Amwel

COMPOSITION

AMWEL 25 TABS

Each tablet contains

Amitriptyline HCl   25 mg

AMWEL 75 TABS

Each tablet contains

Amitriptyline HCl   75 mg

DESCRIPTION

AMWEL 25/75 TAB contains Amitriptyline, one of the potent tricyclic antidepressants. When the drug is given to depressed patients, elevation of mood occurs. It takes about 3 weeks before the beneficial effects are observed. Tolerance to anti-cholinergic effects occurs with the continuous use.

PHARMACOLOGY

Pharmacodynamics

AMWEL 25/75 TAB produces its antidepressant effect by blocking the neuronal uptake of noradrenaline and exerts anti-cholinergic activity. They also inhibit neuronal uptake of 5HT and dopamine. The antidepressant effect is noticed after 3-4 weeks of drug administration.

Pharmacokinetics

AMWEL 25/75 TAB, after oral administration is distributed widely and is metabolized to nortriptyline which is active.

INDICATIONS

Depression, illness accompanied by anxiety, agitation, restlessness and disturbances of sleep, masked depression, dysphoria and depression in alcoholics, childhood bedwetting.

DOSAGE

Adults: 10-25 mg initially thrice daily increased by 10-25 mg every 2^nd or 3^rd day till optimal effect is seen. Max: 150-225 mg daily.

Patients over 60 years: 10mg thrice daily initially.

Alcoholics: 25 mg 3-4 times daily.

Maint. Dose: 10-15 mg thrice daily.

Children: not recommended below 12 years of age.                                          

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Epilepsy, narrow angle glaucoma, severe heart disease, severe liver impairment, retention of urine.

Adverse Effects

Epigastric distress, sedation, drowsiness, orthostatic hypotension, palpitation, dries mouth, urinary retention, blurred vision, confusion, lowering of seizure threshold.                                                                                              

DRUG INTERACTIONS

·         Anti-cholinergics: Increased effect of anti-cholinergics may occur.

·         Barbiturates: Serum level of Amitriptyline decreased.

·         MAOIs: Seizures, sweating, coma, hyperexcitability, hyperthermia, tachycardia, mydriasis, confusion.

·         Alcohol: Sedative effect of alcohol potentiated.

·         Oral Contraceptives and Phenothiazines: Increased serum level of Amitriptyline.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

·         Not to drive or operate heavy machinery.

·         Use cautiously in patients with cardiac, renal or hepatic disease, hyperthyroidism.