Amoxapine
Psychophysiologic Disorders, Depressive Disorder
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DRUG STATUS
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Tricyclic Antidepressant
Controlled Drug Substance
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Amoxapine
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Click HereSummary
Amoxapine is used to treat depression, including neurotic, reactive, and psychotic depressions. It's also used for depression accompanied by anxiety or agitation.
Amoxapine works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, which help maintain mental balance. It also has a mild sedative effect which can aid in reducing anxiety.
The usual effective dosage for adults is 200 to 300 mg daily, taken orally. For hospitalized patients, the dosage may be increased up to 600 mg daily in divided doses.
Common side effects of Amoxapine include drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation. Serious adverse effects can include muscle stiffness, confusion, and irregular heartbeat.
Amoxapine should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. It may increase the risk of suicidality in young adults and cause drowsiness, so caution is advised when driving. Patients with a history of seizures or cardiovascular disorders should use it cautiously.
Indications and Purpose
What is Amoxapine used for?
Amoxapine is indicated for the relief of symptoms of depression in patients with neurotic or reactive depressive disorders, as well as endogenous and psychotic depressions. It is also used for depression accompanied by anxiety or agitation.
How does Amoxapine work?
Amoxapine works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, which are needed to maintain mental balance. It is not a monoamine oxidase inhibitor and has a mild sedative component to its action.
Is Amoxapine effective?
Clinical studies have shown that amoxapine has a more rapid onset of action compared to other antidepressants like amitriptyline or imipramine. The initial clinical effect may occur within four to seven days, and over 80% of responders experience effects within two weeks. Amoxapine is effective in treating symptoms of depression, including those accompanied by anxiety or agitation.
How does one know if Amoxapine is working?
The benefit of amoxapine is evaluated through regular monitoring by healthcare providers, especially at the beginning of treatment. Patients should keep all appointments with their doctor to assess the medication's effectiveness and any side effects. Family members and caregivers should also observe the patient for any changes in behavior or mood and report them to the healthcare provider.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Amoxapine?
The usual effective dosage of amoxapine for adults is 200 to 300 mg daily. For hospitalized patients who have been refractory to antidepressant therapy, the dosage may be cautiously increased up to 600 mg daily in divided doses. Amoxapine is not approved for use in pediatric patients, and children younger than 18 years of age should not normally take amoxapine. However, in some cases, a doctor may decide that amoxapine is the best medication to treat a child's condition.
How do I take Amoxapine?
Amoxapine is taken orally as a tablet, usually once or more times a day. If taken once daily, it should be taken at bedtime. There are no specific food restrictions, and it can be taken with or without food. Follow your doctor's instructions and the prescription label carefully.
For how long do I take Amoxapine?
Amoxapine may take several weeks or longer to show its full effect. The duration of use depends on the individual's response to the medication and the doctor's assessment. It is important to continue taking amoxapine even if you feel well and not to stop without consulting your doctor, as they will likely want to decrease your dose gradually.
How long does it take for Amoxapine to start working?
Amoxapine may start to show its initial clinical effect within four to seven days, with over 80% of responders experiencing effects within two weeks. However, it may take several weeks or longer to feel the full effect of the medication.
How should I store Amoxapine?
Amoxapine should be stored in its original container, tightly closed, and kept out of reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom. Unneeded medications should be disposed of through a medicine take-back program to prevent accidental consumption by pets or children.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Amoxapine?
Amoxapine carries a risk of worsening depression and suicidality, especially in young adults. It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to dibenzoxazepine compounds and should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Caution is advised for those with a history of seizures, cardiovascular disorders, or glaucoma. Patients should be monitored for clinical worsening and unusual changes in behavior.
Can I take Amoxapine with other prescription drugs?
Amoxapine should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors due to the risk of severe reactions. It may interact with other medications, such as allergy medications, cold medications, and sleep aids, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or extra monitoring. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking to avoid harmful interactions.
Can I take Amoxapine with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Amoxapine be taken safely while pregnant?
Amoxapine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, so caution is advised. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Can Amoxapine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Amoxapine is excreted in human milk, and its effects on infants are unknown. Caution should be exercised when administering amoxapine to nursing women. If you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
Is Amoxapine safe for the elderly?
For elderly patients, lower dosages of amoxapine are recommended due to increased sensitivity to the drug. The starting dosage is typically 25 mg two or three times daily, with careful increases if needed. Elderly patients may experience greater sensitivity to side effects such as tardive dyskinesia and sedation. It is important to monitor them closely and adjust the dosage as necessary.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Amoxapine?
Amoxapine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to exercise safely. It is important to understand how the medication affects you before engaging in physical activities. If you feel excessively drowsy or fatigued, consult your doctor for advice on managing these side effects.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Amoxapine?
Drinking alcohol while taking amoxapine can increase the drowsiness caused by the medication. It is advised to avoid alcohol consumption to prevent enhanced sedative effects, which can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.