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Newer Antidepressant Medication:
Serzone (nefazodone)
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Nefazodone, or Serzone, is a newer antidepressant which has relieved the symptoms of depression
in many patients who were not helped by SSRIs or TCAs. Serzone may improve sleep quality better than other antidepressants
and often decreases the troublesome side effect of sexual dysfunction.
Along with the many positive effects of Serzone, you may also experience some side effects. Side
effects are unintended or undesirable reactions to medications. Most of the side effects you experience can be
lessened with additional medications, dosage changes, or changes in your daily habits. Or, they may simply fade
as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor or clinician right
away and continue taking your medication.
It is also important to be aware of the risks of Serzone. The risks occur very rarely, but it is important to know what to look for, just in case. If you think
you are experiencing one of the risks, contact your doctor or clinician or go to the emergency room right away!
| Most common side effects |
drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea |
| Occasional side effects |
dizziness, blurred vision, weakness |
| Risks |
hypomania |
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Most common side effects
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Drowsiness
When you first begin taking Serzone, you may feel drowsy all of the time, even if you 've had a
good night 's sleep. You might move around more slowly, be less coordinated, and nod off more. This side effect
should wear off after a few weeks. In the meantime, be sure not to drive a car or operate other heavy machinery
while you are feeling drowsy. |
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Dry mouth
Some people taking Serzone experience dry mouth. Although dry mouth may not go away completely,
it usually gets better with time. Dry mouth may be relieved by sucking on hard candy or crushed ice, drinking plenty
of fluids, or eating frozen grapes.
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Nausea
Most people who experience this side effect notice that it usually disappears in a few weeks. To
reduce or eliminate nausea, eat several small meals per day instead of three big ones, or try snacking on dry toast
or crackers. |
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Occasional side effects
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Blurred vision
Blurred vision is another side effect of Serzone. If you think that you are experiencing blurred
vision, don 't drive until you talk to your doctor or clinician about it. |
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Dizziness
If you feel dizzy when you sit or stand up quickly, there are some precautions that you can take
to avoid injury. Get up very slowly from a laying or sitting position and make sure you have something to hold
onto as you rise. Then, wait a moment or two before you start walking. |
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Weakness
If you experience weakness after you begin taking Serzone, talk to your doctor about it. S/he may
modify your dose to decrease this side effects. |
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Risks
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Hypomania
Serzone may cause an increase in mood called hypomania. Symptoms of hypomania include euphoria,
racing thoughts, pressured speech, and excessive energy. If you notice any of these changes, contact your doctor
right away. S/he can help you determine if your change in mood seems unusual.
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