Vivactil

Vivactil should not be used during recovery from a heart attack. It also cannot be used by anyone who has had an allergic reaction to it.

Special warnings about Vivactil

In clinical studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of Vivactil or any other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical need. Vivactil is not approved for use in children.

Additionally, the progression of major depression is associated with a worsening of symptoms and/or the emergence of suicidal thinking or behavior in both adults and children, whether or not they are taking antidepressants. Individuals being treated with Vivactil and their caregivers should watch for any change in symptoms or any new symptoms that appear suddenly—especially agitation, anxiety, hostility, panic, restlessness, extreme hyperactivity, and suicidal thinking or behavior—and report them to the doctor immediately. Be especially observant at the beginning of treatment or whenever there is a change in dose.

Drugs such as Vivactil sometimes cause heartbeat irregularities. Vivactil should be used with caution by people who have heart problems or a thyroid disorder. Caution is also advisable if you have a history of seizures, difficulty urinating, or glaucoma (high pressure in the eyes); or use alcohol excessively.

This drug is not recommended during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Vivactil should be discontinued several days before any surgery.

Vivactil may impair the physical and/or mental abilities required to drive a car or operate heavy machinery.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Vivactil

Remember that Vivactil must never be combined with monoamine inhibitors such as Nardil and Parnate.

If Vivactil 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 Vivactil with the following: