Drug Class: Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA) | Form: Tablets | Prescription Status: Prescription-Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered
What is Prothiaden 75mg?
Prothiaden 75mg is a higher-strength prescription tablet containing Dosulepin Hydrochloride 75mg — a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used to treat depression, anxiety, and chronic nerve pain (ذہنی افسردگی، اضطراب، اور اعصابی درد کا علاج). It works by increasing noradrenaline and serotonin levels in the brain — the natural chemicals responsible for mood regulation, emotional balance, and pain perception. The 75mg strength allows the full therapeutic daily dose to be taken as a single tablet at night — simplifying treatment and making the most of its natural sedative effect to improve sleep. A valid prescription from a doctor is required before use.
What is Prothiaden 75mg Used For?
- Major Depressive Disorder (ذہنی افسردگی) — persistent low mood, loss of interest, hopelessness, and withdrawal from daily activities
- Anxiety with Depression — significant worry, tension, and nervousness occurring alongside depressive symptoms
- Chronic Neuropathic Pain (اعصابی درد) — long-term burning, tingling, or shooting nerve pain where standard painkillers have not helped adequately
- Fibromyalgia — widespread chronic muscle and joint pain accompanied by fatigue and sleep problems
- Sleep Disturbance Related to Depression — difficulty falling or staying asleep as part of underlying depression or anxiety
How Does Prothiaden 75mg Work?
Mood Stabilisation: Dosulepin blocks the reuptake of noradrenaline and serotonin — keeping these mood-regulating chemicals active in the brain for longer and gradually improving mood, motivation, and emotional wellbeing. Full antidepressant benefit typically develops over 2 to 4 weeks of regular treatment — it is important not to stop early even if improvement feels slow initially.
Pain Relief: Dosulepin modifies chronic pain signal pathways in the nervous system, reducing the intensity of nerve pain independently of its antidepressant effect — making it useful for neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia even in patients without depression.
Sedative Effect: Prothiaden has a calming, sedative action that helps reduce agitation, restlessness, and sleep difficulties — making bedtime dosing the most comfortable and practical approach for most patients.
Dosage and Administration
| Patient | Dose | Frequency | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults — Depression | 1 tablet (75mg) | Once daily | At night before sleep |
| Adults — Nerve Pain | 25–75mg daily | As prescribed by doctor | At night |
| Elderly patients | Lower dose — as directed | With caution | At night |
| Children | Not recommended | — | — |
Always take exactly as prescribed. Do not stop Prothiaden suddenly — the dose must be reduced gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Side Effects
Common: Drowsiness and sedation, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness on standing, weight gain, and increased sweating.
Less Common: Rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremor, confusion in elderly patients, and increased skin sensitivity to sunlight.
Serious — consult your doctor immediately if you notice: Chest pain or irregular heartbeat, seizures, severe confusion, difficulty passing urine, or worsening depression with new thoughts of self-harm — particularly in early weeks of treatment.
Important: Dosulepin may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in younger adults during initial treatment weeks. Always report any worsening of mood or distressing thoughts to your doctor immediately.
Who Should NOT Use Prothiaden 75mg?
- Known allergy to Dosulepin Hydrochloride or any ingredient in the tablet
- Recent heart attack or serious heart rhythm disorder
- Current or recent use of MAOI medicines — dangerous combination requiring at least 14 days gap
- Severe liver disease, glaucoma, or urinary retention
- Children and adolescents under 18 years
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding — consult your doctor before use
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Dosulepin Hydrochloride 75mg | Active ingredient — tricyclic antidepressant and analgesic |
| Lactose, Starch | Tablet base and filler — note: contains lactose |
| Iron Oxides | Colouring agent for tablet identification |
| Other excipients | Binders and flow agents — vary by manufacturer |
Storage Instructions
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں)
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
- Store in original packaging to protect from light and humidity
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace your doctor's advice. Prothiaden 75mg is a prescription antidepressant — always use exactly as directed by your doctor. Never stop or adjust the dose without medical supervision. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please seek immediate medical help.
DRAP Registered | Prescription-Only (Rx) | Contains Lactose | For oral use only