression. ADEs of this type are usually referred to as side effects.

While many ADEs are mild, some ADEs can be life threatening, requiring hospitalization, or they may even be fatal.

Communicating with your doctor is essential if you experience any unwanted side effects from medication. Be sure to ask your pharmacist any questions you may have about side effects of the medication you are taking.

Find more information about drug interactions.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

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