As you start treatment with Korlym®, you may experience the effects of cortisol withdrawal, which can feel like you have the flu. Symptoms of cortisol withdrawal include tiredness, headaches, nausea, swelling of your arms and legs, and joint pain.
As the correct amount of Korlym for your body is established, you may see improvements in these symptoms. In the clinical study of Korlym, side effects did not increase with increased dosing.
You should tell your healthcare provider about any symptoms you experience, so that he or she can help.
Please read the information about side effects listed below:
Adrenal insufficiency: This is a condition in which patients experience low blood pressure and low blood sugar along with the symptoms of cortisol withdrawal listed above. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms that could indicate adrenal insufficiency.
Muscle aches, cramps, or palpitations: These could be related to low potassium levels. Although potassium can be found in many foods, low potassium experienced while you are taking Korlym should be treated by your healthcare provider.
Unusual vaginal bleeding: Women sometimes have irregular periods or spotting when taking Korlym. If you notice any signs of irregular vaginal bleeding, tell your primary healthcare provider right away. In addition, make sure to let your gynecologist know you are taking Korlym.
Changes in blood sugar or blood pressure: If you notice higher or lower levels than usual during your regular monitoring, be sure to let your healthcare provider know.
The most common side effects of Korlym include:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Pain in your arms and legs (arthralgia)
- Swelling of your arms and legs
(peripheral edema) - Headache
- Dizziness
- High blood pressure
- Low potassium in your blood
- Thickening of the lining of the uterus (endometrial hypertrophy)
These are not all of the possible side effects of Korlym. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.