Sodium Thiosulfate Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 28, 2024.

Applies to sodium thiosulfate: intravenous solution.

Serious side effects of sodium thiosulfate

Along with its needed effects, sodium thiosulfate 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 or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking sodium thiosulfate:

More common side effects

• black, tarry stools
• bone pain
• chills
• cough or hoarseness
• decreased urine
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• fast heartbeat
• fever
• high blood pressure
• increased thirst
• irritability
• loss of appetite
• lower back or side pain
• mood changes
• muscle pain, cramps, or twitching
• nausea
• numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
• painful or difficult urination
• pale skin
• seizures
• sore throat
• swelling of the feet or lower legs
• trouble breathing
• ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting

Incidence not known

• blurred vision
• chest tightness
• confusion
• difficulty swallowing
• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
• drowsiness
• headache
• hives, itching, or skin rash
• muscle tremors
• nervousness
• pounding in the ears
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• restlessness
• slow or fast heartbeat
• stomach cramps
• sweating

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking sodium thiosulfate:

Symptoms of overdose

• agitation
• blurred vision
• mental changes
• muscle cramps
• nausea and vomiting
• pain in the joints
• ringing in the ears
• seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there

Other side effects of sodium thiosulfate

Some side effects of sodium thiosulfate 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

• swelling or inflammation of the mouth

For healthcare professionals

Applies to sodium thiosulfate: compounding powder, intravenous solution.

Gastrointestinal adverse events

• Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, osmotic disturbances^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Headache, disorientation, salty taste in mouth, warm sensation over body^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Hypotension^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Psychotic behavior including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Frequency not reported: Arthralgia, hyperreflexia, muscle cramps^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Prolonged bleeding time^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Tinnitus^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Blurred vision^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Diuretic effects^[Ref]

Further information

Sodium thiosulfate 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