Maprotiline (By mouth)

Maprotiline (ma-PROE-ti-leen)

Treats depression and anxiety. This medicine is a tetracyclic antidepressant.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to maprotiline. Check with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have seizures (epilepsy), if you have recently had a heart attack, or if you are taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors such as Marplan®, Parnate, Nardil®.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. Take this medicine exactly as ordered by your doctor.
Do not stop taking maprotiline suddenly without first asking your doctor.
This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

If a dose is missed:

Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking other medicines that could make you drowsy, such as sleeping pills, tranquilizers, cold and allergy medicines, and pain killers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have had heart problems, overactive thyroid, glaucoma, or if you have trouble urinating.
For some children, teenagers, and young adults, this medicine may increase mental or emotional problems. This may lead to thoughts of suicide and violence. Talk with your doctor right away if you have any thoughts or behavior changes that concern you. Tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has a history of bipolar disorder or suicide attempts.
Maprotiline may make you drowsy or dizzy. Be careful driving a car or operating machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Skin rash, hives, or itching
Seizures
Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Psychosis (delusions, paranoia)

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Drowsiness, dizziness, or tiredness
Nausea, upset stomach, dry mouth
Constipation
Trouble urinating
Changes in vision such as trouble focusing
Weight gain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017