Allegron

What is it?

A TCAD, nortriptyline, available in tablets of two strengths. It has less of a sedative effect than some other 'CAI) drugs. It is available as white scored tablets marked DISTA, containing 10mg nortriptyline hydrochloride, and orange scored tablets marked DISTA (25mg).

Medical Uses

Depressive illnesses and bedwetting in children.

Dosage

Adults, 20 to 40mg each day in divided doses, increasing to 100mg if required. Maintenance, 30 to 75mg a day. Elderly persons; 10mg three times daily in first instance. Children (for bedwetting), seven to ten years, 10 to 20mg, 11 to 16 years, 25 to 50mg, given half an hour before bedtime.

Special Care

Patients with heart disease, elderly people (reduced doses), nursing mothers, those with diabetes, thyroid disease, liver disorders, tumours of the medulla of adrenal glands, epilepsy, glaucoma, urine retention, psychosis, suicidal tendencies. Withdrawal should be gradual. May reduce ability to perform skilled tasks such as driving.

Avoid Use

Pregnant mothers, heart block, heart attack, serious liver disorders.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Alcohol, MAOis, barbiturate drugs, anticholinergic drugs, other antidepressant and anti- hypertensive drugs, adrenaline, noradrenaline, oestrogens, cimetidine.

Known Side Effects

Drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, insomnia, urine retention, palpitations and shakiness, low blood pressure, weight changes, skin reactions, jaundice, blood changes, loss of libido.