LOFEPRAMINE
Brand name Gamanil
GENERAL INFORMATION
Lofepramine belongs to the group of tricyclic antidepressant drugs. It is used primarily in the long-term treatment of depression. The drug serves to elevate the mood, improve appetite, increase physical activity, and restores interest in everyday activities.
Less sedating than some of the other tricyclic antidepressants, lofepramine is particularly useful when depression is accompanied by lethargy.
The main advantage of lofepramine over other similar drugs is that it seems to have a weaker anticholinergic action and therefore milder side effects. In overdose, lofepramine is thought to be less harmful than the older tricyclic antidepressant drugs.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Tricyclic antidepressant drug
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
2-3 x daily.
Adult dosage range
140-210mg daily.
Onset of effect
Can appear within hours, although full antidepressant effect may not be felt for 2-6 weeks.
Duration of action
Antidepressant effect may last for 6 weeks; adverse effects, only a few days.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 3 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
An abrupt stop can cause withdrawal symptoms and a recurrence of the original problem. Consult your doctor, who may supervise a gradual reduction in dosage.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The possible adverse effects of this drug are mainly the result of its mild anticholinergic
action and its blocking action on the transmission of signals through the heart.
INTERACTIONS
Sedatives
All drugs that have sedative effects intensify those of lofepramine.
Heavy smoking
This may reduce the antidepressant effect of lofepramine.
Antihypertensive drugs
Lofepramine may reduce the effectiveness of some of these drugs.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Serious interactions are possible. These drugs are only prescribed together under close medical supervision.
Antihistamines
Terfenadine and astemizole intensify some effects of lofepramine.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have heart problems.
You have had epileptic fits.
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
You have glaucoma.
You have an overactive thyroid.
You have prostate trouble.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended.
Over 60
Reduced dose may be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how lofepramine affects you because the drug may cause blurred vision and reduced alertness.
Alcohol
Avoid. Alcohol may increase the sedative effects of this drug.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
