What are the side effects?
ef-FET-ti kol-la-te-RA-li — 'collaterali' is five syllables. Stress on fourth syllable.
Ask before taking any new medication. The pharmacist is required to inform you of common side effects.
'Quali sono' (what are) literally means 'which are'. 'Gli effetti collaterali' are side effects — 'effetto' (effect) + 'collaterale' (collateral/secondary). The pharmacist will explain the most common ones. You can also read them in the 'foglio illustrativo' (package insert) — always provided with Italian medications.
Questo farmaco mi può far venire sonnolenza?
Can this medication make me drowsy?
'Sonnolenza' = drowsiness — important before driving
Ho avuto una reazione strana al farmaco.
I had a strange reaction to the medication.
Report this to the pharmacist immediately — may be an adverse effect
Posso guidare mentre prendo questo?
Can I drive while taking this?
Essential question for sedating medications
Italian pharmacists ('farmacisti') complete a five-year pharmacy degree and are highly competent in pharmacology. They play an important advisory role in the healthcare system. The 'foglio illustrativo' (package insert) is legally mandated in Italian for all medications sold in Italy. EU regulations require standardised section headings — including 'effetti indesiderati' (undesired effects).