Amoxapine

structure of the amoxapine

Indications

1. depressive illness

Cautions to be considered

1. cardiac diseases (arrhythmias)
2. Epilepsy
3. Pregnancy and breast feeding.
4. Elderly
5. Hepatic impairment
6. Thyroid diseases
7. Phaeochromocytoma
8. History of mania
9. Angle closure glaucoma
10. History of urinary retention

Contraindications (where you have to stop the drug)

1. recent myocardial infarction
2. arrhythmias (particularly heart block)
3. severe liver disease

Side-effects

1. tardive dyskinesia
2. menstrual irregularities
3. breast enlargement
4. galactorrhoea in women
5. Dry mouth
6. sedation
7. blurred vision
8. constipation
9. cardiovascular side-effects (ECG changes, arrythmias)
10. syncope
11. behavioral disturbances
12. interference with sexual function
13. testicular enlargement
14. gynaecomastia

Dose

Initially 100-150mgdaily in divided doses or as a single dose at bedtime increased as necessary to maximum300mg daily; ELDERLY initially 25mg twice daily increased as necessary after 5-7 days to maximum 50mg three times daily: CHILD under 16 years not recommended.

Amoxapine preparation

1. tablets, amoxapine 50mg (orange, scored)