Hexalen Side Effects

Generic name: altretamine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 14, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Hexalen Side Effects associated with altretamine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Hexalen.

Applies to altretamine: oral capsule.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using altretamine (the active ingredient contained in Hexalen) and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe numbness, tingling, or cold feeling in your hands or feet;

• severe or continuous vomiting;

• fever, chills, flu symptoms, mouth sores, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• severe dizziness or spinning sensation;

• seizure (convulsions); or

• upper stomach pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects may include:

• mild nausea or vomiting;

• mild numbness or tingling;

• loss of appetite;

• mood changes, mild dizziness; or

• skin rash, itching, hair loss.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to altretamine: oral capsule.

Hematologic adverse events

• Very common (10% or more): Anemia (33%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Thrombocytopenia, leukopenia^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Nausea and vomiting (33%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Increased alkaline phosphatase^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Peripheral sensory neuropathy (31%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Seizures
• Frequency not reported: CNS symptoms (mood disorders, disorders of consciousness, ataxia, dizziness, vertigo)^[Ref]

Renal

• Common (1% to 10%): Increased BUN, increased serum creatinine^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Anorexia^[Ref]

Other

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Fatigue^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Frequency not reported: Hepatic toxicity^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Skin rash, pruritus, alopecia^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Hexalen 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