Side Effects of Nicametate Citrate 50mg: A Patient's Experience

The side effects of Nicametate Citrate 50 mg may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Other potential side effects

Since October 2015, I have experienced involuntary body jerks that wake me up during sleep, leading to insomnia.
I underwent an EEG at a neurology clinic, which showed no abnormalities.
The doctor diagnosed me with autonomic nervous system dysfunction and prescribed clonazepam 0.5 mg—half a tablet at noon and one and a half tablets before bedtime.
The jerking symptoms have significantly improved, and I am currently continuing my medication in the outpatient clinic.

In February 2016, a health check revealed stage 1 hypertension.
After monitoring, I began taking antihypertensive medication, which is currently well-controlled.
On April 13, during a follow-up visit, I reported feeling dizzy and experiencing pressure in my ears and nasal cavity when lying flat or in a low position, along with shoulder and neck pain due to prolonged forward bending at work.
The doctor prescribed nicametate citrate 50 mg, one tablet in the morning and one in the evening.
After taking it, I felt swelling and numbness in my calves, and my feet and fingertips also experienced tingling and a prickling sensation.
The swelling was so pronounced that my shoes felt noticeably tighter, as if they were a size smaller.
On April 15, I returned for another consultation.
The doctor mentioned that side effects can vary from person to person and could not definitively attribute my symptoms to the medication.
However, he advised me to discontinue the drug and monitor my condition.
A pharmacist informed me that other patients had experienced similar symptoms, including facial flushing and warmth in the hands and feet, yet they chose to continue their medication, similar to asthma patients who may experience tremors from bronchodilators but cannot stop their treatment.
Could you please clarify if the pharmacological side effects of nicametate citrate could cause the symptoms I described? How long does it typically take for side effects to resolve after discontinuation? I stopped the medication on the evening of April 15, and the feeling of swelling has disappeared, but I still have some tingling sensations.
Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to respond, and I wish you peace and joy.

Kailan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/17

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Based on the process you described, it seems to be a side effect of the medication.
Generally, when we prescribe this medication to patients, the experience is relatively straightforward, and only a few have reported side effects similar to yours.
Typically, these side effects resolve within a day or two after discontinuing the medication.
If the symptoms do not improve, we will need to consider other potential causes and investigate further to identify any other factors that may be contributing to these symptoms.

Reply Date: 2016/04/17

More Info

Nicametate citrate, also known as nicametate, is a medication primarily used as a vasodilator and is often prescribed to improve blood circulation. It is commonly indicated for conditions related to peripheral vascular disorders. However, like any medication, it can have side effects, and individual responses to the drug can vary significantly.

In the case you described, the patient experienced several symptoms after starting nicametate citrate, including a feeling of heaviness and numbness in the lower legs, as well as tingling sensations in the feet and toes. These symptoms can be concerning and may indicate peripheral neuropathy or other circulatory issues. The swelling and tightness in the shoes suggest fluid retention or edema, which can also be a side effect of certain medications, including vasodilators.

The patient's healthcare provider advised discontinuing the medication to observe whether the symptoms would resolve. This is a common practice when side effects are suspected. Generally, the duration for side effects to subside after stopping a medication can vary. In many cases, side effects may diminish within a few days to a week after discontinuation, but some symptoms, such as tingling or numbness, may take longer to resolve, especially if there has been nerve involvement.

It is important to note that while some patients may experience side effects like those described, others may not have any adverse reactions at all. The variability in drug response is influenced by several factors, including individual health status, concurrent medications, and genetic predispositions. The mention of other patients experiencing similar symptoms suggests that there may be a pattern of side effects associated with nicametate citrate, but this does not mean that every patient will have the same experience.

In terms of managing these side effects, it is crucial for patients to maintain open communication with their healthcare providers. If symptoms persist after stopping the medication, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other underlying conditions. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as elevating the legs, staying hydrated, and engaging in gentle exercises, may help alleviate some symptoms of swelling and discomfort.

In conclusion, while nicametate citrate can be effective for improving circulation, it is essential to monitor for potential side effects. Patients should be proactive in discussing any adverse reactions with their healthcare providers, who can provide guidance on managing symptoms and determining the best course of action. If symptoms do not improve after discontinuation of the medication, further investigation may be warranted to identify other possible causes.

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