side effect
noun
: a secondary and usually adverse effect (as of a drug)
toxic side effects
called also side reaction
Examples of side effect in a Sentence
Nausea and diarrhea are the side effects of the drug.
the harmful side effects of using chemicals to kill insects
The merger created positive side effects for both companies.
Recent Examples on the Web
Consuming both sugar and sugar alcohols in large amounts can lead to side effects and health concerns.2
What Is Sugar?
—
Merve Ceylan, Health, 3 Apr. 2025
Part of the problem is that response to a particular antidepressant — in terms of success as well as side effects — can differ drastically from patient to patient.
—Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025
Risks and Side Effects Taking a nitrate supplement is associated with potential risks that include drug interactions and side effects.
—Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025
The drug is used to sedate animals, but is not approved for use in humans due to dangerous side effects.
—Lilia Pacheco Bufanda, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for side effect
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Merve Ceylan, Health, 3 Apr. 2025
Part of the problem is that response to a particular antidepressant — in terms of success as well as side effects — can differ drastically from patient to patient.
—Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025
Risks and Side Effects Taking a nitrate supplement is associated with potential risks that include drug interactions and side effects.
—Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025
The drug is used to sedate animals, but is not approved for use in humans due to dangerous side effects.
—Lilia Pacheco Bufanda, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for side effect
Cite this Entry
“Side effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/side%20effect. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.
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