Ravicti Side Effects

Generic name: glycerol phenylbutyrate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2025.

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

Applies to glycerol phenylbutyrate: oral solution.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Check with your doctor right away if you have burning, tingling, numbness or pain in the hands, arms, feet, or legs, headache, lightheadedness, confusion, memory problems, sleepiness or unusual drowsiness, change or loss of taste, hearing loss, or unusual tiredness or weakness. These maybe symptoms of more serious problems.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of Ravicti

Along with its needed effects, glycerol phenylbutyrate (the active ingredient contained in Ravicti) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking glycerol phenylbutyrate:

More common side effects

• black, tarry stools
• bleeding gums
• blood in the urine or stools
• chills
• confusion
• continuing nausea or vomiting
• cough
• decreased urination
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• fainting
• fever
• heartburn
• increase in heart rate
• increase in the frequency of seizures
• lightheadedness
• loss of appetite
• lower back or side pain
• muscle tremors
• painful or difficult urination
• pale skin
• pinpoint red spots on the skin
• rapid breathing
• rapid, deep breathing
• restlessness
• sore throat
• stomach cramps
• sunken eyes
• swollen glands
• thirst
• troubled breathing with exertion
• ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, weakness, or feeling of sluggishness
• wrinkled skin

Other side effects of Ravicti

Some side effects of glycerol phenylbutyrate 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:

More common side effects

• agitation
• bloated or full feeling
• constipation
• diarrhea
• excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels
• headache
• irritability
• passing gas
• rash
• stomach pain
• stuffy or runny nose
• upper abdominal or stomach pain

Less common side effects

• belching
• indigestion
• stomach discomfort or upset

Incidence not known

• abnormal body, skin, hair, and urine odor
• burning sensation in the mouth
• dry heaves
• gagging
• loss of or change in taste

See also:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to glycerol phenylbutyrate: oral liquid.

General adverse events

The most frequently reported side effects included diarrhea, flatulence, and headache.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Headache (14%), dizziness^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Diarrhea (16%), flatulence (14%), upper abdominal pain (pediatric patients), nausea , vomiting
• Common (1% to 10%): Abdominal pain (adults), dyspepsia
• Postmarketing reports: Retching, gagging, burning sensation in mouth^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Very common (10% or more): Decreased appetite, hyperammonemia^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Fatigue^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Very common (10% or more): Rash (pediatric patients)
• Postmarketing reports: Abnormal body odor, including from skin, hair, and urine^[Ref]

Further information

Ravicti 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