Would you like to find out more about your prescription drug, over-the-counter medication, vitamin or supplement? Most drugs have labels and literature that accompany them, but there are times you might want a little more info. Here are some of the most trusted websites to look for side effects of the drugs you're taking now or considering on taking in the future. These sites aren't just for medical professionals and are free to the general public.

The Food and Drug Administration is part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety of drugs and other products for public use.

At the link above you will find basic drug data along with labels, reviews, package inserts, approval info and any related documents such as warnings of new drug side effect and interaction findings.

It's also worth mentioning that the FDA has been the subject of its share of controversies. It has been accused of being in the pockets of many drug companies as well as any number of conspiracy theories. There may be some valid complaints against the FDA.  Regardless, I think the website is still a good starting point for medication information.

The famous clinic not only provides health care in person but now has a comprehensive website with information about conditions and diseases as well as drugs and their side effects.

As a medical transcriptionist I sometimes need to look up drugs on the internet to confirm dictated terms. RXList is one of my favorite sites to check drug names.  It has a large listing of the most popular drugs and supplements with descriptions of how they work and possible side effects.

Drugs.com has information on over 20,000 prescription, over-the-counter and natural supplements. You will also find up-to-date articles on newly approved drugs and other issues within the pharmaceutical industry.

PDRHealth is the free sister site to the paid site for the well-known Physician's Desk Reference.  The PDR has been one of the most trusted print references for drug effects and interactions for over 60 years.  It's now even more conveniently located online for public use.

All of these sites listed have become trusted in the medical field and by many in the public. They not only provide information on drug side effects but also on drug interactions, FDA warnings, diseases and conditions.

Be sure however to talk with your doctor about any questions you might have. Side effects for drugs can be common but some also can be very rare and happen in certain populations. Websites with lots of information can be overwhelming, so sometimes talking to a real live person can help clear things up. If you are already on a drug and concerned about effects or interactions, then it's also a good idea to talk to the pharmacist dispensing the medication.