Dosulepin: Characteristics And Side Effects Of This Drug
One of the most used antidepressants has been dosulepin, a medication which has been shown to be effective in treating both major depression and neurological problems.
This medication, which is obtained by prescription, has had its ups and downs, which is why its use has been decreasing in recent years although it has not stopped being prescribed.
Let’s take a closer look at what the characteristics of dosulepin are what it is used for, in addition to talking about its adverse effects and contraindications.
Dosulepin, also called dothiepin, is a tricyclic antidepressant, used in the treatment of depression It has been marketed under several names: Altapin, Depresym, Dopress, Dothapax, Dothep, Idom, Prepadine, Protiaden, Protiadene, Thaden, and Xerenal.
This psychotropic drug can be found in various parts of Europe, New Zealand, Australia and Asia. Although it was one of the most prescribed antidepressants in the United Kingdom, this is no longer the case because it has a relatively high level of toxicity if an overdose occurs, in addition to the fact that it does not present greater advantages than the rest of the tricyclic antidepressants. .
Indications: what is it used for?
Dosulepin is used in the treatment of major depression It is also used to treat pain of neurological origin, such as fibromyalgia, and as a preventative against migraines. There is scientific evidence that it is useful in treating atypical facial pain.
The dosulepin acts as a selective inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine, blocking the reuptake of these two neurotransmitters in the neuronal membrane. It is also an antagonist of histamine H1, alpha-1-adrenergic, serotonergic 5-HT2 and muscarinic receptors. It is also a potential-gated sodium channel blocker.
Administration
Dosulepin is taken orally, and is sold in 25mg and 75mg pills. For depression, between 75 mg and 150 mg per day are usually prescribed, The maximum recommended dose for this diagnosis is 225 mg daily In the case of pain treatment and prevention of migraines, the usual dose is about 75 mg daily taken before going to sleep, with the maximum dose being 150 mg.
This drug causes drowsiness, for this reason it is recommended to take it once a day, especially before going to sleep. If you feel sleepy when you wake up the next day, it is recommended to consume the pill a little earlier than you did the night before.
Sometimes, when starting treatment, it is prescribed to take low doses about two or three times a day until the body gets used to the drug. The objective of this is to avoid side effects that depend on an overdose.
The dosulepin It can be consumed both with and without food always taking it with a glass of water and without chewing the pill.
Side effects
As with all psychotropic drugs, dosulepin may have some side effects, which are due either to an overdose of the drug or to an allergic reaction to it. Most of these side effects end up subsiding once the body has become accustomed to dosulepin.
Dosulepin may cause some unwanted effects on the digestive tract, such as dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation If constipation continues over time, it can cause stomach pain.
Effects on the circulatory system
One of the most dangerous effects that this drug can produce is heart problems, especially arrhythmias and tachycardias Additionally, there may be hypertension. In the most serious cases, myocardial infarctions and heart attacks can occur.
Skin effects
Blisters may appear, as well as hives, rashes and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
liver problems
The liver can be damaged, leading to hepatitis which can cause the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellowish.
Due to poor liver regulation, blood glucose levels are altered.
Cognitive and psychiatric impairment
Dosulepin can cause drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness and general weakness Headaches may also occur.
In more severe cases there may be disorientation, lack of concentration, hallucinations, overexcitement, insomnia and nightmares. Anxiety and hypomania may occur.
Other effects
Some notable effects of a different nature are impotence, gynecomastia, testicular swelling, blackening of the tongue, difficulties urinating, weight loss and/or gain, and increased eye pressure.
Contraindications and precautions
These are the populations and situations in which dosulepin is contraindicated.
Pregnancy and lactation
Dosulepin has been associated with a very low risk to the fetus. Even so, if you suspect that you are pregnant, It is recommended to consult a professional to consider switching antidepressants to ensure that the unborn baby develops smoothly.
During breastfeeding, if no problems are noted in the newborn, dosulepin can continue to be taken, since This medication enters breast milk in trace amounts
Since this drug causes drowsiness, Driving or operating heavy machinery is not recommended after taking dosulepin.
Interactions with other substances
Dosulepin may interact with alcohol. Furthermore, like other tricyclics, This drug enhances the effects of barbiturates, anxiolytics and depressants of the central nervous system.
Dosulepin has antihistamine and anticholinergic effects, which means that if it is combined with other drugs that also have these effects, they increase, making its joint prescription contraindicated.
The consumption of dosulepin and St. John’s wort, a natural remedy for depression, is contraindicated, since consumed together they increase the risk of suffering adverse effects.
