Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Vivactil
Protriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used to treat depression. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, which are believed to play a role in mood regulation. It belongs to the secondary amine class of TCAs, known for their activating properties compared to tertiary amine TCAs. Protriptyline is less sedating than some other TCAs and may be preferred for individuals experiencing fatigue or low energy associated with their depression.
For the treatment of depression, particularly in cases with fatigue or low energy.
Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents and young adults taking antidepressants.
Outcome:
Hypertensive crisis, serotonin syndrome
Mechanism:
Increased levels of norepinephrine and serotonin
Outcome:
Increased protriptyline levels
Mechanism:
Inhibition of protriptyline metabolism
Outcome:
Potential for serotonin syndrome
Mechanism:
Both increase serotonin levels
Most likely new formulation: extended-release formulation (Year 2026, 30% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial activity, there is a low ( <5%) likelihood of a generic version of protriptyline being withdrawn from the market in the next 5 years.
Tricyclic Antidepressant
Dibenzocycloheptene