Lofepramine: Drug Information

Generic name: Lomont, Gamanil, Feprapax

Drug Class: Tricyclic antidepressant

Uses of Lofepramine:

Lofepramine is a third generation tricyclic antidepressant that is recommended for the treatment of depression and its associated symptoms such as nervousness, restlessness, anxiety and tension. It is known to possess both antidepressant as well as anxiolytic properties and works by inhibiting the action of the neuronal reuptake of non-adrenaline in the Central nervous system (CNS). It also inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and helps elevate the mood.

Dosage:

It is essential for you to take the medication as prescribed by your physician. It is not recommended that you abruptly stop taking the medicine without your doctor’s consent as it may worsen some of your symptoms. The drug can be taken with or without food.

Warning and Precautions:

Do not take this medicine of you are allergic to Lofepramine.

Caution is advised when administering this drug to patients with a history of glaucoma, brain tumors, seizures, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease and hepatic or renal impairments.

You must also tell your doctor if you are suffering from hypotension, epilepsy, thyroid disorder, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, liver disease, phaeochromocytoma, glaucoma, urinary hesitancy, psychosis or porphyria.

Lofepramine can cause low blood sodium level, thereby resulting in drowsiness, muscle twitching, mental confusion and convulsions.

Avoid driving or operating any hazardous machinery while on the medication.

Cigarette smoking may decrease the effectiveness of the medication.

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or lactating before taking Lofepramine.

Side effects of Lofepramine:

Some of the most common side effects of the medication include dry mouth, nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, excitability, anxiety, diarrhea, nightmares, increased sensitivity to sunlight, changes in appetite and weight gain or weight loss.

Overdose:

In case of an overdose of the medication, you must report to your doctor at the earliest or contact your local poison control center.