Fetzima (Levomilnacipran) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Fetzima? 

Fetzima, with the generic name levomilnacipran, is an oral medication indicated to treat major depressive disorder or MDD. This medication is used to improve sleep, mood, and appetite. It also helps restore one’s interest in daily living.  

Fetzima is not indicated for fibromyalgia. The safety and efficacy of this antidepressant for the treatment of fibromyalgia are still not established. 

This is available in Fetzima 120 mg, 80 mg, 40 mg, and 20 mg extended-release capsules. 

How does Fetzima work? 

This serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) potentiates the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system or CNS. This selective and potent reuptake inhibitor has the capacity to inhibit the absorption by a presynaptic nerve ending of the secreted neurotransmitters. As a result, it could restore and maintain the balance of natural substances in the brain. 

How to use Fetzima 

Read the medicine information sheet that comes with this product first. Avoid taking any prescription medication without fully understanding the drug information and warnings written in the guide. If you have inquiries on how these capsules work or need more medical advice, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take the capsule orally. This is usually prescribed once daily. It can be taken with or without a meal, according to your physician’s instructions. Swallow the extended-release capsule and drink a glass of water thereafter. Do not chew or divide the capsule because doing so could release the active ingredients all at once and increase the risk of adverse effects. 

Remember to take Fetzima regularly and exactly as prescribed. Make a dosing schedule to avoid missing any of your doses. Do not alter your Fetzima dosage as it is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and other medications you are taking.  

Do not take this oral medication more frequently or stop taking Fetzima abruptly. This could lead to withdrawal symptoms characterized by headache, tiredness, mood swings, changes in sleeping patterns, and brief feelings similar to shock. 

Fetzima Side Effects 

Common side effects: 

-nausea 

-dizziness 

-vomiting 

-increased sweating 

-decreased appetite 

-problems ejaculating 

-trouble getting an erection or erectile dysfunction 

In most cases, the side effects brought about by Fetzima are mild and short-term. If the adverse reactions become worse or do not resolve, you may have to discontinue the medication and consult your doctor or any healthcare professional. Moreover, you should report severe side effects, including: 

-high blood pressure or hypertension 

-pounding heartbeat 

-easy bruising and bleeding 

-problem initiating the flow of urine 

-painful urination 

-signs of low level of sodium or hyponatremia (nausea, mental or mood changes, drowsiness) 

-signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (vomit that contains blood, black or bloody stool, dizziness) 

-sudden weight gain 

-seizures 

-eye pain 

-widened pupils 

-vision changes 

-symptoms of serotonin syndrome (unexplained fever, restlessness, loss of coordination, fast heartbeat, hallucinations, twitching muscles) 

This is not a complete or full list of the side effects of Fetzima medication. 

Precautions when using Fetzima 

Before you start using this medication, you should fully disclose your medical history to your physician, including any history of urinary retention or problems urinating, glaucoma, liver disease, kidney problems, bipolar disorder, suicidal tendencies, heart problems, hypertension, mineral imbalance, and seizure. Some disorders or diseases may impact how your system will respond to this drug. You should also discuss all prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products you are taking because of possible drug interactions with this antidepressant. 

You must continually lookout for an allergic reaction while taking this oral medication. Do not take this capsule if you have a known allergy to levomilnacipran or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Discontinue medication and immediately alert your local medical emergency line once you encounter signs of hypersensitivity, such as itchiness or hives, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, skin rashes, and trouble breathing. 

Patients with depression should always be monitored for suicidal ideations. Warning signs of suicide are changes in sleeping patterns, giving away important belongings, social withdrawal, changes in behavior, and talking about dying. If you notice any of these, call your suicide hotline immediately. 

Among the adverse effects of this drug are dizziness and blurred vision. This antidepressant may interact with alcohol and worsen the side effects. Limit your alcohol consumption while taking this drug. Additionally, practice extreme caution when driving, operating machinery, and doing activities that require alertness or clear vision. 

Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must avoid this medication because of the potential danger that it could cause to unborn babies and breastfed infants. Always remember that potential benefits must be greater than potential risks. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I use Fetzima for anxiety? 

Although this medication is used for anxiety, this is not yet approved for such use. 

Is this medication safe for children? 

This is not recommended for children to use this prescription drug. 

Is there a good time to take this medication? 

You can take this capsule any time of the day. 

Does this medication cause hair loss? 

Temporary hair loss could be a long-term side effect of this antidepressant. 

How much does Fetzima cost? 

This page offers a price check for this medication.