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Information about Savella (Milnacipran)
Savella is a prescription medication that contains milnacipran, a selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI). It is primarily used to treat fibromyalgia and major depressive disorder. Milnacipran works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help modulate pain, mood, and other symptoms associated with these conditions.
Product Highlights
- Savella is mainly used to treat fibromyalgia, a long-term condition marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness.
- Savella is also approved for treating major depressive disorder in adults.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Savella can help reduce pain and improve physical functioning in individuals with fibromyalgia.
- In patients with major depressive disorder, Savella helps alleviate depressive symptoms and improve mood.
- The medication’s action on both serotonin and norepinephrine helps target both mood and pain symptoms.
- Unlike some other treatments for fibromyalgia, Savella does not tend to cause sedation or significant weight gain.
Direction of Use
- Savella is usually taken once or twice a day, with or without food. It is important to begin with a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize the risk of side effects.
- The starting dose for fibromyalgia is often 12.5 mg once daily, increasing to a recommended dose of 50 mg twice daily after several days.
- For major depressive disorder, the starting dose is typically 12.5 mg once daily, which is gradually increased to 50 mg twice daily.
- It’s essential to follow the prescribed dose and schedule, as sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Safety Concerns
- As an SSNRI, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, especially if Savella is taken with other medications that increase serotonin levels (e.g., other antidepressants, triptans).
- Milnacipran can increase blood pressure and heart rate. It should be monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing hypertension.
- The drug should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment. Dosage adjustments may be needed.
- As with many antidepressants, Savella may raise the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in young adults. Close monitoring is required.
- Abrupt discontinuation of Savella may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, headache, irritability, and sensory disturbances. A gradual tapering is recommended.
Avoid Savella (Milnacipran) If
- Individuals with an allergy to milnacipran or any component of the medication should not take Savella.
- It should not be used in conjunction with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping them, as this can lead to serious, possibly fatal interactions.
- Savella should be avoided in patients with severe kidney problems (eGFR < 30 mL/min), as it can lead to the accumulation of the drug in the body.
- Patients with untreated high blood pressure should avoid Savella or use it with caution under a healthcare provider’s supervision.
- Savella should be used cautiously in individuals with a history of bipolar disorder due to the potential for triggering manic episodes.
