When we think of drug side effects, the first thing that typically comes to mind are the negative consequences rashes, headaches, nausea, or even more severe reactions. These side effects are often troublesome and can discourage people from taking prescribed medications. In fact, around 8% of hospital admissions in some studies are attributed to adverse reactions to medications. However, while drug side effects are usually thought of as harmful, there are instances when they can have surprisingly beneficial outcomes.
While the risks of side effects are real, not all of them are inherently negative. In fact, some have turned out to be beneficial in ways that were initially unexpected. These “good” side effects often lead to new treatments or innovations in medicine. Here are a few notable examples:
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
Minoxidil was originally developed in the 1970s to treat high blood pressure. During clinical trials, researchers noticed that it had an unexpected side effect: it promoted hair growth. What was initially considered a minor and unintended effect soon became the drug’s primary use. Today, topical Minoxidil is one of the most common treatments for hair loss, offering a significant benefit to millions suffering from conditions like male pattern baldness.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Diphenhydramine is widely known as an antihistamine used to treat allergic reactions. One of its common side effects is drowsiness, which can actually be helpful for adults who suffer from both allergies and sleep issues. Though it’s not recommended for long-term use due to potential risks like an increased chance of dementia, its sedative effect has been a positive benefit for many people seeking temporary relief from insomnia.
Sildenafil (Viagra)
Initially developed as a treatment for high blood pressure and chest pain (angina), Sildenafil’s more well-known side effect is its ability to induce erections. It didn’t take long for users to recognize this unexpected benefit, and in 1998, the drug was approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. What started as a side effect of a heart medication has turned into a breakthrough treatment for a completely different medical issue.
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
Semaglutide, primarily used to treat diabetes, also has the side effect of significantly reducing appetite, which often leads to weight loss. Initially, this was not the intended outcome, but over time, medical professionals began to recognize its potential as a treatment for obesity. Now, multiple formulations of Semaglutide are approved for both diabetes management and weight loss.
One of the most promising aspects of beneficial side effects is the opportunity for repurposing existing drugs. Researchers and pharmaceutical companies are increasingly exploring side effect profiles to identify new potential uses for medications. For example, a drug that causes reduced sweating could be repurposed to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Similarly, a medication that lowers blood pressure might be used as a new treatment for hypertension.
The development of side effect registries has made this process more systematic and effective. By tracking reported side effects, researchers can spot patterns and repurpose drugs that were initially designed for entirely different conditions. This approach not only provides new treatment options but also allows older drugs to be used in innovative ways.
Of course, not all side effects are beneficial, and the anticipation of negative effects can make things worse. The “nocebo effect” is a phenomenon in which individuals experience adverse reactions because they expect to. This is the opposite of the placebo effect, where people experience benefits from a non-active treatment simply because they believe it will help them.
When people expect side effects, even minor symptoms, they are more likely to experience them. This highlights the importance of managing expectations when it comes to taking medications. Anxiety about side effects can amplify the discomfort of their occurrence, and in some cases, lead to patients discontinuing their treatment altogether, potentially missing out on its intended benefits.
While it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of any medication, it’s equally important to remember that not all side effects are harmful. In fact, some can offer unexpected benefits that can significantly improve people’s lives, whether it’s a drug that grows hair or one that aids in weight loss. So, before assuming the worst, consider that your next prescription might bring you a side effect you never anticipated—one that works in your favor.
Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance. Understand the risks, but don’t let the fear of side effects prevent you from receiving the benefits a medication can offer. And who knows? You might just find a side effect you welcome.
