7-hydroxyamoxapine

7-Hydroxyamoxapine is a metabolite of the tricyclic antidepressant amoxapine. It is formed in the body after the administration of amoxapine, and it is believed to contribute to the drug's therapeutic effects.

Pharmacology

7-Hydroxyamoxapine has been found to possess potent antidepressant activity, which is believed to be due to its ability to inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This results in an increase in the concentrations of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, which in turn leads to an enhancement of neurotransmission.

In addition to its antidepressant activity, 7-Hydroxyamoxapine also has significant antipsychotic properties. It is a potent antagonist of the dopamine D2 receptor, which is thought to underlie its antipsychotic effects.

Clinical Use

7-Hydroxyamoxapine is not used clinically on its own, but its formation in the body is an important aspect of the pharmacology of amoxapine. The drug is used in the treatment of major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, and the formation of 7-Hydroxyamoxapine is believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects in these conditions.

Side Effects

As a metabolite of amoxapine, 7-Hydroxyamoxapine can contribute to the side effect profile of this drug. These can include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. More serious side effects can include tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder that can be irreversible, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

See Also

• Amoxapine
• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Metabolite