Amitriptyline/chlordiazepoxide

Amitriptyline/Chlordiazepoxide is a combination medication used in the treatment of anxiety and depression. It contains two active ingredients: amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, and chlordiazepoxide, a benzodiazepine.

Pharmacology

Amitriptyline works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help elevate mood. It is a potent inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, and also has strong actions at the alpha-adrenergic, histamine H1, and muscarinic receptors.

Chlordiazepoxide is a benzodiazepine that works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves in the brain use to send messages to one another. Chlordiazepoxide enhances the effects of GABA, thereby reducing anxiety and producing a calming effect.

Indications

Amitriptyline/chlordiazepoxide is indicated for the treatment of patients with moderate to severe depression associated with moderate to severe anxiety. The efficacy of this combination medication has been established in hospitalised patients who are more severely depressed.

Side Effects

Common side effects of amitriptyline/chlordiazepoxide include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and dry mouth. Serious side effects may include increased risk of suicide, abnormal heart rhythms, and severe allergic reactions.

Contraindications

Amitriptyline/chlordiazepoxide is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to amitriptyline, chlordiazepoxide, or any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with acute recovery phase of myocardial infarction, and in patients with angle-closure glaucoma or a predisposition to urinary retention.

See Also

• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Benzodiazepine
• Anxiety
• Depression