Levomilnacipran (80mg)

Levomilnacipran (80mg) — Uses and Benefits

Levomilnacipran (80mg) is mainly used to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating persistent low mood, sadness, and loss of interest in daily activities
• Helping improve sleep, appetite, and energy levels affected by depression
• Long-term management of depressive symptoms as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain
• This increases the availability of these chemicals, which help regulate mood and emotional balance
• Improvement in symptoms usually takes a few weeks of regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and should not be used for general body pain
• It is not meant for occasional stress or mild mood changes
• It is not a quick-fix or sedative for immediate anxiety relief
• It should not be used to treat bipolar disorder without proper diagnosis and monitoring

How to Use Levomilnacipran (80mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush, chew, or open it
• Can be taken with or without food, but try to take it at the same time every day
• Do not stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take several weeks to feel the full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

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

STORAGE

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

Levomilnacipran (80mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Increased sweating
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Increased heart rate

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Difficulty urinating or delayed urination
• Erectile dysfunction or other sexual problems
• Increased blood pressure
• Insomnia or vivid dreams
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

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

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

Levomilnacipran (80mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levomilnacipran or milnacipran
• Are currently taking or have recently stopped taking 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
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinning medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• MAOIs (like phenelzine) — serious interaction, avoid combining
• Other antidepressants, including SSRIs and SNRIs
• Triptans used for migraine
• Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin
• NSAIDs (pain relievers like ibuprofen)
• St. John's Wort or other serotonergic supplements

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

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

Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.

Will this medicine make me feel sleepy?

• It can cause dizziness in some people, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.