Milnacipran – what it is for, how to use it and side effects!

Milnacipran has the property of inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and noradrenaline in an equivalent way and claims to have fewer side effects than classic antidepressants. Fibromyalgia is characterized by persistent, widespread pain and tenderness, sleep problems, and fatigue. Common pain-relieving medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, are generally not considered effective. Medications used to treat epilepsy or depression may be effective in some people with fibromyalgia and other forms of chronic (persistent, long-lasting) pain where nerve damage may occur.

What is milnacipran?

Milnacipran is an antidepressant and antidepressants are widely recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Additionally, it is licensed to treat fibromyalgia only in some parts of the world, particularly the US.

What is milnacipran used for?

Milnacipran  is used to treat pain caused by a condition called fibromyalgia that affects the muscles, tendons, ligaments and supporting tissues.

This medication is a serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain (neurotransmitters).

How to use milnacipran?

Read the leaflet provided by your pharmacist before using milnacipran and each time you receive a shipment. If in any doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 times a day or as directed by your doctor. If you have nausea , taking medication with food may help.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor may recommend taking a low dose and gradually increasing the dosage. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your problem will not improve as quickly and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.

If this medicine has been used regularly for a long time, withdrawal symptoms (such as mood swings, headache , tiredness , sleep changes and brief electric shock-like feelings) may occur if you stop using this medicine suddenly. To avoid withdrawal reactions, your doctor may gradually reduce your dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.

Tell your doctor if the problem does not improve or gets worse.

Milnacipran side effects:

Nausea , vomiting, dry mouth, constipation , loss of appetite, dizziness, increased sweating, headache, or hot flashes (flushing) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor immediately.

Remember that your doctor prescribed this medication because he thought the benefit outweighed the risk of side effects. Many people who use this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medicine can raise your blood pressure . Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if your results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: rapid heartbeat, changes in sexual ability, decreased sexual interest, painful urination, seizures, yellow eyes and skin, dark urine, abdominal pain, black or bloody stools, and vomiting that looks like coffee grounds.

Seek medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: pain, swelling, redness of the eyes, enlarged pupils and changes in vision.

This medication can increase serotonin and rarely causes a very serious problem called serotonin toxicity syndrome. The risk is increased if you are also taking other serotonin-enhancing medicines, so tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking.

Seek medical help immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms: rapid heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, nausea , vomiting, severe diarrhea , muscle twitching, unexplained fever, and restlessness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this remedy is rare. However, seek medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue and throat), severe dizziness and difficulty breathing.

Grades:

• Do not share this medicine with others.
• Laboratory and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, heart rate, and liver function) should be performed periodically
• to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

What to do if you forget to take a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage:

• Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
  Do not flush medications down the toilet or down a drain unless recommended.
• Dispose of this product properly when it expires or is no longer needed.