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Antidepressant medications play a crucial role in treating depression and various mental or mood disorders, offering significant benefits, including the reduction of suicidal thoughts and attempts. However, it is important to be aware of certain risks associated with their use, particularly for individuals under 25 years of age. Here are key safety considerations:

• Risk of Worsening Symptoms: Some individuals, especially those younger than 25, may experience an increase in depression, mental or mood-related symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/behaviors.
• Importance of Medical Discussion: It is essential to have a detailed discussion with a healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of taking antidepressants, especially for those under 25, regardless of the condition being treated.
• Monitoring for Changes: Be vigilant for signs of worsening depression or other psychiatric conditions. Notify a healthcare provider immediately if you notice any unusual changes in behavior, such as new or worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostility, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, or rapid speech.
• Critical Times for Observation: Pay special attention to mood and behavior changes when starting a new antidepressant or altering the dosage.

These guidelines are designed to ensure safety and effectiveness in the use of antidepressant medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

Common side effects:

• nausea
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• constipation
• loss of appetite
• blurred vision
• nervousness
• trouble sleeping
• unusual sweating
• yawning

Less common but important to monitor:

• increase in blood pressure
• easy bleeding or bruising
• reduced interest in sexual activity
• changes in sexual ability
• muscle cramps or weakness
• tremors

Serious side effects:

• persistent cough
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• severe headaches
• black stools
• vomit resembling coffee grounds
• eye pain or swelling
• widened pupils
• vision changes
• seizures
• serotonin syndrome
• rash
• itching
• swelling especially of the face, tongue, or throat
• severe dizziness
• difficulty breathing

When taking this medication, be aware of potential interactions with certain drugs. Medications that may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising include antiplatelet drugs like Clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen, and blood thinners like Dabigatran or Warfarin. Aspirin can also elevate bleeding risk when combined with this drug. However, if a healthcare provider has advised you to take low-dose aspirin (81-162 milligrams daily) to prevent heart issues or stroke, continue using it unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

Avoid using MAO inhibitors, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, and others, with this medication due to the potential for a serious, possibly fatal interaction. Most MAO inhibitors should not be taken for two weeks before and at least seven days after stopping this medication. Consult your doctor for specific guidance on timing.

The use of other drugs that raise serotonin levels can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be serious. These drugs include MDMA ("ecstasy"), St. John's wort, certain antidepressants (such as SSRIs like Fluoxetine, paroxetine, and other SNRIs), and Tryptophan. The risk may be higher when starting or increasing dosages of these medications.

Inform your healthcare provider if you're using other products that cause drowsiness, including opioid pain relievers, alcohol, marijuana, sleep aids, anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, or antihistamines. Be sure to check over-the-counter medicine labels for ingredients that may cause drowsiness and consult your pharmacist on safe use.

Note that venlafaxine is very similar to desvenlafaxine, so these should not be taken together. Additionally, this medication may affect certain lab tests, such as urine tests for amphetamines, potentially leading to false results. Ensure that lab personnel and your healthcare providers are aware that you are taking this medication.