Despite its possible benefits, there has been a significant amount of controversy surrounding tacrine treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and there is by no means a consensus regarding its efficacy. Moreover, the drug may cause potentially serious side effects, though they are not common. Of most concern is the fact that tacrine is sometimes associated with liver problems, though any damage caused by the drug is generally believed to be reversible. More widely prevalent, but less dangerous, are instances of headache, vomiting, shortness of breath, muscle soreness, heartburn, and loss of appetite.