5 replies to this topic

[Tom_]

Does anyone know the receptors lofepramine acts on? The more information the better. I assume SNRI & anticholinergic effects as its a TCA. However I'd be interested to know about any binding studies and more improtantly there results.

This drug was suggested incombo with Agomelatine after two other more common drugs I've yet to trial (venlafaxine and buriprion). It was suggested over the older TCA's due to decreased risk in regards to suicide/self injury.

[Al Capacino]

Sorry to bring back an old thread! Did you ever find this out Tom?
I've just been put on lofepramine as the trazodone was a terrible ad for me.
Feel it's heightening my anxiety although it has improved my mood. Only on day 3 mind you.
Anyone any experience of lofepramine? There's not much info out there on it

[yuller]

I had the same experience Al so i quit

[Tom_]

Lofepramine is an reasonably potent NRI, have moderate SRI effects and also appears to increase the amount of L-Tryptophan that enters the brain.

 

Its common that antidepressants will cause an increase in anxiety for the first 2-6 weeks before the antidepressant effect appears. Its possible for antidepressant effects to appear very early in treatment but unusual. A trial of at least 8 weeks at 70mg should happen before the drug is discontinued unless side effects become untolerable (not just uncomftable). Lofepramine appears to be quite effective.

[Al Capacino]

First 3 days I was feeling very energetic doing so much which was normally out of character due to my usual lethargy but yesterday I felt some extreme anxiety kicking in and today even worse. I've not cried for 2 years ssince my uncle passed away and today I just can't stop! Every thought about anyone who's ever been close to me is filling my head with so much guilt and regret. I've not felt so emotional for years and I mean years! I just can't cope with the thoughts. I'm supposed to be starting a new job on Tuesday and am a nervous wreck. Pill after pill after pill and I always find a reason I can't take them anymore due to whatever side effect. Just sick of the merry go round now and pretending something can help me long term, pretending I can work and live just like any other person. Maybe I should phone the psychiatrist again tomorrow. Hate doing that though

[Tom_]

This isn't the medication. This is your fear the medication won't work and/or just a bad day (week, month or however your mood cycles).

 

You are perfectly correct that pills alone won't sort the problem, psychotherapy combined with an antidepressant and changes in enviroment and behaviour is the "way out". Stick with the medication.

 

You can and will live a life that isn't dictated by bad moods.