Norzine Side Effects

Generic name: thiethylperazine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 4, 2023.

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

Applies to thiethylperazine: intramuscular solution, oral tablet.

Important Warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Call your doctor immediately if you experience uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms or legs.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Thiethylperazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness.

If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously.

Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking thiethylperazine.

Do not take thiethylperazine with other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants, except under the direction of your doctor.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking thiethylperazine (the active ingredient contained in Norzine) and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs;

• confusion; or

• yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take thiethylperazine and talk to your doctor if you experience

• headache, dizziness, or drowsiness;

• agitation, weakness, or tremor (shaking);

• an increased heart rate;

• constipation; or

• dry 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 thiethylperazine: intramuscular solution, oral tablet.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have included sedation, dizziness, or headache. Extrapyramidal reactions have been reported in less than 1% of patients and included dystonia, torticollis, oculogyric crises, akathisia, and gait disturbances. Pseudo-parkinsonian reactions including mask-like facies, drooling, cogwheel rigidity, and shuffling gait have been reported. Convulsions have also been reported rarely. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome has been reported with other phenothiazines, and the potential to occur with thiethylperazine (the active ingredient contained in Norzine) should be considered.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included dryness of the mouth and nose, sialorrhea, and altered taste sensation.^[Ref]

Hepatic

Hepatic side effects have rarely included the development of cholestatic jaundice.^[Ref]

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects associated with phenothiazine derivatives have rarely included leukopenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia, pancytopenia, eosinophilia, and leukocytosis.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included hypotension during intravenous administration.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have rarely included erythema, exfoliative dermatitis, and contact dermatitis.^[Ref]

Ocular

Ocular side effects have included blurred vision.^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects including at least one case of anaphylactic reaction have been reported.^[Ref]

A 15-year-old female was admitted for angioedema and respiratory distress coincident with thiethylperazine therapy. She had been prescribed thiethylperazine (total of three doses) for abdominal pain and heavy nausea lasting for 2 days. Three hours after the last dose, she began to complain of face and tongue edema, speech difficulties, and dysphagia. On physical examination, she was in good general condition and showed an angioedema and erythema of the face, the upper thorax, and the tongue. An anaphylactic reaction was suspected and treatment was initiated. Her symptoms improved after treatment with intravenous biperiden, two aerosols of albuterol and budesonide, and intravenous methylprednisolone.^[Ref]

Further information

Norzine 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.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer