What Is Nefazodone?

Nefazodone is a medication used in the treatment of depression. Patients who suffer from sleeplessness in addition to depression may benefit from taking the drug. There are a number of unwanted side effects associated with use of the medication, including nausea, blurred vision, and muscle spasms. A number of countries have banned the drug.

When researchers discovered that nefazodone may cause liver damage, the drug was taken off the market in some countries. The medication continues to be available in a number of countries, and the antidepressant’s generic form often is available in countries that have banned particular brand names or forms of the drug. Some patients, especially younger people, have reported suicidal inclinations after taking nefazodone, which is another reason for the medication’s restrictions.

Several advantages are associated with the use of nefazodone. Patients who suffer from a combination of insomnia and depression or experience anxiety-induced sleeplessness have reported favorable results when taking the antidepressant. Unlike many antidepressants that can decrease the libido or cause sexual dysfunction, nefazodone has a low occurrence of sexual side-effects. Another advantage of taking the drug is minimal weight gain because research has not linked the medication to increased appetite.

There are numerous unwanted side effects related to the use of nefazodone. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision, and fatigue. Patients should contact a medical professional if they experience any severe or prolonged effects. More harmful adverse reactions could also occur, including muscle spasms, fainting, and allergic reactions. Patients should seek immediate medical assistance if they suffer from any of the dangerous effects.

Patients should discuss all current medications with a physician before taking nefazodone because harmful drug interactions can occur when using the antidepressant in conjunction with other drugs. Most commonly, the drug can have an adverse effect when taken with other antidepressants or antianxiety, antipsychotic, and mood stabilizing drugs. Providing physicians with a full list of all current medications can prevent dangerous reactions.

Doctors also may ask about other health issues before prescribing nefazodone. A medical professional generally will need to know as much as possible about a patient’s medical history as well as an individual’s mental health history. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as heart, kidney, or liver disease, may be inappropriate candidates for use of the antidepressant. Women should not take the medication if they are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding a child.