Description

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant and Chlordiazepoxide is an anxiolytic. Amitriptyline inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. This interference with the reuptake is responsible for the antidepressant activity of Amitriptyline. Chlordiazepoxide works by enhancing GABA-mediated chloride influx through GABA receptor channels, causing membrane hyperpolarization. The net neuro-inhibitory effects result in the observed sedative and anxiolytic effect.

This is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to either benzodiazepines or tricyclic antidepressants. It should not be given concomitantly with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor.

Side effects: Many symptoms common to the depressive state, such as anorexia, fatigue, weakness, restlessness and lethargy, have been reported as side effects of treatment with this preparation. Adverse reactions: Most frequently reported were drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness and bloating. Less commonly included vivid dreams, impotence, tremor, confusion and nasal congestion.

Safe use of this preparation during pregnancy and lactation has not been established.

Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures. Close supervision is required when this preparation is given to hyperthyroid patients or those on thyroid medication. The usual precautions should be observed when treating patients with impaired renal or hepatic function. All pediatric patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality and unusual changes in behavior.

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in the pediatric population have not been established. Anyone considering the use of Chlordiazepoxide and Amitriptyline Hydrochloride Tablets in a child or adolescent must balance the potential risks with the clinical need. Geriatric Use: In elderly and debilitated patients it is recommended that dosage be limited to the smallest effective amount to preclude the development of ataxia, over sedation, confusion or anticholinergic effects.

Deaths may occur from overdosage with this class of drugs. Critical manifestations of Amitriptyline overdose include cardiac dysrhythmias, severe hypotension, convulsions and CNS depression, including coma. Manifestations of benzodiazepine overdosage include somnolence, confusion, coma and diminished reflexes. Withdrawal symptoms, similar in character to those noted with barbiturates and alcohol (convulsions, tremor, abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting and sweating), have occurred following abrupt discontinuance of Chlordiazepoxide. Generally, milder withdrawal symptoms (eg, dysphoria and insomnia) have been reported following abrupt discontinuance of benzodiazepines taken continuously at therapeutic levels for several months. Withdrawal symptoms (e.g., nausea, headache and malaise) have also been reported in association with abrupt Amitriptyline discontinuation.