Ixel

The information on this product's packaging is Turkish language only.

Uses
Ixel (Milnacipran) is used to treat and manage fibromyalgia. Some people have also taken it for depression. It belongs to a class of medications referred to as SNRIs. Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a disorder which affects the muscles and causes pain in the soft tissue, ligaments, muscles and elsewhere in the body. Other symptoms include allodynia (pain as a result of pressure). Patients may also experience paresthesias, muscular spasms, weakness affecting the limbs, sleep problems and nerve pain. A comprehensive medical examination is usually needed in order to properly diagnose this condition.

When used in patients with fibromyalgia, the aim of treatment with this drug is to reduce pain and improve the patient's physical function. It is believed to work by increasing the amount of chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) supplied to the brain. This in turn may help to reduce the exaggerated response in the brain triggered by the neurotransmitters that are often associated with feelings of pain. Research is also being carried out to determine whether or not it can improve the sleep disturbances which commonly occur in patients with fibromyalgia.

Dosage and Administration
Ixel (Milnacipran) tablets contain 25mg of the active ingredient. In all cases, the dosage will need to be individualised based on the patient's medical circumstances. Your doctor will decide the correct dosage for you. In some cases, adults treating fibromyalgia have been told by their doctor to start out with 12.5mg taken once on the first day of treatment. For days 2 and 3, the doctor may increase the dosage to 12.5mg twice per day. After this, the dosage may be adjusted and the patient instructed to take 25mg twice per day for days 4 to 7. Following this (after the seventh day) the doctor might direct the patient to take 50mg twice per day. This is the recommended maintenance dosage.

Further adjustments may be made if the doctor providing treatment believes that it is required. Treatment is usually not suddenly stopped after prolonged use. Instead it is tapered gradually. Patients should note that each individual may be treated with a different dosage regimen. Because of this, it is very important to only take the amount of medicine that the doctor deems necessary. Never adjust your dosage unless your doctor instructs you to do so.

Side effects
Patients who undergo treatment with Ixel (Milnacipran) should note that side effects may occur. A list of some (but not all) possible side effects is given here:

• Hot flashes
• Perspiration
• Changes in libido
• Dryness in the mouth
• Alterations in body weight

It is necessary to report any reactions that are noticed to your doctor. Although considered to be a less frequent occurrence, serious side effects are possible. You must immediately consult a doctor if you experience hallucinations, problems related to memory, bloody stools, seizures, pain occurring during urination or any other severe reactions that have not been listed here.

Precautions
Antidepressant medicines are known to be associated with increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts in a small amount of patients. Discuss the risk of this with your doctor before you begin treatment with this medicine.

This drug must never be used with MAO inhibitors and certain other drugs, due to the risk of a severe drug reaction. Doctors also tell patients that it is required to wait for a period of at least 14 days after ceasing treatment with an MAOI before taking this drug. Also if you stop taking this medicine, it is necessary to wait for a specified period of time (your doctor will tell you exactly how long) before an MAO inhibitor can be taken.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Ixel (Milnacipran) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.