Serzone (Nefazodone)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Serzone is indicated for the treatment of depression. It acts by inhibiting the uptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. This allows the extracellular accumulation of those two neurotransmitters with a resultant improvement of mood and depression.
Side Effects
The most common side effects are: headache (35%), drowsiness (25%), dry mouth (25%), nausea (22%), dizziness (17%) and weakness (11%).
Drug Interactions
Serzone should not be used along with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. A rest period of at least 7 days should be allowed between starting one of the drugs and stopping the other.
Cautions and Contraindications
Excess alcohol consumption should be avoided. If Buspar (buspirone) is prescribed at the same time, the blood levels of Buspar will increase significantly and lead to an increased incidence of Buspar side effects. Use caution with other antidepressants such as fluoxitine (Prozac) and other antidepressants of the selective serotonin uptake inhibitor class (SSRI's).
Usual Dose
One tablet two times a day.
Note
Rarely, Serzone has reported to produce liver failure requiring eventual liver transplantation or death. Patients on Serzone should have liver function tests performed on a regular basis by their physician.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.