Betaine anhydrous is a medication used to treat excessive amounts of homocysteine in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid found in blood that increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, and homocystinuria is a condition describing excessive amounts of homocysteine in the blood. Betaine anhydrous comes in a powdered form and is available with a physician's prescription. The medication may help prevent the buildup of homocysteine in the blood, but it does not cure homocysteinuria.
Symptoms of Increased Homocysteine
Increased amounts of homocysteine may cause medical problems. The possible symptoms of homocystinuria include fatigue, seizures, weakened bones and blood clots. Additional symptoms include decreased weight or difficulty gaining weight, a dislocation of the lens in the eye and abnormal bone structure, according to MedlinePlus. Taking betaine anhydrous may help decrease the amount of homocysteine in the blood and treat the symptoms.
Betaine Dosage
Follow the instructions given by your physician or pharmacist when taking betaine anhydrous. A common dosage amount of betaine is 6 g daily in two divided doses, according to RxList.com. Typical therapy with betaine begins increasing the dosage until the homocysteine levels in the blood decrease or resolve. Dosage may increase up to 20 g daily to control the homocysteine levels.
Betaine Administration
Careful measuring with the provided measuring scoop will help insure accurate dosing. One level scoop of the powder equals 1 g of betaine, according to RxList.com. Mix powdered betaine with 4 to 6 oz. of fluid, such as juice, milk, water or baby formula. Mixing the powder with food is also acceptable. Store the powder at room temperature and away from moisture.
Side Effects of Betaine
Individuals taking betaine anhydrous may experience gastrointestinal distress, such as diarrhea and nausea. Betaine anhydrous may cause a change in vision and neurologic changes. Some symptoms of these changes include memory problems, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness and a headache. A person may have trouble walking, problems with balance or difficulty speaking. Neck pain and stiffness may occur. Additional serious side effects that may occur include a decreased level of consciousness, such as passing out, or seizures. Report any of these changes to your doctor immediately. Taking betaine may generate an unusual body odor or may cause a foul taste in the mouth, according to Drugs.com. Although these side effects are harmless, they may cause embarrassment due to the odor or decreased appetite because of the unpleasant taste in the mouth.
