Yes, it is said that it is not for those who have no or little esoteric experience. For it is seen as the most potent energy known to humanity.
I too, have been told of the side effects with awakening the Kundalini, by the sounds of things those who have awaken the Kundalini with haste, or those who have a unbalance within themselves should not, by any means try to awake the serpent.
Take care