Compare Elavil vs. Maprotiline

Amitriptyline (generic name) and maprotiline (Ludiomil) are both antidepressants, but they belong to different classes. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), while maprotiline is a tetracyclic antidepressant. Amitriptyline is still available as a generic medication, whereas maprotiline has been discontinued in the United States since June 2021. Amitriptyline is used to treat depression and is also often used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. In contrast, maprotiline was used to treat depression and anxiety associated with depression. Amitriptyline works by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, while maprotiline is thought to raise norepinephrine levels, although its exact mechanism is not fully understood. Amitriptyline has many side effects, including sleepiness and weight gain, and it interacts with many other medications. Maprotiline was likely discontinued due to the availability of newer antidepressants with fewer side effects.