Most physicians do this quite unintentionally, using terms that are clear and commonplace to them. Do not hesitate to ask your physician to speak in layman's terms or to repeat an explanation until you understand what he or she is saying. If you ever go to the hospital without your physician in attendance, the hospital staff must be given the same information. Legally, a physician is obliged to tell the patient all the possible side effects of a drug. This is known as informed consent.
Some physicians give the patient a list of possible side effects.
The companies that supply drugs often distribute such lists to physicians. If you are worried or alarmed by the possible side effects, talk it over with the physician who can explain why the benefits of the drug outweigh possible side effects. For instance, if he or she suffers from high blood pressure, and suddenly develops severe headaches, the patient must know that this is a serious symptom. The patient should feel free to telephone the physician at any time with any problems or questions. Neither should a patient hesitate to telephone the physician if he or she suspects an unexpected side effect from a drug.