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Dothiepin
Brand Name: Prothiaden, Dosulepine
What is it?
Dothiepin is in the category of drugs referred to as tricyclic antidepressants. These are used to treat depression. When an individual experiences depression, the amount of nonadrenaline and serotin released by the brain is decreased. Dothiepin works by helping to block the return of these chemicals to the brain, allowing an individual to continue to feel up-lifted, instead of depressed. In some instances, Dothiepin is used as a painkiller to treat severe nerve pain.
How to take it?
Dothiepin needs to be prescribed by your doctor. It comes in tablet, capsule and liquid form. You should take the tablet or capsule with a full glass of water. If you are taking the liquid version then you must first shake the bottle and measure out the correct dosage. A doctor will usually start an individual on the 75mg dose per day; a person should take this medication before going to bed. Based on an individual’s response, your doctor can elect to increase the dosage. Elderly individuals on this medication are usually started on the 50mg dose to begin with, as the increase of side effects for them.
Warnings and Precautions
If you are going to take this medication, you doctor needs to know if you have a history of thyroids, prostate issues, glaucoma, epilepsy, heart, kidney or liver problems. This drug is not recommended for children, or anyone who has recently suffered from a heart attack or irregular heart rhythms.
There are some drugs that can possibly interact with medications. If you are taking cimeidenie, warfarin, subutramine, and antihistamines, you need to advise your doctor first. You should also not take this drug if you are taking any MAO inhibitors, as this can also have a reaction.
If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breast-feeding, you need to inform your doctor immediately as this medication could have a negative reaction to your baby or unborn child. There is some evidence that suggests that if you take this drug while pregnant it increases the chance of your child being born with birth defects.
This medication can make you dizzy and drowsy so you should avoid driving a car or using machinery while on this medication. You should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication as it can increase the depressant effects of the medication.
There is also some concern for individuals who suffer from epilepsy taking this drug. As at times this drug may lower an individual seizure onset, and cause them to go into shock or have convulsions. Again, only a doctor can decide which drug is best suited for the conditions that you are experiencing.
What should you do if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take that dose only. Do not take any extra doses.
What are the side effects?
They are many side effects that this medication can bring on. They can range from severe to less severe. The side effects that are less severe include: dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, feeling sleepy, and tiredness. The symptoms that might require immediate medical attention include: rash, blurred vision, high temperature, sore throat, yellowish eyes and skin, and changes in your heart beats.
How to store this medication?
This medication should be kept in the tight container that it came in, and out of the reach of children at all times. This medication should be stored at room temperature, and away from excessive heat and moisture. This medication should not be stored in your bathroom as that it will expose it to heat and moisture. You should never use any medication after its expiration date.
What does it look like?
Dothiepin comes in three forms: tablet, capsule, and liquid form. Dothiepin comes in various mgs ranging from 50mg to 150mg. The doctor will usually start treatment with a lower dose, and then increase your dosage according to the individuals need and response to the medication.
What if you overdose?
If you by chance take more than the recommended amount of this drug and overdose, contact poison control center immediately; along with your doctor.
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