Tianeptine belongs to the antidepressant class and is chemically related to amineptine. It is a serotonin reuptake accelerator and works opposite to the action of SSRI's. Like the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and in contrast with most tricyclic antidepressant agents, Tianeptine does not appear to be associated with adverse cognitive, psychomotor, sleep, cardiovascular or bodyweight effects and has a low propensity for abuse.

The antidepressant and anxiolytic properties of Tianeptine and its action on somatic complaints make this medicine particularly suitable for the treatment of the entire range of depressive symptomatology. Stablon and Coaxil are other names for Tianeptine.

Tianeptine differs from most antidepressants in that it is not primarily metabolised by the hepatic cytochrome P450 system, indicating less likelihood of drug-drug interactions; this is of particular interest for elderly patients. Tianeptine medicine is used in major depression, depressed bipolar disorder, dysthymia or adjustment disorder.

How to Take Tianeptine

Tianeptine is available in boxes of 15 and 60 tablets Take Tianeptine exactly as prescribed by health care provider. Take this medicine after food.

What are the Side Effects of Tianeptine -

Tianeptine does not induce sedation and thus does not disturb the recovery of active life. It does not induce anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, constipation, etc.), even in elderly subjects. Like other medicines, the following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with Tianeptine medicine.

* Disturbances of the gut such as nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, vomiting or indigestion

* Dry mouth

* Fatigue

* Insomnia

* Loss of appetite

* Anxiety

* Dizziness

* upsets Respiratory discomfort,

* lumbago

* Sleepiness

* Tremor

* Blurred vision

* Increased sweating

* Itching

* tightness of the throat Myalgia,

* Feeling of weakness

* Decreased sex drive

* Headache

Tianeptine intraction with other drugs:

Do not use Tianeptine drug with MAO indicators. To prevent accidental interactions between different medicines, inform your doctor or chemist regularly if you should be taking any other pharmaceutical drug with Tianeptine. Tell your doctor if you are taking other drugs.

Warnings and precautions before taking Tianeptine :

* Tianeptine should not be used with MAO inhibitors (as a rule, there should be an interval of 15 days between a MAOI and Tianeptine treatments)

* This medicine must not be used during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the unborn child. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

* Any patient about to undergo general anaesthetic should inform the anaesthetist and stop treatment 24 to 48 hours before the medical intervention. Should an emergency operation prove to be necessary, this may be carried out without stopping treatment previously but with the correct operative supervision.

* Talk with your physician or pharmacist if you are taking other medications.

* Breast Feeding - Mothers who are taking Tianeptine and who wish to breast-feed should discuss this with their doctor.

* The safety and efficay of this medicine have not been studied in children and adolescents, hence it is not recommended for use in these age groups.

What if Overdose of Tianeptine ?

If you think you or anyone else taken overdose of Tianeptine, immediately telephone your doctor or contact your local or regional Poisons Information Centre Seek medical attention immediately. You may need urgent medical attention.

What if Missed Dose of Tianeptine?

If you miss a dose of Tianeptine medicine and you remember within an hour or so, take the dose immediately. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage Conditions for Tianeptine:

Store Tianeptine at room temperature in a dry place. Keep this medicine safely out the reach of children. Do not use this medicine once the expiry date printed on the box has passed