Levomilnacipran (20mg)

Levomilnacipran (20mg) — Uses and Benefits

Levomilnacipran is used to treat depression in adults, helping to relieve low mood, poor sleep, lack of interest and low energy.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of major depressive disorder
• Improving mood, sleep, energy and concentration in people with depression

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain
• This increases the levels of these chemicals, which helps improve mood and emotional balance
• Full benefit may take several weeks of regular use to appear

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a quick-acting painkiller or sedative
• It is not used for occasional stress or mild sadness
• It is not approved for use in children
• It should not be used to self-treat anxiety or sleep problems without medical advice
• It is not a substitute for therapy or counselling, though it may be used alongside these

Always use this medicine only as advised by your doctor, and do not stop suddenly without consulting them.

How to Use Levomilnacipran (20mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not crush or chew it
• Can be taken with or without food, but be consistent
• Try to take it at the same time every day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal-like symptoms; your doctor will guide you on tapering the dose if needed

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light and moisture
• Keep in the original container, tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Levomilnacipran (20mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Increased sweating
• Fast heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Increased blood pressure
• Insomnia or vivid dreams
• Decreased appetite
• Sexual difficulties
• Urinary hesitation

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially in young adults
• Signs of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, fast heartbeat, high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion
• Severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Seizures
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Levomilnacipran (20mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levomilnacipran or milnacipran
• Are currently taking, or have recently stopped, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have high blood pressure or heart disease
• Have kidney or liver problems
• Have a history of seizures
• Have a history of bipolar disorder, mania, or suicidal thoughts
• Have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinning medicines
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics)
• MAOIs
• Triptans used for migraine
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen
• Other drugs that affect blood pressure

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to work?

It may take a few weeks of regular use before you notice improvement in mood and energy.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms; your doctor will guide you on gradually reducing the dose.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.