Cilobamine

Cilobamine

Cilobamine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that was developed in the 1960s but was never marketed. It is known for its antidepressant and anxiolytic properties.

History

Cilobamine was first synthesized in the 1960s as part of a series of compounds aimed at developing new antidepressant medications. Despite showing promise in early trials, it was never brought to market. The reasons for this are not entirely clear, but may relate to the development of other, more effective or safer antidepressants around the same time.

Pharmacology

As a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, cilobamine works by blocking the action of a group of enzymes known as monoamine oxidases. These enzymes are involved in the breakdown of several important neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. By inhibiting these enzymes, cilobamine increases the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Clinical Use

While cilobamine was never marketed and is therefore not used in clinical practice, research into its properties has contributed to our understanding of the pharmacology of monoamine oxidase inhibitors and their potential use in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders.

Side Effects

Like other monoamine oxidase inhibitors, cilobamine has the potential to cause a range of side effects. These can include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and hypertension. In addition, because of the way it interacts with the neurotransmitter system, it can also cause a serious condition known as serotonin syndrome if taken in combination with certain other medications.

See Also

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitor
• Antidepressant
• Anxiolytic