Lucemyra Side Effects, Interactions, & Warnings

Lofexidine (brand name Lucemyra) is a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. This medication is prescribed to help treat opioid withdrawal symptoms. Sudden opioid discontinuation, whether from legal or illegal opioid use, may result in withdrawal symptoms that range in severity.

Lucemyra can help relieve withdrawal symptoms in those suffering from opioid use disorder if the prescribing dose is taken regularly. Although Lucemyra can help treat symptoms of opioid withdrawal, the medication may produce a number of side effects.

Side Effects Of Lucemyra

Those who take Lucemyra may experience a variety of side effects. To begin with, it’s important to take the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider. You may be prescribed 0.18 mg tablets which have the letters “LFX” engraved on it.

Common Side Effects

Lucemyra works by lowering the levels of norepinephrine in the body so that a person can more easily take the medication and ease opioid withdrawal symptoms.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that those taking Lucemyra may experience:

• dry mouth
• slow heart rate
• trouble sleeping
• dizziness
• sleepiness
• drowsiness
• low blood pressure

Blood Pressure & Heart Problems

Certain side effects of Lucemyra are caused due to the decrease in blood pressure. A sudden drop in blood pressure, known as orthostatic hypotension, can result in fainting or lightheadedness.

Cardiovascular issues can occur, including a slow heartbeat (bradycardia) or an abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT intervals can be affected, resulting in a potential long QT syndrome.

In addition to these health issues, kidney problems can also occur. Those who have a history of blood pressure, kidney, or heart problems in their family should notify their doctor right away.

Due to these serious side effects which can occur, it’s important to speak with your doctor if you become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions With Lucemyra

Allergic reactions and drug interactions can take place if Lucemyra is combined with other medications. Before taking Lucemyra, notify your doctor of any current legal or illegal medications you take.

Drugs that may cause adverse effects from concurrent use of Lucemyra include:

• supplements
• antihistamines
• certain over-the-counter medications
• sleeping pills
• barbiturates
• antidepressants such as Paroxetine (Paxil)
• benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax)
• alcohol
• oral naltrexone
• methadone (Dolophine)
• buprenorphine (Buprenex)
• opioids
• certain CNS depressants

Serious adverse reactions can occur if certain medications are combined. 

Warnings For Taking Lucemyra

Although this medication may be useful for opioid withdrawal symptoms, there are a number of warnings to know before taking Lucemyra, in addition to the medications to avoid.

Take Lucemyra As Prescribed

If you miss a dose of Lucemyra, be sure to take the next dose at the normal time. Those struggling with opioid withdrawal may see their symptoms worsen if Lucemyra is stopped.

Lucemyra should be stored out of the reach of children and at room temperature. Always read the patient information which comes attached with the drug information provided with your medication.

Lucemyra Overdose

Those who participate in drug abuse or combine Lucemyra with other substances may have an increased risk of developing a Lucemyra overdose. Some of the symptoms of a Lucemyra overdose include sedation, low blood pressure, or a slow heart rate.

To learn about our healthcare options for prescription drug addiction, please contact us today.