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Perphenazine-Amitriptyline

Pronounced

"am-eh-TRIP-teh-leen/per-FEN-uh-zeen"

Common brand names:

Etrafon

Uses

This combination medication is used to treat depression occurring with other mental/mood disorders (such as anxiety, agitation, schizophrenia). Perphenazine belongs to a class of drugs known as antipsychotics. Amitriptyline belongs to a class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants. Perphenazine/amitriptyline works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 4 times daily. If you take it only once a day, take it at bedtime to help reduce daytime sleepiness.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to take a low dose at first, gradually increasing the dose to lower the chance of side effects (such as drowsiness, dry mouth, muscle spasms). Follow your doctor's directions carefully.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Muscle aches, headaches, and trouble sleeping may also occur. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.

This medication may not work right away. You may see some benefit within a week. However, it may take up to 4 weeks before you see the full effect. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse (such as increased anxiety, your feelings of sadness get worse, or you have thoughts of suicide).