Glatiramer Acetate - Side Effects

Side Effects

According to MediGuard, side effects may include a lump at the injection site (injection site reaction) in approximately 30% of users, and aches, fever, chills (flu-like symptoms) in approximately 10% of users. Side effect symptoms are generally mild in nature. A reaction that involves flushing, shortness in breath, anxiety and rapid heartbeat has been reported soon after injection in up to 5% of patients (usually after injecting directly into a vein). These side effects subside within thirty minutes. Over time, a visible dent at the injection site can occur due to the local destruction of fat tissue, known as lipoatrophy, that may develop.

More serious side effects have been reported for glatiramer acetate, according to the FDA's prescribing label, these include serious side effects to the body's Cardiovascular System, Digestive System (including Liver), Hemic and Lymphatic System, Musculoskeletal System, Nervous System, Respiratory System, Special Senses (in particular the eyes), Urogenital System; also reported have been Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders; however a link between glatiramer acetate and these adverse effects has not been definitively established.