Edivoxetine

Edivoxetine is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) that was under investigation for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Edivoxetine acts by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter associated with mood and attention, thereby increasing its levels in the synaptic cleft and contributing to its antidepressant effects. Despite initial promise in clinical trials, its development was discontinued due to insufficient efficacy in treating depression compared to existing treatments.

Mechanism of Action

Edivoxetine functions by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain, without significant effects on the reuptake of other neurotransmitters such as serotonin or dopamine. This selectivity is thought to contribute to its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, as norepinephrine plays a key role in regulating mood and anxiety levels.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials of edivoxetine evaluated its efficacy and safety in treating major depressive disorder. These studies compared edivoxetine to placebo and, in some cases, to other antidepressant medications. Although edivoxetine demonstrated some antidepressant effects, it failed to show a significant advantage over existing treatments, leading to the discontinuation of its development for depression.

Side Effects

The side effects associated with edivoxetine are similar to those of other norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and may include hypertension, increased heart rate, dry mouth, insomnia, and gastrointestinal disturbances. The drug's safety profile, as observed in clinical trials, was a factor considered in the decision-making process regarding its further development.

Development and Discontinuation

Edivoxetine was developed by Eli Lilly and Company, a pharmaceutical company with a history of developing treatments for psychiatric conditions. Despite initial positive results in early clinical trials, phase III trials did not demonstrate a significant improvement in depression symptoms compared to placebo or other antidepressants. As a result, Eli Lilly and Company announced the discontinuation of edivoxetine's development for the treatment of major depressive disorder.

Current Status

As of the last update, there are no ongoing clinical trials investigating the use of edivoxetine for any condition, and the compound is not approved for use in any country. The discontinuation of edivoxetine's development highlights the challenges in developing new and effective treatments for major depressive disorder.

See Also

• Antidepressant
• Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
• Major depressive disorder
• Neurotransmitter