Classification of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs)
Severity | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
Mild | No antidote or treatment is required; hospitalization is not prolonged. | ACE inhibitor: Cough Antidepressants: Dry mouth Antihistamines (some): Drowsiness |
Moderate | A change in treatment (eg, modified dosage, addition of a medication), but not necessarily discontinuation of the medication, is required; hospitalization may be prolonged, or specific treatment may be required. | Hormonal contraceptives: Venous thrombosis NSAIDs: Hypertension and edema Opioids: Constipation |
Severe | An ADR is potentially life threatening and requires discontinuation of the drug or medication and specific treatment of the ADR. | ACE inhibitors: Angioedema Macrolide antibiotics: Abnormal heart rhythm |
Lethal | An ADR directly or indirectly contributes to a patient’s death. | Anticoagulants: Hemorrhage |