Phenoxypropazine

Phenoxypropazine is a pharmaceutical drug that belongs to the class of antidepressants. It is a member of the monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) group, which are drugs that inhibit the activity of one or both monoamine oxidase enzymes: monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) and monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B).

History

Phenoxypropazine was first synthesized in the mid-20th century as part of a series of compounds designed to treat depression. It was one of the earliest MAOIs to be developed, following the discovery of the monoamine oxidase enzymes in the 1950s.

Pharmacology

As an MAOI, phenoxypropazine works by inhibiting the action of the monoamine oxidase enzymes. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. By inhibiting these enzymes, phenoxypropazine increases the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of depression.

Clinical Use

Phenoxypropazine is used in the treatment of depression, particularly in cases where other treatments have been ineffective. It is typically administered orally, in the form of tablets or capsules.

Side Effects

Like all MAOIs, phenoxypropazine can have a number of side effects. These can include insomnia, nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth. In rare cases, it can also cause more serious side effects, such as hypertension or serotonin syndrome.

See Also

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Depression
• Serotonin
• Norepinephrine
• Dopamine