Mafoprazine

Mafoprazine is a psychotropic drug that belongs to the class of azapirones. It is used in the treatment of various psychiatric disorders. Mafoprazine is known for its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.

Pharmacology

Mafoprazine acts as a serotonin receptor agonist, specifically at the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors. This action leads to an increase in serotonin levels in the brain, which can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Clinical Use

Mafoprazine is used in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and major depressive disorder (MDD). It may also be used off-label for other conditions, such as insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Side Effects

Like all medications, mafoprazine can cause side effects. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Less common but more serious side effects can include serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur with excessive serotonin levels in the brain.

Contraindications

Mafoprazine should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also be used with caution in individuals with a history of cardiac disease, liver disease, or kidney disease, as these conditions can affect the metabolism and excretion of the drug.

See Also

• Azapirone
• Serotonin receptor agonist
• Anxiolytic
• Antidepressant