Lofexidine (Lucemyra)

Description

Although Lucemyra has been used in the past to help treat high blood pressure, the medication is the first non-opioid approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help with the mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms.

The medications Clonidine (Kapvay), paroxetine (Paxil), and naltrexone (Vivitrol) are also medications approved by the FDA to help treat opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Opioid Withdrawal
The FDA-approved Lucemyra helps to treat the numerous withdrawal symptoms which can occur when abrupt opioid discontinuation takes place. More specifically, those suffering from an opioid use disorder or opioid addiction may experience symptoms that are severe.

Relapsing on opioids due to withdrawal symptoms can increase the risk of opioid overdose. Some of the opioid withdrawal symptoms that may be treated by Lucemyra consist of cravings for the drug, sleeping difficulties, and muscle cramps.

Lucemyra Dosage
According to the FDA, Lucemyra can be prescribed as 0.18 mg tablets which appear round in shape with the imprint “LFX” that should be taken 4 times daily, or every 5-6 hours. Your healthcare provider can assist in finding which dosage is right for you.

In fact, your doctor may prescribe lower doses of the drug, depending on the severity of withdrawal symptoms a person experiences.

Be sure to follow the prescribing information that comes with your medication, and if you accidentally skip a dose of Lucemyra, take your next dose at your regular scheduled time.

Side Effects Of Lucemyra
Although Lucemyra helps to curb the effects of opioid withdrawal, Lucemyra may cause a person to experience a number of side effects.

Common Side Effects
Those who take Lucemyra may experience side effects such as:

lightheadedness
dizziness
sleepiness
dry mouth
drowsiness
slow heart rate
Serious Side Effects
The lightheadedness a person experiences is one of the symptoms of low blood pressure which can occur. Orthostatic hypotension, or a sudden drop in blood pressure, may take place if one stands up too quickly.

Cardiovascular issues may arise in those who have heart problems. This is due to the bradycardia, or slow heartbeat, which can take place and result in serious health issues.

If you or a family member have a history of heart problems, including QT prolongation or long QT syndrome, notify your healthcare provider immediately. High blood pressure and other side effects that affect the cardiovascular system can create life-threatening medical emergencies.