The following information is NOT intended to endorse drugs or recommend therapy. While these reviews might be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgement of healthcare practitioners in patient care.
Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: At my wits end. Fibromyalgia began to make me FEEL depressed - I figured an SSRI class medicine wouldn't be all bad. Had a hard time with Cymbalta, but ready to try anything. Within hours after taking first dose began violent mood swings that woke me up and sent me keeling over the toilet with nausea from so much anxiety. when I fell asleep I woke up and began crying. It was..weird. My persistence with increasing dosage only re-affirmed nausea. So my medicines for IBS were pointless. Anxiety increase led to increase in anti-anxiety medicines. Unsure how to feel for a while.. It cured a bit of fogginess but I think exaggerated other symptoms. I was a raving lunatic with a tummy ache. Didn't feel like me.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: The pain is down, but I am having trouble sleeping and hot flashes. At first I thought this was an effect of steroid injections, but I think it is this medicine. I haven't slept all night in weeks. I will be in contact with my Dr. about this.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Just finished week one of starter pack. So far, little to no side effects. Just slightly flushed face and slightly groggy first thing in the morning. Not sure about pain relief just yet. Yesterday pain level was at 3-4 (which is great compared to the usual 7-8). Don't know if it was just a good day or from the medicine. Time will tell.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I felt relief on day 2 of the titration pack. Savella has been a miracle for me, I am pain free. The only side effect that I am experiencing is anxiety, which is getting better and I hope will disappear. I do wonder, if it is contributing to some of the weakness that I feel, but it is so hard to tell since muscle weakness was a huge problem to begin with. I am grateful for this drug. I'm sorry to hear that many of you are experiencing such side effects. I wish that we could all be pain free.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been taking Savella for three weeks. My fibromyalgia pain and related symptoms was stealing my quality of life. I suffered for nine years with muscle exhaustion from my knees down, horrible muscle cramps in my legs, irritable bowel syndrome and high blood pressure brought on by the never ending pain and exhaustion.
Savella has changed everything. I still have bad knees but I can tell such a difference between the bone pain and the fibromyalgia pain. I don't have any of the symptoms any more. I can walk around in big stores without having to stop and sit down. I can eat foods that would have sent me running for a restroom. I am feeling like I did when I was twenty years younger.
I would reccommend this drug
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Diagnosed w/ FM over 20 yrs ago. Like most of you, have tried several drugs. Only 1 that really helped was tramadol. Was like a miracle drug at first, not so much now. Have been taking it for at least 12 yrs. Went to Dr. for check up, he wanted me to try something new, Savella. Said he has 6 patients that are doing well on it. Started titration pk 4 days ago. 2nd day started having side effects; flushing in face, chills, very cold feet & hands, foggy head, & restlessness in legs. Dr. said to stop tramadol to avoid serotonin syndrome possibility, so was in great pain all weekend. I went to work this morning & had to come home after 2 hours due to nausea & couldn't concentrate all. Sticking with it. Success stories on here help. Hope it works
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I had been on Zoloft 300mg for years and dropped down to Zoloft 200mg for almost a year and my doctor decided to try me on Savella for my fibromyagia. I made it to the 10th day of the the titration pack and could not deal with the bad side effects any longer. I was up for over 72 hours straight, chills, hot flashes, confusion, electrical shocks throughout my body, severe muscle pain, very irritable, out of mind and body thoughts, felt out of my body, etc. On about the 6th day my doctor put me on Soma 350mg (for the muscle pain and electrical shocks) and Klonopin 1mg to help with the anxiety and panic attacks. My doctor first tried to wean me back off of the Savella but two days later I had to call him back and he had me stop it cold turkey and go back on Zoloft 200mg.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I've had fibromyalgia for 15 years. My Doctor suggested I try Savella. He took me off Zoloft that I had been taking for over 20 yrs. He started me on a half of a dose to help with the nausea. It really worked with the pain and a little less Fibromyalgia fog. The only drawback was I got very short with people and couldn't handle stress. The Doctor put me back on half the Zoloft I had been on and all is well. It did not help with the chronic fatigue but I still would give it a 10
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Worked well in the beginning, felt better than I had in years with the exception of nausea the first couple days. This medicine does NOT sit well on an empty stomach! Cleared up the fibro fog, had not felt so awake in 6 years. This did not last though. Eventually felt normal except minus the fibro fog but with continuous migraines. Felt like I was having PMS constantly. Did not see any relief from pain. Very emotional and cold chills.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Tried Savella for Fibromyalgia and had lots of trouble. Had to stop it due to side effects. My son and husband said I had became very grumpy since starting it as well as having nightmares that made it difficult to know the difference in nightmare and reality. I stopped Savella and went back to just Tramadol.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on the trail pack for a couple of weeks. taking Cymbalta, Lexapro, Lamactial. I was on Lyrica and was concerned about weight gain. I had become so much more active and actually wanted to clean my house and walk the dogs on Lyrica but had not lost any weight with all the extra activity. So I decided to try Savella. I see my doctor in four days. I am pretty sure I want off this. I don't often have problems with side effects but on Savella it is really bad. The hot flash and night sweats are unbearable! Last night I had hot flashes and severe chills at the same time. All I want to do is sleep.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: My doctor started me on Savella a little over a month ago. I was slowly taken off Zoloft, which I had been taking for years for depression and anxiety! I felt immediate relief- 70% less pain in my legs and arms. I'm still having to take Requip for restless legs. I hope Savella will eventually calm the sensations I experience in my legs! Now being winter and extremely cold outside, I feel Savella isn't as effective as it has been. The only side effect that really stands out is the extreme sleepiness felt when driving for prolonged periods of time! Being taken of Zoloft for depression and anxiety and put on Savella for fibromyalgia. I got to say I haven't had any depression or anxiety symptoms!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am currently finishing the titration packet. I have four days left. 50mg twice a day. Yesterday started having terrible stomach cramps right after I eat and have diarrhea. When I don't have that then it's constipation and really bad gas pains that makes me feel like I have to go but of course nothing happens, so I have to wait it out. Also not sleeping well at night. Wake up all hours and trouble getting comfortable. My legs which have always been my worst symptom, don't feel any better yet. Also I have a terrible pain in my neck and shoulders which ironically didn't start until three days after I started the pack. Anyway, I will try to keep taking them for a least a month and pray for some relief.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I suffered 75% of side effects & had problems with my heart after taking. Back to the old drawing board for me...
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I've been on Savella for about a month now. Started with the titration pack. Felt relief within a few days. Pain is not gone, but certainly diminished to a point where I feel somewhat normal. Doesn't help with neuropahty, but does lower muscle pain. I have had muscle cramps/spasms in my legs at night, some slight constipation, and now some headaches have started the past couple of days, but I am so grateful for this medicine. Some days I feel that I don't need to use my handicap plaque! I previously used Salsalate, which helped, but nowhere near as good as Savella. I wish the price would come down. But I'm on it happily!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I didnt have a headache while taking Savela (I could only take it for 5 days due to severe side effects), but Savella didn't work for me. I experienced a rapid heart beat, chest pain, painful urination and stomach pain. I was only taking 50 mg/day.
My heart beat went from mid 60's-70's to 105. My blood pressure was changing constantly.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I started the titration pack and am now on the full recommended dose of 50 mg twice a day - this is not working for me - I have insomnia, I wake up all night long, still have muscle pain, restless leg at night, stiffness, leg swelling, headaches, grouchy and irritable. I have not experienced any stomach problems nor constipation. Not sure about the blurred vision being caused by this medication, as I have just been diagnosed with beginning stages of cataracts, so it could be that. I am on week 3 now. I am very disappointed. I was on Effexor for years and it worked for 7 years, but then stopped being effective. I pray for something to come along to help.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I want to thank everyone for these postings. I have just started taking the medicine Savelle and on day one think I have felt a little better. I would be THRILLED if this helps. As you all know fibromyalgia is pretty awful and I look forward to seeing how this medicine helps. Praying that is does.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Just finished the 2 week tritation pack. Also being weaned off Cymbalta. Thus far the only "relief" I've found is with fatigue. As far as pain, I still have it. My rheumatologist asked to give it at least 4 weeks, so I will.
Side effects are hot flashes to beat the band. For relief, I will deal!
I also suffer from psoriatic arthritis, and take a weekly injection of Humira.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Savella has changed my life! I'm 23 years old & was diagnosed with Fibro when I was 15 and no one had ever really even heard of the disease at that time. I had extreme pain 24 hours a day. Some days I couldn't walk because of the pain in my hips or lift my arms because of the pain in my shoulders. Savella has helped me to do everyday things again. I still have small pain when it gets cold, but other than that, the pain is pretty much gone. At the beginning, I had small stomach aches, and was slightly constipated, but that has since passed over the 3 months I have been on it. The only side effect I still have is I sweat when I sleep. It's not a lot, I just never used to before. But I will take those small side effects for the comfort I now have!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am 27 years old and have had fibromyalgia for 5 years. I've been to many drs and always left feeling crazy or like they didn't believe me, "I was too young to feel that way." I've tried numerous drugs related to fibro and nothing has helped. I felt as if I was getting worse and got almost every side effect of each drug I tried. I was giving up. I switched to a new doctor last year and she is amazing. She hasn't given up on me. She told me about Savella and asked if I'd be her guinea pig. This drug has changed my life! I can get through the day normally now. At first, I had some hot flashes and nausea but they subsided after a few weeks. I still have a little pain but nothing like it was. I am so thankful for my doctor and Savella.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I took Savella for 7 weeks. Noticed just a bit of relief. Horrible side effects which included not only severe sweating, bloating, increased headaches, but also I got a period after 3 1/2 years of not having one. Coincidence? I stopped taking the drug and I didn't have a period since.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: This medicine has helped me feel less pain, was very good in the beginning, however the sweating was okay at first but as time went on the sweating began earlier and lasted longer everyday. Finally, I was sweating profusely two hours in the morning and then again in the afternoon. My clothes were drenched along with wet hair, dripping in my face etc. I stopped for 3 days and the sweating stopped, however the pain came back. I have decided to continue taking Savella and put up with the sweating but wish there was a pill for that side effect.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Have had FM for a few years now and have tried every medicine out there then my doctor suggested this new medicine "Savella". I got my prescription on a Friday and the next day I was ready to go back to my old medication (Suboxone) I was a ZOMBIE! I literally slept the whole weekend and couldn't get up! So I'm back on Suboxone out of (Lyrica, Tramadol, Cymbalta, Percocet, Vicodin, Darvocet, Nsaids, Muscle relaxers, Neurontin, etc, etc, etc..) Suboxone is the only one that helped with the pain up to 75%! Good luck to all of you with Fibromyalgia...a lot of people do not understand the constant pain and everything else associated with FM. I do understand so I wish you luck!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have never been on any type of anti-depressant medication before and my rheumatologist recommended this drug because she thinks I have fibromyalgia. I having been taking this medication for approximately 40 days. I was okay in the beginning using the starter pack, but by the 3rd week, I had terrible heat flashes, quasi-headaches all day long, nausea and I constantly felt (still feel) that I have a urinary tract infection. My doctor cut my dosage from 50mg 2xs a day to 25mg 2xs a day. I still have horrible heat flashes, nausea, and feelings of the UTI. It did help mentally in the beginning, but the side effects far outweigh the benefits. I'm weening off and will try Pristiq.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Just started to take Savella and have had issues with sleeping and stomach. Can't find a site that shows the potential side effects, only generic side effects seem to be mentioned and I would like more detailed information.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on Savella for about a month and I must say there is a improvement in my pain level. The only side effect at first was nausea and then that went away after the first couple of weeks because the body needed to get used to it but after you are over that hump the only side effects for me was hot flashes and sweats. However, to be out of pain is all that I care about. I was out of work for a year and a half and now I'm able to function and work again. I thank God for Savella and my Doctor who suggested it. She has never steered me wrong. To anyone who has Fibromyalgia please try this medicine and give it a little while to work. Stick out the side effects the first couple of weeks and the pay off is wonderful.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Dizziness and insomnia for the first few days of titration pack. Then more side effects as I jumped to 50mg. No sleep. But no pain either. Haven't felt this normal in years.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Been using Savella (50 mg 2 X daily) for 9 weeks and it's made a HUGE difference in my pain. Not 100% pain-free, still have trigger points etc, but improved my ability to function day to day tremendously. It 'takes the edge off', I've had entire days where I feel almost normal. Did have the typical side effects the first two weeks: sweating, rapid heartbeat, agitation and nausea. Stuck it out, the side effects subsided and it was worth it. Tried a lot of the other medicines recommended for fibromyalgia including Cymbalta, Lyrica, Elavil, Flexeril etc. None worked for me - either unable to tolerate side effects or made no difference in my pain. Recently missed 2 consecutive doses and the pain came back ferociously, made me realize how much better I've felt.
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Savella (milnacipran) for : In the past 10 yrs. I've had L-4/5 back fusion and the right sacroiliac fuses and screws removed....still much pain on sitting. I've had many injections/treatments that were all unsuccessful. I'd gotten so used to feeling bad that I've just noticed after several months of taking Savella that I stay flushed, bloated, have problems urinating, headachy, flu-like stuffiness, blurred vision, nauseated, weight gain, among other symptoms. I've been in such a fog with the usual pain that on vacation I finally decided to look this possibility up. It's a relief to know that I don't have to endure these any longer. I dread coming off of it, but I can tough it out to feel at least as good as I did before.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I HAVE BEEN ON SAVELLA FOR 5 MONTHS NOW AND IT REALLY DOES WORK. IT DOESN'T MAKE YOU PAIN FREE BUT IT HAS HELPED ME 75% FROM WHERE I WAS. IT DIDN'T WORK THAT WELL FOR ME AT FIRST. IT TOOK ABOUT 8 WEEKS THEN I STARTED FELLING A REAL DIFFERENCE. THE WORST SIDE EFFECT IS THE SWEATING. THE OTHERS I HAD IS GONE. I AM GOING TO TRY A NATURAL HERB FOR THAT. I TAKE A GOOD MULTIVITAMIN AND B-12 COMPLEX WHICH HELPS ME WITH THE FATIGUE. I HAVE HAD CHRONIC PAIN FROM FIBROMYALGIA FOR ALMOST 10 YEARS. TOOK ALL THE MEDICINES. LIKE OTHERS SAID YOUR WHOLE LIFE CHANGES. YOU HURT ALL THE TIME CAN'T GET OUT OF BED FOR DAYS AT A TIME. TRY IT FOR AWHILE, GIVE IT A CHANGE.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I stopped taking Savella during the 2nd week of the titration package. I didn't feel any pain relief; maybe if taken longer term I would have. I experienced many of the side effects others have discussed, including bloating, weight gain, anxiety, and dizziness.
I stopped taking Savella because I experienced a severe panic attack followed by weird heart beats, twitching muscles, electricity zaps, and vertigo. This is how a Serotonin Syndrome began for me 1 1/2 months ago for which I was hospitalized.
Perhaps I am at greater risk for Serotonin Syndrome, having had it before. Still, I caution you to be careful if you are on other serotonin medicines, and Imitrex. Savella will augment the serotonin effects and may leave you very sick.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I began Savella with the titration pack and worked up to 200 mg daily. While it did help with the overall aches, the side effects were unbearable. I gave it 5 months, hoping they would pass, but they got worse. I experienced horrible depression, and extreme agitation. It was so bad that my family intervened. It was impossible to live with. Irritable, agitated, crying a lot and so depressed. I looked forward to bedtime so that I could sleep and not be able to feel these horrible emotions. I did not even want to leave my house, I kept the curtains closed and isolated myself as much as I could. I have NEVER had a drug affect me like this. Back to Elavil for me now.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on Savella for 5 weeks now. I could feel a difference almost immediately, especially with sleep and getting up in the morning. Not pain free, but a difference with minimal side effects. Mostly body temperature changes like hot flashes. I worked my way up to 100 mg (50mg morning and evening.) Then I started having worse side effects: nausea, leg cramps, vision changes. I also had mouth and tongue soreness and breast soreness, which I didn't see anyone else mention. I went back to 50mg once a day and the symptoms lessened. After seeing my Dr again, he suggested 25mg morning and eve ning. My breast soreness is better and my mouth sores fewer. I plan to stick it out a little longer to see, as I have not felt or slept this well in years.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: My fibromyalgia had gotten extremely bad due to a great number of stresses in my life this year, so the doctor recommended I try Savella. I was on a drug called Pristiq and when my psych doctor found out about the Savella with it, he said I was beginning to experience Serotonin syndrome - not good. I got off the Pristiq and cut way back on how much Savella I'm taking. I'm going to increase it very slowly and hope the side effects will subside. Reading that for some it took 2 months gave me some hope. I've been having hot flashes, nausea, dizziness, headaches, no energy, but - Hardly NO PAIN! I will keep trying.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Earlier this year, my rheumatologist was doing a patient study and I asked to be included. Nothing else we had tried had made any difference in my symptoms..which were the usual: pain, fatigue, memory probs, confusion and depression with sleeplessness. I was only able to take Savella for five days because of nausea. I asked to continue but he said to stop the drug IMMEDIATELY. (The only other side effects I experienced were loss of appetite and a tingling/twitching of my upper lip...things I could live with.) The next day, I had horrid pain. That was in May and I have had NO pain since, nor have I had ANY other symptoms. NOTHING! Fingers crossed!!!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Started Savella last evening; 12.5mg dose. Weary of taking 2 today; I seem to be sensitive to medicines. Will go slower than the tritation pack suggests. Slept better last night, 6 hrs straight; and considerably less pain in the morning.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have had fibromyalgia for 18 years. Nothing ever helped. But I also have RA so when one doesn't cause pain the other does. Started the titration pack 3 months ago and then went to 50 mgs per day. It really helped with the pain and movement until I got whammied with a side effect. I bruised so bad black and white photos could come out in color. One day I had bruising that started at the hip and ended at the big toe - NO exaggeration! From what I have read here, I must be the only one that had that particular side effect. My dosage has been cut in half and the bruising has stopped but so has the effectiveness. There is still some relief but not like it was on full dosage.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I've had Fibromyalgia since 2004 and neuropathy. I am on my 8th day of Savella and yes the first couple of days there was nausea but I wasn't in pain. Then today the pain came back but it's not as bad. Overall I feel like this medicine is really helping me a lot. No side effects other then nausea and I do have less pain and feel like I can go back to work now. I hope this medicine works for everyone as it has for me. I also tried Lyrica, Cymbalta, Darvocet, Gabatril, Ultram, Effexor, Lexapro......Savella is the best yet!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Savella is the only medication that has actually eliminated most of the pains associated with my fibromyalgia. I was willing to tolerate the side effects the first week of taking the medication just to get some relief and it paid off. The flu-like side effects went away after the first week and I now feel better than I have felt in 3 1/2 years.
I had forgotten what it was like not to have the deep-down burning pain in my joints and muscles and the all over aching feeling that never went away. My brain-fog has gone away and I now can think clearly without my brain hurting.
Thank You to the makers of Savella. I feel like I have my life back.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: SAVELLA HAS REALLY IMPROVED MY LIFE. I AM A NURSE WHO WORKS 12H SHIFTS & BEFORE THIS DRUG I HAD TO CRAWL OUT OF BED, WORK MY 12H SHIFTS, THEN SLEEP FOR DAYS UNTIL TIME TO RETURN TO WORK AGAIN. NOW, I HAVE A NEW LEASE ON LIFE & THIS IS THE 1ST TIME IN 25 YRS WHERE I DONT FEEL AS I WAS DRAGGED UNDER A BUS ALL NIGHT WHEN I GET UP. IT HAS NOT BEEN WITHOUT SIDE EFFECTS. MOST NOTABLY RAPID HEARTBEAT (UP TO 125), SWEATS, HOSTILITY & IRRITABILITY. IVE FOUND THAT 6.25MG DAILY IS THE MOST I CAN TOLERATE. IT DOES NOT COME IN THIS DOSAGE, BUT I BREAK A 12.5MG TABLET IN HALF. MY PAIN IS NOT TOTALLY GONE, BUT THE FATIGUE IS REMARKABLY BETTER. A COUPLE TYLENOLS TWICE DAILY HELPS WITH THE PAIN & STIFFNESS. KEEP TRYING TO FIND RIGHT DOSE FOR YOU.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been taking Savella for almost 5 months and am overall very disappointed. Switching from Lexapro to Savella made for one week of hellish symptoms. Then I had nearly every awful side effect that is listed for Savella: rapid heartbeat, nausea, constipation, sweating, shivering, insomnia,etc. I WAS getting some significant pain relief, though, maybe 60%. The rapid heartbeat was a real concern, so I cut back to 75 mg. for a few weeks. The pain relief decreased, so I went back up to 100mg. again. Although the rapid heartbeat was no longer a problem, the FM pain relief has never returned either, and I still have the side effects, though the severity has lessened. My plantarfascitis pain is the only pain that is really reduced.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am on day 7 of the titration pack. Experienced hot flashes, sweating, chills within hours of 1st dose. Today the side effects seemed to have eased. My pain level is less. I am encouraged.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Was currently taking Lyrica but having too many electric sensations. Now on Savella for Fibromyalgia & neurological problems. Really like it!!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: 48 year old firefighter (I'm not one to give up), dealing with Fibromyalgia symptoms for the past 5 years. Doctor prescribed Savella, been on it for three weeks and wow, what a noticeable difference when I miss a dose. It doesn't completely take away the deep muscle pain and stiffness but it does help keep the pain tolerable so I can function, especially during cold wet weather changes. The most notable side effect for me was the sweats (excessive sweating spells) and dry mouth, both are side effects I can live with.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Started Savella at 12.5mg at bedtime, then after a week added 12.5mg in the morning. No change in pain, stiffness, sleep, brain fog, etc yet but my doctor warned me it could take 4-6 weeks to see benefits. Have tried everything out there for relief. Still taking 60mg baclofen every day and up to 6 lortab a day, plus Ambien, Topamax, Requip. Lyrica was a joke, Cymbalta not much better. Praying Savella will be the 'miracle drug'.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: The muscle pain was so severe at night that I was only getting an hour or two of sleep each night. The fatigue was so bad, I could hardly roll over to get off the bed or couch. I had been taking Cymbalta for nerve damage from cancer surgery so it was not helping the condition. The rheumologist started me on Savella. The muscle pain improved drastically although the fatigue continued for about a month. I hired a trainer and work out with stretching and weights 3 times a week and do stretching exercises every day. I also take Zanax and Trazadone at night to sleep as the Savella also keeps me awake and hyperactive. I still have the nerve pain from the cancer surgery all the time at varying levels.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have had Fibromylgia for over 20 years. I have other health problems. I went off of Prozac to take the new medicine. Prior to taking Savella I was not sleeping taking two different sleep medicines and still didn't sleep. Plenty of pain medicines and have tried so many medicines. Since I started just over a week ago I feel so much better. I'm sleeping and even have been able to start to walk a little. Prior to this I couldn't even get out of bed for days at a time. This is the best I have felt in over 20 years. The only side effect is a little bit of a hungover feeling the next day but that is starting to ease. I'm so thankful for this medicine and I hope that I continue to feel better. I pray for everyone that suffers from this illness.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on Savella 4 a short period of time and it took the place of Cymbalta. I suffer from fibromyalgia and migraines. I notice terrible intensity of the headaches. I wake up with a much more intense headache than I used to. The insomnia I'm getting used to, I'm taking amitrytiline for that. I think I'm going to wait it out because fibromyalgia is a complicated disease. There is no 24 hour cure and I notice if I move around it also helps. Worse side effect for me is blurred vision because I am an avid reader. Good luck fibromyalgia suffers. My motto is what do you have to lose. We're all in pain already what's the worst that could happen.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: The medication helped my pain and did not increase my appetite. But I ended up in the hospital with 75% of the side effects including irregular heart rate and low potassium levels.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on Savella for over a month and have found it to be the most effective medication yet for fibromyalgia. I also take Neurontin and meloxicam, and the combination of the three keeps me almost completely free of pain. No more brain fog, no more mornings where I can't get out of bed or days where I have to go home at noon because I can't function. I was worried that I would have to give up my management job due to this sickness, but if things keep going like they are now, I will be able to keep on working. Constipation, cold sweats are annoying, but not debilitating like the pain. First week I experienced anxiety and unnecessary worrying (I'm not a worrier normally). Thanks!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: My experiences are similar to many of the ones in this list. I can only add that the weight gain issue and perceived hunger is intense. Even eating without hunger is new for me. My pain is better than anytime in the past. My other feelings are still overwhelming...back issues, slight depression, but low energy is still a part of my feelings right now. I add pain medications as needed, and I take Ambien CR nightly. I sometime get plenty of sleep and sometimes no sleep until almost dawn. All of this seems small in comparison with my previous pain. So, all in all, Savella is a life saver for me right now. I will continue its usage.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am on week two of titration pack and I have seen some improvement in pain. I have tried them all..Cymbalta, Celexa, Celebrex, Lyrica, Vicodin, morphine just to name a few (with many side effects and very little relief). I have since discontinued the Celexa and the Vicodin. YEAH! Side effects were pretty much the same as others - nausea, anxious, out of sorts (which I think were withdrawal symptoms). The side effects are getting better with each day. Even if they don't completely go away it is better than the pain.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am much improved on my Fibromyalgia which I have had for 35 years. I have taken all of the drugs mentioned plus more. I have had a spinal fusion and have have other discs that are deteriorating. So I continue to take pain and muscle relaxing medicines, primarily for those. The only side effect is that I have had mild constipation. I use Hydro Therapy at my local Physical therapist facility. This had been a big help in many ways. I have only had two days when I thought my Fibromyalgia was back. I say thank you, thank you to the makers of this medicine.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: First medication for Fibromyaligia that did not make me talk to myself, lose my vision or be so sleepy I could not work. I appreciate some feedback I read that said take it while eating meals helps with side effects. Mine have been sweating (odd body temperature swings) and dry mouth. I have switched to unsweet to so as not to pack on pounds and drink more. Has helped curb my appetite (pain makes you want to comfort eat). One month on still some pain issues but can get out of bed in the morning and work during day. Be sure to go to drugs.com and check interactions. Can't take it with a lot of medicines doctors try for fibromyalgia. I am only on Savella and occasional Tylenol. Right now doing better than I have in a long time.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on milnacipran (200mg) since they first started the study. First of all, the side-effects WILL go away. The pain never completely disappears, but is tolerable. I went from not being able to work at all, to managing a drug store and working 10 hour days. You still have to be careful and monitor what your body needs. Rest on a good bed (I use Temperpedic), heat (stay warm so you don't get stiff), take pain medication when needed, DO NOT let the pain run away from you. Force yourself to stay active. Do something everyday. And most of all, give the medication a chance. After 20 years, I am very grateful for this medication. I can hug my family more often than not and wouldn't give that up for anything.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I was given the titration pack also. I started on the 12.5mg twice daily and did fine. I noticed within 30mins to one hour of taking it I am past out and asleep like a baby. Then when I moved up to 25mg twice daily: I still sleep like a baby. I also notice a reduction in pain, still stiff though. I also noticed another change that I haven't heard anybody mention which is a decrease in libido. I also started dealing with irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally and physically) behavior. So, my doctor told me to try taking one 25mg pill a day and see how that works for me. I have experienced mild hot flashes and sweats, increased constipation. Sticking to it though.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been taking Savella for 5 months now. In addition to that I take Ambien, Xanax and pain pills when needed. Previously I've tried Topamax, Lyrica, Amitriptyline, Clonazepam, Cymbalta, Nortriptyline, Paxil and Zoloft.
Savella has little side effects for me, weight gain, and upset stomach. I have more energy and less pain; please understand that the pain is not gone just easier to manage. 5 months on the medicine and I am going to continue.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I'm on Day nine and woke with a nasty headache that got worse when moving and then the vomiting began. I'm not stopping the medicine though. My muscles feels looser, the fatigue is much less and the overall pain is down. My blood pressure is up and I expect I will be adding a medication to control that because that is better than Fibromyalgia. I was not aware of a lot of the symptoms described here (constipation, stomach bloating, chills-all of which I have experienced slightly). My mood is definitely improved. I've weened off Effexor now and almost off of it. In the past I've tried Lyrica with no luck at all but bad visual symptoms. Cybmalta worked for about 6 months and then stopped. Paxil and Effexor worked for the mood only.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have just weaned off Cymbalta and started Savella about 3 weeks ago. Be careful of your judgements on side effects of Savella. Many of us are being weaned off medicines like Cymbalta and others and these can be causing the side effects. Coming off Cymbalta can cause dizziness, feeling "weird" and many others. Before you write off Savella, make sure your side effects are not withdrawal from other medicines. I have found if I take Savella on an empty stomach, I am nauseated, so take with food. I also have moved the second dose of the day to 2 pm and that helped decrease the insomnia. I have more energy than before, but find I am a bit edgy at times and this is fading. Smaller doses may help side effects. Insurance should cover-ask for appeal if denied.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Have used Cymbalta and then Lyrica for years. Weight gain and blurred vision were the worst side effects. I have now been on Savella for about a month and the side effects are awful. Constipation is the worst! Even so bad I have been to the emergency room feeling like I was in labor. The sweats are almost unbearable. I also have chills and insomnia. Headaches are now a daily occurrence.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: After taking Savella for two months, I began to notice a slight lessening of deep muscle pain and tenderness of joints. It has not, however, done away with the intense fatigue I am sometimes subjected to. Initially, I did experience my heart racing and feeling jittery, but after a few weeks, this went away. I do sometimes experience hot flashes, but I can live with that. Overall, my doctor and I are quite pleased with the results. I don't know if this is as good as it gets or if the results will continue to improve as I continue the medication. While I am not completely pain-free, I am very happy with Savella. I find it a blessing indeed.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: 1 week on Savella, so far side effects aren't bad except if you like to sleep you may as well kiss that goodbye for a while. Relief of pain is getting better with each day. Going to give it a chance and see how it goes.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Have been on this drug for the full four weeks now. I've noticed in an improvement in my energy and mood. The muscle pains have all but gone too. I did have sweating/hot flashes with it but those are better now. Luckily my insurance covers it but it's still $60/month.
I also noticed the increased heart rate so I quit drinking caffeine during the day and keep my beer/wine consumption down a lot. Increase your intake of water as that helps with the head pounding feeling. I also take Ambien so my sleep has not suffered. Consider taking something to help you sleep, at least until you get used to the medication.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am about 21 days in - through the build up and on 50 mg 2x's a day. When I feel good - I feel great. When I start to feel the pain - I don't care as much. I also started on Lunesta for the insomnia but that made the restless leg go crazy - so I balance that now with Mirapex after dinner and Lunesta, and for the last 2 weeks now can get through most of the night and only wake up once to go to the bathroom - instead of many times like before. I wake up ready to get up - and a cup of coffee is enough to rid of the sleepy feeling. I am doing massage therapy at least once a week and ice therapy for the very achy places. I have chills -but now drink ginger to help with that - and a bit of the muscle fatigue. I think this was right for me.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: The "hot flashes" were really unbearable. I was changing entire sets of clothes at least once a day. I finally stopped using Savella. I'm not sure if it helped my pain, but watch out for this side effect, documented in the Savella medication handout. Good luck to all others who are using it; I really hope you do not experience this side effect.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am halfway through the tritation pack of Savella. I haven't cleared the insurance hurdle yet. I was relieved to learn others have experienced hot flashes and sweating. No nausea, no sleep problems, but I am either fanning myself or changing out of drippy clothing! From others' comments, I think I will give it a little more time because my energy level, motivation and pain reduction have definitely been better! I can actually complete one or two chores per day!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I had been taking CYMBALTA and Gabapentin for the last 6 years. They had relieved my pain greatly, but was tired and brain fog constantly. My new doctor recommended me to try Savella. The worst part is that I had to get off the Cymbalta before starting Savella. The withdrawals were terrible. I felt like I was trying to get off Heroin. After reading theses comments I am wondering how many of these side effects people are having is from coming off of a previous drug and not Savella alone. Before I could start the Savella I was having dizziness, nausea, electric shocks through my whole body, sweats, chills, etc. I am on day 7 of Savella and still having some withdrawal, but it is getting better. I say give Savella a chance to work before giving up. I am.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on Savella for only a few days so far. I had taken Cymbalta for a while and it helped but not significantly. My main symptoms are insomnia, fatigue and pain and the Savella has helped with my fatigue more than anything I've ever taken before. As someone posted earlier I feel like I can actually plan ahead a little for the first time in a while. My pain is still a major problem but I hope that will improve as I have been on Savella longer. I have not really had any side effects at all. I am tired of my illness controlling my life and I will not give up. Hopefully Savella will be a real factor in getting my life back. Good luck to everyone out there deaing with FM.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am 38 and have had fibromyalgia since I was 18. I have spent the last 2.5 years recovering from 2 neck surgeries..pure hell. I am off all pain medicines finally. But I have constant nerve pain and nerve damage in both arms and hands. I controlled my pain via a personal trainer 3 times a week since the 90's. I am not the machine I used to be due to the neck injury. You all with fibromyalgia keep moving. The stronger you are the pain can be managed. It will not go away but you can get through it with more on your side. I am on my third week of Savella. 2 weeks no sleep, higher heart rate and I am anxious. I have to keep going these things take time. We all must give it a try everything takes work. Cymbalta, Lyrica helped a little.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Was on my 3rd week of the starter pack and loving the medicine when I found out my insurance wouldn't cover it. Devastated because I hadn't had that much energy in years. I've had chronic pain for 18 years and constant muscle spasms. It didn't get rid of the pain and spasms but it seemed like it was working on it, but with no side effects and the increased energy, I was enjoying the break from and 18 year exhaustion.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Only the 4th day and can't sleep due to rapid heart rate and high blood pressure. Very dizzy and nauseous. Panic attacks due to the side effect of this drug. Feel terrible.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I've been taking Savella for fibromyalgia for about two months now. I am a healthcare professional and have read many of your posts. It is imperative that everyone remembers the side effects may not be from the drug and it is very easy to become paranoid about things that feel different just because you have started new treatment. I have prescribed it for many of my patients and I constantly remind them of the fact that these side effects were shown to be transient in the clinical trials, which consisted of over 2000 patients and they will go away, it will be worth it. I'm so glad that this medication has made it's way to the United States as it is the standard of care in many other countries.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on Savella for a month - it does take the edge off of the pain in my legs and fortunately no side affects.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I took Savella for about 45 days. I started out on the titration pack. The more I took it the worse I felt: nausea, headaches, dizziness, dry mouth, dry eye balls, etc. While taking Savella I was also taking 40mg of paroxetine, which I have been taking since 1997. My doctor decided that I should come off the paroxetine and increase the Savella to 200mg. I couldn't do it at the same time. So I weened myself off of the Savella in about a week and now I am in my second week of weening myself off of the paroxetine. I don't know if I will try Savella if I get off paroxetine or not. I have come off paroxetine before to try other drugs: Efexor,Celexa,Lyrica,Cymbalta, but always went back.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I tried Savella when it first came out and went off of it due to nausea. My doctor asked me to try it again so I did. I am now sleeping 2 or 3 hours at at time and having terrible nightmares. My blood pressure is normally 120/80 I went to a different doctor last week for another appointment and it was 168/100. Didn't know why until I read this article. Have terrible bloating. Disappointed.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I usually have bad side effects with any antidepressants but decided I would go ahead and try this and am only on day 3 of the titrate pack but so far not to bad. My side effects so far have just been 1st night just absolute crash/fatigue within an hour, next day headache, elevated blood pressure. I guess because I had energy, I felt better but felt weird to me (almost manic maybe but confused/scared about it too) but I do so want some energy to accomplish tasks. Definitely some moodiness/aggression but the situation warranted that as well so won't blame it on the medicine. Some light headed moments, some chill (but again I am always cold) still have the ache all over so I will give it some more time to see how it does. So far it's a plus.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: This drug gave me my life back. I have had no side effects. My insurance would not cover Savella at first but now they do. Thank you to the researchers and company that puts it out. Hopefully there are no negative long term effects.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I HAVE SUFFERED FROM FIBROMYALGIA FOR YEARS; LONG BEFORE IT WAS EVEN HEARD OF. I SOUGHT RELIEF FROM DOCTORS , SPECIALIST, NUTRITIONIST, ETC. AT GREAT EXPENSE. I HAVE BEEN ON EVERY POSSIBLE PAIN MEDICATION INCLUDING NARCOTICS AND OVER THE COUNTER PAIN RELIEVERS, ANTI DEPRESSANTS ETC.(ALTHOUGH I AM NOT DEPRESSED) TO NO AVAIL. I PARTICIPATED IN AN OPEN LABEL TEST PROGRAM FOR FIBROMYALGIA MEDICATION (NOT SAVELLA), WHICH HELPED SOMEWHAT BUT ALSO WITH SIDE EFFECTS. I HAVE NOW BEEN ON SAVELLA FOR 10 DAYS STARTING THE PACK AT 12.5 MG TO 100 MG WHICH I AM NOW ON. THE SIDE EFFECTS CAUSED ME TO HAVE A NASTY TASTE IN MY MOUTH AND NAUSEA. IN COMPARISON TO THE PAIN I WILL TOLERATE THE SIDE EFFECTS WHICH ARE NOT AS SEVERE AS THE FIRST 5 DAYS. ALTHOUGH I AM STILL A LITTLE STIFF WHEN I AWAKE; I AM MOBIL EARLIER IN THE MORNING THAN BEFORE STARTING THE SAVELLA. I AM VERY OPTIMISTIC THAT THIS MEDICATION IS THE REAL DEAL. TAKE IT FROM SOMEONE WHOSE BEEN THROUGH IT ALL. IF SAVELLA IS NOT CAUSING YOU TO HAVE SERIOUS MEDICAL PROBLEMS TRY TOLERATING THE SIDE EFFECTS FOR A WHILE BEFORE CROSSING IT OFF YOUR LIST. I AM!
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on the Savella now for about 2 weeks and minus the chills some and hot flashes I think its actually working for the fatigue and fogginess. After recently going through radiation treatments for breast cancer, between the radiation and fibromyalgia my energy was so low I didn't think I would ever get out of bed again. But, like I said right now I'm thinking it's working miracles because I have more energy than I've had in years and pray it keeps working.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I think the physicians are prescribing too high a dosage for those that are having such terrible side effects. My doctor started me with just 12.5mg. Yesterday she increased it to 25mg and today I've had some dizziness, a little nausea and some palpitations. I'll go back to the 12.5mg - it didn't completely eliminate my pain but it was so much better. I was able to do my house work and even did a little shopping which is very good for me. I take Lyrica at night and just the 12.5mg Savella in the morning with breakfast. Maybe the physicians could reduce the dosage with better results. My arms are still sore but not as bad. I'll continue the Savella, at least for now.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have had fibromyalgia for over 10 years and have tried almost everything for it with no relief. The Cymbalta and Lyrica helped a little, but not enough. I started on the Savella 9 days ago and had to stop on the 7th day. Yes, it did help incredibly well with the pain, but the side effects I was having were worse than any amount of pain. I was only sleeping 2 hours a night, if that. I just really didn't feel like I was all there and I couldn't even function in my every day life. For now, I'll be dealing with the pain and hoping these side effects go away very soon. Good luck to all of you who try it.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I'm on day 6 and I already feel the difference. Yes, I felt some of the chills, mild fever and dizziness. I figured I continue to see how it went. So far so good. I was in pain for the past year and I was just diagnosed this month. My pain is not completely gone, but I can honestly tell you that I feel about 80% better. Which is better than I've felt in a long time. I pray that it continues. My side effects are almost completely gone.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I started Savella May 25th with the titration pack. Side effects not bad. When I got to 100mgs my pulse and blood pressure shot up. I felt odd. I had been trying not to take any other pain medicines including Advil or Tylenol to gauge its effectiveness. I talked with my doctor and started the titration again. It has definitely decreased my pain and I got rid of my fibromyalgia fog, which has been great, but I seem to be unable to tolerate the 100mg dose as my BP and Pulse are elevated again. I am very disappointed. I will keep trying.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been on the medicine for about 1 month. It took all the pain away. The side effects are awful. Blood pressure way too high. I already have high blood pressure and this put it over the top. Dry mouth, sweats, insomnia at night but once I get to sleep, I sleep for hours. Curling of fingers and toes is painful and scary. Foggy memory. The cons outweigh the pros. I have tried Celexa, Paxil, Cymbalta and now Savella and none of them work. If I did not have the side effects, I would continue taking. I have not been pain free and able to do normal housework and other chores in years.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Really took away my muscle pain, but made everything else worse. My fibromyalgia was horrible. I had a fever for nearly two weeks, and was always nauseous. I loved the freedom from muscle pain but couldn't live with all the other side effects.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: On my second week and I'm probably going to stop. I'm experiencing terrible hot flashes and chills and am not sleeping. I'm so sorry it is not working.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I'm a 51 year old female. My fibromyalgia was diagnosed 6 years ago in 2003. I also have neuropathy, degenerative disc disease, Celiac's disease and an assortment of auto-immune disorders. I've just completed the first two weeks of being on Savella. Only in the past few days have I noticed a very slight easing up of my pain. The side effects that I am experiencing are: Dry Mouth, Increased Headaches, Some Blurred Vision, Increased Tingling, Mild Constipation, Some Short Term Memory Problems, Moments of Confusion/Disorientation, and a Few Episodes of Increased Heart Rate. I've decided to continue with the Savella, at least for 4 more weeks, as long as I can tolerate the side effects. Of course, it's my hope that I'll see more reduction in my pain levels as my body adjusts to taking the Savella. In the past, I've tried to take Lyrica, two different times. However, the side effects from it were simply unbearable.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am so upset that this new medicine did not work for me. I must have had an adverse/allergic reaction to it because I only took it for two days and I woke up with sore calf muscles, the worst stiff neck, really bad muscle pain, and a horrible sore throat. I did experience insomnia both nights as well. I called my doctor on the third day and was instructed to stop taking it right away. I thought this was going to be my miracle drug, I'm tired of all the different medicines and crazy side effects. I'm glad that it is working for others, hopefully I will find relief soon.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I have been taking Savella since March and I feel great. This is a drug that reduced pain with minimal side effects.
It took about a month to kick in and unlike Cymbalta and Lyrica I do not have any brain fog or dry mouth. Still a bit tired but I attribute that to the fibromyalgia. I did well on Cymbalta but after 2 years it stopped being effective. Lyrica made me disoriented and foggy. I recommend Savella, based on my own very positive experience.
This is not a classic antidepressant and is specific for fibromyalgia. Glad I found it and will continue using it. I have more energy and no pain.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I started taking Savella approximately 4 weeks ago. I take it in the morning with food and in the evening after dinner. I have had no nausea though I do have hot flashes, increased sweating, some panic symptoms, and today had a real strange feeling of my arms and upper body feeling "tingly" inside. That made me panic, still not sure what that was. I have also experience constipation (mild), being very tired (before taking I was exhausted, so I was told maybe tired is an improvement over exhausted), and losing weight (though will NOT complain about that side effect). I have lost 6 lbs. in the last 3 weeks. It has helped my pain and I no longer wake up during the night with the muscle achiness in my outer thigh area.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I had been on Lyrica and Zoloft. My doctor had me wean off them and then started with Savella. My muscle pain is much improved and I have only been on it for 2 weeks. The 'brain fog' I was experiencing with the other medications is going away. The most irritating side effect I have is hot flashes, which could also be caused by weaning off Lyrica and Zoloft. I hope those go away soon.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I was taking Cymbalta and decided to go off due to sexual side effects. I am on day 6 of this medication. I am still in pain but doctor says I need to get to next dosage level. First week was tough due to nausea and hot flashes. Will give it a little more time to see if I get any relief.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Mild depression, fatigue, memory and concentration side effect - but so far so good! I just started taking Savella, on week two and I can notice a difference already. I had been taking Ritalin for years for my ADD and was on some anxiety and depression medicines, and after getting off of them all, I crashed and felt so tired and mentally out of it. On the depression medicines I felt either stupid or edgy so I went off all of them wanting to get back on Ritalin for the concentration. My doctor tells me that Ritalin will actually make you depressed when you stop the medication and can take up to two years to repair the damage. He put me on Savella for the brain fog and the fatigue. I was so tired that I couldn't get out of bed, and I felt alive again. So far, it is an amazing drug. Very pleased with no side effects.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I'm on day 4, my pain level in limbs seemingly is improving more each day. Only side effects so far is constipation. Will start using a stool softener. I'm praying this will help me.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: Savella works great. But the 1st week of side effects while titrating are uncomfortable. After that, it's great for energy, pain and brain fog though it takes a couple months to see dramatic improvement. People who stopped taking it after the 1st week didn't take it properly and aren't giving it a real chance. It's not a pain pill; doesn't work instantly. Important to remember: Take it early and with food. I take it at 5 am and 2 pm (7 weeks now). If not taken correctly, it'll cause headaches/nausea. Don't give up; give it 2 months to work. Doctors also aren't telling patients: It's an SNRI so don't take it with other serotonin affecting antidepressants or it'll make you sick (serotonin syndrome). Give it a chance; Savella helps A LOT.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am more than half way through the starter pack and have been vomiting almost daily. I have had no major breakthrough in pain either. I was so hoping this was the miracle I was waiting for.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: At first I took Cymbalta and it really helped me for awhile. I then tried the Savella, I have so much more energy. I don't lie around on the couch all day. I still have to take it easy and I do have my bad days because I have Sjorgrens also but it has improved my pain and my stamina. I can even plan ahead a little bit.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I took Savella for 1 week. The side effects I had were worse than the benefits. I had chills and then hot flashes. I would wake up feeling as if I hadn't been asleep. I also experienced dizziness and fatigue.
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milnacipran for Fibromyalgia: Having been diagnosed with fibrositis in 1987, inflammation of white fibrous connective tissue and treated for years with Elavil, Effexor and Neurontin. I tried Lyrica but it gave me migraines and blurred vision. This seems to aid in overall tenderness, but pain surges still peak at 6-7. I have experienced severe nausea, mood swings (was told to stop Elavil, Wellbutrin) and blood pressure increase. I also have had trouble sleeping. But it has helped with fatigue, unless I have done something physical, then pain surges increase, along with depression. Overall I think it is a promising medication.
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Savella (milnacipran) for Fibromyalgia: I am also the first one in my pain clinic to try Savella. It has helped me so far. My pain is a little better. I just hope it continues.
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milnacipran for Fibromyalgia: I just started this medicine 4 days ago. No real change at the moment. Still sore but I am not in a flare, so I think it is to early to judge yet. It does make me sleepy and a little dizzy, but the body has to get used to it. I am very hopeful this will give some relief.
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milnacipran for Fibromyalgia: I am the first patient in my doctor's pain clinic to be prescribed this medicine. I'm on day two, I feel optimistic that so far I feel slightly better, even though it's been raining, but a little scared of some of the contraindications for people that take Arthritis medicines, as I take them and wouldn't want to damage my liver.
So far though, I'm impressed by the general feeling of alertness and lessened pain. Hopefully it continues.
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