Maprotiline
Maprotiline is a tetracyclic antidepressant (TeCA) used primarily to treat major depressive disorder and associated anxiety symptoms. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain, helping to restore chemical balance and improve mood.
A tetracyclic antidepressant for treating depression and anxiety symptoms by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06AA21
- RxNorm
- 6646
- Generic
- Maprotiline
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 25-75mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily (typically at bedtime)
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- not recommended
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- N/A
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 25-50mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily (typically at bedtime)
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
discontinue before delivery if possible due to neonatal toxicity risk
monitor newborn for withdrawal symptoms and respiratory distress
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
do not breastfeed while taking maprotiline
monitor infant for sedation, poor feeding, and respiratory depression
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
adolescents 12 17not recommended
not approved for use in pediatric population; increased risk of suicidal ideation
close monitoring for behavioral changes
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderly over 65reduce dose by 50%
use lowest effective dose; increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects
monitor for falls, confusion, cardiac conduction
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severereduce dose by 50%
use with caution; monitor renal function
monitor renal function and drug levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose by 50%
use with caution; maprotiline is hepatically metabolized
monitor liver function and drug levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approval year for Maprotiline
Drug class
Pharmacological classification
Primary indication
Primary therapeutic use
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism
Treatment of major depressive disorder and depressive episodes, particularly when accompanied by anxiety, agitation, or sleep disturbances.
Acts as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI), blocking the reabsorption of norepinephrine in the brain, which increases its availability and helps improve mood. Also exhibits anticholinergic and antihistamine properties.
Has significant anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision). May cause sedation, weight gain, and orthostatic hypotension. Caution required in patients with seizure disorders due to lowered seizure threshold. Should not be stopped abruptly.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy