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Sarafem is a prescription drug that is approved to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This eMedTV article describes how Sarafem works, lists potential side effects, and offers some general dosing tips for when and how to take the drug.
Headache, nausea, and runny nose are some of the side effects that can occur while taking Sarafem. This eMedTV page lists common Sarafem side effects, as well as serious side effects (like hallucinations) that require immediate medical attention.
Sarafem is used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in women age 18 and older. This eMedTV resource outlines the symptoms of PMDD and explains how Sarafem works to alleviate these symptoms. There are currently no off-label Sarafem uses.
The suggested starting Sarafem dosage for treating PMDD is 20 mg once daily. This portion of the eMedTV archives also explains the different options for taking Sarafem and offers some suggestions for when and how to take the medication.
When aspirin, lithium, digoxin, or certain other drugs are taken with Sarafem, drug interactions may occur. This eMedTV segment lists other drugs that can cause Sarafem interactions and describes the risks associated with combining these medicines.
Sarafem may cause seizures or bleeding in the stomach. This eMedTV page contains other Sarafem warnings and precautions, including a list of possible side effects that may occur and information on who should not take the medicine.
Weight gain appears to be one of the common side effects of Sarafem. This eMedTV article also discusses the results of clinical studies done on Sarafem and weight gain, and explains what to do if you notice weight gain while taking Sarafem.
Weight loss is a possible side effect of Sarafem. As this eMedTV Web page explains, the link between Sarafem and weight loss is unclear, but it is known that the drug causes a loss of appetite and nausea (which may contribute to weight loss).
For those taking Sarafem, sexual side effects are a possibility. This eMedTV Web page explains that a decreased sex drive is one of the side effects of Sarafem and discusses what to do if you develop sexual side effects while taking Sarafem.
As this eMedTV page explains, insomnia is among the most common side effects of Sarafem. This page explores Sarafem and insomnia in more detail, explaining how often insomnia occurs in people taking Sarafem and listing tips on improving sleep habits.
There are two strengths of generic Sarafem that are currently available. This segment from the eMedTV Web site offers an overview of generic Sarafem, including information on its strengths, forms, and manufacturers.
Sarafem is a pregnancy Category C medication. This selection from the eMedTV archives provides an overview of Sarafem and pregnancy, including information on what to do if you are taking Sarafem and pregnancy occurs.
Sarafem does pass through breast milk in high amounts. This eMedTV segment discusses the results of studies of Sarafem and breastfeeding, explaining why other antidepressants (such as Zoloft or Paxil) may be safer choices in mothers who are nursing.
People who take too much Sarafem may experience nausea, drowsiness, or vomiting, among other symptoms. This eMedTV Web page lists other symptoms of a Sarafem overdose and highlights some of the treatment options for an overdose.
It's difficult to tell if there's a link between antidepressants (such as Sarafem) and suicide. This eMedTV page lists some signs of suicidal behavior that you should report to your doctor immediately (such as thoughts of death or violent behavior).
If you choose to drink alcohol while taking Sarafem, you should only drink moderate amounts. This eMedTV page discusses alcohol and Sarafem in more detail, including precautions to be aware of and a definition of what is considered moderate drinking.
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