Maprotiline

Maprotiline is a medication approved for the treatment of depression and anxiety associated with depression. This antidepressant is believed to work by allowing certain chemicals to stay in the brain longer. The medication, 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 include dry mouth, blurred vision, and drowsiness.

Maprotiline (Ludiomil)

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, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes This Medicine?

Brand-name maprotiline is no longer available. However, a generic version is still available, made by Mylan Pharmaceuticals.

How Does Maprotiline Work?

Although maprotiline is technically a tetracyclic antidepressant (due to its chemical structure), most sources consider it a tricyclic antidepressant because it is so similar to other drugs in this class. 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 the medication allows these chemicals to stay in the brain longer, which can help with depression symptoms.

When and How to Take It

Some considerations for when and how to take maprotiline include the following:

Maprotiline comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth one to four times daily.
You can take your dosages 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 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)