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Compare Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Maprotiline and nortriptyline are both medications used to treat depression, but they belong to different classes. Maprotiline was a tetracyclic antidepressant, but is no longer available in the U.S. Nortriptyline, sold under the brand name Pamelor, is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Nortriptyline is sometimes used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention, although it is not FDA-approved for these uses. Nortriptyline is available in both capsule and liquid forms, while maprotiline was only available in oral form before its discontinuation. Common side effects of nortriptyline include dry mouth, dizziness, and weight gain. Nortriptyline can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, and it has several drug interactions, including with sedatives and MAOIs.

  • Maprotiline
    Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
  • Maprotiline
    Nortriptyline (Pamelor)

  • Summary of Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

    Summary for Tetracyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Maprotiline is an antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety associated with depression. It's no longer available in the United States because it was discontinued.

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's approved to treat depression in adults. This medication is also often prescribed off-label to treat certain types of nerve pain. Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken by mouth. Side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and possible weight gain. This medication is available under the brand name Pamelor and as a generic.

  • Indications of Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Anxiety from depression
    Indications for
    •Depression

  • Pros and Cons of Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

    Pros and Const for Tetracyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    Cons
    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available as a capsule and liquid
    •Taken by mouth once per day, or split into smaller doses throughout the day
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for depression because of side effects
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not recommended for children

  • Common Side Effects of Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

    Common Side Effects for
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blurred vision
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Stomach upset
    •Loss of appetite
    •Numbness in the hands or feet
    •Rash
    •Itching
    •Changes in blood pressure

  • Warnings of Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

    Common Side Effects for
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression and risk for suicidal thoughts and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Dizziness and drowsiness
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Glaucoma

  • Prices with our coupons for Maprotiline vs. Pamelor

    Learn more about Maprotiline
    Learn more about Nortriptyline

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