Why is this medication prescribed?
Trimipramine is used to relieve symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, worthlessness, guilt, loss of interest in daily activities, changes in appetite, tiredness, sleeping too much, insomnia, and thoughts of death or suicide.
Note: This medication is prescribed to treat depression that is not caused by other drugs, alcohol, or emotional losses (such as a death in the family).
Drug class and Mechanism:
Trimipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It was thought that tricylic antidepressants work by inhibiting the re-uptake of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin (5-HT) by nerve cells. However, this response occurs immediately, yet mood does not lift for around two weeks. It is now thought that changes occur in receptor sensitivity in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. The hippocampus is part of the limbic system, a part of the brain involved in emotions. Presynaptic receptors are affected: a1 and b1 receptors are sensitized, a2 receptors are desensitised (leading to increased noradrenaline production). As a summary, trimipramine acts by decreasing the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin (5-HT).
Dosage and using this medicine
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
In case of an emergency/overdose