TRIMIPRAMINE

It posses more sedative property amongst different tricyclic anti-depressants which make it more suitable for depressed patients showing anxiety and agitation. Results are observed only after continuous treatment for about 2-3 wks or more & patient becomes more communicative.

Indications

Depression with associated sleep disturbance, anxiety or agitation, restlessnes. Depression in alcoholics. Masked depression.

Dosage

50-100 mg given 2 hrs. before bed time. Moderate/severe depression (hospitalised patients): 75 mg as a single dose or in div. doses, gradually increasing to 150-300 mg daily. Continue for 4-6 weeks & then gradually reduce to maint. dose.

Contra-Indications

Contra-Indication are same as given for Amitriptyline.

Special Precautions

Special Precautions are same as given for Amitriptyline.

Side Effects

Sedation, postural hypotension, tremor, sweating, arrhythmia, increased appetite and weight gain.

Drug Interactions

Impairs antihypertensive effect with guanethidine, methyldopa and methanidine. Hyperpyrexia, convulsins and death with MAOIs. Alcohol potentiates sedative effect.