Does trintellix cause drowsiness
Trintellix Side Effects: Mild, Common, and Rare
If you’re looking at treatment options for major depressive disorder, your doctor might suggest Trintellix (vortioxetine) for you.
Trintellix is a prescription medication that’s used to treat depression in adults. The drug comes as a tablet that’s taken by mouth. If Trintellix works to treat your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.
For more information about Trintellix, see this in-depth article on the drug.
Like other drugs, Trintellix can cause mild or serious side effects. Keep reading to learn more. You can also talk with your doctor about the pros and cons of using Trintellix.
Some people may experience mild or serious side effects during their Trintellix treatment. Examples of a few of Trintellix’s commonly reported side effects include:
- nausea and vomiting
- constipation
- dry mouth
- diarrhea
For more information on side effects that Trintellix may cause, see the sections below.
Some people may experience mild side effects while taking Trintellix. Examples of mild side effects that have been reported with this drug include:
- nausea and vomiting
- constipation
- headache*
- dry mouth
- itching*
- diarrhea
- weight gain*
* To learn more about this side effect, see “Side effects explained” below.
In most cases, these side effects should be temporary. And some may be easily managed, too. But if you have any symptoms that are ongoing or that bother you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. And don’t stop using Trintellix unless your doctor recommends it.
Trintellix may cause mild side effects other than the ones listed above. See the Trintellix medication guide for details.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Trintellix, visit MedWatch.
Although rare, serious side effects are possible from taking Trintellix. Serious side effects that have been reported with Trintellix include:
- risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults*
- serotonin syndrome (high levels of serotonin, a chemical your body produces)
- allergic reaction
- bleeding
- mania or hypomania
- glaucoma
- low sodium levels
- sexual side effects†
- withdrawal symptoms, such as mood changes or headaches, when you stop taking the drug
If you develop serious side effects while taking Trintellix, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Note: To help lower the risk of withdrawal from Trintellix, your doctor may slowly decrease your dosage of the drug if you’re stopping it.
* Trintellix has a boxed warning for this side effect.
This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
† To learn more about this side effect, see “Side effects explained” below.
Learn more about some of the side effects Trintellix may cause.
Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults
Trintellix has a boxed warning for the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults (ages 24 years and younger). A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
Antidepressant drugs, including Trintellix, can raise the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults. This risk is highest within the first few months of taking Trintellix or when your dose is changed.
Although this side effect is rare, you and your family should know the symptoms to watch for.
That way, you can tell your doctor right away if you experience them. Examples of these symptoms include:
- thoughts or attempts to take your life
- feeling agitated, angry, or irritable
- acting on dangerous impulses or thoughts
- new or worsening depression or panic attacks
- other changes in mood or behavior
It’s important to note that Trintellix is only FDA-approved for use in adults.
What might help
If you experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors, tell your doctor right away. Your doctor may recommend changing your medication or your dose.
In some cases, it may be necessary to visit a hospital or call 911 (or your local emergency number) if you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or actions.
SUICIDE PREVENTIONIf you think someone is at immediate risk of self-harm or hurting another person:
- Call 911 or your local emergency number.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
- Remove any guns, knives, medications, or other things that may cause harm.
- Listen, but don’t judge, argue, threaten, or yell.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, get help from a crisis or suicide prevention hotline. Try the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
Weight gain
In rare cases, Trintellix may cause weight gain. But it’s important to note that weight gain was not a side effect reported during studies of Trintellix.
There have been reports of weight gain in people using Trintellix after the drug was released onto the market. But it’s unclear how often this has happened or if Trintellix was the cause.
If you’re concerned about weight gain during your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor.
What might help
If you experience weight gain during your Trintellix treatment that’s concerning to you, talk with your doctor. They may be able to help determine if Trintellix may be the cause of the weight gain.
If so, they may recommend a different medication to treat your condition.
Itching
In rare cases, some people may experience itchy skin while taking Trintellix. In studies, this side effect was reported in a small amount of people taking Trintellix.
What might help
If you have itchy skin that bothers you or doesn’t go away, talk with your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to reduce this side effect.
Sexual side effects
Trintellix may cause sexual side effects to occur in some people. In studies, this was a common side effect seen in both males* and females* taking Trintellix.
Sexual side effects are more likely with higher doses of Trintellix. Examples of sexual side effects that may occur include erectile dysfunction or a decrease in libido (sex drive).
* In this article, we use the terms “male” and “female” to refer to someone’s sex assigned at birth. For information about the difference between sex and gender, see this article.
What might help
If you’re concerned about sexual side effects during your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor. They may be able to recommend other medications to reduce these side effects.
If the sexual side effects are extremely bothersome, your doctor may recommend a different drug to treat your depression.
Headache
In rare cases, Trintellix may cause headaches. But it’s important to note that headache was not a side effect reported in studies of Trintellix. There have been reports of headaches occurring in people using Trintellix after it was released onto the market. But it’s unclear how often this has happened or if Trintellix was the cause.
Some people have also reported having headaches after suddenly stopping their Trintellix treatment. Missing one dose of Trintellix shouldn’t cause any specific side effects. But stopping the drug suddenly may cause side effects, including headaches.
If you’ll be stopping your Trintellix treatment, your doctor may recommend slowly decreasing your dose.
This is to help prevent headaches or other side effects when stopping your treatment. For more details about recommended dosages for Trintellix, see this in-depth article.
A headache may also be a symptom of low sodium levels, which is another side effect of Trintellix.
What might help
If you’re experiencing headaches during your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor. They may recommend a blood test to check your sodium levels to see if that could be causing your headaches. They may also be able to recommend ways to help prevent or treat headaches.
If you wish to stop your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor first. You should not change your dose of Trintellix or stop taking the drug unless your doctor recommends it.
If you’ll be stopping your Trintellix treatment, your doctor may recommend slowly decreasing your dose. This is to help prevent headaches or other side effects when stopping your treatment.
Allergic reaction
Like most drugs, Trintellix can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:
- rash
- hives (itchy raised bumps or areas on your skin)
- itchiness
- flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
- swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
- swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe
What might help
If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest an over-the-counter oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine), or topical product, such as hydrocortisone cream, to manage your symptoms.
If your doctor confirms you had a mild allergic reaction to Trintellix, they’ll decide if you should continue using it.
If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms could be life threatening and require immediate medical care.
If your doctor confirms you had a serious allergic reaction to Trintellix, they may have you switch to a different treatment.
Keeping track of side effectsDuring your Trintellix treatment, consider keeping notes on any side effects you’re having. Then, you can share this information with your doctor. This is especially helpful to do when you first start taking new drugs or using a combination of treatments.
Your side effect notes can include things such as:
- what dose of drug you were taking when you had the side effect
- how soon after starting that dose you had the side effect
- what your symptoms were from the side effect
- how it affected your daily activities
- what other medications you were also taking
- any other information you feel is important
Keeping notes and sharing them with your doctor will help them learn more about how the drug affects you. And your doctor can use this information to adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Get answers to some frequently asked questions about Trintellix’s side effects.
Can Trintellix cause drowsiness?
No, Trintellix shouldn’t cause you to feel drowsy or tired. Drowsiness was not a side effect reported in studies of the drug. Fatigue (lack of energy) wasn’t reported in people taking Trintellix, either.
But other medications taken for depression or mood disorders may cause you to feel drowsy. Examples of antidepressants that may cause drowsiness include amitriptyline, Lexapro (escitalopram), or trazodone.
If you experience drowsiness during your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if Trintellix is the cause, or if you’re taking any other medications that may make you feel drowsy. They may also be able to recommend ways to reduce this side effect.
How long do side effects from Trintellix last?
It depends on what side effects you’re experiencing. Some side effects may last only a week or two, but others may last longer.
For example, in studies, nausea was most common during the first week of treatment. But after about 2 weeks, nausea generally went away in most people taking Trintellix.
But other side effects, such as sexual side effects, may last throughout your Trintellix treatment.
If you’re experiencing side effects that don’t go away or that bother you, talk with your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to decrease these side effects.
Does using Trintellix cause sweating?
Trintellix isn’t likely to cause sweating. Sweating was not a side effect seen during studies of the drug. But there have been reports of this side effect occurring in people using Trintellix after it was released onto the market. At this time, it’s unclear how often people taking Trintellix may experience sweating or if Trintellix was the cause.
Other medications used to treat depression may also cause sweating. Examples of these drugs include Wellbutrin SR or XL (bupropion) or Effexor XR (venlafaxine).
If you experience sweating during your Trintellix treatment that bothers you, talk with your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to decrease this side effect.
Could Trintellix cause vision problems?
Yes, Trintellix may cause vision problems. Specifically, Trintellix may cause closed-angle glaucoma in people who have other eye conditions.
If you have a narrow angle in your eye, you have a higher risk for an angle closure attack. This is when the iris (the colored part of your eye) swells and prevents fluid in your eye from circulating. This causes the pressure in your eye to increase. If you’re also taking Trintellix, your risk for eye problems may be even higher.
Other drugs used to treat depression may also cause vision problems, such as blurry vision or double vision. Examples of these medications include Zoloft (sertraline) and Lexapro (escitalopram).
If you have concerns about vision problems during your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Does Trintellix cause joint pain?
No, joint pain is not a side effect of Trintellix. Joint pain wasn’t reported in studies of the drug. But other medications that are used to treat depression, such as Celexa (citalopram), may cause joint pain.
If you’re experiencing joint pain while taking Trintellix, talk with your doctor. They may be able to help determine what’s causing the pain and the best ways to treat it.
Trintellix comes with several warnings.
Boxed warning: Risk of suicidal thoughts in children and young adults
Trintellix has a boxed warning for the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults (ages 24 years and younger). A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
To learn more, see the “Side effects explained” section above.
Other warnings
Trintellix may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health.
Talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Trintellix. The list below includes factors to consider.
Bipolar disorder. Trintellix may cause mania or hypomania to occur. These are changes in your mood that are also symptoms of bipolar disorder. You may have a higher risk for mania or hypomania if you have bipolar disorder. If you have a history of bipolar disorder, tell your doctor before taking Trintellix. They may recommend a different treatment option for you.
Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Trintellix or any of its ingredients, you should not take Trintellix. Ask your doctor what other medications are better options for you.
Glaucoma. If you have glaucoma or narrow angles in your eyes, taking Trintellix may make your condition worse. This is because Trintellix may cause your pupils to dilate (get bigger), which can make your condition worse. If you have glaucoma, be sure to tell your doctor before starting Trintellix.
They may monitor your eyes more closely during your Trintellix treatment, or they may recommend a different medication for you.
Bleeding disorders. Trintellix may increase your risk for bleeding.If you have a bleeding disorder, your risk may be even higher. Depending on your condition or other drugs you may be taking, your doctor may monitor you more closely during your treatment. This way they can make sure you’re not experiencing any bleeding. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a different medication to treat your condition.
Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). You should not take Trintellix if you’re taking an MAOI to treat a mental health condition. And if you’re taking the MAOI antibiotic Zyvox (linezolid) you should not take Trintellix. Also, if you’re receiving the MAOI methylene blue as an intravenous (IV) injection you should not take Trintellix. Before starting Trintellix, tell your doctor about all the drugs you’re taking, including any MAOIs.
Alcohol use and Trintellix
You should not drink alcohol while taking Trintellix. Alcohol may cause some side effects of Trintellix to be worse. For example, Trintellix may cause nausea and vomiting or headache. These side effects may be worse with alcohol use.
If you drink alcohol and you have concerns about avoiding it during your Trintellix treatment, talk with your doctor.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Trintellix
Below are details about Trintellix’s use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
It’s not known if Trintellix is safe to take during pregnancy. Animal studies show that Trintellix may cause harm to a fetus. But animal studies don’t always predict what will happen in humans.
If you take Trintellix during your third trimester of pregnancy, your baby may experience withdrawal symptoms when they’re born. In addition, taking Trintellix during your third trimester may also raise the risk for your child being born with lung problems.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before using Trintellix. They may recommend a different medication to treat your condition.
If you do use Trintellix during pregnancy, consider participating in the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants. This registry collects information about the safety of antidepressants (such as Trintellix) when used during pregnancy. You or your doctor can sign you up for the registry by calling 866-961-2388 or by visiting the registry’s website.
Breastfeeding
It’s not known if Trintellix is safe to take while breastfeeding. No studies have determined if Trintellix passes into breast milk or what effects the drug may have on a child who is breastfed.
If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor before taking Trintellix. They may recommend a different medication for you.
Trintellix is an effective medication to treat depression in adults. But some people may experience side effects from this drug.
Most of these side effects may be mild, but in some cases they can be severe.
If you have questions about side effects that can occur with Trintellix, talk with your doctor. Below are examples of some questions you may want to ask:
- What can happen if I become pregnant while taking Trintellix?
- How should I manage side effects that I experience from Trintellix?
- Do my other health conditions raise my risk for side effects from Trintellix?
To learn more about the condition and read personal stories from people with depression, sign up for Healthline’s online newsletter.
Q:
Do I have a higher risk for side effects from Trintellix if I’m also taking other medications to treat my depression?
Anonymous
A:
It’s likely that taking Trintellix with other drugs to treat depression will raise your risk for side effects.
Taking Trintellix with other antidepressants that contain serotonin is not recommended.
This is because using these drugs together can raise your risk for serotonin syndrome (a dangerous condition caused by a buildup of serotonin in your body). Examples of antidepressants containing serotonin include Zoloft (sertraline), Effexor XR (venlafaxine), and amitriptyline.
You also shouldn’t use monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) with Trintellix. Examples of MAOIs include Nardil (phenelzine) and Emsam (selegiline). Using these drugs with Trintellix can also raise your risk for serotonin syndrome.
You need to wait at least 14 days after stopping treatment with an MAOI before starting Trintellix. And if you’re stopping your Trintellix treatment, you need to wait at least 21 days before starting an MAOI.
If you’re interested in taking other drugs with Trintellix to treat your depression, or if Trintellix isn’t helping your condition, talk with your doctor.
The Healthline Pharmacist TeamAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts.
All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
What they are and how to manage them
Medically reviewed by Melissa Badowski, PharmD, MPH, FCCP — By Alex Brewer, PharmD, MBA — Updated on May 22, 2022
Trintellix (vortioxetine) is a brand-name prescription medication.
It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. MDD is sometimes called clinical depression.
Trintellix is typically taken long term, as long as you and your doctor determine that the drug is effective for you.
Here are some fast facts on Trintellix:
- Active ingredient: vortioxetine
- Drug class: atypical antidepressant
- Drug form: oral tablet
As with other drugs, Trintellix can cause side effects. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects, so you can compare the pros and cons of using this medication. For a general overview of Trintellix, see this article.
Trintellix can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Trintellix in clinical trials:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
- nausea*
- vomiting
* For more information on this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
Mild side effects can occur with Trintellix use. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, refer to Trintellix’s medication guide.
Mild side effects that have been reported with Trintellix include:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
- vomiting
- dizziness
- nausea*
- itching*
* For more information on this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Trintellix and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.
Trintellix may cause serious side effects, although this is rare. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, including how long Trintellix side effects last, you can refer to Trintellix’s medication guide.
If you develop serious side effects while taking Trintellix, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Note: A missed dose of Trintellix isn’t likely to cause serious side effects. However, you should not stop taking the drug without first talking with your doctor. Suddenly stopping Trintellix can cause serious side effects, including nausea, confusion, and tiredness.
For more information about the dosages for Trintellix, you can see this in-depth article.
Serious side effects and their symptoms
Serious side effects of Trintellix, as well as their symptoms, may include:
- Serotonin syndrome (having too much of the chemical serotonin in your body). Symptoms can include:
- anxiety
- confusion
- diarrhea
- fast heart rate
- irritability
- increased blood pressure
- muscle spasms (involuntary muscle tightening) or tremors (shaking that you can’t control)
- Serious bleeding. Symptoms can include:
- coughing up blood
- severe or uncontrollable bleeding
- stools that look black or red
- urine that’s red, pink, or brown
- vomiting blood, which may look similar to coffee grounds
- Hyponatremia (low blood sodium levels). Symptoms can include:
- confusion
- headache
- trouble concentrating
- weakness
- Sexual side effects.
† - Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults.*
- Withdrawal symptoms.†
- Allergic reaction.†
* Trintellix has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.
† For more information on this side effect, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.
Trintellix may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.
Does Trintellix cause weight gain?
It isn’t likely. In clinical trials of Trintellix, weight gain wasn’t reported as a side effect. Weight gain has been reported by people taking Trintellix since the drug was approved. However, it’s not clear whether Trintellix caused this weight gain.
If you’re concerned about weight gain while taking Trintellix, talk with your doctor.
They can suggest ways to maintain a weight that’s healthy for you.
Is drowsiness a side effect of Trintellix?
Probably not. Drowsiness wasn’t a side effect of Trintellix in clinical trials. The drug also wasn’t reported to cause tiredness or fatigue (lack of energy). There have been reports of sleepiness in some people taking Trintellix since the drug was approved. It’s not known if Trintellix was the cause of this sleepiness.
Additionally, tiredness could possibly be a symptom of withdrawal* if you were to suddenly stop taking Trintellix. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for decreasing your dosage gradually. Doing so can help you avoid withdrawal symptoms.
If you’re concerned about drowsiness while taking Trintellix, talk with your doctor. And always follow your doctor’s dosage recommendations.
* Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can happen when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on. (With dependence, your body needs the drug in order to feel like usual.
)
Should I expect a headache when using Trintellix?
No, headaches aren’t likely. In clinical trials, people who took Trintellix didn’t report this side effect. Since Trintellix was approved, people have reported headaches while taking it. But it’s not clear whether Trintellix caused this side effect.
Headache could possibly be a symptom of withdrawal* if you were to suddenly stop taking Trintellix. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for decreasing your dosage gradually if you stop taking the drug. Doing so can help you avoid withdrawal symptoms.
If you’re concerned about headaches while taking Trintellix, talk with your doctor. They can recommend ways to treat this side effect, which may include using over-the-counter pain relievers.
* Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can happen when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on. (With dependence, your body needs the drug in order to feel like usual.
)
Can using Trintellix cause sweating?
It’s unlikely. Sweating wasn’t reported by people who took Trintellix in clinical trials. But since Trintellix was approved, people have reported sweating while taking it.
And, sweating can be a side effect of several other drugs used to treat major depressive disorder, which Trintellix also treats.
Sweating could be a withdrawal* symptom if you were to suddenly stop taking Trintellix. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for decreasing your dosage gradually if you stop taking this drug. Doing this can help you avoid withdrawal.
Talk with your doctor if you’re concerned about sweating while taking Trintellix.
* Withdrawal occurs when you suddenly stop taking a drug that your body is dependent on. See the “Side effect specifics” section for more information about Trintellix withdrawal symptoms.
Does Trintellix cause any vision-related side effects?
It’s possible, if you already have certain other eye conditions.
But in people without existing eye conditions, Trintellix hasn’t been shown to cause vision-related side effects in clinical trials.
Specifically, in people with narrow angles in their eye, antidepressants such as Trintellix can trigger a condition called angle-closure glaucoma. This condition may also be called closed-angle glaucoma. Symptoms can include:
- changes in vision
- eye pain
- redness or swelling in or around the eye
Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency. If you develop the above symptoms, get medical attention right away. Go to your nearest emergency room or hospital, or talk with an eye doctor as soon as possible.
Before you begin taking Trintellix, your doctor may recommend an eye exam to check if you’re at risk for angle-closure glaucoma. If you’re at risk for this condition, your doctor may prescribe treatment to prevent it from developing while you’re taking Trintellix.
If you notice other vision or eye-related side effects while taking Trintellix, call your doctor.
They can help determine what could be causing these effects.
Note: Other drugs used to treat major depressive disorder may cause blurry vision, such as Zoloft (sertraline).
Learn more about some of the side effects that Trintellix may cause.
Itching
Trintellix may cause generalized itching, which could affect any part of your skin. This was rare during clinical trials.
What you can do
If you experience itching while taking Trintellix, let your doctor know. They may recommend a treatment for this side effect. Or they may have you stop taking Trintellix and try a different medication for your condition.
Sexual side effects
Like other drugs used to treat major depressive disorder, Trintellix can cause sexual side effects. These may include:
- decreased sex drive
- erectile dysfunction
- inability to orgasm or trouble with reaching orgasm
However, sexual side effects were commonly reported in clinical trials of Trintellix.
What you can do
If you experience sexual side effects while taking Trintellix, tell your doctor. They may recommend a treatment to help with this side effect. Or they may recommend that you stop taking Trintellix and try a different medication for your condition.
Nausea
Mild or moderate nausea was the most common side effect of Trintellix in clinical trials.
Nausea is most common during the first week of taking Trintellix, especially during the first day or two of treatment. On average, nausea from Trintellix tends to last about 2 weeks. Very rarely, people have reported nausea that persisted after 6 to 8 weeks of taking Trintellix.
Also, nausea was found to be more common in females than males in clinical trials.* It isn’t known why these differences occurred.
* Sex and gender exist on spectrums. Use of the terms “female” and “male” in this article refer to sex assigned at birth.
What you can do
If you experience nausea while taking Trintellix, your doctor may recommend a treatment for this side effect.
Or they may decide to have you stop taking Trintellix and try a different medication.
Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Trintellix has a boxed warning about risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert patients and doctors about potentially dangerous drug effects.
Antidepressants, including Trintellix, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults. It’s important to note that Trintellix is not approved for use in children. It’s only approved for use in adults ages 18 years and older.
This risk is higher when people first start taking Trintellix, and whenever their Trintellix dosage is adjusted.
What you can do
While taking Trintellix, people should try to be aware of any changes in their thoughts and behaviors. Caregivers and people they spend time with should also watch for any changes.
This is especially important when they first start taking the medication, and whenever the dosage is adjusted.
Tell your doctor about any changes in your thinking or behaviors while taking Trintellix. And if you have thoughts about suicide, get help right away.
Withdrawal symptoms
It’s possible to have withdrawal symptoms if you abruptly stop taking Trintellix. Withdrawal occurs if you suddenly stop taking a drug that your body has become dependent on. Withdrawal symptoms caused by suddenly stopping Trintellix can include:
- anger outbursts
- dizziness
- headache
- mood swings
- muscle tension
- runny nose
What you can do
Talk with your doctor before you stop taking Trintellix. If you and your doctor agree that it’s best for you to stop treatment with Trintellix, they’ll instruct you how to decrease your dosage over time. This lowers your risk for withdrawal symptoms.
People taking 15 milligrams (mg) or 20 mg of Trintellix per day may be at higher risk for withdrawal than people taking lower dosages.
For this reason, your doctor may lower your dosage to 10 mg per day for one week before having you completely stop Trintellix.
Allergic reaction
As with most drugs, Trintellix can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:
- rash or hives
- itching
- flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
- swelling under your skin, typically in your lips, eyelids, feet, or hands
- swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe
What you can do
For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Trintellix. But if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Suicide prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
- Listen to the person without judgment.
- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Click here for more links and local resources.
Below are precautions to consider before taking Trintellix.
Boxed warning: Risk of suicidal thoughts
Trintellix has a boxed warning about risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children and young adults. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.
Other precautions
Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Trintellix.
This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The conditions and factors to consider include:
Bipolar disorder. Treatment with Trintellix may cause mania or hypomania in people with bipolar disorder. You should tell your doctor if you or members of your family currently have bipolar disorder or mania, or have experienced this in the past. If this applies to you, your doctor may monitor you more closely than usual during Trintellix treatment. They may also recommend a different medication to treat your condition.
Bleeding disorder. Trintellix can increase your risk for bleeding. People with an existing bleeding disorder, such as factor VII deficiency, may have an even higher risk of bleeding with Trintellix. Be sure to discuss any bleeding disorders you may have with your doctor before you start taking Trintellix.
Using Trintellix with certain other drugs can increase this risk even more.
If you’re taking warfarin, your doctor will monitor your blood clotting ability. (Warfarin increases the risk of bleeding.) Your doctor will check your blood clotting when you start taking Trintellix, after any dosage changes, and if you stop taking Trintellix.
Certain eye problems. Rarely, antidepressants such as Trintellix can cause a condition called angle-closure glaucoma (also called closed-angle glaucoma) in people with narrow angles in their eye. Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency.
Before you begin taking Trintellix, your doctor may recommend an eye exam to check if you’re at risk for angle-closure glaucoma. If you have narrow angles in your eye, your doctor may prescribe treatment to prevent angle-closure glaucoma while you’re taking Trintellix.
Allergic reaction. You should not take Trintellix if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to Trintellix or any of its ingredients. Talk with your doctor about other treatments that might be better choices for you.
Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). You should not take Trintellix if you’re taking an MAOI to treat a mental health condition. Also, you should not take Trintellix if you are taking the MAOI Zyvox (linezolid), which is an antibiotic. And you should not take Trintellix if you’re receiving the MAOI methylene blue as an intravenous (IV) injection. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you’re taking before starting Trintellix. This includes any MAOIs.
Alcohol use with Trintellix
There aren’t known interactions between Trintellix and alcohol.
However, drinking alcohol may make certain side effects of Trintellix worse, including:
- confusion
- dizziness
- nausea and vomiting
For this reason, talk with your doctor about how much alcohol is safe for you to drink while taking Trintellix.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Trintellix
It’s not known if Trintellix is safe to take during pregnancy.
Your doctor can discuss the risks and benefits of Trintellix use during pregnancy with you. If you use Trintellix while pregnant, there is a pregnancy registry that collects information about antidepressant use during pregnancy. Your doctor can provide more information about this registry.
It’s also not known whether it’s safe to breastfeed while taking Trintellix. This is because it isn’t known whether the drug may pass into breast milk. Talk with your doctor about safe ways to feed your child while taking Trintellix.
Although you may experience side effects while taking Trintellix, they’re not common, and are usually mild. Most mild side effects of the drug go away with time and don’t require medical attention.
You should talk with your doctor if you experience symptoms of serious side effects, including:
- suicidal thoughts and behaviors*
- allergic reaction
- serotonin syndrome (having too much of the chemical serotonin in your body)
- serious bleeding
- hyponatremia (low blood sodium levels)
- withdrawal symptoms (which can occur if you suddenly stop taking Trintellix)
These side effects could be serious and require medical attention.
You should also talk with your doctor if you become pregnant while taking Trintellix.
If you’d like to learn more about Trintellix, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects from taking the drug.
Note: For more information on major depressive disorder, see our mental health hub and our list of depression articles.
* Trintellix has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication.
The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
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Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
Throw away the check immediately after buying Brintellix, otherwise another wave of depression will overtake you, because you will see the price of this drug! I do not argue, it is effective, restores mental health, but damn it, why is it so expensive?
Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
Brintellix - slightly yellow Danish-made tablets, belong to antidepressants and are prescribed for people with an unstable psyche.
After my mother's funeral, my sister struggled with me for a long time, but then she simply took me to the hospital. Now I have almost finished the course of these pills.
Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
After giving birth, instead of the joy of motherhood, something incomprehensible began to happen to me: panic, anxiety, gloomy thoughts, apathy. The hospital was diagnosed with neurosis. I took pills for 3 months, only now I started to look at the world in colors, I had a desire to do something, I’m even thinking about a second education while I’m on maternity leave.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
The pills did a good job of helping me clean up my head when I was depressed. But I had a strong salivation, a constant feeling of hunger, sometimes for no reason, the pressure dropped. So I would not risk taking the drug without a doctor's prescription.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
When I was admitted to the hospital with mixed anxiety-depressive disorder, affective disorder within bipolar and borderline personality disorder, I took these pills along with other drugs, then continued to drink them at home.
Some of the problems passed by the end of the first month, anxiety - the third month of admission.
Brintellix tablets 5 mg 28 pcs.
The tablets were prescribed by a doctor, because after the illness, thoughts of suicide constantly visited, depression began. I took a course for 3 months, the improvement was noticed not only by the doctor and I, but also by my close circle. Now I do not take the drug, I go to see a psychotherapist once every two weeks.
Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
I have never met with depression before, and my relatives were not prone to such conditions either. But when, against the backdrop of complete quarantine, I lost my job, I felt all its “charms” on myself: apathy, anhedonia, anergy. In a word - a vegetable, without energy, thoughts and any desires. The medicine was prescribed by a psychotherapist. The treatment lasted 4 months, now everything, thank God, has passed.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
It's like a joke to me, even though it wasn't funny at first.
It all started with panic attacks, a constant feeling of anxiety (as if something very bad was about to happen). The drug helped me cope with these symptoms, but had a bad effect on the gastrointestinal tract (nausea, upset). After the end of the course, everything went away.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
I quickly got back to normal thanks to Brintellix, I already thought that I would go straight out of depression into a binge. The drug helps well, does not cause inhibition or drowsiness, works clearly and to the point. I drank once a day, 10 mg.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
Brintellix 10 mg tablets was prescribed to me by a psychotherapist to help get rid of increased anxiety and, as a result, IBS. Anxiety states began to visit less and less, and their intensity was manifested less and less. By the end of the course, I felt much better.
Brintellix tablets 5 mg 28 pcs.
These pills didn't work for me at all. Added to my depression was a constant feeling of tiredness and lack of sleep.
I could sleep for days, but I didn’t get enough sleep anyway. Also, different nonsense constantly dreamed.
Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
I often get nervous with or without cause. This is bad for health. And although I try to react less emotionally to everything that happens, it does not always work out. So take these pills.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
I have been taking the drug for two months already, I have not yet got rid of depression, but my mood has stabilized. In parallel, she worked with a psychotherapist. I've taken other medications in the past and had a lot of side effects.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
My diagnosis is an anxiety disorder, the doctor prescribed this drug. After two months I felt better, but the doctor insisted that I complete the entire course. But not without a drop of tar, half an hour after taking the pill, I began to feel sick. I began to take them immediately before bedtime, I no longer felt nausea.
Brintellix tablets 5 mg 28 pcs.
I broke up with a young man, graters began at work, because of this I stopped sleeping and eating normally. In general, I had to look for support, which turned out to be this drug. I took it for more than 4 months, the condition stabilized, after another month life began to acquire colors.
Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
I entered into a depression by negligence. A year ago, I had the same state of apathy: nobody and nothing interests me. In general, there is no interest in life. I was on another medication at the time, but there were side effects. From these pills in just two weeks I wanted to do something.
Brintellix tablets 5 mg 28 pcs.
I had to take a course of brintellix because, against the backdrop of life's problems, I developed persistent depression and even had suicidal thoughts. The doctor prescribed "weak" tablets of all forms of release, but that was enough for me.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
After severe stress, sleep worsened. For two days she could not sleep, then fall into half-asleep. There was no proper sleep. This began to affect the general condition of the body. My husband almost took me by force to the doctor, who prescribed me Brintellix tablets at a dosage of 10 mg. Sleep improved markedly by the third week of admission. The maximum effect came after 12-14 weeks.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
Somehow I noticed that I began to delve too deeply into any problems and look for some additional catch in them. I thought about them at home, at work, everywhere. If I found a solution, I immediately noticed another problem .. and so constantly - some kind of vicious circle. In addition, he began to sleep poorly, his appetite worsened. The doctor gave me these pills. They improved my condition, but without the help of a psychiatrist, they could not do
Brintellix tablets 5 mg 28 pcs.
Irritability, nervousness, sudden mood swings made me turn to a neurologist, because my mood directly affected my family and friends.
The doctor prescribed these pills for me, there was no immediate effect, but after a month I was a little let down. The maximum effect came after 3 months of admission.
Brintellix tablets 20 mg 28 pcs.
Depression is a serious and long-term illness. For three days, you can’t get rid of it, like with acute respiratory infections. The doctor prescribed these pills for me, took them for more than two months and was very worried that addiction would not arise. But to my joy, the depression left me, and the refusal of the drug was completely painless.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
A good drug for depressive states in an advanced stage. After a couple of weeks of admission, interest in life returned, it became more fun at heart. The only downside is that you can buy it only with a prescription and nothing else, and getting to the doctors at the present time is difficult.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
This drug helped me to smile again and see the world in a new way.
I took 1 tablet before meals for 12 weeks, my friends did not even immediately recognize me in the smiling girl when they saw me on the street.
Brintellix tablets 10 mg 28 pcs.
When the panic attacks started, it really interfered with my work. At first they were caused by stressful situations, but then they began to appear more and more often, they began to cover the whole body. The doctor advised these pills in parallel with psychotherapy. After 2 months it became easier, the full course - 3 months. The only negative is that it causes drowsiness.
Brintellix tablets 5 mg 28 pcs.
When problems both at work and in my personal life piled up at the same time, I almost broke down: I went into a deep depression. There are no more goals in life, the look is extinct - in a word, a zombie. When a friend came to visit me and saw that I had even stopped cleaning, she pulled me to the doctor. He prescribed Brintellix for me. I noticed the first glimpses in two or three weeks.
Fully recovered in 3 months.
- Reviews about Brintellix
- Should I buy Brintellix?
- 25 customer reviews for Brintellix Megapteka.ru
What you should know about antidepressants
Ekaterina Kushnir
treats anxiety disorder
I have generalized anxiety disorder.
For a long time I coped without pills and other help, but one day I got tired of constant anxiety and began to interfere with my normal life. As a result, I turned to a private psychiatrist.
The doctor prescribed an antidepressant from the SSRI group - these are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Such drugs are the first thing prescribed in the treatment of depression and a number of other conditions, including my disease.
The doctor immediately warned me about some peculiarities associated with taking the drug. Some of them I then felt on myself. I think everyone who plans to be treated with antidepressants should know about them.
At the same time, it should be taken into account that most of the negative effects of therapy are temporary and not dangerous, and if they do not go away, one medicine can be replaced with another. Antidepressants help many people with mental disorders and other illnesses get rid of their symptoms and return to a full life, so you definitely should not be afraid of them. The main thing is to take such drugs when they are really needed: as prescribed by a competent doctor and under his control.
See a doctor
Our articles are written with love for evidence-based medicine. We refer to authoritative sources and go to doctors with a good reputation for comments. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We don't write prescriptions, we make recommendations. Relying on our point of view or not is up to you.
Fact No. 1
Antidepressants may make symptoms worse at first Antidepressants can increase anxiety in anxiety disorders, as well as cause irritability and agitation - the so-called causeless motor agitation, the inability to sit still.
It's not dangerous, but rather unpleasant. This condition is sometimes referred to as initial anxiety, that is, the anxiety of starting therapy. Up to 65% of people face it.
Antidepressant-induced anxiety syndrome - a systematic review in the British Journal of Psychiatry
There is also evidence that some classes of antidepressants, including SSRIs, may increase suicidal ideation in depression in young people aged 18 to 24 years. These data are not very reliable, and in older people, the risk of suicide no longer increases and even decreases.
Without treatment, depression is more likely to lead to suicidal thoughts, and in case of anxiety, you just need to prepare for such an effect, then it will be easier to survive the attacks.
The doctor told me that in the first two or three weeks there may be an increase in anxiety, but I did not take it too seriously.
Everything was fine for the first week. After about seven days, I became nervous and irritable.
And then I woke up at night and after a while I felt an incomprehensible fear. My heartbeat increased, my head was spinning, my throat was constricted. Because of this, I felt a real panic - I spent the rest of the night fighting terrible thoughts, in the morning I got up completely broken.
/list/antidepressant-myths/
8 myths about antidepressants
I have never had such panic attacks before medication - my anxiety was background, general. I got scared and wrote to the doctor, who reassured me and said that it was not dangerous and would pass soon.
After that, I already expected these panic attacks, immediately tried to relax, calm down, remember that this was just a temporary effect of the drugs. And they ended faster, and then they completely disappeared.
My letter to a psychiatrist. I was scared: I expected an increase in background anxiety, but not panic attacks. I even thought about giving up the medicine Fact No.
2
Increase the dose of antidepressants gradually to reduce side effects. They usually start with the minimum, and then bring it up to the working one. For example, for SSRIs with the active ingredient "sertraline", the working dose is from 100 mg per day. I started taking such a drug with 25 mg, and then gradually, in several steps, under the supervision of a doctor, raised the dose to 100 mg.
SSRI dosage - NHS
What doses of antidepressants will be optimal - an article in The Lancet
The process of reaching a working dose can take from two weeks to a month or more. It depends on the drug and its tolerance. I turned out to be sensitive to the medicine, it was hard for me to survive every increase in dosage: anxiety increased again, there were other side effects that then stopped. However, this is not the case for everyone, sometimes the process goes faster.
The full therapeutic effect, that is, the disappearance or a strong improvement in the symptoms of the disease, occurs some time after reaching the working dosage.
As a rule, this is a week or two, although some positive changes may be earlier. For some people, this process stretches for a longer period: 6-12 weeks. Minimum initial doses of drugs usually do not work.
It is better to prepare for the fact that the symptoms of the disease will not disappear in the first weeks of treatment. And remember - this does not always mean that the drug needs to be changed, sometimes you just need to wait or further increase the dosage under the supervision of a doctor.
Fact No. 3
Antidepressants are usually taken in combination with other drugsAnother way to mitigate the side effects of antidepressants is to prescribe an additional drug along with them: for example, from the group of tranquilizers. Such drugs may have their own side effects, they should not be taken for a long time. Unlike antidepressants, some of them can be addictive. They are usually appointed for a month, but this period may be shorter or longer.
Antidepressants together with benzodiazepines work better for depression - BMJ magazine
My doctor prescribed a rather mild drug for me.
However, he did not suit me. At first, it caused increased drowsiness: during the period of increased anxiety, it went away for a while, but then returned - even with half a pill I turned off and could sleep all day. And if I drank at night, I woke up with difficulty in the morning. The psychiatrist prescribed another medicine, but I could not buy it: the drug was not available in any pharmacy nearby.
As a result, I simply endured all the side effects of therapy - they were unpleasant, but tolerable. When discussing with the doctor, she called this option acceptable if the side effects of the second medicine only worsen the situation.
My prescriptions for drugs. I never used one, because there was no such medicine in pharmaciesFact No. 4
Side effects are not always, but they are Modern antidepressants, including SSRIs, are mild and have almost no side effects. Older drugs - tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors - cause more side effects.
Doctors usually use them when milder first-line drugs don't work or when they can't be prescribed.
Side effects of antidepressants - the National Health Service of the UK
Side effects of various antidepressants - Uptodate
Side effects of antidepressants and their impact on the treatment of a large depressive disorder - the journal NATURE
STRICTIC STRICTION OF REDICAL
. effects of antidepressants - advice from the Mayo Clinic staff
Choosing an SSRI drug does not guarantee the absence of side effects - many people tolerate treatment easily, but sometimes a change in drug may be necessary.
The first couple of weeks of taking there is a risk that the state of health will be so-so - it's worth thinking about. It may be worth scheduling the start of therapy on vacation.
I work remotely, and it was easier for me: the first pill was taken on Saturday, I slept through the weekend. Then she continued to work, but refused any additional loads: housework, part-time jobs, training and everything else.
It was hard work: I wanted to sleep, then I began to worry and get distracted. I also had diarrhea, nausea, headaches, tremors, i.e. hand trembling, hot flashes, sweating, palpitations. At night, panic attacks began, in the morning I had difficulty getting up because I was in pain and dizzy.
There are mixed data on how common the side effects of antidepressants are. If we summarize them, then the numbers look something like this:
- nausea - about 25% feel it;
- diarrhea - it happens in 15% of people, and 5%, on the contrary, will have constipation;
- about 20% of people experience sweating and feeling hot;
- sexual dysfunction, decreased libido may occur in 80% of cases;
- insomnia - in 11% of cases;
- headache and dizziness - in about 10-11% of cases;
- weight gain - not all drugs give this effect.
Some, on the contrary, can reduce weight. On my medicine, I lost 2 kilograms in the first month, despite the fact that I quit training due to poor health. True, then they returned back.
It can be seen that most side effects occur in less than half of the cases. In addition, in most cases they pass in the first weeks and are not dangerous.
Side effects not listed above are very rare. I was "lucky", and I faced one such - a decrease in visual acuity. Once in the morning I noticed that I see worse without glasses. A little later, I realized that something was wrong with the glasses.
I wrote to the doctor, she replied that this happens, as a rule, is not dangerous and passes, but it is better to visit an ophthalmologist. I went to the ophthalmologist, everything was fine with my eyes, there was nothing terrible, but my vision really worsened - it was not a subjective feeling. On the right eye, it was -0.5 diopters, it became -0.75, and on the left eye it was -1.
5, and it became -3.5.
I was offered to try changing the drug, but I decided to wait. Vision was then restored. I have not yet gone to the doctor to have it measured, but according to subjective feelings, it is at the same level as before: I am comfortable again in my glasses.
Side effects should not be tolerated - if something greatly worries, scares or interferes with life, it is better to tell the doctor right away. The psychiatrist will be able to determine whether the side effect of the drug is dangerous and whether it is worth continuing to take it. There are several antidepressants of the SSRI group, in addition, there are groups of drugs with a slightly different mechanism of action. As a rule, doctors manage to find a medicine that gives a good effect without side effects.
If there is no danger, the doctor can adjust the dose or increase it more gradually - this often helps to cope with unpleasant effects.
I wrote to the doctor again when my visual acuity decreased Fact No.
5
Antidepressants are not drugs that you can stop drinking as soon as you get better. They are taken for a long time: usually from several months, less often several years.
Anxiety Therapy - UpToDate
For example, for generalized anxiety disorder, the duration of treatment is at least a year. Moreover, the date is not counted from the very beginning, but from the moment when a lasting effect appeared from the pills. In fact, they will have to be drunk for about 1.5 years - it depends on how long it takes to reach the working dosage of the medicine.
The cost of a package of the most famous antidepressant "Zoloft" is about 700 R, enough for about a month. That is, a course of therapy will cost about 10,000 R - maybe more or less, depending on which drug is selected.
Psychotherapy review - UpToDate
Another drug of the same group already costs more than 2000 R per pack. Source: rigla.ru The cost of an appointment with a good psychiatrist in Moscow is 3000-5000 R.
At first, you will need to visit him about once every 1-1.5 months, then less often.
You can apply to the psycho-neurological dispensary at the place of residence under compulsory medical insurance - it's free. At the same time, they will not put you on psychiatric registration: it was canceled in 1993. People with disorders that do not threaten their lives or those around them are on consultative and diagnostic care. If you stop going to the doctor, he will not find out what happened: a person seeks help at will.
Psychotherapy, usually cognitive-behavioral, is also commonly prescribed to enhance and sustain the effects of antidepressants. In many cases, it improves the effectiveness of drugs, including depression and generalized anxiety disorder. An appointment with a psychotherapist in Moscow costs an average of 5000 R. For treatment, you will need about 10 sessions or more.
/psychotherapy/
How psychotherapy works
Fact No.
6
Antidepressants do not develop dependence. However, if you abruptly stop drinking them, there will be a withdrawal syndrome. This is felt as electric current discharges while moving or turning the head, headaches, dizziness, insomnia. Many people experience symptoms similar to the flu or an intestinal virus: low fever, diarrhea, general malaise, chills. Often there is anxiety, there are intrusive images.
Withdrawal symptoms after taking serotonin reuptake inhibitors - Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
How difficult it is to stop taking antidepressants - American Psychological Association
Stopping antidepressants in adults - UpToDate
If you for some reason have stopped taking your pills treatment, they should be canceled only under the supervision of a doctor.
Antidepressant withdrawal occurs as gradually as the start of treatment. The dosage is slowly reduced, usually at this time again a cover-up drug is prescribed to alleviate side effects.
As a rule, this is the same medicine that was at the beginning of the intake.
Withdrawal is usually harmless and resolves within the first weeks of stopping the drug. Sometimes even within a few days - it still depends on which medicine was prescribed. If severely disturbing symptoms appear during the withdrawal period, you should consult a doctor.
Fact No. 7
If you need to change the drug, everything will start overIt is far from always possible to immediately find the right antidepressant - sometimes the side effects do not go away and you need to take a new one.
Changing antidepressants in adults - UpToDate
Serotonin syndrome - MSD
Most often, it is started again with a small dosage, this delays the process of obtaining the effect of treatment. The new drug may also have side effects - the same or different. We will have to wait again until they pass.
You won't be able to change the drug on your own, since all antidepressants are sold only by prescription - and that's good.
Switching from one drug to another can be dangerous if you do not know the characteristics of different groups of drugs.
For example, taking SSRIs is possible only some time after the withdrawal of antidepressants from the group of monoamine oxidase inhibitors - due to the risk of developing serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially fatal condition, accompanied by a change in mental state, high fever, increased muscle tone and other symptoms.
If the drug is changed correctly, there will be no dangerous negative effects, so consultation with a doctor is required.
/psychotherapy-search/
How to choose a psychotherapist
Fact No. 8
Among antidepressants there are original drugs and generics Preparations may be original or generic. Originals are medicines first released by some pharmaceutical company that have passed all clinical trials and checks. Generics are drugs with the same active ingredient from another pharmaceutical company, that is, copied from the original drug.
Theoretically, the action of generics should not differ from the action of original drugs. However, this is possible, since generics may contain other additional substances or the manufacturer may use other raw materials.
Due to my anxiety, I did not read anything in detail about specific drugs before I bought my first antidepressant in a pharmacy so as not to be scared and not think about taking it. I also didn’t think to ask the doctor about this question.
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Psychoneurological complications after covid: memory problems and depression
As a result, I first bought a generic because it was in stock. Then it turned out that, after all, according to the experience of my psychiatrist, the original drug often gives fewer side effects and is better tolerated. As a result, I changed the generic to the original drug - and, indeed, the side effects softened.
In my subjective opinion, which is supported by some data, in the case of antidepressants and other psychotropic drugs, you should always choose the original medicine.
Moreover, the cost of originals and generics is not always very different.
Originals and generics of some SSRIs
| Active ingredient | Original | Original price | Generics | Cost of generics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sertraline | Zoloft | About 700 R, 100 mg tablets | Serenata, Sirlift | 500-600 R, 100 mg tablets |
| Escitalopram | Cipralex | 3000 R, tablets 10 mg | "Selektra", "Elycea" | 500-1300 R 10 mg tablets |
| Fluoxetine | Prozac | About 350 R, 20 mg tablets | Profluzak, Fluoxetine | 100-200 R, tablets 20 mg |
CERTRALIN
Original
"Zoloft"
Original cost of the original
about 700 r, tablets 100 mg
Generies
"Serenata", "Cerelift"
The cost of generies
9000 500-600 r.
, tablets 100 mg Escitalopram
Original
Cipralex
Original price
3000 r, tablets 10 mg
generics
“Checkra”, “Elice”
Cost of generics
500-1300 r, tablets 10 mg
Flioxetin
Original
Prosak
Cost cost cost
9000 originalAbout 350 R, tablets 20 mg
Generics
Profluzak, Fluoxetine
Cost of generics
100—200 R, tablets 20 mg
one remained unclaimedFact No. 9
Do not take alcohol along with antidepressantsDrinking alcohol while taking antidepressants may exacerbate unpleasant side effects. Also, alcohol is a depressant, that is, it has the opposite effect, and its intake can adversely affect the results of treatment.
Why you shouldn't mix antidepressants and alcohol - Mayo Clinic
Alcohol is strictly forbidden to drink with some groups of antidepressants, for example, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors: combination with the latter, for example, can lead to an uncontrolled increase in pressure.
MAO inhibitors in general require a special diet - it is unlikely that a doctor will prescribe such drugs as the first antidepressants, but if necessary, he will issue a list of what is allowed and prohibited.
With other antidepressants, moderate use may not be dangerous and may even pass without consequences, but doctors still recommend abstaining so as not to increase side effects and improve treatment outcome.
The main thing is not to temporarily stop taking the drug in order to drink. This can lead to the development of a withdrawal syndrome.
/trevoga/
How I Treated Generalized Anxiety Disorder under CHI
Fact No. 10
Antidepressants are incompatible with certain drugs and have contraindications It is important to tell your doctor what medications you are taking and what chronic illnesses you have. For example, SSRIs may not be suitable for epilepsy and bleeding disorders, and tricyclic antidepressants are usually not prescribed for those who have recently had a heart attack, suffer from glaucoma, or porphyria.
