Mariptiline

Mariptilitine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that is used in the treatment of depression. It is a tertiary amine TCA, with its systematic name (±)-3-(10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptene-5-yl)-N-methylpropan-1-amine. It is used primarily in Europe and Japan. The drug is similar in structure to other tertiary amine TCAs such as imipramine and amitriptyline.

Pharmacology

Mariptilitine acts by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters in the brain that are involved in mood regulation. By blocking their reuptake, mariptilitine increases the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of depression.

Side Effects

Like other TCAs, mariptilitine can cause a variety of side effects. These can include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and dizziness. More serious side effects can include cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and an increased risk of suicide.

Interactions

Mariptilitine can interact with a number of other medications. These include other antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, and certain antihypertensive drugs. It is therefore important that patients inform their doctor of all medications they are currently taking before starting treatment with mariptilitine.

Contraindications

Mariptilitine is contraindicated in patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias, recent myocardial infarction, or any degree of heart block. It is also contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to mariptilitine or any of the other ingredients in the formulation.

See Also

• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Depression
• Serotonin
• Norepinephrine