Glossary

Definitions of complex medical terms on the Clinical Trials Quebec site.

Side effect
A side effect is a reaction to a health product that differs from the intended effect. It can be expected or unexpected, mild or severe, temporary or permanent, harmful, neutral, or positive. An adverse effect or an adverse side effect is a harmful and unwanted side effect resulting from the intake of a health product. The onset of side effects varies from person to person and from treatment to treatment. It is important to ask medical staff about the possible side effects of a treatment.