Vecamyl Side Effects

Generic name: mecamylamine

Note: This document provides detailed information about Vecamyl.

Applies to mecamylamine: oral tablet Side Effects associated with mecamylamine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Vecamyl.

Applies to mecamylamine: oral tablet.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly.

Check with your doctor before you Stop taking mecamylamine (the active ingredient contained in Vecamyl) Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping completely.

Make sure that you have enough medicine on hand to last through weekends, holidays, or vacations. You should not miss taking any doses. You may want to ask your doctor for another written prescription for mecamylamine to carry in your wallet or purse. You can then have it filled if you run out of medicine when you are away from home.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This especially includes over-the-counter (nonprescription) medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever, or sinus problems, since they may tend to increase your blood pressure.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur, especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position. This is more likely to occur in the morning. Getting up slowly may help. When you get up from lying down, sit on the edge of the bed with your feet dangling for one or two minutes. Then stand up slowly. If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down. If the problem continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting is also more likely to occur if you drink alcohol, stand for a long time, exercise, or if the weather is hot. While you are taking this medicine, be careful to limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Also, use extra care during exercise or hot weather or if you must stand for a long time.

Sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda) may cause you to get a greater than normal effect from this medicine. To prevent problems, check with your doctor before using an antacid or medicine for heartburn since some of these contain sodium bicarbonate.

Tell your doctor if you get a fever or infection since that may change the amount of medicine you have to take.

Mecamylamine may cause dryness of the mouth, nose, and throat. For temporary relief of mouth dryness, use sugarless candy or gum, melt bits of ice in your mouth, or use a saliva substitute. However, if your mouth continues to feel dry for more than 2 weeks, check with your medical doctor or dentist. Continuing dryness of the mouth may increase the chance of dental disease, including tooth decay, gum disease, and fungus infections.

Before having any kind of surgery (including dental surgery) or emergency treatment, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking this medicine.

Serious side effects of Vecamyl

Along with its needed effects, mecamylamine 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 mecamylamine:

Other side effects of Vecamyl

Some side effects of mecamylamine 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:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to mecamylamine: oral tablet.

Nervous system adverse events

• Frequency not reported: Orthostatic dizziness and syncope, convulsions, choreiform movements, mental aberrations, tremor, paresthesias, sedation^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Frequency not reported: Ileus, constipation, vomiting, nausea, glossitis, dry mouth^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Urinary retention, impotence^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Blurred vision, dilated pupils^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Weakness, fatigue^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Interstitial pulmonary edema and fibrosis^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Postural hypotension^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Anorexia^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Decreased libido^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Vecamyl 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