What are the three main categories of drug actions?

The three main categories of drug actions are accurately represented by the terms therapeutic effects, side effects, and adverse effects.

Therapeutic effects refer to the desired beneficial outcomes from a medication, such as pain relief or reduction of symptoms associated with a disease. Side effects are unintended, often mild effects that can occur alongside the therapeutic effects, such as a dry mouth from certain medications. Adverse effects are more severe and potentially harmful reactions that can occur as a result of taking a drug, such as allergic reactions or significant changes in vital signs.

These categories are crucial for understanding how medications work in the body and the potential outcomes of their use, which is vital for patient safety and effective treatment planning. Each of these effects helps healthcare providers evaluate the overall risks and benefits of a medication for individual patients.