Flupenthixol 0.5 mg + Melitracen 10 mg (Benzit)

Product Overview Flupenthixol 0.5 mg + Melitracen 10 mg is a prescription combination medication containing a low-dose thioxanthene antipsychotic (flupenthixol) and a tricyclic antidepressant (melitracen). It is primarily used for the treatment of anxiety and depression, including psychogenic depression, depressive neurosis, masked depression, menopausal depression, psychosomatic disorders with anxiety and apathy, asthenia (weakness/fatigue), and depression associated with alcohol or drug addiction. The combination provides antidepressant, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and activating effects by modulating dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine in the brain.

Important Warning This medicine is intended for short-term use only and should not be used in excitable or overactive patients, as it may worsen these symptoms. There is potential for dependence, misuse, or withdrawal symptoms upon abrupt discontinuation. It may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger patients. Not recommended for severe depression requiring hospitalization. Availability and approval vary by country (banned in some regions like India due to risk-benefit concerns; widely used in others). Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely and do not stop suddenly.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults: Usually 1 tablet in the morning and 1 at midday (total 2 tablets daily). In mild cases, 1 tablet in the morning may suffice; in severe cases, morning dose may be increased to 2 tablets.
• Elderly patients: Start with 1 tablet in the morning; may add 1 at midday if needed.
• Take with water, with or without food.
• Do not exceed recommended dose. Treatment duration should be as short as possible.
• Do not stop abruptly—taper gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal or rebound symptoms.

Common Side Effects

• Insomnia, restlessness, or agitation
• Dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue
• Dry mouth, constipation, or tremor
• Headache or blurred vision

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical help): Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty), extrapyramidal symptoms (muscle stiffness, tremors), anticholinergic effects (confusion, rapid heartbeat), worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or serotonin syndrome (if combined with certain drugs).

Precautions and Contraindications

• Do not use if you have: Hypersensitivity to flupenthixol/melitracen, circulatory collapse, coma, recent heart attack, severe heart rhythm disorders, untreated narrow-angle glaucoma, porphyria, blood disorders, pheochromocytoma, or concurrent/recent use of MAO inhibitors (risk of severe reactions).
• Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants—increases drowsiness and risk of side effects.
• Caution in patients with epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, liver/kidney impairment, heart conditions, prostatic hypertrophy, hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism, or history of substance abuse.
• Not recommended during pregnancy (potential risk to fetus) or breastfeeding (may pass into milk).
• May impair driving or operating machinery—do not drive if affected.
• Monitor for mood changes or suicidal ideation.

Storage Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Note: This information is for general guidance. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice, and read the patient information leaflet provided with your medication. Flupenthixol + Melitracen should only be used when prescribed.