side effects

NOUN

adverse or unwanted secondary effect

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aftereffect reaction

WEAK

aftermath aftertaste byproduct carryover concomitant corollary leftover offshoot secondary response side issue sidebar spinoff

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On top of that, one of the biggest complaints about GLP-1s, when taken according to the standard doses approved by the FDA — is that they cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea and fatigue.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2026

These tests aren’t perfect, and the therapies can have important side effects.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 20, 2026

As a result, higher doses are often needed, increasing the risk of side effects, including acute muscle degeneration.

From Science Daily • Jun. 19, 2026

He experienced side effects, including loss of libido, hot flushes, mood swings and fatigue.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

The treatment could take up to two years—much longer than the treatment for regular TB—and the side effects were often painful for patients.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French