Reboxetine tablets

About reboxetine

Depression can develop for no apparent reason or it may be triggered by a life event such as a relationship problem, bereavement, or illness. Although it is not fully understood what causes depression, an imbalance of naturally occurring chemicals in your brain is thought to be a factor. Reboxetine works by regulating the levels of a chemical in the brain called noradrenaline; this eases the symptoms of depression in some people.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking reboxetine it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.

• If you have a heart condition or blood vessel problems.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works or with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have epilepsy.

• If you have increased pressure in your eye (glaucoma).

• If you have bipolar disorder.

• If you have been experiencing difficulty passing urine or have prostate problems.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about reboxetine and it will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Take reboxetine exactly as your doctor tells you to. The usual dose is one (4 mg) tablet taken twice a day, although your doctor may prescribe a dose different to this.

• Try to take your doses at the same times of day each day, as this will help you to remember to take them. You can take reboxetine before or after meals. Have a drink of water to help you swallow the tablet.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If when you remember, it is nearly time for your next dose then leave out the missed dose and take your next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress and review your treatment.

• You may feel that reboxetine is not working for you straightaway. It can take a week or two after starting the treatment before the effect builds up, and several weeks before you feel the full benefit. Do not stop taking it after a week or so, thinking it is not helping.

• While you are depressed, you may have thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life. If this happens, you must tell your doctor about it straightaway.

• There are several types of antidepressants and they differ in their possible side-effects. If you find that reboxetine does not suit you then let your doctor know, as another may be found that will.

• Keep taking the tablets until your doctor tells you otherwise. Stopping suddenly can cause problems and your doctor may want you to reduce your dose gradually when this becomes necessary.

• You should expect that a normal course of treatment with reboxetine will last for around six months after your symptoms have eased.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with reboxetine. This is because some medicines (such as the herbal remedy St John's wort) can interfere with the effectiveness of reboxetine.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with reboxetine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the tablets, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.