Vivactil is a prescription drug that is licensed to treat depression in adults. This page on the eMedTV site describes the drug in more detail, including an explanation of how the antidepressant works and a list of side effects that are possible.
Confusion, dry mouth, and hair loss are side effects that have been reported with Vivactil. This part of the eMedTV archives also lists serious Vivactil side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately, such as anxiety or seizures.
Weight gain is a possible side effect of Vivactil. This portion of the eMedTV Web site offers more information on Vivactil and weight gain, and describes the options that your healthcare provider may recommend for helping with weight gain.
Sexual side effects that have been reported with Vivactil include impotence and changes in libido. This eMedTV article describes Vivactil sexual side effects in more detail and explains what your doctor may recommend if these sexual problems occur.
Dry mouth is a common side effect that has been reported with Vivactil. This section of the eMedTV Web site discusses Vivactil and dry mouth in more detail and provides some suggestions for dry mouth relief.
Vivactil is used for treating the symptoms of depression in adults. As this segment of the eMedTV library explains, there are also a number of "off-label" Vivactil uses, including the treatment of bulimia, chronic pain, and anxiety disorders.
Most people take between 15 mg to 40 mg of Vivactil per day, divided into several smaller doses. This eMedTV segment provides other Vivactil dosage information and offers suggestions on when and how to take the antidepressant.
Medicines that may cause drug interactions with Vivactil include cisapride, pressors, and tramadol. This eMedTV resource lists other medications that can lead to drug interactions with Vivactil and explains the potentially negative effects.
Do not take over-the-counter cold, cough, or allergy medications while taking Vivactil. As this eMedTV page explains, many of these can cause negative drug interactions. Other Vivactil warnings and precautions are also included in this article.
There are currently two strengths of generic Vivactil available. This article from the eMedTV archives talks more about the generic versions of Vivactil, including information on how they compare to the brand-name drug.
Signs of a Vivactil overdose may include dilated pupils, vomiting, or muscle tension. This eMedTV article describes other possible effects of a Vivactil overdose and explains what treatment options are currently available.
This eMedTV article offers detailed information on Vivactil and pregnancy, and explains when use of the drug may be appropriate for pregnant women. The results of animal studies on Vivactil and pregnancy are also provided.
Vivactil may pass through breast milk to a nursing baby. As this eMedTV page explains, although no research has been done on Vivactil and breastfeeding, the medicine most likely passes through breast milk due to the chemical makeup of the drug.
Suicidal thoughts or behavior are possible while taking Vivactil. This eMedTV Web page offers more information on Vivactil and suicide, and explains who may be at higher risk for developing thoughts of suicide while taking the antidepressant.
Many Vivactil alternatives are available, including other antidepressants and various therapy programs. This eMedTV article explains the different therapies that are available for depression treatment and lists medication alternatives to Vivactil.
