Mood disorders:

Indications for: Amoxapine

Depression in patients with neurotic or reactive depressive disorders as well as endogenous and psychotic depressions. Depression accompanied by anxiety or agitation.

Adult Dosage:

Initially 50mg 2–3 times daily; may increase to 100mg 2–3 times daily by the end of the first week. May increase above 300mg/day if dose has been ineffective for a period of at least 2 weeks. Maintenance: when effective dosage established, may give as single dose at bedtime (max 300mg). Elderly: initially 25mg 2–3 times daily; may increase by the end of the first week to 50mg 2–3 times daily. May increase carefully up to 300mg/day if necessary.

Children Dosage:

Not recommended.

Amoxapine Contraindications:

Within 14 days of MAOIs. During acute recovery phase following MI.

Amoxapine Warnings/Precautions:

Monitor for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, esp. during initial few months of treatment and during dose changes. Screen for bipolar disorder prior to initiating therapy. Urinary retention. Angle-closure glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure. Cardiovascular disorders (monitor closely). Seizure disorders. Discontinue if rash, fever, tardive dyskinesia or neuroleptic malignant syndrome develop. Write ℞ for smallest practical amount. Pregnancy (Cat.C). Nursing mothers.

Amoxapine Classification:

Dibenzoxazepine.

Amoxapine Interactions:

During or within 5 weeks of fluoxetine. Hyperpyretic crises, severe convulsions, and death with MAOIs (see Contraindications). Potentiates alcohol, barbiturates, other CNS depressants. Paralytic ileus with anticholinergics. Monitor serum levels with CYP450 2D6 inhibitors (eg, quinidine, cimetidine, phenothiazines, propafenone, flecainide, others: see literature). Caution with concomitant electroshock therapy.

Adverse Reactions:

Drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, CNS effects (eg, anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, palpitations, tremors, confusion, excitement, nightmares, ataxia, alterations in EEG patterns), edema, rash, elevated prolactin levels, nausea, dizziness, headache, fatigue, weakness, excessive appetite, increased perspiration.

Note:

Formerly known under the brand name Asendin.

How Supplied:

Tabs 25mg, 50mg, 100mg—100; 150mg—30