Beyond their effectiveness, certain medications may have poor tolerance for the body. According to Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical, we speak of poor tolerance when a medication causes side effects which become difficult to bear and which can, in certain cases, counterbalance its benefits.
What are the signs of poor tolerance to treatment?
Adverse effects can be very varied:
- Digestive disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain);
- Dizziness;
- Headaches;
- Fatigue ;
- Sleep disorders;
- Irritability;
- Or even skin rashes.
The most important criterion remains the impact on quality of life. “As soon as an effect prevents you from living normally, you should speak to a health professional.” recommends Dr. Kierzek.
The doctor specifies, however, that a new symptom is not necessarily linked to the medication: it can also reflect an evolution of the initial illness or another temporary condition.
Differentiate temporary effects from worrying effects
Many treatments cause temporary side effects while the body adjusts. These adaptation reactions are often mild and disappear after a few days.
“Transient effects are generally mild and improve gradually. On the other hand, if they worsen, persist or cause significant discomfort, you must consult.further indicates our expert.
Signs that require rapid response include: difficulty breathing, facial swelling, uncontrollable vomiting, severe rash, or any worsening over time. In these cases, medical advice is essential.
Never stop treatment without medical advice
There can be a great temptation to discontinue treatment because of unpleasant effects.
But Dr. Kierzek is categorical: “The golden rule is to never stop a medication on your own initiative. Certain treatments should especially not be stopped abruptly, otherwise serious complications may result.”
Among them, we count:
- Corticosteroids (risk of acute adrenal insufficiency);
- Antidepressants and anxiolytics (withdrawal symptoms or rebound anxiety);
- Antiepileptic drugs (risk of seizures);
- Cardiac medications such as beta-blockers (risk of high blood pressure or angina);
- Hormonal treatments or insulin.
Some products, such as mild painkillers or vitamins, are less critical when stopping. However, it is essential to discuss this decision with the doctor or pharmacist.
Good reflexes in case of intolerance
Before any panic, the doctor recommends noting the symptoms: their type, frequency and intensity. Check the package leaflet to see if these effects are known, then contact a professional. “The pharmacist is often the first person to contact. He can reassure you, give practical advice – for example taking the medication with meals – or direct you to a medical consultation. explains Dr. Kierzek.
If the effects persist or worsen, the treating physician remains the only one who can modify the prescription, adapt the dose, change the molecule or stop the treatment.
Changing treatment, a supervised approach
So when a medication is poorly tolerated, the solution always involves an exchange between the patient and their doctor. “The doctor will decide, with you, the best strategy: adjust the dosage, replace the molecule or interrupt the treatment in complete safety.specifies Dr. Kierzek.
Once the new prescription is established, the pharmacist dispenses the new treatment and collects the old one if necessary. Without a prescription, he cannot modify or interrupt a prescribed treatment. “The important thing is not to be left alone when faced with an adverse effect. Talking about it is already taking care of yourself.”concludes Dr. Kierzek.