Fetzima for anxiety


Dosage, Side Effects, Uses, and More I Psych Central

Fetzima has a boxed warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This risk may be highest for children, teenagers, and young adults who take an antidepressant such as Fetzima. The boxed warning appears on the drug’s label and alerts you to possible serious risks.

For details, you can see “Side effects: A closer look” in the “Does Fetzima have side effects?” section below.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, your healthcare or mental health professional may recommend taking an antidepressant medication called Fetzima.

Also known by its generic name of levomilnacipran, Fetzima has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat major depressive disorder (MDD).

It helps relieve symptoms of depression by working in the brain to block the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, chemicals in the brain that may play a role in mood.

Living with major depressive disorder can be overwhelming, but with the right treatment plan, an estimated 70%-80% of those affected can see an improvement in their symptoms.

Medications like this may be a part of your treatment plan, but is Fetzima a good antidepressant? Read on to learn more.

Experiencing some side effects while taking antidepressants is common, but there are ways to cope with them, beginning with knowing what they are.

Common side effects

Some of the common side effects of Fetzima include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • increase in blood pressure
  • constipation
  • sweating
  • fast heart rate
  • palpitations
  • problems urinating
  • low appetite
  • erectile dysfunction

Serious side effects

Since Fetzima directly impacts your serotonin levels, there’s a chance of experiencing serotonin syndrome while taking this medication. When this occurs, your symptoms may be mild or severe.

Common signs to look for and report to your doctor include:

  • Involuntary muscle contractions: You see your muscles contract in a pattern at places such as the arm or ankle, occurring independently or with agitation, fever, and excessive sweating.
  • Tremors: You’ll begin to shake or may even start to twitch or experience a higher degree of natural reflexes.
  • Muscle stiffness: Not only will your muscles contract, but they can also become very stiff and difficult to move.

Serotonin syndrome is often mild and quickly resolved by stopping your medication, but suddenly stopping your medication may cause withdrawal symptoms. Speaking with your doctor first can prevent any unwanted side effects.

Boxed warning

Fetzima has a boxed warning from the FDA. This warning appears on the medication’s label and alerts you to possible serious side effects.

Similar to other antidepressants, Fetzima can increase the chance of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This chance is higher for children, teenagers, and adults who are 24 years or younger.

Regardless of your age, try to be aware of any unusual behavior changes or if symptoms begin to get worse, especially during the first few months of taking the medication.

Some symptoms to be on the lookout for include:

  • anxiety
  • feelings of agitation, irritability, or restlessness
  • aggressive behavior
  • insomnia (trouble sleeping)
  • thoughts of harming yourself

If you notice any changes in behavior or begin to experience any of the above symptoms, reaching out to your doctor immediately is crucial.

Fetzima is often taken once a day, either with or without food. But if you experience nausea, try taking the medication with food to help.

The medication comes in extended-release capsules, which slowly release the medication into your body over time.

Doses can range from 20 to 120 mg. You may begin with a lower dose of 20 mg and gradually increase after only a few days.

Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and decide how much of the medication is needed as you go.

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about taking Fetzima:

Is Fetzima good for anxiety?

While depression doesn’t cause anxiety, many people experience both conditions at the same time.

Research from 2017 suggests that Fetzima can help improve anxiety symptoms and other related feelings such as agitation and sensitivity.

Is Fetzima a stimulant?

Fetzima is not a stimulant but it can improve your mood by affecting the same neurotransmitters in the brain as a stimulant.

But taking a stimulant and antidepressant such as Fetzima isn’t recommended because it can make your symptoms of depression worse.

How does Fetzima make you feel?

If effective, Fetzima can improve symptoms of depression such as sadness, negative thoughts, and lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

If you’re pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, speaking with a healthcare professional first is crucial to help manage any potential side effects.

There are risks and benefits of taking some antidepressants while pregnant. For example, some may increase the chance of developmental issues.

Taking this medication during your third trimester of pregnancy may also increase your chances of bleeding after delivery and may impact your baby.

Untreated depression may also have negative side effects, according to research from 2014. This can include:

  • a chance of low birth weight
  • prematurity
  • poor growth in the womb, or intrauterine growth restriction
  • childhood developmental delays

According to a 2018 review, experts need more long-term study information to determine the safety of Fetzima in pregnancy and for nursing birth parents.

If you took or are taking Fetzima while pregnant, consider registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants. This registry collects information on the safety of these medications during pregnancy to help further research and studies.

Fetzima is as effective as other antidepressants but may cause more side effects than other antidepressants.

Remember that everyone responds differently to medication, so it’s OK to be optimistic while understanding other antidepressants may work better for you.

Here’s a look at how Fetzima compares with other common antidepressants.

Fetzima vs. Cymbalta

Both Fetzima and Cymbalta (generic name: duloxetine) belong to a group of antidepressants called serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). But they differ in how they work and their strength.

Your brain can experience an imbalanced level of chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to major depressive disorder. That’s where antidepressants can help.

SNRIs prevent serotonin and norepinephrine levels from being uneven, but Fetzima focuses more on balancing norepinephrine than serotonin. So, it may take a lower dose of Fetzima to help improve the brain’s chemical imbalances seen in MDD than other SNRIs such as Cymbalta.

Fetzima vs. Pristiq

Pristiq (generic name: desvenlafaxine) is another SNRI often prescribed for MDD.

Both are similar in the way they work and have the same side effects. Both medications have a high potency, which may cause more serious side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

Fetzima vs. Effexor

Like Pristiq, Effexor (generic name: venlafaxine) is another SNRI that treats depression. Effexor binds itself to more blood proteins and that slows its ability to reach areas of the brain and body as fast as Fetzima.

This causes more side effects since Fetzima can spread more quickly throughout your body.

Suddenly stopping an antidepressant such as Fetzima can cause symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms can be similar to what you experienced before you started the medication.

Common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • irritability
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • disturbing dreams
  • headaches
  • tingling of the skin
  • irregular heartbeat
  • insomnia
  • restlessness
  • agitation
  • flu-like symptoms
  • ringing in the ears
  • low blood pressure

Even if you feel better, consider reaching out to your doctor before stopping any medication. Speaking with your doctor can help minimize the chance of experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

The FDA approved Fetzima only for the treatment of MDD. Fatigue is a common symptom of MDD.

Research suggests that Fetzima can help ease this symptom when other SNRIs can’t.

A recent study highlights that nearly 90% of people diagnosed with depression report the following affecting their ability to function normally:

  • lack of motivation
  • low energy
  • low mood
  • fatigue
  • anxiety
  • tension
  • nervousness
  • trouble concentrating
  • memory impairment
  • irritability and anger

Fetzima works to improve your functional ability, so you can get back to enjoying life again.

It’s important to take Fetzima as directed by your medical professional. Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to serious side effects.

Symptoms of an overdose can include:

  • seizures
  • nausea and vomiting
  • increased heart rate
  • tiredness

If you believe you’ve taken too much Fetzima, call your medical professional right away. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222.

If your symptoms are severe, call 911 immediately or visit the nearest emergency room.

The cost of Fetzima is dependent on several factors:

  • Your health insurance: Different health plans offer copay and deductible schedules for prescription medications.
  • Your pharmacy: The pharmacy you use can affect the price of your prescription.
  • Your prescription: You may request the generic version of Fetzima to help lower your out-of-pocket costs, and your insurance or pharmacy may automatically request the generic in some cases.

GoodRx.com offers the ability to compare drug prices and find coupons. You may also check the manufacturer’s website for more information about costs and other savings options.

It’s crucial to be mindful of the medication’s effects on your body and how any other substances can lead to dangerous consequences.

For example, drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs may worsen symptoms and increase side effects such as sedation.

Living with MDD requires consistent communication with your healthcare professional and the support of loved ones.

If you think you may have major depressive disorder, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can examine you and determine whether any underlying conditions may be the cause of your symptoms.

They can also refer you to a mental health professional who can perform a more thorough psychological evaluation to determine if you’re experiencing major depressive disorder.

Once a diagnosis is made, regular visits will likely be required to monitor your symptoms and adjust care as needed.

Treatment for major depressive disorder typically involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) notes that while both medication and therapy can be used alone to ease symptoms of MDD, a combined approach is often the best option.

Several therapy options may help, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most widely used. It involves learning to identify negative thought patterns, then reframing and redirecting these thoughts to shift your mindset.

Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, avoiding the misuse of substances, and prioritizing a good sleep routine can help keep your body and mind healthy.

Consider speaking with your loved ones and letting them know what you’re going through. You can have a much better outlook when you let them be a part of your treatment and recovery.

Fetzima, also known by its generic name levomilnacipran, is an antidepressant belonging to the SNRIs class of medications. It’s FDA approved to treat symptoms of major depressive disorder.

When taking this medication, try to watch out for certain side effects such as nausea, constipation, and a fast heart rate. Even if you start to feel better, consider speaking with a healthcare or mental health professional before stopping any medication. Slowly tapering off your dosage can help minimize any unwanted effects.

Fetzima fares well as a medication that can relieve your symptoms of depression but may cause more side effects than other antidepressants.

But everyone responds differently to medications, so try to maintain regular visits with your doctor while taking the medication to ensure its effectiveness.

Living with major depressive disorder is challenging and there’s no cure for the condition. But with medication and the proper support and therapy, you can learn to manage your symptoms.

Talking with people who are having similar experiences can be helpful. You can find some great online depression support groups to help.

If you’re not sure where to start, you can check out Psych Central’s hub on finding mental health support.

Suicide prevention

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, you’re not alone. Help is available right now:

  • Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24 hours a day at 800-273-8255.
  • Text “HOME” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
  • The Trevor Project provides crisis support for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Call their hotline at 866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678.
  • Contact the teen-to-teen peer hotline, Teen Line, at 800-852-8336 or text TEEN to 839863.

Not in the U.S.? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.

Disclaimer: Psych Central has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. But this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare or mental health 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.

Dosage, Side Effects, Uses, and More I Psych Central

Fetzima has a boxed warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This risk may be highest for children, teenagers, and young adults who take an antidepressant such as Fetzima. The boxed warning appears on the drug’s label and alerts you to possible serious risks.

For details, you can see “Side effects: A closer look” in the “Does Fetzima have side effects?” section below.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, your healthcare or mental health professional may recommend taking an antidepressant medication called Fetzima.

Also known by its generic name of levomilnacipran, Fetzima has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat major depressive disorder (MDD).

It helps relieve symptoms of depression by working in the brain to block the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, chemicals in the brain that may play a role in mood.

Living with major depressive disorder can be overwhelming, but with the right treatment plan, an estimated 70%-80% of those affected can see an improvement in their symptoms.

Medications like this may be a part of your treatment plan, but is Fetzima a good antidepressant? Read on to learn more.

Experiencing some side effects while taking antidepressants is common, but there are ways to cope with them, beginning with knowing what they are.

Common side effects

Some of the common side effects of Fetzima include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • increase in blood pressure
  • constipation
  • sweating
  • fast heart rate
  • palpitations
  • problems urinating
  • low appetite
  • erectile dysfunction

Serious side effects

Since Fetzima directly impacts your serotonin levels, there’s a chance of experiencing serotonin syndrome while taking this medication. When this occurs, your symptoms may be mild or severe.

Common signs to look for and report to your doctor include:

  • Involuntary muscle contractions: You see your muscles contract in a pattern at places such as the arm or ankle, occurring independently or with agitation, fever, and excessive sweating.
  • Tremors: You’ll begin to shake or may even start to twitch or experience a higher degree of natural reflexes.
  • Muscle stiffness: Not only will your muscles contract, but they can also become very stiff and difficult to move.

Serotonin syndrome is often mild and quickly resolved by stopping your medication, but suddenly stopping your medication may cause withdrawal symptoms. Speaking with your doctor first can prevent any unwanted side effects.

Boxed warning

Fetzima has a boxed warning from the FDA. This warning appears on the medication’s label and alerts you to possible serious side effects.

Similar to other antidepressants, Fetzima can increase the chance of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This chance is higher for children, teenagers, and adults who are 24 years or younger.

Regardless of your age, try to be aware of any unusual behavior changes or if symptoms begin to get worse, especially during the first few months of taking the medication.

Some symptoms to be on the lookout for include:

  • anxiety
  • feelings of agitation, irritability, or restlessness
  • aggressive behavior
  • insomnia (trouble sleeping)
  • thoughts of harming yourself

If you notice any changes in behavior or begin to experience any of the above symptoms, reaching out to your doctor immediately is crucial.

Fetzima is often taken once a day, either with or without food. But if you experience nausea, try taking the medication with food to help.

The medication comes in extended-release capsules, which slowly release the medication into your body over time.

Doses can range from 20 to 120 mg. You may begin with a lower dose of 20 mg and gradually increase after only a few days.

Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and decide how much of the medication is needed as you go.

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about taking Fetzima:

Is Fetzima good for anxiety?

While depression doesn’t cause anxiety, many people experience both conditions at the same time.

Research from 2017 suggests that Fetzima can help improve anxiety symptoms and other related feelings such as agitation and sensitivity.

Is Fetzima a stimulant?

Fetzima is not a stimulant but it can improve your mood by affecting the same neurotransmitters in the brain as a stimulant.

But taking a stimulant and antidepressant such as Fetzima isn’t recommended because it can make your symptoms of depression worse.

How does Fetzima make you feel?

If effective, Fetzima can improve symptoms of depression such as sadness, negative thoughts, and lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

If you’re pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, speaking with a healthcare professional first is crucial to help manage any potential side effects.

There are risks and benefits of taking some antidepressants while pregnant. For example, some may increase the chance of developmental issues.

Taking this medication during your third trimester of pregnancy may also increase your chances of bleeding after delivery and may impact your baby.

Untreated depression may also have negative side effects, according to research from 2014. This can include:

  • a chance of low birth weight
  • prematurity
  • poor growth in the womb, or intrauterine growth restriction
  • childhood developmental delays

According to a 2018 review, experts need more long-term study information to determine the safety of Fetzima in pregnancy and for nursing birth parents.

If you took or are taking Fetzima while pregnant, consider registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants. This registry collects information on the safety of these medications during pregnancy to help further research and studies.

Fetzima is as effective as other antidepressants but may cause more side effects than other antidepressants.

Remember that everyone responds differently to medication, so it’s OK to be optimistic while understanding other antidepressants may work better for you.

Here’s a look at how Fetzima compares with other common antidepressants.

Fetzima vs. Cymbalta

Both Fetzima and Cymbalta (generic name: duloxetine) belong to a group of antidepressants called serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). But they differ in how they work and their strength.

Your brain can experience an imbalanced level of chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to major depressive disorder. That’s where antidepressants can help.

SNRIs prevent serotonin and norepinephrine levels from being uneven, but Fetzima focuses more on balancing norepinephrine than serotonin. So, it may take a lower dose of Fetzima to help improve the brain’s chemical imbalances seen in MDD than other SNRIs such as Cymbalta.

Fetzima vs. Pristiq

Pristiq (generic name: desvenlafaxine) is another SNRI often prescribed for MDD.

Both are similar in the way they work and have the same side effects. Both medications have a high potency, which may cause more serious side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

Fetzima vs. Effexor

Like Pristiq, Effexor (generic name: venlafaxine) is another SNRI that treats depression. Effexor binds itself to more blood proteins and that slows its ability to reach areas of the brain and body as fast as Fetzima.

This causes more side effects since Fetzima can spread more quickly throughout your body.

Suddenly stopping an antidepressant such as Fetzima can cause symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms can be similar to what you experienced before you started the medication.

Common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • irritability
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • disturbing dreams
  • headaches
  • tingling of the skin
  • irregular heartbeat
  • insomnia
  • restlessness
  • agitation
  • flu-like symptoms
  • ringing in the ears
  • low blood pressure

Even if you feel better, consider reaching out to your doctor before stopping any medication. Speaking with your doctor can help minimize the chance of experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

The FDA approved Fetzima only for the treatment of MDD. Fatigue is a common symptom of MDD.

Research suggests that Fetzima can help ease this symptom when other SNRIs can’t.

A recent study highlights that nearly 90% of people diagnosed with depression report the following affecting their ability to function normally:

  • lack of motivation
  • low energy
  • low mood
  • fatigue
  • anxiety
  • tension
  • nervousness
  • trouble concentrating
  • memory impairment
  • irritability and anger

Fetzima works to improve your functional ability, so you can get back to enjoying life again.

It’s important to take Fetzima as directed by your medical professional. Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to serious side effects.

Symptoms of an overdose can include:

  • seizures
  • nausea and vomiting
  • increased heart rate
  • tiredness

If you believe you’ve taken too much Fetzima, call your medical professional right away. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222.

If your symptoms are severe, call 911 immediately or visit the nearest emergency room.

The cost of Fetzima is dependent on several factors:

  • Your health insurance: Different health plans offer copay and deductible schedules for prescription medications.
  • Your pharmacy: The pharmacy you use can affect the price of your prescription.
  • Your prescription: You may request the generic version of Fetzima to help lower your out-of-pocket costs, and your insurance or pharmacy may automatically request the generic in some cases.

GoodRx.com offers the ability to compare drug prices and find coupons. You may also check the manufacturer’s website for more information about costs and other savings options.

It’s crucial to be mindful of the medication’s effects on your body and how any other substances can lead to dangerous consequences.

For example, drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs may worsen symptoms and increase side effects such as sedation.

Living with MDD requires consistent communication with your healthcare professional and the support of loved ones.

If you think you may have major depressive disorder, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can examine you and determine whether any underlying conditions may be the cause of your symptoms.

They can also refer you to a mental health professional who can perform a more thorough psychological evaluation to determine if you’re experiencing major depressive disorder.

Once a diagnosis is made, regular visits will likely be required to monitor your symptoms and adjust care as needed.

Treatment for major depressive disorder typically involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) notes that while both medication and therapy can be used alone to ease symptoms of MDD, a combined approach is often the best option.

Several therapy options may help, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most widely used. It involves learning to identify negative thought patterns, then reframing and redirecting these thoughts to shift your mindset.

Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, avoiding the misuse of substances, and prioritizing a good sleep routine can help keep your body and mind healthy.

Consider speaking with your loved ones and letting them know what you’re going through. You can have a much better outlook when you let them be a part of your treatment and recovery.

Fetzima, also known by its generic name levomilnacipran, is an antidepressant belonging to the SNRIs class of medications. It’s FDA approved to treat symptoms of major depressive disorder.

When taking this medication, try to watch out for certain side effects such as nausea, constipation, and a fast heart rate. Even if you start to feel better, consider speaking with a healthcare or mental health professional before stopping any medication. Slowly tapering off your dosage can help minimize any unwanted effects.

Fetzima fares well as a medication that can relieve your symptoms of depression but may cause more side effects than other antidepressants.

But everyone responds differently to medications, so try to maintain regular visits with your doctor while taking the medication to ensure its effectiveness.

Living with major depressive disorder is challenging and there’s no cure for the condition. But with medication and the proper support and therapy, you can learn to manage your symptoms.

Talking with people who are having similar experiences can be helpful. You can find some great online depression support groups to help.

If you’re not sure where to start, you can check out Psych Central’s hub on finding mental health support.

Suicide prevention

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, you’re not alone. Help is available right now:

  • Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24 hours a day at 800-273-8255.
  • Text “HOME” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
  • The Trevor Project provides crisis support for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Call their hotline at 866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678.
  • Contact the teen-to-teen peer hotline, Teen Line, at 800-852-8336 or text TEEN to 839863.

Not in the U.S.? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.

Disclaimer: Psych Central has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. But this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare or mental health 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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Provided by Lexicomp ® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Fetzima; Fetzima Titration

Trade names: Canada

Fetzima

Warning

  • Drugs like this have been shown to increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or actions in children and young people. This risk may be higher in people who have tried or had suicidal thoughts in the past. All people taking this drug must be closely monitored. If you develop or worsen disorders such as depression, nervousness, anxiety, grouchiness, panic attacks, and changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately. Contact your doctor immediately if you have suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts.
  • This drug is not approved for use in children. Consult your doctor.

What is this drug used for?

  • Used to treat depression.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

  • If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
  • If you have kidney disease.
  • If you are taking any of the following: linezolid or methylene blue.
  • If you have taken medicines for depression or Parkinson's disease in the past 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (both prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

  • Tell all your healthcare providers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
  • Avoid driving and other demanding activities until you see how this drug affects you.
  • Do not stop this drug abruptly without talking to your doctor. This can increase the risk of side effects. If necessary, taking this drug should be stopped gradually, in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.
  • Measure blood pressure and heart rate as directed by your physician.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.
  • Talk to your doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
  • This drug may increase the risk of bleeding. Sometimes bleeding can be life-threatening. Consult your doctor.
  • There may be an increased risk of eye problems when using this drug in some patients. Your doctor may order an eye examination to see if you are at increased risk for these eye problems. Call your doctor right away if you have eye pain, vision changes, swelling or redness around the eye.
  • This drug may cause low sodium levels. Very low sodium levels can be life-threatening, leading to convulsions, fainting, difficulty breathing, or death.
  • If you are 65 years of age or older, use this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.
  • Taking this drug during the third trimester of pregnancy may cause some health problems in the newborn. Consult your doctor.

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be associated with serious side effects:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or flaking, possibly associated with fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Signs of bleeding such as vomiting or coughing up blood; vomiting of the type of coffee grounds; blood in the urine; black, red, or tarry stools; bleeding from the gums; non-cyclic vaginal bleeding; bruises that appear or increase for no reason; bleeding that you cannot stop.
  • Signs of low sodium levels such as headache, trouble concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, weakness, seizures, balance problems.
  • Signs of high blood pressure such as very severe headache or dizziness or loss of consciousness or blurred vision.
  • Increased or abnormal heart rhythm.
  • Convulsions.
  • Feeling extremely tired or weak.
  • Obstruction of the urinary tract.
  • While taking such drugs, there were violations of sexual function. These included decreased interest in sex, problems achieving orgasm, problems ejaculating, or problems getting or maintaining an erection. If you have problems with sexual function or have questions, consult your doctor.
  • A severe and sometimes fatal complication called serotonin syndrome can occur. This risk may be increased if certain other drugs are taken at the same time. Call your doctor right away if you experience agitation, balance problems, confusion, hallucinations, high fever, tachycardia or abnormal heart rhythms, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, tremors or tremors, excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting , a very severe headache.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if these or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Constipation.
  • Excessive sweating.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

  • Take this drug at about the same time of day.
  • Take this drug with or without food.
  • Swallow whole. Do not chew, open or crumble.
  • Keep taking this drug as your doctor or other health care professional tells you to, even if you feel well.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you can.
  • If it is time for your next dose, do not take the missed dose and then return to your regular dosing schedule.
  • Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
  • Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about drugs

  • If your health does not improve or even worsens, call your doctor.
  • Do not give your medicine to anyone or take other people's medicine.
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Milnacipran - frwiki.wiki

Milnacipran is an antidepressant serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It was developed by the laboratories of Pierre Fabre and is sold under the name Ixel. It is used in the treatment of depression.

Pierre Fabre and his partner Forest Laboratories developed its enantiomer, levomilnacipran (or F2695), as a successor to milnacipran. Despite the failure of the phase III study in 2011, research continued and encouraging results were reported in . The FDA approved product and it is sold in the United States and Canada under the name Fetzima.

Summary

  • 1 Mechanism of action
  • 2 Pharmacokinetics
  • 3 Indications and dosage
  • 4 Side effects
  • 5 known drug interactions
  • 6 Contraindications
  • 7 Notes and references

Mechanism of action

Milnacipran works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in a ratio of 1/3, thereby increasing the synaptic concentration of these neurotransmitters.

Pharmacokinetics.

With a bioavailability of 85%, milnacipran reaches peak plasma concentrations two hours after oral administration. Its half-life is eight hours and it is excreted in the urine (90%). Therefore, this half-life may be increased in renal disease, so patients with this disease should be given lower doses.

Indications and dosage

Milnacipran is used to treat:

  • Moderate to severe depression;
  • Certain chronic pain (other than marketing authorization).

The recommended dose for depression is 50 mg twice daily.

Milnacipran is available as Ixela in capsules 25 mg and 50 mg.

Treatment should be continued for several months after cessation of the depressive disorder to avoid relapse.

Side effects

Some patients may experience side effects, especially at the beginning of treatment. The most common are nausea, dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, dysuria, palpitations, sexual disorders.

Serotonin syndrome, although rare, has been described with an taken serotonin reuptake inhibitor.

Known drug interactions

  • MAOIs, tricyclics, lithium, SSRIs; potentially lethal serotonin syndrome.
  • MDMA

No known interactions or potentiation with alcohol.

Contraindications.

  • Hypersensitivity to this substance;
  • Patients under 15 years of age;
  • During pregnancy, milnacipran crosses the placental barrier;
  • When breastfeeding, milnacipran is excreted in milk.

Notes and links

  1. ↑ Molecular mass is calculated from " atomic weights of elements 2007 " at www.chem.qmul.ac.uk.
  2. (in) " Last Trial of in Levomilnacipran Failure Case" on dddmag, (accessed September 4, 2016)
  3. (in) " Forest Lab depression drug, levomilnacipran, positive in phase III ", available at www.pharmatopics.com, March 7, 2012 (accessed September 4, 2016)
  4. (in) " FDA Approves New SNRI for Major Depression " on Medscape (accessed September 3, 2020) .
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