Savella Side Effects

Nausea, headaches, and constipation are the most commonly reported side effects of Savella. Problems that were reported in at least 2 percent of men taking this medication include painful urination, ejaculation problems, and testicular swelling. Some side effects are potentially serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and suicidal thoughts.

Savella Medication Information

An Introduction to Savella Side Effects

Just like any medicine, Savella™ (milnacipran hydrochloride) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Savella. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Savella side effects with you.)

Common Side Effects of Savella

Savella has been studied extensively in clinical trials. In these studies, side effects occurring in the group of people taking Savella were documented and compared to the side effects that occurred in a similar group of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients).

Based on these studies, the most common bothersome (but usually not dangerous) side effects of Savella included:

Nausea -- in up to 39 percent of people
Headaches -- up to 19 percent
Constipation -- up to 16 percent
Insomnia -- up to 12 percent (see Savella and Insomnia)
Hot flashes -- up to 12 percent
Dizziness -- up to 11 percent.

Other common side effects (occurring in 2 to 10 percent of people) included:

Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Vomiting
Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
Chills
Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold)
Decreased appetite (which may result in weight loss)
Migraines
Unusual sensations, such as numbness or tingling, or reduced sensation of touch
Shakiness (tremor)
Increased sweating
Flushing (redness of the face and neck).

(Savella Side Effects Continued: Page 2)