Which term describes the harmful effects that a drug can have outside of its intended purpose?

The term that describes the harmful effects that a drug can have outside of its intended purpose is "adverse effects." Adverse effects are unintended, often negative reactions that can occur when a medication is administered. These effects can range from mild to severe and can arise even when a medication is used correctly according to its indications.

Understanding adverse effects is crucial in the field of medication administration, as it emphasizes the importance of monitoring patients for potential reactions and ensuring appropriate interventions can be taken if necessary. This knowledge helps healthcare professionals manage patients' care effectively and avoid potential complications associated with drug therapy.

In contrast, side effects refer to secondary and often mild effects that are not the primary purpose of the medication, but they are generally expected and can occur alongside the desired therapeutic effects. Secondary effects and therapeutic effects describe different aspects of medication effects but do not specifically highlight the harmful nature of unintended effects like adverse effects do.