Desyrel Dosage

Dose Selection

An initial dose of 150 mg/day in divided doses is suggested. The dosage should be initiated at a low-dose and increased gradually, noting the clinical response and any evidence of intolerance. Occurrence of drowsiness may require the administration of a major portion of the daily dose at bedtime or a reduction of dosage.

The dose may be increased by 50 mg/day every 3 to 4 days. The maximum dose for outpatients usually should not exceed 400 mg/day in divided doses. Inpatients (i.e., more severely depressed patients) may be given up to but not in excess of 600 mg/day in divided doses.

Once an adequate response has been achieved, dosage may be gradually reduced, with subsequent adjustment depending on therapeutic response.

Important Administration Instructions

DESYREL® can be swallowed whole or administered as a half tablet by breaking the tablet along the score line.

DESYREL should be taken shortly after a meal or light snack.

Screen for Bipolar Disorder Prior to Starting DESYREL

Prior to initiating treatment with DESYREL or another antidepressant, screen patients for a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania.

Switching to or from Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor Antidepressant

At least 14 days must elapse between discontinuation of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant and initiation of DESYREL. In addition, at least 14 days must elapse after stopping DESYREL before starting an MAOI antidepressant.

Dosage Recommendations for Concomitant Use with Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors or Inducers

Discontinuation of Treatment with DESYREL

Adverse reactions may occur upon discontinuation of DESYREL. Gradually reduce the dosage rather than stopping DESYREL abruptly whenever possible.