8-hydroxyamoxapine

8-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

8-Hydroxyamoxapine is a potent dopamine receptor antagonist, which means it blocks the action of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This action is believed to be responsible for its antidepressant effects. It also has some activity at other neurotransmitter receptors, including those for serotonin and norepinephrine, which may also contribute to its therapeutic effects.

Clinical Use

8-Hydroxyamoxapine is not used directly as a drug, but it is an important metabolite of amoxapine. Amoxapine is used in the treatment of major depressive disorder and other types of depression. The formation of 8-hydroxyamoxapine in the body after the administration of amoxapine is believed to contribute to the drug's therapeutic effects.

Side Effects

As a metabolite of amoxapine, 8-hydroxyamoxapine can contribute to the side effects of this drug. These can include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and dizziness. In rare cases, it can also contribute to more serious side effects such as tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder.

See Also

• Amoxapine
• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Dopamine receptor antagonist