Relpax Side Effects

In clinical trials of Relpax, side effects of the drug most commonly included weakness, nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness. Side effects of Relpax that you should report to your healthcare provider include such things as severe chest pain, bloody diarrhea, and changes in vision. Taking Relpax with certain antidepressants can lead to a group of symptoms known as serotonin syndrome, which can be very serious.

 

Side Effects of Relpax: An Introduction

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

Common Relpax Side Effects

Relpax has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
Based on these studies, the most common Relpax side effects include:
 
  • Weakness -- occurring in up to 10 percent of people
  • Nausea -- occurring in up to 8 percent of people
  • Dizziness -- occurring in up to 7 percent of people
  • Drowsiness -- occurring in up to 7 percent of people
  • Abnormal sensations, such as tingling, burning, or pricking (paresthesia) -- occurring in up to 4 percent of people
  • Chest pain, chest tightness, or chest pressure -- occurring in up to 4 percent of people
  • Dry mouth -- occurring in up to 4 percent of people
  • Headache -- occurring in up to 4 percent of people
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain) -- occurring in up to 2 percent of people
  • Upset stomach or heartburn -- occurring in up to 2 percent of people
  • Difficulty swallowing or throat tightness -- occurring in up to 2 percent people.
     
The following were also reported as common Relpax side effects (occurring in more than 1 percent of people) in some studies, although the exact percentages were not reported:
 
  • Back pain
  • Chills
  • Feelings of a rapidly or forcefully beating heart (palpitations)
  • A sense of spinning (vertigo)
  • Increased sensitivity of the senses (such as sensitivity to light or sound)
  • A sore throat
  • Sweating.
     
(Relpax Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;