Protriptyline Hydrochloride
(proe trip’ ti leen)
Vivactil
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Drug Class
TCA (secondary amine)
Therapeutic Actions
Mechanism of action unknown; the TCAs are structurally related to the phenothiazine antipsychotic drugs (eg, chlorpromazine), but in contrast to the phenothiazines, TCAs inhibit the presynaptic reuptake of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin; anticholinergic at CNS and peripheral receptors; the relation of these effects to clinical efficacy is unknown.
Indications
Relief of symptoms of depression (endogenous depression most responsive; unlike other TCAs, protriptyline is “activating” and may be useful in withdrawn and anergic patients)
Unlabeled uses: Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, prevention of migraine
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with hypersensitivity to any tricyclic drug, carbamazepine, concomitant therapy with an MAOI, recent
MI, myelography within previous 24 hr or scheduled within 48 hr, pregnancy (limb reduction abnormalities), lactation.
Use cautiously with ECT; pre-existing CV disorders (eg, severe coronary heart disease, progressive HF, angina pectoris, paroxysmal tachycardia); angle-closure glaucoma, increased IOP, urinary retention, ureteral or urethral spasm; seizure disorders (TCAs lower the seizure threshold); hyperthyroidism (predisposes to CVS toxicity, including cardiac arrhythmias); impaired hepatic, renal function; psychiatric patients (schizophrenic or paranoid patients may exhibit a worsening of psychosis); patients with bipolar disorder (may shift to hypomanic or manic phase); elective surgery (TCAs should be discontinued as long as possible before surgery).
Available Forms
Tablets—5, 10 mg
Dosages
Adults
15–40 mg/day PO in three to four divided doses initially. May gradually increase to 60 mg/day if necessary. Do not exceed 60 mg/day. Make increases in dosage in the morning dose.
Pediatric patients
Not recommended; may increase risk of suicidal ideation.
Geriatric patients and adolescents
Initially, 5 mg tid PO. Increase gradually if needed. Monitor CV system closely if dose exceeds 20 mg/day.
Pharmacokinetics
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