Betaine Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 13, 2024.

Applies to betaine: oral powder for solution, oral tablet.

Common side effects of betaine

Some side effects of betaine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common side effects

• diarrhea
• nausea
• stomach upset

Betaine may cause a body odor. Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.

Serious side effects of betaine

Along with its needed effects, betaine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to betaine: compounding powder, oral powder for reconstitution.

Gastrointestinal adverse events

• Common (1% to 10%): Nausea, gastrointestinal distress
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Diarrhea
• Postmarketing reports: Dental disorders, glossitis, stomach discomfort, vomiting^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Postmarketing reports: Cerebral edema^[Ref]

Severe cerebral edema and hypermethioninemia have occurred with 2 weeks to 6 months of starting therapy, with complete recovery after discontinuation. All patients had cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) deficiency with hypermethioninemia and severe plasma methionine elevations (1000 to 3000 micromol/L). The mechanism of action is postulated as secondary hypermethioninemia due to betaine therapy.^[Ref]

Other

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): "Bad taste", "caused odor", questionable psychological changes, "aspirated the powder"
• Postmarketing reports: Severe elevation in plasma methionine^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Postmarketing reports: Agitation, depression, irritability, personality disorder, sleep disturbed^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Postmarketing reports: Hair loss, hives, skin odor abnormality^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Postmarketing reports: Anorexia^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Postmarketing reports: Urinary incontinence^[Ref]

Further information

Betaine side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer