Primary effects and side effects
Explains why one drug produces several effects — and why 'side effect' depends on why you're taking it.
Where this fitsConnects to 1 · Unlocks 1
- Connects to
- Where drugs act: the brain's regions — Side effects often come from the same target in a different brain region or in the body.
- Unlocks
- Other messengers: histamine, opioids, hormones and more — Antihistamine drowsiness and anticholinergic effects are side effects you'll predict later.
Orient
Primary effect(s) – the desired effect(s) of the drug. Side (or secondary) effects – additional, typically negative (but not always), effects of the drug. Side effects are unintentional and often predictable given the pharmacology of the drug — and sometimes a drug’s side effects can also be thought of as primary effects, depending on the treatment.
Course terms
Your professor's wording, word for word from the slides. Learn the term and this definition — the explanation underneath is only there to help it make sense.
- Primary effect
“Primary effect(s) – the desired effect(s) of the drug”Slides 01, p. 4
The effect you're taking the drug for.
- Side (secondary) effect
“Side (or secondary) effects – additional, typically negative (but not always), effects of the drug”Slides 01, p. 4
Unintentional and often predictable given the pharmacology of the drug.
- Side effect as primary effect
“Sometimes a drugs’ side effects can also be thought of as primary effects depending on treatment!”Slides 01, p. 4
Slide example: Zoloft (sertraline) has sexual side effects for most people, but can be prescribed to aid with premature ejaculation.
From your course: Course slides 01, p. 4
Tip: the ← and → keys move through the lesson.
Full lesson: Primary and secondary effects