Chloral hydrate Side Effects

Some side effects of chloral hydrate may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to chloral hydrate: oral capsule, oral syrup

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking chloral hydrate: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• uneven heartbeats;

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• shallow breathing;

• weakness, lack of coordination; or

• a red, blistering, peeling skin rash.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• drowsiness, deep sleep;

• headache, or hangover feeling;

• nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gas, stomach pain;

• redness or drooping of your eyelids;

• excitement or confusion;

• mild itching or skin rash; or

• unpleasant taste in your mouth;

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to chloral hydrate: compounding powder, oral capsule, oral syrup, rectal suppository

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea have been the most frequent side effects associated with the use of chloral hydrate.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects including ataxia and dizziness have been reported. Residual sedation has been reported infrequently following usual hypnotic doses. A somnambulistic reaction characterized by disorientation and incoherence has been reported rarely.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects including scarlatiniform or erythematous rash, urticaria, angioedema, purpura, eczema, bullous lesions, and erythema multiforme have been reported.

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