Milnacipran hydrochloride, brand name Savella, is a prescription drug used to treat fibromyalgia. According to eMedTV.com, the medication reduces the symptoms of fibromyalgia but does not cure the condition. It works by reducing pain and improving the patient's ability to complete physical tasks that would normally be too difficult due to pain. As with any medication, milnacipran hydrochloride has the risk of side effects.
Common Side Effects
The most commonly occurring side effects associated with milnacipran hydrochloride use are considered harmless unless they become persistent or overly bothersome. According to eMedTV.com, these side effects include nausea, headache, constipation, dizziness and insomnia.
Serious Side Effects
Individuals who experience serious side effects with the use of milnacipran hydrochloride should report them to their doctor and discontinue using the medication. Such side effects, as reported by eMedTV.com, include elevated heart rate, pain in the chest, heart palpitations, seizures, increased blood pressure, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, restlessness or shortness of breath. Any behavior or mental changes are considered serious. According to Drugs.com, these changes could include hostility, aggressiveness, engaging in unusual activities, taking more risks, experiencing extreme elation followed by extreme depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Liver Effects
Individuals with existing liver issues should not use milnacipran hydrochloride. According to eMedTV.com, the medication increases the risk of liver concerns and could elevate symptoms of existing liver conditions. Signs of liver problems include yellowing of the eyes or skin and darkened urine.
Low Blood Sodium
Hyponatremia, or low blood sodium, can be a risk of milnacipran hydrochloride medication in rare cases. Signs of this condition, as indicated by eMedTV.com, include headaches, trouble concentrating, memory problems, confusion, unsteadiness, hallucinations, fainting, seizures or coma.
Allergic Reaction
Some individuals may have an allergy to milnacipran hydrochloride and experience a serious allergic reaction. Symptoms of this include an unexplained rash, hives, unusual swelling, wheezing or trouble breathing.
Serotonin Syndrome
In rare cases, a dangerous problem called serotonin syndrome can occur with the use of milnacipran. EMedTV.com lists signs of the condition including confusion, rapid heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, hallucinations, overactive reflexes, fever, shivering, shakiness, agitation, sweating, seizures or coma.
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