Side Effects of Ingrezza: Ranging from Common and Mild to Serious
Ingrezza, a medication used to treat certain movement disorders, comes in oral capsule and oral sprinkle capsule forms. It's crucial to understand the potential side effects and precautions before starting treatment.
Common side effects of Ingrezza include fatigue, dry mouth, balance problems, hives (allergic reactions), and constipation. Mild side effects may also include restlessness, back pain, blurry vision, digestive problems, dizziness or balance problems, dry mouth, headache, joint pain, skin rash, sleepiness, insomnia, and urinary retention.
However, it's important to note that Ingrezza carries a boxed warning about the risks of depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people with Huntington's disease. Symptoms of depression, such as feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, mood changes, sleep changes, and extreme weight changes, should be reported to a doctor while taking Ingrezza.
Less common side effects of Ingrezza include akathisia (an uncontrollable urge to move the legs), balance problems such as dizziness leading to falls, headache, joint pain, and weight gain.
Ingrezza may also cause parkinsonism, a less common side effect that can manifest as unusual body movements such as tremors, muscle stiffness, drooling, and difficulty walking. The risk of parkinsonism is higher in the first 2 weeks after starting or increasing the dosage of Ingrezza, but symptoms are typically temporary and go away after stopping the drug or having the dosage lowered.
Alcohol consumption may not be safe while taking Ingrezza, as it could worsen sleepiness as a side effect. If you have depression or a history of suicidal thoughts, inform your doctor before taking Ingrezza.
It's also important to discuss your health history with your doctor to ensure Ingrezza is a safe treatment option. Ingrezza may not be safe for those with liver problems, irregular heart rhythm, allergies to the drug or its ingredients, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Management strategies for these side effects often involve monitoring symptoms and communicating with your healthcare provider if they worsen or persist. Symptomatic treatments, such as medication adjustments to relieve specific side effects, may also be used. Taking precautions for balance problems, like avoiding hazardous activities to prevent falls, is also advisable.
If side effects become severe or intolerable, discussing alternative therapies or dose changes with the prescribing doctor is important. Since Ingrezza can cause parkinsonism-like symptoms, vigilance for new movement symptoms is also advised.
No specific antidotes exist for these side effects; management is individualized and supportive, emphasizing communication with healthcare providers to tailor treatment accordingly.
For more information about Ingrezza, including its uses, see this Ingrezza overview article. It's always essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.
Remember, if you or someone you know is in crisis or considering suicide or self-harm, the 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and local emergency services are available for support.
[1] Source: Prescribing information for Ingrezza.
- While considering treatment with Ingrezza, individuals with Huntington's disease should be aware of potential risks related to depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
- Al though alcohol consumption may not be safe while taking Ingrezza, it could worsen sleepiness as a side effect, and those with depression or a history of suicidal thoughts should inform their doctor before taking it.
- The safe use of Ingrezza might not be appropriate for individuals with liver problems, irregular heart rhythm, allergies to the drug or its ingredients, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- In cases where side effects become severe or intolerable, it's crucial to discuss alternative therapies or dose changes with the prescribing doctor.
- In the event of a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts, resources such as the 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and local emergency services are available for support.
