Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Trimipramine is prescribed for the treatment of depression and belongs to a category of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. Its mechanism of action involves augmenting the levels of specific natural substances in the brain, which are essential for maintaining mental balance.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, typically 1 to 3 times daily. If prescribed once daily, it is recommended to take it at bedtime to reduce the risk of drowsiness.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. Your doctor may initiate treatment with a low dose and adjust it gradually. Adhere closely to your doctor’s instructions.
This medication does not produce immediate effects. It may take 2 to 4 weeks before you start experiencing the full benefits.
Consistently use the medication to derive the maximum benefit. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Continue taking the medication even if you feel well. Do not abruptly discontinue it without consulting your doctor, as certain conditions may worsen when the drug is stopped suddenly. You might experience symptoms like nausea, headache, and a general feeling of unwellness. If discontinuation is necessary, your doctor may recommend a gradual decrease in dosage.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. Regular communication with your healthcare provider is essential for optimal management of your health.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- drowsiness
- weakness or tiredness
- excitement or anxiety
- confusion
- dizziness
- headache
- nightmares
- dry mouth
- changes in appetite or weight
- constipation
- difficulty urinating
- frequent urination
- changes in sex drive or ability
- excessive sweating
- ringing in the ears
- pain, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- jaw, neck, and back muscle spasms
- slow or difficult speech
- shuffling walk
- uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
- fever and sore throat
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- seizures
- seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist (hallucinating)
- chest pain
- pounding or irregular heartbeat
Caution
- Before taking trimipramine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, imipramine), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have blood problems, breathing problems, diabetes, a history of electroshock therapy, personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), heart problems, intestinal problems, kidney problems, liver problems, other mental/mood conditions, a family history of mental/mood conditions, seizures, conditions that may increase your risk of seizures, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or problems with urination.
- Trimipramine may lead to a heart rhythm condition (QT prolongation). This can rarely result in serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that require immediate medical attention.
- The risk of QT prolongation may be higher if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), or a family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or if you experience conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Discuss the safe use of trimipramine with your doctor.
- This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely.
- Trimipramine may increase sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Inform your doctor promptly if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- Rarely, this drug may elevate blood sugar levels, potentially causing or worsening diabetes. If you have diabetes, regularly monitor your blood sugar as directed and share the results with your doctor. Inform your doctor promptly if you exhibit symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. Adjustments to your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet may be necessary.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly dizziness (especially upon standing), drowsiness, confusion, constipation, trouble urinating, or QT prolongation. Drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion can elevate the risk of falling.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary. Infants born to mothers who have taken similar medications during pregnancy may exhibit symptoms such as trouble urinating, lethargy, shaking (tremors), and seizures. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Since untreated mental/mood problems (e.g., depression) can be a serious condition, do not discontinue this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or suspect pregnancy, promptly discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.
- It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Surmontil is available in the following forms and strengths:
- trimipramine tablet:
- 12.5 mg
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 75 mg
- 100 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Surmontil to work?
The reaction to the medication is usually immediate, but improvement in mood can take about two weeks.
Is Surmontil a sedative?
Surmontil has a sedating effect that can also reduce anxiety symptoms occurring as a part of major depressive disorder. This sedative effect also improves sleep for those who suffer sleep disruption related to depression.
Resources
- https://www.vinmec.com/en/pharmaceutical-information/use-medicines-safely/surmontil-uses-indications-and-precautions-when-using/#:~:text=Surmontil%20is%20used%20in%20the,can%20take%20about%20two%20weeks
- https://www.mentalhealth.com/medication/trimipramine#:~:text=Trimipramine%20has%20a%20sedating%20effect,part%20of%20major%20depressive%20disorder
- https://www.rxlist.com/surmontil-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7031/surmontil-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a602010.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/surmontil.html
