Amoxapin
Amoxapin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Amoxapin is a brand name. Its generic name is Amoxapine.
Amoxapin
Amoxapin is an antidepressant medication used to treat mental depression and chronic pain. It belongs to the class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Amoxapin works by inhibiting the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, in the brain.
Uses For
Amoxapin is used to treat mental depression as well as chronic pain such as associated with arthritis, neck pain, chronic back pain, headache, and diabetic neuropathy. It may also be used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of Amoxapin is not fully understood, but the drug is thought to work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This allows these neurotransmitters to remain in the brain for longer periods of time, helping to regulate mood. Amoxapin can also block certain histamine, acetylcholine, and muscarinic receptors.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
It typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for full benefit to be experienced when using Amoxapin. During this time, patients may experience some improvement, such as reduced anxiety or improved mood before maximum effectiveness is achieved.
Absorption
Amoxapin is absorbed rapidly from the gastrointestinal tract and is highly bound to protein in plasma. Peak plasma levels are reached in 2-4 hours.
Route of Elimination
Amoxapin is primarily eliminated in the urine and feces. Approximately 80-90% of an oral dose is metabolized and eliminated as metabolites within 1-3 days after administration.
Dosage
The recommended starting dose of Amoxapin is 50-100mg orally twice daily. The dose may be increased gradually to a maximum of 200mg twice daily, as needed. Maintenance doses of 100-200mg twice daily are recommended for long-term use.
Administration
Amoxapin is usually taken orally with or without food. The drug should be taken consistently either with or without food. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor and not to miss or change doses without consulting the doctor.
Side Effect
The most common side effects associated with Amoxapin include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, tiredness, decreased strength and energy, trouble sleeping, headaches, weight gain, decreased sex drive, and decreased appetite. Rare side effects include symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
Toxicity
When taken in high doses or in combination with certain other medications or substances, Amoxapin can cause serious toxicity, including confusion, delirium, seizures, and even death. It is important to only take the recommended dose of Amoxapin and to discuss any drug interactions with your healthcare provider.
Precaution
When taking Amoxapin, it is important to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, medications you are taking, any allergies you may have, and any prior mental health or substance use problems. Amoxapin should not be used in patients with glaucoma, seizures, or those at risk for suicide. Additionally, it is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Interactions
Amoxapin may interact with other medications such as certain antidepressants, antibiotics, antifungals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticoagulants, blood pressure medications, and narcotics. Additionally, alcohol and certain herbal supplements may interact with Amoxapin. It is important to discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider before taking Amoxapin.
Disease Interaction
Amoxapin may cause side effects in some patients with certain pre-existing disease conditions such as glaucoma, seizures, heart diseases, headaches, liver problems, diabetes, adrenal gland disorders, thyroid problems, and certain mental illnesses. Therefore, it is important to discuss all disease conditions with your doctor before taking Amoxapin.
Drug Interactions
Amoxapin may interact with a number of drugs, including certain antibiotics, antifungals,non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticoagulants, and narcotics. Additionally, it may interact with certain antidepressants, alcohol, and certain herbal supplements. Therefore, it is important to discuss all medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before taking Amoxapin.
Food Interactions
Amoxapin should be taken consistently either with or without food. Taking the medication with food may help to reduce or prevent certain side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Pregnancy Use
Amoxapin should be avoided in pregnant women unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. This medication may be passed through to the baby in the breastmilk; therefore, caution should be used when breastfeeding while taking Amoxapin.
Lactation Use
Amoxapin may be excreted into breastmilk and caution should be taken when breastfeeding while taking Amoxapin. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking Amoxapin.
Acute Overdose
An overdose of Amoxapin may cause symptoms such as confusion, delirium, seizures, and even death. If you or someone you know has overdosed on this medication, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Contraindications
Amoxapin should not be taken by patients with glaucoma, a history of seizures, or those at a high risk of suicide. Additionally, Amoxapin should not be taken within two weeks of taking an MAO inhibitor. It is important to discuss any contraindications with your healthcare provider before taking Amoxapin.
Use Directions
Amoxapin must be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed and not to stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose.
Storage Condition
Amoxapin should be stored at room temperature in a dry and dark place. Keep away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep away from children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Amoxapin is approximately 16 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of Amoxapin is approximately 24 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of Amoxapin is approximately 2.4 L/h/kg.
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