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Sulfur Colloid Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 10, 2025.

Applies to sulfur colloid: kit.

It is very important that your doctor check you or your child closely while you are receiving this medicine. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to use it.

This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. The most serious signs of this reaction are very fast or irregular breathing, gasping for breath, wheezing, or fainting. Other signs may include changes in color of the skin of the face, very fast but irregular heartbeat or pulse, hive-like swellings on the skin, and puffiness or swellings of the eyelids or around the eyes. If these side effects occur, get emergency help at once.

You may be exposed to radiation when you are given this medicine. This may also increase your risk to have cancer (especially in children). Talk with your doctor if you or your child have concerns about this.

If you are a woman who can get pregnant, the imaging procedures should be done within 10 days after the start of your monthly period or a pregnancy test should be performed within 48 hours before the procedure.

You may have a burning sensation at the injection site after receiving this medicine.

Serious side effects of sulfur colloid

Along with its needed effects, sulfur colloid 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 sulfur colloid:

More common side effects

  • cold, clammy skin
  • confusion
  • cough
  • difficulty swallowing
  • dizziness
  • fast heartbeat
  • fast, weak pulse
  • hives or welts
  • itching
  • lightheadedness
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
  • rash
  • redness of the skin
  • shortness of breath
  • sweating
  • tightness in the chest
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • wheezing

Less common side effects

  • chills
  • difficult or labored breathing
  • fever
  • heart stops
  • no breathing
  • no pulse or blood pressure
  • seizures
  • unconscious

Incidence not known

  • burning, redness, swelling, or scarring at the injection site

Other side effects of sulfur colloid

Some side effects of sulfur colloid 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

  • abdominal or stomach pain
  • feeling of warmth
  • nausea
  • numbness
  • redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
  • sweating
  • vomiting

See also:

Further information

Sulfur colloid 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.