Let's learn about the side effects of the antidepressant Vortioxetine (Trintellix) and how to manage it without fear.

Have you been prescribed Vortioxetine (often called Trintellix) by your doctor for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)? When starting a new medication, especially a mental health medication, it's normal to be a little nervous and curious about its side effects. But don't worry. Like any medication, it can have minor side effects. In this article, we'll talk about what those side effects are, what to do if they occur, and how to be aware of the potentially serious (but very rare) symptoms.

How to manage common side effects?

There are several common side effects that can occur when taking this medication. Let's take a look at what they are and what they can do.

Sexual dysfunction or problems

Some people may experience minor changes in their sexual life when starting this medication. For example, difficulty reaching orgasm, delayed ejaculation, decreased interest in sex, or, for men, difficulty getting an erection.

But remember, this doesn't happen to everyone . Also, this condition often goes away as your body adjusts to the medication. The best thing to do is to talk to your doctor about it openly and honestly . He or she may be able to switch you to a different medication or add another medication to help manage this condition. The good news is that the sexual side effects of Vortioxetine are relatively rare compared to other antidepressants.

Nausea and Vomiting

This is the first side effect that many people experience. But it is usually not severe, just a little nausea. In most cases , this goes away on its own after about two weeks . For some, it may last a little longer. You can try these things when you have nausea and vomiting.

Constipation

Some people may experience difficulty passing stools or constipation while taking this medication. You can try these things to help manage this:

• Include more fiber-rich foods in your diet. Things like greens, vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain breads help improve bowel function.
• Exercise daily. This stimulates the muscle activity of the intestines.
• Don't rush when you go to the bathroom. Relax and stay calm.
• If these don't work, ask your doctor about laxatives .

Are we also aware of serious (but uncommon) side effects?

Now we are going to talk about some of the serious side effects that can occur with Vortioxetine, but are very rare, meaning that most people don't experience them, but we should be aware of them. If you experience any of these, you should seek medical advice immediately.

Serotonin Syndrome

Simply put, serotonin is a natural chemical in our brain and body. When taken together with this medicine, as well as some other medicines, the level of serotonin in the body can increase unnecessarily. This condition is called serotonin syndrome. It can start with minor symptoms like sweating and diarrhea, and if left untreated, it can progress to more serious conditions like fever and seizures.

You should be especially careful if you take these medications with vortioxetine:

• Other types of antidepressants (e.g. SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
• Some migraine medications (triptans)
• Some antibiotics, such as Linezolid
• Some painkillers (e.g. tramadol, fentanyl)
• Mood-stabilizing medications such as lithium
• Dextromethorphan is found in some cough syrups purchased from pharmacies.
• Herbal products such as St. John's wort

If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, see your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU):

• Excessive sweating, flushing
• Restlessness, restlessness
• Seeing or hearing things that are not there (Hallucinations)
• Confusion
• High fever
• Rapid heartbeat, changes in blood pressure
• Dizziness, convulsions
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Loss of balance, muscle stiffness, or twitching

Discontinuation Syndrome

Never stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. This can cause symptoms such as nausea, sweating, dizziness, irritability, and insomnia. If you stop taking the medicine or change the dosage, do so gradually, as your doctor tells you.

Increased pressure in the eyes (Angle-Closure Glaucoma)

This medicine can cause the pupil to become slightly larger. In people who are genetically at risk for increased eye pressure, this can lead to a condition called Angle-Closure Glaucoma.

• Eye pain
• Vision changes
• Swelling, redness in or around the eye

If you experience any of these symptoms, tell your doctor. An eye exam can determine if you are at risk.

Decreased sodium levels (Hyponatremia)

This means that the level of sodium (as we know it) in the blood can drop dangerously low. The risk is higher for the elderly and for those taking this medicine along with diuretics for high blood pressure.

• Minor symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, headaches, memory changes, feeling lethargic, falling.
• Severe symptoms: loss of consciousness, seizures, coma, respiratory arrest.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.

Increased risk of bleeding

If you take Vortioxetine with blood thinners such as aspirin, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac), or warfarin, your risk of bleeding may be slightly increased. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bruising or bleeding.

Manic Episodes

If you have bipolar disorder along with depression (and you may not even know it), there is a very small risk of having a manic episode with this medication. During this time:

• My mind is racing in an unusual way, and ideas keep coming.
• The energy increases greatly.
• Talking faster and more than usual.
• I'm getting less sleep, but I don't feel tired.
• Doing risky work.

Suicidal thoughts

This is what we all need to be most concerned about. Any antidepressant, including vortioxetine, especially in young people under the age of 24, may slightly increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions during the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed.

If you or someone you know experiences any of the following while taking this medicine, please call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:

• If you feel like dying.
• If you feel like doing risky work or dangerous things.
• If you get angry, agitated, or restless.
• If you notice unusual, sudden changes in behavior or mood.
• If you feel like your depression is getting worse.
• If you have sleep problems.
• If you become aggressive or violent.
• If you experience anxiety or panic attacks.

Talk openly with your doctor about what's on your mind and how you're feeling. You're not alone. Asking for help is empowering.