Odd Reactions From Prescription Medication

Sometimes taking a prescription medication can seem like making a deal with the devil. You’re on a mission to remedy one problem, only to find yourself with a slew of new annoying symptoms and side effects. In some cases, it almost doesn’t seem worth it! Take a look at some of the more abnormal side effects with common medications.

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#1 Compulsive Behavior

Dopamine agonists (Mirapex) used to treat Parkinson’s disease and restless leg syndrome have been known to cause compulsive behaviors in patients. Occasional drinkers become alcoholics. People never before interested in gambling find themselves at the casino multiple times per week, or gambling online for hours at a time. Others become hypersexual, or start binge eating. Some even have found themselves in a deep hole of debt from uncontrollable shopping and spending.

#2 Hallucinations and Psychosis

Hallucinations are a perception of objects with no reality, and can range from visual to auditory, and even smell. Seeing and hearing things that aren’t there, and even smelling or feeling things that don’t exist, can be a frightening feeling and can happen to patients even when they are taking their medications properly. Some medications known to cause hallucinations include muscle relaxants, antihistamines, antidepressants, chemotherapy agents, anti-malarial drugs and others.

#3 Hearing Loss

Although hearing loss is a less commonly noted side effect among prescription drugs, it can be one of the most distressing for patients. Some medications known to affect hearing include some antibiotics (aminoglycosides), aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen), some chemotherapy drugs, and loop diuretics (Lasix).

#4 Vision Changes and Photosensitivity

Visual distortions can range from blind spots, blurred vision, or halos around lights. These side effects can accompany the use of antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, and certain drugs used for malaria and tuberculosis. Some people even experience photosensitivity, or an extreme sensitivity to UV rays, caused by some antibiotics.

#5 Discolored Urine and Teeth

Viagra is a well known little blue pill, but did you know it also could turn urine a blue-ish hue? This odd symptom also can be a side effect of taking the antidepressant Elavil (amitriptyline) or the common pain reliever Indocin (indomethacin). Not only can medications affect the color or urine, but some antibiotics, such as tetracycline and doxycycline, can cause permanent tooth staining in children, whose teeth still are developing.

So, while medicine should make you feel better, the chemical combinations within the drugs can cause bizarre and sometimes lasting side effects. You may want to consider these side effects before popping these mysterious pills, and even research alternative methods for treating for your ailments.