What are undesirable actions of drugs that may accompany the desired effects called?

The term that describes the undesirable actions of drugs that may occur alongside their intended effects is known as side effects. Side effects are typically secondary effects that are not the main focus of the treatment but can occur as a consequence of taking the medication. While some side effects may be minor and tolerable, others can be significant and may require medical attention or adjustments to the medication regimen.

In clinical practice, it is essential for healthcare providers and medication aides to be aware of the potential side effects of medications to effectively monitor and support the patients in their care. Understanding these effects helps in assessing the overall benefit-risk ratio of treatment and improves patient safety.

Adverse reactions refer to more severe and harmful effects that can occur, often leading to serious health issues. Drug interactions involve the ways in which one drug can affect the efficacy or safety of another when taken together. Tolerance occurs when a person's response to a medication decreases over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Each of these terms has a specific meaning in pharmacology that distinguishes them from side effects, which are commonly experienced alongside the desired therapeutic outcomes.