Side Effects of Nicametate Citrate 50mg in Neurology Patients

The side effects of Nicametate Citrate 50mg may include dizziness, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or diarrhea, and allergic reactions. If you

Since October 2015, I have been experiencing involuntary body tremors during sleep, leading to insomnia, which is attributed to long-term work-related stress.
A brainwave examination showed no issues, and it was diagnosed as autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
I have been under continuous follow-up treatment in the neurology department for six months, consistently taking clonazepam 0.5 mg—half a tablet at noon and one and a half tablets before bed—with significant control over the tremors.
I am still on this medication.

In February 2016, I began taking antihypertensive medication, which is currently well-controlled.
During a follow-up appointment on April 13, I reported feeling a sensation of pressure in my head, dizziness, shoulder and neck stiffness, and pressure in my ears and nasal cavity when lying flat or in a low position.
The neurologist suggested that the autonomic nervous system dysfunction makes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems more sensitive during seasonal changes, leading to these symptoms.
I was prescribed nicametate citrate 50 mg, to be taken once in the morning and once in the evening.
The morning after starting this medication, I began to feel swelling in my calves, which made my shoes feel tight.
I also experienced a tingling sensation in the dorsum of my feet and toes, particularly towards the tips, which was uncomfortable, especially since I have a sedentary job.
When I returned for a follow-up and asked the doctor about these symptoms, I received ambiguous answers and was advised to stop the medication.
The doctor mentioned that side effects vary from person to person, but a pharmacist at the same hospital informed me that other patients have experienced similar reactions but chose to continue their medication, similar to asthma patients who must take bronchodilators despite experiencing tremors as a side effect.
Could you please clarify, Dr.
Lan, if this is a normal pharmacological phenomenon? Is there a necessity to continue the medication? Thank you for taking the time to help me with this issue.

Kailan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/16

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology

If the side effects of the medication Kylan outweigh its benefits, discontinuation may be considered.
If stopping this medication does not pose a serious risk, most physicians would likely allow patients to decide whether to continue taking it.
In this regard, the importance of nicametate differs from that of asthma medications; discontinuing asthma medications can pose a life-threatening risk, whereas the former does not.
I hope this addresses your concerns.

Reply Date: 2016/04/16

More Info

Nicametate Citrate, also known as a peripheral vasodilator, is commonly used to improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels. While it can be effective for certain conditions, it is essential to understand the potential side effects, especially in patients with underlying neurological issues or those on other medications.

From your description, it seems that you have been experiencing a range of symptoms, including involuntary body movements during sleep, which were diagnosed as autonomic nervous system dysfunction. This condition can lead to various symptoms, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort. The introduction of Nicametate Citrate was likely an attempt to address some of the circulatory issues that may be exacerbating your symptoms.

The side effects you are experiencing, such as leg swelling, tingling, and a feeling of tightness in your shoes, are indeed concerning and can be attributed to the vasodilatory effects of Nicametate Citrate. These effects can lead to peripheral edema (swelling) and altered sensations in the extremities. While some patients may tolerate the medication well, others may experience adverse reactions, which can vary significantly from person to person. This variability is often due to individual differences in metabolism, existing health conditions, and concurrent medications.

In your case, the symptoms of swelling and tingling in the legs could indicate that the medication is causing excessive vasodilation or affecting blood flow in a way that is not beneficial for you. It is also important to consider that prolonged sitting, as you mentioned, can exacerbate these symptoms by contributing to poor circulation and increased pressure in the lower extremities.

Regarding the necessity of continuing Nicametate Citrate, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the side effects you are experiencing. If the medication is not providing significant relief from your primary symptoms (such as the pressure in your ears and neck discomfort) and is instead causing discomfort, it may be prudent to discontinue its use. Your healthcare provider's recommendation to stop the medication and monitor your symptoms is a reasonable approach, especially since you noted some improvement in the swelling after discontinuation.

In terms of how long it takes for side effects to resolve after stopping Nicametate Citrate, this can vary. Generally, most side effects should begin to diminish within a few days after discontinuation, but it may take longer for some individuals, depending on their overall health and the duration of medication use.

In conclusion, while Nicametate Citrate can be beneficial for certain patients, it is essential to monitor for side effects closely. If you continue to experience discomfort or if your symptoms worsen, it is vital to communicate this with your healthcare provider. They may consider alternative treatments or adjust your current regimen to better suit your needs. Always prioritize open communication with your medical team to ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your specific circumstances and health goals.

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