What is Milnacipran used for?
Milnacipran is indicated for the management of a chronic pain disorder known as fibromyalgia. Milnacipran treats fibromyalgia symptoms such as widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, muscle stiffness and tenderness.
Milnacipran belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. This medicine works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances in the brain chemicals, which helps stop pain signals in the brain.
Milnacipran may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What is the recommended dosage of Milnacipran?
The dosage of Milnacipran prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Milnacipran can be taken with or without food. However, taking this medicine with food reduces the chances of stomach upset.
What if you miss a dose of Milnacipran?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Milnacipran medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.
What if you overdose on Milnacipran?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Milnacipran, seek medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms of Milnacipran may include fainting, extreme drowsiness, dizziness, slow breathing, slow heart rate and weak pulse.
What other drugs could interact with Milnacipran?
- Almotriptan
- Citalopram
- Clonidine
- Digoxin
- Epinephrine
- Isocarboxazid
- Lithium
- Naratriptan
- Phenelzine
- Rasagiline
- Selegiline
- Sumatriptan
- Thioridazine
- Tranylcypromine
- Tryptophan
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Milnacipran.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications (over-the-counter products) and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, which may increase the effect of Milnacipran, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Milnacipran can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, antipsychotics, antidepressants, blood thinners, diuretics, headache medicines and Parkinson’s disease medicines.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the side effects of Milnacipran?
Like other medicines, Milnacipran can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Milnacipran are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Milnacipran cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Milnacipran develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Milnacipran can cause side effects such as constipation, upset stomach, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, sleep problems, impotence, weight loss, decreased sexual desire, nausea and vomiting. Some of the serious side effects of Milnacipran may include painful or difficult urination, hallucinations, fast or uneven heartbeats, and high blood pressure. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Milnacipran.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Milnacipran?
Is it possible for me to take Milnacipran with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Milnacipran?
What are the possible drug interactions of Milnacipran?
How will Milnacipran work in my body?
How should Milnacipran be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Milnacipran drug interactions and side effects?
Note
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Milnacipran is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.
Milnacipran is not approved for use in pediatric patients. Do not suddenly stop taking Milnacipran. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.