Nefazodone

Uses

This medication is prescribed to treat depression.

IUPAC name: 2-[3-[4-(3-chlorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl]propyl]-5-ethyl-4-(2-phenoxyethyl)-1,2,4-triazol-3-one

Drug class: Antidepressant drug

Route of administration: Oral

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an OTC drug? NO

Mechanism of action

This medication works by preventing the uptake of serotonin and norepinephrine by neurons in the brain. Serotonin and norepinephrine levels rise as a result, stimulating more neurons and helping in the restoration and maintenance of mental stability.

 Side effects

It may cause dizziness, fatigue, weakness, drowsiness, constipation, headache, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, fainting, sweating, itchy eyes.

Contraindications

This medicine is not recommended for people who have had liver damage as a result of previous antidepressant medication treatment.

Precautions

Before using this medication, take the following precautions and notify your doctor:

If you are allergic to it, or if you have other allergies, if you are taking other antidepressants,

If you are taking any other medication (prescribed, non-prescribed, or herbal products),

If you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, and cardiac disease (cardiac arrest, heart attack, heart failure), manic or bipolar depressive disorder, seizures, narrow-angle glaucoma, peptic ulcer, or if you have a family history of suicide attempts,

If you have undergone any type of surgery,

Limit your alcohol usage since it increases your chances of developing blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. It may also cause a loss of alertness.

This drug’s adverse effects are more severe in older adults.

Avoid abruptly discontinuing this medication without first seeing your doctor.

 Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.