Amoxapine

It is a tetracyclic antidepressant compound. Drug is contra indicated in children because it lower the seizure threshold to the extent that fits may be precipitated, specially in children. Cardiovascular effects & anti-cholinergic side effects are much reduced.

Indications

Endogenous depression. Restore normal sal behaviour. Observe compulsive neurosis and phobic states

Dosage

Initially 100-150 mg daily. Maint: 150-250 mg Max. 300 mg daily. Elderly initially 25 mg twice daily increasing after 5-7 days to maximum of 50 mg 3 times a day.

Contra-Indications

renal, hepatic ,cardiac insufficiency.

Special Precautions

mania, hypomania, severe liver disease, diabetes, myocardial infarction. Epilepsy. Paediatrics: Contraindicated. Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Lactation: Contraindicated. Elderly: Use with cation.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, blood dyscrasias, jaundice, convulsions, postural hypotension,cardiac arrhythmias.

Drug Interactions

Potentiates sedative effect of alcohol, antiparkinson agents,antipsychotic drugs increase risk of anticholinergic effects. Reduce effect of antihypertensives. Potentiates hypertensive effects of sympathomimetics. Reduced serum levels with barbiturates. Neuroleptics inhibit metabolism.