Tianeptine

Tianeptine belongs to a group of medicines known as antidepressants, used to treat depression. It works by restoring the chemical imbalance in the brain which helps to improve mood and behavior.

Yes, Tianeptine is effective if taken in the dose and duration prescribed by the doctor. Avoid skipping doses and tell your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking Tianeptine. The doctor may suggest ways to manage or prevent them. It may take a few weeks for you to see improvement in your symptoms. However, the treatment may be continued for a few months for effective management of your condition.

If you have missed a dose of Tianeptine, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it in the regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.

Tianeptine may cause side effects such as increased heart rate, blurred vision, dryness in mouth, difficulty in urination, weight gain, constipation and orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing). Consult your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or worry you.

No, do not stop the medication abruptly even if you are feeling good as it may worsen your condition. Continue taking Tianeptine for the duration prescribed by your doctor to get maximum benefit. Consult your doctor if the side effects bother you or if you have completed your course of treatment. The doctor will suggest gradual dose reduction before taking you off this medicine completely.

Do not take Tianeptine during pregnancy unless recommended by the doctor. It is given only if the benefits are clearly more than the risks involved. This is because studies have shown significant risks to the developing baby. If you take this medicine during the last trimester of the pregnancy, the newborn may develop symptoms such as breathing problems, weakness, irritability, changes in blood pressure, tremors and spasms.. Hence, it is advised that you should consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.

Yes, Tianeptine may make you feel sleepy. Therefore, it is advised that you should not drive, use any heavy machinery or do any work that requires concentration while taking Tianeptine. Also, avoid taking alcohol if you are being treated with Tianeptine as it will only increase your drowsiness.

Before taking Tianeptine, you should tell your doctor if you are allergic to Tianeptine or any of its ingredients to avoid any allergic reactions. Inform your doctor if you have any problems with your heart, liver, thyroid, prostate or kidneys. Also tell your doctor if you have or ever had epilepsy (seizures or fits), diabetes, or glaucoma. Let your doctor know about all the other medicines you are taking because they may affect, or be affected by, this medicine. Also, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding to prevent any harmful effects on the baby.