MAPROTILINE HCL

Drug Name: MAPROTILINE HCL

MAPROTILINE HCL DESCRIPTION:
MAPROTILINE - ORAL (map-ROW-till-een)

COMMON MAPROTILINE HCL BRAND NAME(S):
Ludiomil

MAPROTILINE HCL SIDE EFFECTS:
Stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, strange taste in mouth, dry mouth, dizziness and blurred vision may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects reported include anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, insomnia, nightmares, dry skin, itching, change in sex drive or decreased sexual function, painful or frequency urination, weight loss or gain, sun sensitivity or increased thirst. If any of these effects become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop chest pain, a rapid heartbeat, vomiting, skin rash, mental confusion, disturbed thoughts, hallucinations, tingling of the fingers or toes, muscle twitching, seizures, agitation, breathing trouble, unusual weakness or swelling of the face or tongue while taking this medication. MAPROTILINE HCL may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness and avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages which can aggravate these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE MAPROTILINE HCL:
MAPROTILINE HCL: Take MAPROTILINE HCL exactly as prescribed. Initially, your dose may be increased gradually to find the proper amount for you. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Do not stop taking MAPROTILINE HCL without first consulting your doctor.

MAPROTILINE HCL USES:
MAPROTILINE HCL is an antidepressant used to treat depression.

MAPROTILINE HCL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have a history of a seizure disorder, glaucoma, urinary trouble, heart disease, thyroid disease, kidney disease, liver disease, psychiatric illness or if you have any allergies. Diabetics must closely monitor blood sugar levels as this medication may both increase or decrease blood sugar. MAPROTILINE HCL may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun expose. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. MAPROTILINE HCL should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of MAPROTILINE HCL are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

MAPROTILINE HCL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially barbiturates, anticholinergics, cimetidine, clonidine, disulfiram, fluoxetine, haloperidol, estrogens, oral contraceptives, antidepressants, phenothiazines and narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine). If you are unsure of the contents or types of medications you you take, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help. Smoking may alter the effects of MAPROTILINE HCL. Avoid alcohol which can aggravate side effects. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

MAPROTILINE HCL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, fast heartbeat, loss of balance, vomiting, lightheadedness, restlessness, muscle stiffness, and dilated pupils.

MAPROTILINE HCL NOTES:
It may take two to three weeks before the full effects of MAPROTILINE HCL are observed.

MISSED MAPROTILINE HCL DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist to determine a new dosing schedule.

MAPROTILINE HCL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.