Radafaxine

Radafaxine is a drug that was developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for the treatment of depression and obesity. It is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) and is chemically related to bupropion.

History

Radafaxine was first synthesized by researchers at GSK in the late 1990s as part of a program to develop new treatments for depression and obesity. The drug was designed to inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that are thought to play a key role in these conditions.

Pharmacology

Radafaxine acts as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). It works by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, thereby increasing their levels in the brain. This is thought to help alleviate the symptoms of depression and obesity.

Clinical trials

In clinical trials, radafaxine was found to be effective in treating depression and obesity. However, the drug was not approved for these indications due to concerns about its safety profile.

Side effects

The most common side effects of radafaxine include nausea, dizziness, and insomnia. In rare cases, the drug can cause more serious side effects such as seizures and psychosis.

Current status

As of 2021, radafaxine is not currently approved for use in any country. However, research into its potential uses continues.

See also

• Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors
• Bupropion
• Depression
• Obesity