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Wakix Side Effects

Generic name: pitolisant

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Dec 10, 2023.

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

Applies to pitolisant: oral tablet.

Common side effects of Wakix

Some side effects of pitolisant 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

  • headache
  • nausea
  • trouble sleeping

Less common side effects

  • anxiety
  • body aches or pain
  • burning, numbness, pain, or tingling in all fingers except smallest finger
  • chills
  • decreased appetite
  • difficulty in moving
  • dry mouth
  • ear congestion
  • fever
  • headache
  • loss of voice
  • muscle or joint pain
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • stomach pain or discomfort

Incidence not known

  • weight gain

Serious side effects of Wakix

Along with its needed effects, pitolisant (the active ingredient contained in Wakix) 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 pitolisant:

Incidence not known

  • changes in behavior
  • cough
  • difficulty swallowing
  • discouragement
  • feeling sad or empty
  • dizziness
  • fast or irregular heartbeat
  • fainting
  • hives, itching, skin rash
  • irritability
  • lack of appetite
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
  • seizures
  • thoughts of killing oneself
  • tightness in the chest
  • trouble breathing
  • trouble concentrating
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to pitolisant: oral tablet.

General adverse events

The more commonly reported adverse reactions have included insomnia, nausea, and anxiety.[Ref]

Psychiatric

Nervous system

Gastrointestinal

Other

Cardiovascular

At a dose of 35.6 mg/day, QTc increases of 4.2 msec were observed. With exposures 3.8-fold higher a mean QTc increase of 16 msec was observed.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Genitourinary

Hepatic

Metabolic

Musculoskeletal

Ocular

Respiratory

References

1. Svendsen UG, Ibsen H, Rasmussen S, Leth A, Nielsen MD, Dige-Petersen H, Giese J (1986) "Effects of combined therapy with amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide on plasma and total body potassium, blood pressure, and the renin- angiotensin-aldosterone system in hypertensive patients." Eur J Clin Pharmacol, 30, p. 151-6

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. (2019) "Product Information. Wakix (pitolisant)." Harmony Biosciences, LLC

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Wakix 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.