Which term refers to an unintended, usually mild response to medication?

The term that refers to an unintended, usually mild response to medication is indeed the side effect. Side effects are common with many medications and can vary in intensity, but they are generally understood to be secondary effects that occur alongside the intended therapeutic effects. For instance, a medication prescribed for pain relief may also cause drowsiness or gastrointestinal discomfort as side effects.

These responses are not the primary purpose of the medication and can often be managed without additional treatment or concern, which distinguishes them from more serious reactions. In contrast, therapeutic effects are the desired outcomes of a medication, while adverse effects refer to harmful, unintended reactions that can range from mild to severe. Anaphylactic reactions, on the other hand, are severe, life-threatening responses that require immediate medical intervention. Understanding the distinction between these terms helps in assessing the overall safety and efficacy of medications in clinical practice.