Maprotiline

Maprotiline is a medication that is used for the treatment of depression and anxiety associated with depression. It is believed that the antidepressant works by allowing certain chemicals to stay in the brain longer (serotonin and norepinephrine). Maprotiline, which comes in a tablet form that is available by prescription, is generally taken by mouth one to four times a day. Possible side effects of maprotiline include dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, and drowsiness.

 

What Is Maprotiline?

Maprotiline hydrochloride (Ludiomil®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression). It is also approved to treat anxiety associated with depression.
 
(Click What Is Maprotiline Used For? for more information on maprotiline uses, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Maprotiline?

Maprotiline is no longer available. Generic maprotiline is still available and is made by Mylan Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does Maprotiline Work?

Although maprotiline is technically a tetracyclic antidepressant (due to its chemical structure), most sources consider it to be a tricyclic antidepressant because it is so similar to other tricyclic antidepressants. It is not entirely clear how maprotiline works. It does affect several chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. It is thought that perhaps maprotiline allows these chemicals to stay in the brain longer, which can help with depression symptoms.
 

When and How to Take Maprotiline

Some considerations for when and how to take maprotiline include:
 
  • Maprotiline comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth one to four times daily.
     
  • It does not matter if you take maprotiline with or without food. If the drug upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • Maprotiline should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the medication in your blood.
     
  • For maprotiline to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Maprotiline Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;