Prothiaden 75 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

PROTHIADEN 75 MG TABLET

PROTHIADEN 75 MG TABLET by ABBOTT INDIA LIMITED is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used for managing various mood and neurological conditions.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: PROTHIADEN 75 MG TABLET
  • Common Name: Dosulepin Hydrochloride

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Each tablet contains 75 mg of Dosulepin Hydrochloride.
  • Excipients: Includes calcium phosphate, maize starch, talc, povidone, magnesium stearate, sucrose, liquid glucose, sandarac, white beeswax, sodium benzoate (E211), titanium dioxide (E171), ponceau 4R (E124), and sunset yellow (E110).

• Uses: PROTHIADEN 75 MG TABLET is prescribed for:

  • Depression, especially when unresponsive to other treatments or for severe depression.
  • Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder.
  • Nerve pain and fibromyalgia.
  • Chronic pain management and sleep disturbances associated with mood disorders.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Adults: Initially, 1 tablet (75 mg) a day. The dose may be increased to 2 or 3 tablets a day (up to 225 mg daily), taken in divided doses or as a single evening dose, preferably a couple of hours before bedtime.
  • Elderly: Initial dose typically 50 mg to 75 mg daily.
  • Children: Not recommended.
  • Tablets should be swallowed whole with water. Improvement in mood may take 2 to 4 weeks. Do not stop treatment suddenly; gradual withdrawal is necessary to avoid symptoms.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Dry mouth, blurred vision, increased heart rate, constipation, difficulty urinating, drowsiness, dizziness, increased sweating, tremor, low blood pressure, and weight gain.
  • Serious: Rare but possible side effects include severe mood changes, fits, changes in blood or hormone levels, irregular heartbeat, and an increased risk of bone fractures. There is also a risk of suicidal thoughts, especially at the beginning of treatment.

• Precautions:

  • Avoid if allergic to Dosulepin, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with certain heart conditions (e.g., recent heart attack, irregular heartbeat), severe liver problems, mania, or narrow-angle glaucoma.
  • Caution is advised in elderly patients and those with epilepsy, kidney disease, diabetes, or a history of suicidal thoughts.
  • Do not take with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping them. Alcohol consumption should be avoided due to increased drowsiness.
  • PROTHIADEN may cause drowsiness or dizziness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

• Storage:

  • Store at room temperature below 30°C, in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.
  • Do not use after the expiry date.

PROTHIADEN 75 MG TABLET (15 TAB) by ABBOTT INDIA LIMITED - Frequently Asked Questions

What is Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet used for?

Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet, containing dosulepin hydrochloride, is a tricyclic antidepressant primarily used to treat depression, especially when other treatments have been ineffective. It is also used to help manage anxiety disorders, nerve pain (neuropathic pain), fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and sleep disturbances associated with mood disorders like insomnia.

How does Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet work?

Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet works by increasing the levels of certain natural chemical messengers in the brain, such as serotonin and noradrenaline. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotional responses. By preventing their reabsorption into nerve cells, Prothiaden enhances their effects, thereby stabilizing mood, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep patterns.

What is the usual dosage for Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet?

For adults, the typical starting dose is one 75 mg tablet per day. This dose may be gradually increased to a total of two or three tablets (150 mg to 225 mg) per day, as directed by a doctor. The tablets can be taken in divided doses throughout the day or as a single dose in the evening, usually a couple of hours before bedtime. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 225 mg. For elderly patients, the initial dose is generally lower, ranging from 50 mg to 75 mg a day. Prothiaden is not recommended for children.

What are the possible side effects of Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet?

Common side effects may include increased heart rate, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness or sedation, difficulty in urination, a sudden drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension), headaches, and weight gain. Some serious but rare side effects can include hypersensitivity reactions (like rashes, hives, or swelling of the face, tongue, and eyes), yellow discoloration of the eyes and skin, frequent muscle cramps, persistent weakness or confusion, pain and redness in the eyes, convulsions, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts or behavior. Elderly patients may be particularly susceptible to agitation, confusion, and lightheadedness. There is also an observed increased risk of bone fractures with this type of medication.

Is Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy and should be avoided unless there are compelling medical reasons, as limited studies suggest potential harm to the developing baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor. Similarly, it is probably unsafe to use while breastfeeding, as the medicine can pass into breast milk. A doctor's consultation is essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits and decide whether to discontinue nursing or the medication.

Can Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet be taken with other medications?

Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet can interact with various medications. It should not be taken with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping them, as this can lead to severe and potentially fatal reactions. It should also be avoided with certain hay fever/allergy treatments like terfenadine or astemizole, and with sotalol or halofantrine. Combining Prothiaden with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines like diazepam) can significantly increase drowsiness, sedation, and impair coordination. Caution is advised with other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) due to an increased risk of side effects, including serotonin syndrome. Interactions with anticoagulants like warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding, and with certain antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone, quinidine) could affect heart rhythm. Domperidone can also interact, potentially prolonging the QT interval and increasing the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

What precautions should be taken while taking Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet?

Do not stop taking Prothiaden abruptly, even if you feel better, as sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, and excessive perspiration. Any changes to your dosage should be gradual and under medical supervision. Due to the potential for drowsiness and dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medicine affects you. Alcohol consumption should be strictly avoided. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially severe liver problems, irregular heartbeat, recent heart attack, glaucoma, epilepsy, thyroid disease, urinary retention, prostatic hypertrophy, or a history of suicidal thoughts. For patients at risk of suicide, a limited number of tablets may be prescribed, and close supervision, especially during early treatment and dose adjustments, is crucial.

What happens if a dose of Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet, take the next scheduled dose at its usual time. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet be stored?

Prothiaden 75 mg Tablet should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 30°C (or between 15°C and 30°C), in a cool, dry place. Keep the medicine in its original airtight container, away from direct sunlight, heat, light, and moisture. It is crucial to keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not dispose of expired or unused medicine in wastewater or household waste; consult your pharmacist for proper disposal methods.