Medications play a vital role in managing various health conditions, alleviating symptoms, and improving overall well-being. However, it’s important to be aware that even commonly used medications can have side effects – good, bad, and ugly. In this article, we will explore some popular medications and their potential side effects, including positive effects, negative effects, rare effects, and even some bizarre ones.
There is not a single medication on the market that doesn’t come with side effects. While we tend to think of side effects negatively, the reality is that they can be both positive or negative. In medicine, the whole idea is to weigh the pros and cons of treatment using this medication versus not treating or using something else. That is how prescription decisions and treatment plans are made. You, as the patient, must monitor and be aware of potential side effects so that you can have good conversations with your medical provider and take an active role in your personal health care.
These are 41 different medications that have various side effects you may not have been aware of. It’s important to note that not all individuals will experience side effects, and the occurrence of side effects can vary depending on the individual and their underlying health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist about potential side effects before taking any medication, and adhere to the prescribed dosage for optimal safety
1. Ibuprofen
![Boxes Of Prescription Painkillers Ibuprofen And Paracetamol On A Shelf At Home](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_390373792-1024x538.jpg)
Used as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), ibuprofen helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. While it is generally safe when used as directed, potential side effects include stomach upset, heartburn, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Long-term use or high doses may lead to stomach ulcers, kidney problems, and increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. (1)
Read More: This Common Medication Could Lead to Irreversible Health Conditions
2. Aspirin
![White Aspirin macro shot on aqua blue background](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1148766485-1024x538.jpg)
Famous for its ability to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent blood clotting, aspirin is commonly used as a pain reliever and blood thinner. Known side effects include stomach upset, heartburn, allergic reactions, and increased risk of bleeding disorders. Aspirin should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as asthma or stomach ulcers. (2)
3. Penicillin
![Penicillin Antibiotic Bacterial infection Antibiotic Injection Oral](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2318019357-1024x538.jpg)
Penicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Potential side effects of penicillin include allergic reactions, ranging from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Other less common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and fungal infections. (3)
4. Naproxen
![Naproxen Drug In Prescription Medication Pills Bottle](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2208321877-1024x538.jpg)
Similar to ibuprofen, naproxen belongs to the NSAID class and is commonly used for pain relief, fever reduction, and anti-inflammatory purposes. Side effects may include stomach upset, heartburn, drowsiness, dizziness, and in rare cases, allergic reactions and kidney problems. (4)
5. Eye drops
![Woman drips eye drops into her eyes. Eye diseases and their treatment concept](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1927290146-1024x538.jpg)
Eye drops are medications used for treating various eye conditions, such as dry eyes, glaucoma, or eye infections. While side effects are generally minimal, they may include temporary stinging or burning sensation, blurry vision, and allergic reactions. (5)
6. Anesthesia
![Doctors were anesthetized Women who are surgical patients](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_223531051-1024x538.jpg)
Anesthesia is administered to patients during surgical procedures to induce loss of consciousness, pain relief, muscle relaxation, and amnesia. Although rare, potential side effects can include allergic reactions, nerve damage, headache, nausea, and in extremely rare cases, malignant hyperthermia. (6)
7. Ofloxacin
![Floxa, eye medicine product, ofloxacin. White background. Nature concept.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2307416229-1024x538.jpg)
Ofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and tendon rupture, which is a rare but severe complication. (7)
Read More: Is There a Link Between Medication Use During Infancy and Allergies in Early Childhood?
8. Dextromethorphan
![pekanbaru, 29 july 2021 : Vicks brand cough medicine for coughs without phlegm, sneezing sneezing and a warm feeling in the throat](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2016217664-1024x538.jpg)
Dextromethorphan is an ingredient found in cough suppressants to alleviate cough symptoms. Potential side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, and, in rare cases, hallucinations or serotonin syndrome when combined with certain medications. (9)
9. Prednisone
![LONDON, UK - MARCH 11, 2019: Pack of Prednisolone Tablets on white background.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1340647187-1024x538.jpg)
As a corticosteroid, prednisone is prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various conditions, including allergies, asthma, or autoimmune disorders. Side effects can range from weight gain, increased appetite, mood changes, and fluid retention to bone thinning, increased blood sugar levels, and susceptibility to infections. (10)
10. Testosterone
![Doping in sport. Abuse of anabolic steroids for sports. Anabolic steroids spilled on a wooden table. Fraud in sports. Pharmaceutical industry. Detailed view of the medication. Place for your text.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_321572657-1024x538.jpg)
Testosterone is a hormone prescribed to treat low testosterone levels in males. Side effects may include acne, increased facial hair growth, mood changes, fluid retention, and, in rare cases, an increased risk of heart problems or prostate enlargement. (11)
11. Prozac
![https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/vista-ca-usa-january-17-2019-1287621067](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1287621067-1-1024x538.jpg)
Prozac, also known as fluoxetine, is an antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. Common side effects include nausea, headache, nervousness, and sexual dysfunction. Rare side effects may include increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, serotonin syndrome, or allergic reactions. (12)
12. Sleeping Pills
![Insomnia pills, depression and senior woman in bed sleeping for pharmaceutical, psychology or mental health. Depressed, addiction and medicine of sick elderly person, drugs help or risk in bedroom](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2260732043-1024x538.jpg)
Sleeping pills are medications prescribed to help treat insomnia and promote sleep. Side effects may include daytime drowsiness, headache, dizziness, and, in rare cases, sleepwalking or sleep-driving. (13)
Read More: Common Blood Pressure Medication May Increase the Risk of Skin Cancer
13. Zyrtec
![KYIV, UKRAINE-MAY 22, 2019: Cetirizine medication or allergy drug concept photo. On doctor table is pack with words "Cetirizine medication" and pills for treatment of allergy and hypersensitivity](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1404629393-1-1024x538.jpg)
Zyrtec, or cetirizine, is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and headache. Rarely, side effects can include fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, or severe allergic reactions. (14)
14. Omeprazole
![Omeprazole: A proton pump inhibitor used to reduce stomach acid production.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2382482425-2-1024x538.jpg)
Omeprazole belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and is used to reduce stomach acid production. Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Rare side effects can include bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, or increased risk of certain infections. (15)
15. Proscar
![A worried young white man looks at himself in the mirror and inspects his premature receding hairline. Attractive Caucasian male adult in his 30s concerned about losing hair. Male pattern baldness](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1506957386-1024x538.jpg)
Proscar, or finasteride, is prescribed to treat enlarged prostate or male pattern hair loss. While side effects are generally rare, they may include decreased sexual desire or performance, breast enlargement, or rare cases of allergic reactions. (16)
16. Viagra
![London - March 2, 2007: Close up of a Pfizer Viagra tablet](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2295547913-1-1024x538.jpg)
Viagra, or sildenafil, is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. Common side effects include headache, flushing, upset stomach, and blurred vision. Rare side effects can include prolonged erections, sudden hearing loss, or allergic reactions. (17)
17. Baclofen
![Baclofen Drug In Prescription Medication Pills Bottle](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2161511611-1024x538.jpg)
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms and stiffness. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and muscle weakness. Rare side effects can include hallucinations or seizures. (18)
18. Oral Contraceptives
![Oral contraceptive pill on pharmacy counter with colorful pills strips background.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_660070825-1024x538.jpg)
Oral contraceptives, also known as birth control pills, are used to prevent pregnancy. Side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, weight gain, and mood changes. Rare side effects can include blood clots, increased risk of stroke, or an increased risk of certain types of cancers. (19)
Read More: 6 Types of Medications That Can Potentially Harm Your Kidneys
19. Tamiflu
![Bucharest, Romania - January 26, 2020: Close up image with a Tamiflu capsule (oseltamivir) on a blister pack, an antiviral medication.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1628996917-1024x538.jpg)
Tamiflu, or oseltamivir, is an antiviral medication used to treat or prevent influenza (flu) infections. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. Rare side effects can include delirium or self-injury. (20)
20. Nexavar
![Doctor who records a patient's detailed information or medication history is evaluating medications and vaccines for the intended treatment. or if there are any side effects.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2216531905-1024x538.jpg)
Nexavar, or sorafenib, is a medication used to treat certain types of cancers. Side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Rare side effects can include high blood pressure, heart problems, or severe skin reactions. (21)
21. Azithromycin
![WEST WINDSOR, NJ -11 APR 2020- A pack of Azithromycin antibiotics tablets. This medication has been used in the treatment of COVID-19.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1708292191-1024x538.jpg)
Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. Rare side effects may involve liver problems, abnormal heart rhythm, or allergic reactions. (22)
22. Metoclopramide
![woman taking turmeric pill, or curcumin herb medicine for GERD, treatment for heartburn from acid reflux disease](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2004934361-1-1024x538.jpg)
Metoclopramide is prescribed to treat gastrointestinal conditions such as acid reflux or gastroparesis. Side effects can include drowsiness, restlessness, muscle spasms, and, in rare cases, movement disorders or involuntary muscle movements. (23)
23. Abilify
![COLUMBUS, GEORGIA/ USA - 08-27-2020 Bottles of Aripiprazole against black backdrop.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1807105369-1024x538.jpg)
Abilify, or aripiprazole, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, weight gain, and constipation. Rare side effects can include neuroleptic malignant syndrome or uncontrollable urges. (24)
24. Singulair
![Montelukast drug medication used to treat asthma allergic rhinitis and hives. Montelukast leukotriene receptor antagonist blue pill](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1831964182-1024x538.jpg)
Singulair, or montelukast, is a medication used to manage asthma and allergies. Side effects may include headache, stomach pain, tiredness, and behavioral changes. Rare side effects can include hallucinations or suicidal thoughts. (25)
25. Ritalin
![Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. medical, healthcare background](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_170808884-1024x538.jpg)
Ritalin, or methylphenidate, is a stimulant medication prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Side effects may include decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, and increased heart rate. Rare side effects can include agitation, psychotic symptoms, or heart problems. (26)
Read More: 13 Medication and Supplement Combinations That Should Avoided
26. Flagyl
![Cairo, Egypt, May 4 2023: Flagyl metronidazole 500mg tablets, Amebicides, an antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections of the vagina, stomach, liver, skin, joints, brain and spinal cord](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2300895181-1-1024x538.jpg)
Flagyl, or metronidazole, is an antibiotic prescribed to treat various infections. Common side effects include nausea, metallic taste, and stomach upset. Rare side effects can include nerve damage, confusion, or a disulfiram-like reaction when consuming alcohol. (27)
27. Dyrenium
![Active substance used as a diuretic to treat edema and hypertension. Dosage forms include tablets and capsules.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2313438271-1-1024x538.jpg)
Dyrenium, or triamterene, is a diuretic used to increase urine production and reduce fluid retention. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Rare side effects can involve electrolyte imbalances or kidney problems. (28)
28. Xeloda
![Cancer treatment Capecitabine Accord blister packs](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1165397044-1024x538.jpg)
Xeloda, or capecitabine, is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain cancers. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and hand-foot syndrome, which causes redness, swelling, and peeling of the palms and soles. Rare side effects can include severe skin reactions or heart problems. (29)
29. Ambien
![SHEFFIELD, UK – OCTOBER 12, 2019: Boxes of generic prescription medication drugs for insomnia and sleep disorders inc sedative-hypnotic, antidepressant. Zolpidem, mirtazapine, amitriptyline, diazepam](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1536564965-1024x538.jpg)
Ambien, or zolpidem, is a sedative-hypnotic medication used to treat insomnia. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and daytime sleepiness. Rare side effects can include sleepwalking or complex sleep behaviors. (30)
30. Mirapex
![The diagnosis Parkinsons Disease written on a clipboard](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_316846706-1024x538.jpg)
Mirapex, or pramipexole, is prescribed to treat Parkinson’s disease and restless leg syndrome. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, and hallucinations. Rare side effects can include compulsive behaviors or sudden onset of sleep. (31)
31. Vasotec
![Enalapril Pill Medication to treathigh blood pressure, diabetic kidney disease and heart failure. Drug Therapy for Hypertension with stethocope in background on dark texture table](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1830281195-1024x538.jpg)
Vasotec, or enalapril, is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Side effects may include dizziness, cough, and low blood pressure. Rare side effects can involve kidney problems or allergic reactions. (32)
32. Allegra
![Winneconne, WI - 27 August 2016: Allegra allergy medicine on an isolated background.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_474698971-1-1024x538.jpg)
Allegra, or fexofenadine, is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms. Common side effects include headache, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Rare side effects may include palpitations or severe allergic reactions. (33)
Read More: 5 Easy Ways to Help Calm Anxiety Without Medications
33. Chantix
![Chicago, USA-October 9, 2019: A box of Chantix medication on a counter. A smoking cessation tablet only available with a doctor's prescription. Modern medicine.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1530173801-1-1024x538.jpg)
Chantix, or varenicline, is a medication used to help quit smoking. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and abnormal dreams. Rare side effects can include mood changes, aggression, or suicidal thoughts. (34)
34. Lariam
![Drug capsule of Antimalarial medication used to treatment and prevent Malaria or Plasmodium parasite infection,as quinine, chloroquine,sulfonamide. Medical technology and infectious disease concept.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1712629297-1024x538.jpg)
Lariam, or mefloquine, is an antimalarial medication. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. Rare side effects can include severe psychiatric reactions or dizziness lasting for months. (35)
35. Thalidomide
![thalidomide word in a dictionary. thalidomide concept.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1155397939-1024x538.jpg)
Thalidomide is a medication used to treat multiple myeloma and certain skin conditions. Side effects may include drowsiness, constipation, and dizziness. Rare side effects can include severe birth defects or blood clotting disorders. (36)
36. Xenical
![Johor,Malaysia-November 18,2017. Xenical,drug for obesity problem by Roche, a Swiss multinational healthcare company](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_757360153-1024x538.jpg)
Xenical, or orlistat, is a medication used for weight loss by blocking dietary fat absorption. Side effects may include oily stools, increased bowel movements, and abdominal pain. Rare side effects can involve liver problems or severe allergic reactions. (37)
37. Zoloft
![Bangkok,Thailand - January 2017: Zoloft, package on black background. Zoloft is used to treat depression, In 2013, it was the most prescribed antidepressant with over 41 million prescriptions in U.S.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_574517974-1-1024x538.jpg)
Zoloft, or sertraline, is an antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and sexual dysfunction. Rare side effects can include increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, serotonin syndrome, or allergic reactions. (39)
38. Zyprexa
![Jakarta Indonesia, December 6 2023. A box of Zyprexa Olanzapine, anti psychotic medicine.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_2398176077-1024x538.jpg)
Zyprexa, or olanzapine, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Common side effects include weight gain, drowsiness, and increased appetite. Rare side effects can include diabetes, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, or movement disorders. (40)
39. Ciprofloxacin
![December 21, 2018-ogden Utah USA: cipro bottle on the shelf at the pharmacy. This medicine has information from the fda to warn the public about heart and sorta damage as a side effect.](https://theheartysoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shutterstock_1264332016-1-1024x538.jpg)
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Rare side effects can involve tendon rupture, nerve damage, or allergic reactions. (41)
Read More: Don’t Ever Use Turmeric If You’re On Any of the Following Medications
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Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.