One of the most common experiences of people with drugs i.e. medicines are that of side/adverse effects while on the other hands, there is a negative impact on people who deals with hard (illicit) drugs. By training and career choice, I'm by privilege a drug expert (Pharmacist) of over half a decade of professional practice having a first hand experience with drugs and its effects (desired or non-desired). One of the major statement i always tell people is that "drugs are not food" and i say that with utmost caution because of the way and manner drugs are been accesed & handled especially in developing/third world countries which calls for urgent attention.
Personally, i have been very cautious with drugs right from time even up till now. However, one of my outstanding undesired experiences with drugs happened sometimes back when i was down with malaria fever and i had to take an antimalaria drug, the drug of choice then was chloroquine which by genetic makeup not suitable for some certain set of individuals because of the adverse effects of pruritus which i experienced then though subsided thereafter which i believe some people can relate with. Also, the nauseating smell of some of the antimalarias can also induce emesis which can be an undesired experience.
However, in my professional practice, i have seen and heared of instances of worst experiences by people who took drugs at a particular time either prescribed or self-medicated. For example, a certain individual took a certain drug but didn't get the dosage regime right and hence, took an overdosep which lead to a debilitating effect on her body system and it required quick intervention of a colleague to the rescue. Early this year, a young boy was rushed to the hospital because of pealing body, itching and sores based on the use of an antibiotics not compatible with his body system which led to a sydrome.
A notable case was that of a patient who consulted with me in my place of professional practice and complained of some effects a certain over-the-counter drug she took on her even though she had a medical history of a certain disease. Based on my intervention, the undesired effects were abased and she later felt well. Also, i had experience of recent a situation whereby one of my patients was given a certain drug in a place he visited and resulted to serious fatigue on him. He came to me and i intervened, now he is back to his feet.
Therefore, i always counsel that "safety comes together with therapy as pertaining to drugs" and hence, the need to seek any counsel, advise or purchase of drugs from only licensed (certified and registered) professionals (Pharmacist) and pharmacy outlets (premises). Self meditation, involvement in illicit (hard drugs) or patronising quacks will only worsen situation. Also, it is good to get the right prescription and dosage of drugs from the professional and avoid "assumptions" which i believe is the lowest level of knowledge. Drugs are good and intended for good only when used in the right quantity for the right duration by the right person under the right condition(s) and in case of negative effects, quickly seek help from the appropriate source. Thank you for reading and comments/contributions are welcomed.
This is my entry to @Hivelearners weekly featured contents, week 138 edition 03 on "Not Just Drugs" 
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