Solian, the brand name of amisulpride, is a medication that belongs in the family of atypical antipsychotics, which are used for the treatment of schizophrenia. The National Institutes of Health explains that atypical antipsychotics are second-generation, or newer, medications that are not the first choice of prescribing doctors. The Institut for Rationel Farmakoterapi (IRF) suggests that Solian is as effective in relieving schizophrenia symptoms as other antipsychotics but with a slight reduction in specific side effects. Solian is not approved for use in the United States.
Less Serious Side Effects
The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports many side effects of atypical antipsychotics. These include nasal congestion or runny nose, drooling, dizziness, headache, constipation, trouble urinating, skin rash or elevated body temperature. These effects are considered to be harmless unless they are persistent or are accompanied by other side effects, such as drowsiness, restlessness, insomnia, rapid heart beat, confusion, short-term memory problems, disorientation or attention problems, according to the UMMC.
Serious Side Effects
Weight gain and metabolic problems are possible, but the IRF reports a significantly lower rate of weight gain than typical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia. Weight gain occurred in 16 to 21 percent of patients in clinical studies reported by the IRF. The UMMC identifies weight gain as a more severe side effect of Solian. It also reports problems such as elevated cholesterol levels, seizures, extreme increase in body temperature, sudden drop in blood pressure, reduction of white blood cell count, cataracts, worsening of existing glaucoma, erectile dysfunction, menstrual abnormalities, increased risk of osteoporosis or breast cancer and heart problems, including sudden death.
Diabetes
The UMMC explains that atypical antipsychotic drugs bear a standard label warning that indicates the drug has a risk of increasing or causing diabetes in patients. Solian is no exception and has the potential to raise blood sugar levels and make it more difficult for patients to control their diabetes. The impact of the drug requires close monitoring of blood sugar and lipids, explains the UMMC.
Extrapyramidal Symptoms
Nearly any drug used for schizophrenia can cause extrapyramidal side effects, explains the UMMC. Extrapyramidal side effects can resemble Parkinson's disease and include involuntary movements or tics of nearly any part of the body. The UMMC points out that such movements can range from moderate to severe and can worsen or improve randomly. These side effects can be treated, or a change in medication may be initiated. Medical intervention is often sought when these hazards impact speech or walking or when the abnormal muscle spasms cause facial or body contortions that are persistent.
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