What is Ludiomil (Maprotiline) prescribed for?

Ludiomil is a medication that is used as a treatment for various types of depression, and the anxiety that comes along with it.

Depression can be caused by events in your life, while chemical changes within your brain cause others. However, clinical depression is a condition that can be treated with the right medication, talking to a therapist, and making some changes in your lifestyle.

Ludiomil belongs to a class of medications known as tetracyclic antidepressants. It functions by affecting the balance of a natural chemical, known as neurotransmitters, within the brain.

Remember, regardless of you are feeling well or not, it is important to continue to take this medication. Consult your doctor first if you wish to stop taking this medication.  In suddenly terminating your use of this medicine, your condition may become worse, and you may experience various side effects.

This medication is usually taken 1 to 3 times a day, by mouth. If you only take it once a day, it’s probably best to take it at bedtime to avoid being tired during your day.

Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. Take the medication regularly to gain the most benefit and do not increase your dosage or take this medication longer than what has been prescribed. Your condition will not improve and you run the risk of various side effects.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Maprotiline; or to tricyclic antidepressants (such as nortriptyline); or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform you doctor if you have had any serious health issues in the past, such as; bleeding problems, breathing problems, kidney problems, liver problems, recent heart attack, problems urinating (such as due to enlarged prostate), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), personal or family history of mental/mood conditions (such as bipolar disorder, psychosis), family history of suicide, seizures, conditions that may increase your risk of seizures (such as other brain disease, alcohol/sedative withdrawal).

Maprotiline may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.

The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using Maprotiline, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).

Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics "water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using Maprotiline safely.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, or trouble urinating may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

If you are experiencing any of these rare but very serious side effects, seek medical help right away. The side effects are as follows; persistent heartburn, mental/mood changes (such as anxiety, agitation, confusion), shaking, severe stomach/abdominal pain.

To prevent constipation, eat dietary fiber, drink enough water, and exercise. You may also need to take a laxative. Ask your pharmacist which type of laxative is right for you

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: evere dizziness, fast/irregular heartbeat, fainting, seizures, eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon as you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.