Surmontil

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Surmontil

People who are taking antidepressants known AS MAO inhibitors (Parnate and Nardil) should not take Surmontil. Wait 2 weeks after stopping an MAO inhibitor before you begin taking Surmontil.

If Surmontil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Surmontil with the following:

• Antidepressants such as Desyrel and Wellbutrin
• Antidepressants that act on serotonin, such as Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft
• Antispasmodic drugs such as Donnatal and Cogentin
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Drugs for heart irregularities, such as Rythmol and Tambocor
• Guanethidine (Ismelin)
• Local anesthetics containing epinephrine
• Local decongestants such as Dristan Nasal Spray
• Major tranquilizers such as Thorazine and Mellaril
• Quinidine
• Stimulants such as Proventil, Sudafed, and EpiPen
• Thyroid medications such as Synthroid

Extreme drowsiness and other potentially serious effects may result if you drink alcoholic beverages while you are taking Surmontil.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Surmontil in pregnancy have not been adequately studied. Pregnant women should use Surmontil only when the potential benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks.

There is no information on whether Surmontil appears in breast milk. The doctor may have you stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Surmontil

ADULTS

The usual starting dose is 75 milligrams per day, divided into equal smaller doses. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose to 150 milligrams per day, divided into smaller doses. Doses over 200 milligrams a day are not recommended. Doses in long-term therapy may range from 50 to 150 milligrams daily. You can take this total daily dosage at bedtime or spread it throughout the day.

CHILDREN

Safety and effectiveness of Surmontil in children have not been established.