Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Sarafem as follows:
- Sarafem intake has the potential to increase the likelihood of seizures. Sarafem must be very cautiously administered in individuals with seizure history, compliance with recommended anti-seizure therapy observed, and response closely monitored. Sarafem can also induce a life-threatening reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Individuals taking Sarafem can present with high fever, episodes of confusion, muscle rigidity, elevated blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. Severe cases can present with muscle breakdown, elevated potassium levels in the blood due to muscle destruction, life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias due to the elevated blood potassium, and seizures. Any of these findings, while taking Sarafem, should be immediately reported to the physician, for necessary changes to be considered. Also, discuss with your physician regarding your history of seizures, if any, if you are newly started on Sarafem. If you are newly diagnosed with seizure complaint, discuss with your physician regarding your safety with continuing on Sarafem, if you have been using Sarafem for long.
- Sarafem takes some time to fairly balance the chemicals in the brain, before any improvement in mood and behavior are noted. It could take about 3 – 6 weeks to see this change in mood. So, do not discontinue taking the medication without consulting your physician, as you failed to see the improvement with depressive symptoms immediately after taking the medication.
