Description

Description

Motival is a prescription combination medicine manufactured by GSK Pakistan Limited, containing two active ingredients: Nortriptyline Hydrochloride BP, a tricyclic antidepressant, and Fluphenazine, a low-dose antipsychotic. This dual-action formulation is designed to address depression accompanied by anxiety or agitation, offering the mood-lifting effect of an antidepressant alongside the calming, tension-relieving action of a low-dose antipsychotic. Motival is generally reserved for patients whose depressive symptoms are closely linked with marked nervous tension or restlessness, and it is prescribed only after a doctor has carefully evaluated the overall clinical picture. Each pack contains 100 tablets, intended for use strictly according to a prescribed treatment plan under ongoing medical supervision.

Ingredients

Each tablet contains two active ingredients: Nortriptyline Hydrochloride BP at 10mg and Fluphenazine at 0.5mg. Alongside these actives, the tablet contains standard inactive excipients, including binders, fillers, and coating agents, which give the tablet its physical form and support consistent, reliable absorption. These excipients carry no therapeutic effect of their own.

Dosage Form

Motival is supplied as an oral tablet, combining both active ingredients in a fixed-dose formulation for consistent, controlled dosing. Tablets should be taken exactly as directed and should not be crushed, split, or altered unless specifically instructed by a physician.

Uses

Motival is prescribed for:

• Depression with Associated Anxiety or Agitation: Used when depressive symptoms occur together with notable nervous tension, restlessness, or emotional distress that has not responded adequately to a standard antidepressant alone.
• Mood Stabilization in Complex Presentations: Used in certain cases where a combined approach targeting both mood and anxiety-related symptoms is considered appropriate by the treating physician.

The suitability of Motival for any individual patient, including whether it should be used alone or alongside other treatments, is a decision made entirely by the prescribing doctor based on a full psychiatric and medical evaluation.

How to Use

Motival must be taken exactly as prescribed, at the dose and frequency set by your doctor, generally with a glass of water and at consistent times each day. This medicine is not intended for self-adjustment — the dose, and the decision to continue or stop treatment, should always be guided by a healthcare professional, since both components of this medicine carry effects that require careful monitoring over time. Treatment is often started at a cautious dose and reviewed periodically. Do not stop taking Motival suddenly without medical advice, as abrupt discontinuation of either component can lead to withdrawal-type symptoms or a return of underlying symptoms. If a dose is missed, follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s guidance rather than doubling the next dose.

Side Effects

Because Motival combines two active ingredients, it can cause a range of side effects reflecting both components. Common effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, and mild gastrointestinal upset. Some patients may experience a fast heartbeat, low blood pressure on standing, weight changes, or changes in appetite. Because Motival contains an antipsychotic component, longer-term use has been associated with movement-related side effects, including tremor, muscle stiffness, or, rarely, a persistent movement disorder known as tardive dyskinesia; any unusual or uncontrollable movements should be reported to a doctor promptly. Other effects that require urgent medical attention include signs of an irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness or fainting, unusual mood changes, or any sign of infection such as fever or sore throat, as these may indicate less common but serious reactions. This is not an exhaustive list, and patients should consult the official patient information leaflet or their doctor for complete details.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Motival is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless a doctor determines that the benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks, and any use should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider beforehand. Use later in pregnancy requires particular caution, as exposure closer to delivery has been associated with temporary effects in newborns, so continued treatment near term should only occur under close medical supervision. Both active ingredients in Motival can pass into breast milk, and breastfeeding while taking this medicine is generally not advised unless your doctor specifically recommends it after weighing the individual risks and benefits. Any decisions regarding pregnancy planning, ongoing pregnancy, or breastfeeding while on Motival should always be made together with your prescribing doctor.

Storage Instructions

Store Motival tablets at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and humidity. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until ready for use, ensuring the container stays tightly closed. Store this medicine well out of the reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use tablets beyond their printed expiry date, and dispose of unused or expired medicine responsibly rather than in household waste.

FAQS

Why does Motival combine an antidepressant with an antipsychotic? The combination is designed to address depression that occurs alongside significant anxiety or agitation, using two complementary mechanisms under close medical guidance.

Is it safe to stop Motival once I feel better? No. Motival should only be stopped gradually and under a doctor’s supervision, as sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal effects or a return of symptoms.

Can Motival affect my ability to drive or operate machinery? Yes, it may cause drowsiness or affect coordination. Avoid driving or using machinery until you understand how this medicine affects you.

What if I notice unusual movements or muscle stiffness while taking Motival? Contact your doctor right away, as this could indicate a movement-related side effect that needs to be evaluated and possibly managed by adjusting your treatment.

Disclaimer

Always use this medicine strictly according to your doctor’s instructions and prescribed dosage.