Milnacipran
About
Milnacipran belongs to the group of medicines known as selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) indicated for the management of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting condition that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body.
Milnacipran contains Milnacipran, which works by increasing the amount of natural substances, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which help stop the movement of pain signals in the brain. Thereby, it helps manage fibromyalgia.
In some cases, Milnacipran may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, constipation, dizziness, and dry mouth. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to the doctor if any of the side effects persist or worsen.
Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Milnacipran is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established. Avoid consuming alcohol while on treatment with Milnacipran. Keep the doctor informed about your health condition and medications to rule out any interactions/side effects.
Uses of Milnacipran
Medicinal Benefits
Milnacipran belongs to the group of medicines called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) used to treat fibromyalgia. Milnacipran contains Milnacipran, that works by increasing the amount of natural substances, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which help stop the movement of pain signals in the brain. Thereby it helps manage fibromyalgia.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Milnacipran
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia (sleep disorder)
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not take Milnacipran if you are allergic to any of its components. Inform the doctor if you have high blood pressure, seizures, irregular heartbeat, abnormal bleeding, inflamed or enlarged prostate, low sodium levels, liver or kidney problems, or if you have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors in the last 14 days. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This medicine is not recommended for children. Avoid consumption of alcohol during treatment with Milnacipran. Let the doctor know if you take any other medications, including herbal supplements.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), serotonergic drugs (drugs used to treat depression), triptans (medicines used to treat migraine), catecholamines, CNS active drugs or cardiovascular agents.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform the doctor if you have high blood pressure, seizures, irregular heartbeat, abnormal bleeding, inflamed or enlarged prostate, low sodium levels, liver or kidney problems.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid consuming alcohol while on treatment with Milnacipran.
Pregnancy
cautionMilnacipran belongs to pregnancy category C. Milnacipran should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionCaution should be exercised while administering Milnacipran to nursing women.
Driving
cautionMilnacipran may cause drowsiness and may affect your judgment, thinking, and movements. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Liver
cautionPlease consult your doctor if you have liver problems. Caution should be exercised in patients with severe liver impairment.
Kidney
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in patients with severe renal impairment. It should be used with caution in patients with moderate kidney impairment. This medicine is not recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease.
Children
unsafeMilnacipran is not recommended for children below 17 years as the safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, low-fat dairy, and lean protein.
- Avoid saturated fats and processed or fried food.
- Limit the amount of sugar and salt in your diet.
- Foods that trigger symptoms should be avoided.
- Maintain a moderate weight by eating a healthy diet.
Special Advise
- Consult the doctor immediately if you have thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life.
- Seek medical attention if you experience extreme worry, panic attacks, agitation, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, aggressive behaviour, irritability, acting without thinking, severe restlessness, and frenzied, abnormal excitement.
- If you are due to undergo any surgery or dental treatment, inform the person doing the tests that you are taking Milnacipran.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Fibromyalgia: It is a long-lasting condition that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body. It is generally accompanied by fatigue, altered sleep, mood and memory. Symptoms include widespread muscle pain and tenderness, muscle stiffness, fatigue, headache, irritable bowel syndrome, low mood, and frustration.
FAQs
Milnacipran works by increasing the amount of natural substances, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which help prevent the movement of pain signals in the brain. Thereby, it helps manage fibromyalgia.
Milnacipran may cause high blood pressure (hypertension). Regular monitoring of pulse rate and blood pressure prior to initiation and during treatment is recommended.
Do not discontinue the medicine without consulting your doctor. The doctor may reduce the dose gradually as stopping Milnacipran suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms like mood changes, agitation, irritability, dizziness, confusion, tiredness, headache, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, anxiety, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, abnormal excitement, seizures, or ringing in the ears. Consult the doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Milnacipran may cause angle-closure glaucoma. The doctor may advise an eye examination before you start taking Milnacipran. Consult the doctor immediately if you experience eye pain, nausea, swelling or redness in or around the eye, and changes in vision, such as seeing coloured rings around lights.
