From the FDA Drug Label
Increased risk of bleeding. Taking FETZIMA with aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), warfarin or blood thinners may add to this risk Eye problems (angle-closure glaucoma). FETZIMA may cause a type of eye problem called angle-closure glaucoma in people with certain eye problems. Problems with urination. FETZIMA may cause you to have problems with urination including decreased urine flow and being unable to pass any urine. Manic episodes Manic episodes may happen in people with bipolar disorder who take FETZIMA. Seizures (convulsions). Discontinuation syndrome Suddenly stopping FETZIMA may cause you to have serious side effects. Low sodium levels in your blood (hyponatremia) Sexual problems (dysfunction) Taking FETZIMA may cause sexual problems The most common side effects of FETZIMA, include: ● nausea ● problems getting or keeping an erection ● constipation ● delayed ejaculation or inability to have an ejaculation ● sweating ● vomiting ● increased heart rate ● fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
The adverse effects of Fetzima (levomilnacipran) include:
- Bleeding: increased risk of bleeding, especially when taken with aspirin, NSAIDs, warfarin, or blood thinners 1
- Eye problems: angle-closure glaucoma, especially in people with certain eye problems 1
- Urination problems: decreased urine flow, inability to pass urine 1
- Manic episodes: may occur in people with bipolar disorder 1
- Seizures: may occur, especially in people with a seizure disorder 1
- Discontinuation syndrome: may occur when stopping Fetzima suddenly, symptoms include changes in mood, headache, irritability, and anxiety 1
- Low sodium levels: may occur, especially in elderly people or those taking certain medicines 1
- Sexual problems: may occur, including delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and decreased sex drive 1
- Common side effects: nausea, constipation, sweating, vomiting, increased heart rate, and palpitations 1
From the Research
Fetzima (levomilnacipran) can cause several adverse effects, including nausea, headache, dry mouth, hyperhidrosis, constipation, and increased blood pressure, as reported in the most recent study 2. The most common adverse events associated with Fetzima include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Heart palpitations
- Increased heart rate
- Erectile dysfunction
- Urinary hesitation or retention
- Increased blood pressure These side effects occur because levomilnacipran works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which affects multiple body systems beyond just mood regulation 3. More serious but less common adverse effects include serotonin syndrome, increased risk of suicidal thoughts, hyponatremia, abnormal bleeding, and seizures 4. Fetzima carries a black box warning about suicidality risk in children, adolescents, and young adults 5. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, and dizziness, so dosage should be tapered gradually when stopping treatment 6. Patients should report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately, especially thoughts of self-harm or unusual changes in behavior. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits of Fetzima against the potential risks and to closely monitor patients for any adverse effects, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting the dose 2.