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Asendin Side Effects

Constipation, drowsiness, and dry mouth are the most common side effects reported with Asendin. Side effects that are less common (occurring in less than 1 percent of patients) include low blood pressure, sensitivity to the sun, and diarrhea. Although side effects of Asendin are usually minor, certain problems may be more serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately. Notify your healthcare provider right away if you experience fast heart rate, unusual muscle twitches or movements, very high fever, or seizures.

 

Asendin Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Asendin® (amoxapine). However, not everyone who takes the antidepressant will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug well. When side effects do occur, in many cases they are minor, meaning they either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, possible side effects with Asendin. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Asendin side effects with you.)
 

Common Asendin Side Effects

Asendin has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which the side effects seen in a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Asendin include:
 
  • Drowsiness -- in up to 14 percent of people
  • Dry mouth -- up to 14 percent (see Amoxapine and Dry Mouth)
  • Constipation -- up to 12 percent
  • Blurred vision -- up to 7 percent.
     
Other common side effects (occurring 1 percent to 6 percent of people) include:
 
  • Anxiety, restlessness, or nervousness
  • Insomnia
  • Shakiness (tremor)
  • Confusion
  • Excitement
  • Nightmares
  • Problems with muscle coordination
  • Water retention
  • Increased levels of prolactin (a hormone) in the blood
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Increased appetite
  • Increased sweating.
     
(Asendin Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;