How to differentiate between an AE, ADR, SE and an allergy reaction?

Adverse event (AE)

• defined as an unexpected reaction that may be present during treatment with a pharmaceutical product; not necessarily is associated as a cause of this treatment.
• Example: an elderly patient falls due to the sedating drug he is taking.

Adverse drug reaction (ADR)

• happens when a patient using a pharmaceutical product at a normal dose for prophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment or for the modification of physiological function encounters an unintended, noxious response.
• All ADRs are harmful and can be assumed as AE but not vice versa.

Side Effects

• an unintended response related to the pharmacological properties of the drug; of helpful or harmful in nature when a patient using a pharmaceutical product at a normal dose for prophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment or for the modification of physiological function

Allergy Reaction

• the body equips itself with an immunological response to a 'foreign' or perceived foreign materials.
• Allergic reactions can be included as an ADR but not all ADRs can be said to be allergic reactions.

References:
1. NSW Therapeutic Advisory Group Inc. Adverse effect reporting. NSW Ministry of Health. 2013. Available from: http://www.ciap.health.nsw.gov.au/nswtag/pages/faq-adr-reporting.html