Prothiaden: Effective Relief for Major Depressive Disorder
| Product dosage: 75 mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $0.98 | $58.55 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.90 | $87.83 $80.76 (8%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.77 | $117.11 $92.88 (21%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.73
Best per pill | $175.66 $132.25 (25%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Prothiaden (dothiepin hydrochloride) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It functions primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, thereby increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. This mechanism aids in restoring mood balance and alleviating symptoms of depression. Prothiaden is known for its sedative properties, making it particularly suitable for patients experiencing significant anxiety or insomnia alongside depressive episodes. It is available in tablet form and requires a prescription, with treatment typically initiated and monitored by a specialist.
Features
- Active ingredient: Dothiepin hydrochloride
- Available in 25 mg and 75 mg tablet strengths
- Belongs to the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) class
- Exhibits dual reuptake inhibition of norepinephrine and serotonin
- Known for pronounced sedative and anxiolytic effects
- Typically administered once daily, preferably at bedtime
Benefits
- Effectively alleviates core symptoms of major depression, including low mood and anhedonia
- Reduces comorbid anxiety and agitation due to its calming properties
- Improves sleep architecture and reduces insomnia in depressed patients
- May provide relief for certain neuropathic pain conditions when used off-label
- Supports functional recovery and improves overall quality of life in responders
- Suitable for long-term maintenance therapy in recurrent depressive disorders
Common use
Prothiaden is primarily prescribed for the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It is especially beneficial for individuals who present with prominent anxiety, agitation, or sleep disturbances as part of their depressive symptomatology. Off-label, it may occasionally be used in the treatment of certain chronic pain syndromes, such as neuropathic pain, due to its effect on central pain modulation pathways. Its use is generally reserved for cases where first-line antidepressants, such as SSRIs, have been ineffective or poorly tolerated.
Dosage and direction
The initial dosage for Prothiaden is typically 75 mg once daily, administered orally, preferably at bedtime to capitalize on its sedative effects and minimize daytime drowsiness. Depending on clinical response and tolerability, the dose may be gradually increased to a maximum of 150 mg per day, though some severe cases under close supervision may receive up to 225 mg daily. Dosage adjustments should be made cautiously in elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, often starting at 25–50 mg daily. Treatment duration is usually several months, even after symptom resolution, to prevent relapse. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided; instead, doses should be tapered gradually over several weeks.
Precautions
Patients should be monitored for worsening depression, suicidal ideation, or unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial weeks of therapy or following dosage adjustments. Prothiaden may impair cognitive and motor functions; caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. Regular assessment of cardiac function (e.g., ECG monitoring) is recommended in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions due to the risk of conduction abnormalities. Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures, narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, or hepatic/renal impairment. Alcohol should be avoided during treatment.
Contraindications
Prothiaden is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to dothiepin or other TCAs. It must not be used concomitantly with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Additional contraindications include recent myocardial infarction, severe liver disease, and conditions such as severe constipation or paralytic ileus. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of mania or bipolar disorder unless used with a mood stabilizer.
Possible side effects
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and weight gain. Less frequently, patients may experience orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, sweating, or dizziness. Serious adverse effects, though rare, include urinary retention, seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, and hematological changes such as agranulocytosis. Any signs of allergic reaction (e.g., rash, swelling) or symptoms of hyponatremia (e.g., headache, confusion) should prompt immediate medical attention.
Drug interaction
Prothiaden interacts with numerous medications. Concomitant use with SSRIs, SNRIs, or triptans increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. It may potentiate the effects of CNS depressants, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids. Concurrent use with anticholinergic drugs can exacerbate side effects like dry mouth and constipation. Drugs that inhibit CYP2D6 (e.g., fluoxetine, quinidine) may increase dothiepin plasma levels. Caution is advised with antihypertensives, anticonvulsants, and anticoagulants.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose to compensate for a missed one is not recommended.
Overdose
Overdose with Prothiaden can be life-threatening, presenting with symptoms such as severe drowsiness, hypotension, tachycardia, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma. Management includes gastric lavage (if presented early), activated charcoal, and supportive care with continuous ECG and vital sign monitoring. Specific treatments such as sodium bicarbonate for acidosis or antiarrhythmics may be required. Contact a poison control center immediately.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15–30°C), in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and personalized dosage recommendations. Do not initiate, adjust, or discontinue Prothiaden without medical supervision.
Reviews
Clinical studies and patient reports indicate that Prothiaden is effective in managing moderate to severe depression, particularly where sedation is beneficial. Many users note improved sleep and reduced anxiety within the first few weeks of treatment. However, side effects such as weight gain and dry mouth are frequently mentioned. Long-term adherence is often positive in responders, though individual experiences vary. Always discuss benefits and risks with a prescribing physician.