Milnacipran Hydrochloride

Generic Details

Generic Name

Milnacipran Hydrochloride

Other Names

  • Savella

Drug Class

  • Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI)

Chemical Formula

C15H22N2O

Molecular Weight

246.35 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine

Indications

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Major Depressive Disorder

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet
  • Extended-release capsule

Typical Dosage

  • 50 mg twice daily

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustments may be needed

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Sweating
  • Insomnia

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to milnacipran
  • Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended during breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • MAO inhibitors
  • SSRIs
  • SNRIs

Overdose Symptoms

  • Seizures
  • Cardiac arrhythmias

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote, supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from light and moisture

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed orally
  • Distribution: Distributed widely in the body
  • Metabolism: Primarily hepatic
  • Excretion: Mainly through urine

Precautions

  • Caution in patients with a history of seizures

Warnings

  • May increase suicidal thoughts in some patients

Others

  • It may take several weeks to feel the full benefit of the medication