nefazodone

• Risk factors: Depression | History of other mental health conditions | Taking antidepressants | Family history of suicide | Age 24 years old or younger

Antidepressants, such as nefazodone, can raise the risk of worsening depression and suicidal thoughts and behavior. The risk is greatest during the first few months of starting antidepressants and after dose changes. The risk is higher in younger people under the age of 24, but people of all ages taking nefazodone are still at risk. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you or your loved ones notice any unusual changes in your mood or behavior, such as anxiety, irritability, panic attacks, anger, aggression, or restlessness, if you feel like your depression is getting worse, or if you're having thoughts of hurting yourself. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline available 24 hours a day by dialing 988.

• Risk factors: History of liver problems

Nefazodone can cause liver failure that can sometimes require a liver transplant or even lead to death. If you have active liver problems, you shouldn't start nefazodone. Your healthcare provider might order blood tests to make sure your liver is healthy before you start taking nefazodone. If you notice any signs of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), stomach pain or swelling, loss of appetite, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, tiredness or weakness (malaise), or confusion, call your healthcare provider right away. If you develop any signs of liver damage while taking nefazodone, your provider will likely have you stop taking nefazodone.

• Risk factors: Depression | Taking antidepressants | History of mania | Family history of bipolar disorder

Sometimes depression can be the first sign of bipolar disorder, which is a mental health condition that causes mood changes ranging from feeling low (depressed) to feeling high (mania). Nefazodone shouldn't be used alone to treat bipolar depression because it can raise the risk of mania. If you're feeling depressed, your healthcare provider might ask you some questions to find out if you're at risk for bipolar disorder.

Some antidepressants, like nefazodone, can cause your pupils to widen, which can lead to a condition called angle-closure glaucoma. This is a condition that blocks fluid from draining in your eye, resulting in high pressure in the eye that might require surgery. Let your healthcare provider know if this concerns you.

• Risk factors: Taking medications for high blood pressure | History of heart attack | History of stroke | Low fluids in the body | History of chest pain

Nefazodone can make your blood pressure drop if you stand up suddenly after sitting or lying down. This can cause dizziness and falls. This condition is known as orthostatic hypotension, and your risk is higher if you're already taking medications for high blood pressure. Get up slowly if you've been sitting or lying down for a while, and sit back down if you feel dizzy.

• Risk factors: History of seizures | Taking other medications that can cause seizures

Take nefazodone with caution if you have a history of seizures. If you or your loved ones notice any signs of a seizure, such as uncontrolled jerking movements of arms or legs, stiff body, staring, trouble breathing, confusion, or unconsciousness, call for emergency help right away.

• Risk factors: Heart disease | History of heart attack | Taking medications that can lower your heart rate

If you have a history of heart attack, heart disease, or low heart rate, take nefazodone with caution. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting nefazodone because you might need to be monitored more closely.