Side Effects-Timing

Little or Big side effects when do they usually start.

I know there is not an exact time of (for example) 3 minutes after you take the meds you will get....

But when do you (or if there is a good estimate) start getting side effects?

Does it take a day? week? month? hour????


Lillian

It depends on the meds, but usually side effects start showing up after the first few doses. Which is why when taking anything that affects the brain to titrate up sloooooowly, especially Topamax. Some side effects take longer as the drug builds up in your system. Just keep a wary eye out for any physical and mental effects that are out of the ordinary. Sometimes someone else has to tell you you are acting a bit wierd so have someone close to you monitor you and let you know when something seems off.

Usually side effects work themselves out in about 3 months so patience is necessary unless it is something like a rash or hives. That signals an allergic reaction, not necesarily a side effect, so let you doc know immediately if you get either.

Alli

I dont use a preventative. When I did, the side effects hit me after the first dose. I am very sensitive to meds.
With the Triptans I get them anything from an hour to 2 hours in.
They can last up to 6 hours which is a real nuisance...but better than pain.

P

In my experience, you will get most of the side effects within the first few weeks, and then the severity of them can taper off after about 6 weeks.