Policosanol, which is also called octacosanol, is a natural supplement used to treat symptoms of high cholesterol, heart disease and Parkinson's disease in affected patients. The use of this sugar cane extract has been studied in clinical trials but its safety and efficacy have not received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Patients interested in using this natural treatment should discuss the side effects of policosanol with a doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Diarrhea
After taking a dose of policosanol, patients can develop diarrhea as a side effect of treatment. Diarrhea is characterized by frequent bowel movement urges that yield loose or watery stools. Affected patients may also develop abdominal bloating, cramping or pain in conjunction with diarrhea. Treatment with policosanol may also be associated with a bitter taste within the mouth, which may contribute to a decreased appetite or weight loss in certain patients.
Headache
Policosanol can cause headache symptoms to develop in certain patients, explains Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. Painful headache symptoms can range from mild to severe and may arise within any region of the head. Affected patients may find relief from this side effect by taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen.
Dizziness or Nervousness
Treatment with this natural supplement may result in unusual sensations of dizziness or nervousness in certain patients. Episodes of dizziness can occur when a patient attempts to stand up or sit up quickly and may cause them to appear unstable while walking. Sensations of dizziness may also occur in conjunction with mild confusion or headache side effects. Patients who become dizzy during policosanol treatment should allow this sensation to pass before attempting to stand or walk in order to prevent injury from falling.
Skin Rash
Certain patients may develop a mild skin rash as a side effect of policosanol treatment. Use of this natural supplement may cause red, irritated patches of skin to develop across the body. The affected skin region can appear dry or may begin to itch. Severe skin swelling, itching or hives require immediate medical attention as these side effects may indicate an allergic reaction to this supplement, warns PDR Health, an online medical resource established by the publishers of the Physicians' Desktop Reference.
Insomnia or Fatigue
During treatment with policosanol, patients may experience sleeping difficulties as a side effect. Affected patients may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night--a condition referred to as insomnia. Inadequate sleep during the night can contribute to daytime fatigue, which may affect a patient's ability to remain alert and focused while at work.
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