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Nefazodon Antidepressant : Nefazodon

Brand Name : Nefazodon

NEFAZODONE is primarily used for the treatment of depression. Nefazodone may benefit patients who have unusual or limiting side effects from other antidepressants. Occasionally nefazodone is prescribed for other behavioral or emotional problems, like anxiety or traumatic stress. NOTE: The Serzone® product is no longer available in the US; however, generic nefazodone tablets are available. Nefazodone (Serzone) is a new antidepressant with a chemical structure that is somewhat similar to that of the phenylpiperazine antidepressant, trazodone (Desyrel).

Uses of Nefazodon

• Nefazodone is used to relieve symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt; loss of interest in daily activities; changes in appetite; tiredness; sleeping too much; insomnia; and thoughts of death or suicide.
• Nefazodone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How to Take Nefazodon

• Take nefazodone tablets by mouth.
• Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow tablets with a drink of water.
• You may take nefazodone with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals.

What are the Side Effects of Nefazodon Medication

More common side effects may include:

• Blurred or abnormal vision
• confusion
• constipation
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• light-headedness
• nausea
• sleepiness
• weakness
• Abnormal dreams
• cough
• decreased concentration
• diarrhea dizziness on getting up
• flu-like symptoms
• headache
• increased appetite
• water retention

Warnings and precautions before taking Nefazodon Medication

• Nefazodone has been reported to increase the plasma levels of certain triazolobenzodiazepines (e.g., triazolam and alprazolam) resulting in an enhancement of the psychomotor impairment caused by these agents.
• Serzone may cause you to become drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how the drug affects you.
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Nefazodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What drugs may interact with Nefazodon Tablet

If Serzone is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Serzone with the following:

• Alcohol
  
• Alprazolam (Xanax)
  
• Antidepressants that boost serotonin levels, including Celexa, Luvox, Paxil, Prozac, and
• Zoloft
  
• Buspirone (BuSpar)
  
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
  
• Cyclosporine (Neoral and Sandimmune)
  
• Digoxin (Lanoxin)
  
• Haloperidol (Haldol)
  
• MAO inhibitors, including Nardil and Parnate

What to do if you take Overdose of Nefazodon ?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of a nefazodone overdose include:

• drowsiness
• nausea
• vomiting
• seizures.

How to Store Nefazodon ?

Tablets should be kept at room temperature, below 40°C (104°F). Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.