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maprotiline - oral, Ludiomil

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GENERIC NAME: MAPROTILINE - ORAL (map-ROW-till-een)

BRAND NAME(S): Ludiomil

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition. Tell the doctor immediately if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.

USES: This medication is used to treat various types of depression and related anxiety. It may help improve mood and feelings of well-being. This medication belongs to a class of medications called tetracyclic antidepressants. It works by affecting the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking maprotiline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth, usually 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. If you take it only once a day, take it at bedtime to reduce daytime sleepiness. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.To reduce your risk of side effects (such as drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness), your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as mood swings, headache, and tiredness. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately.This medication may not work right away. You may see some benefit within a week. However, it may take up to 3 weeks before you feel the full effect.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (such as your feelings of sadness get worse, or you have thoughts of suicide).

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