Savella (Milnacipran)

Do’s

• Before starting to use Savella and each time you get a refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider.
• The dosage of Savella is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 
• Typically, it is taken by mouth with or without food, usually 2 times a day. If you experience nausea, taking the medication with food may help.
• To reduce the risk of side effects, your healthcare provider may start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow their instructions carefully.
• Consult your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or worsen.

Don’ts

• Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed.
• Savella should not be stopped suddenly, as this could lead to withdrawal symptoms such as mood swings, headache, tiredness, sleep changes, and brief feelings similar to electric shock. To prevent withdrawal, your healthcare provider may lower your dose slowly. Inform your healthcare provider right away if you experience withdrawal symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Hot Flush
• Excessive Sweating
• Vomiting
• Palpitations and Increased Heart Rate
• Dry Mouth
• Increased Blood Pressure

This is not a complete list of side effects. Discuss possible risks and side effects with your healthcare provider.

Antidepressants, including Savella, have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. Patients of all ages who are started on Savella should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the healthcare provider.

Withdrawal symptoms have been observed in clinical trials following the discontinuation of Savella, as with other serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Taper Savella and not abruptly discontinue it after extended use. Patients should be monitored for these symptoms when discontinuing treatment.

If you are elderly or taking a diuretic, Savella could cause low salt levels in the blood (hyponatremia). This generally returns to normal when the medication is discontinued, but can be serious in severe cases. Signs of hyponatremia include nausea, headache, confusion, and seizures. Discuss this risk with your healthcare provider

Be aware of the possibility of emergent symptoms of serotonin syndrome when using Savella in combination with certain other medications. Seek medical care immediately if the signs and symptoms associated with serotonin syndrome are experienced.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions associated with Savella. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication, including Savella, and discuss any questions or concerns about its usage with a healthcare provider.