Amoxapine
Uses of Amoxapine
Amoxapine is primarily used to manage major depressive disorder and belongs to the group of tricyclic antidepressants.
Secondary indications for this medication include anxiety disorders like generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder, neuropathic pain conditions such as diabetic neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia, and adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Side effects of Amoxapine
Dizziness
Sedation
Dry mouth
Constipation
Nausea
Blurred vision
Increased appetite
Weight gain
How Amoxapine works
Amoxapine is an antidepressant medication belonging to the class known as tricyclic antidepressants.
It functions by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. In simple terms, Amoxapine stops these neurotransmitters from being taken back into nerve cells in the brain. This results in an increase in the levels of these neurotransmitters around nerve endings, which helps to prolong their effects and improve mood.
Amoxapine also has a slight inhibitory effect on the reuptake of dopamine, another neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation, thereby potentially amplifying its mood-enhancing effects.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
BDS, PGCAD, GMHE (IIM-B)
Expert Advice
Dosage forms available
Amoxapine can be taken orally in the tablet form.
Age and dose restrictions
This medicine is mainly prescribed for adult patients. While it can be administered to adolescents, elderly patients may require special caution due to potential side effects and interactions.
Contraindications
Amoxapine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medicine or other tricyclic antidepressants. It should not be taken by patients recovering from a recent heart attack.
Other medications to avoid
Amoxapine may interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO) inhibitors (such as phenelzine, isocarboxazid), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (such as citalopram, fluoxetine), selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (such as venlafaxine, duloxetine), and antipsychotics (such as haloperidol, risperidone).
Overdose and missed dose
An overdose of Amoxapine may lead to symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, severe drowsiness, fever, rapid heartbeat, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is required if these symptoms are observed.
If you forget to take your dose of Amoxapine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Management of side effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.
For dry mouth, try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free sweets.
For constipation, try to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water.
If you are experiencing nausea, taking this medicine with food or milk may be beneficial.
Use in driving and operating machinery
Amoxapine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can affect one's ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. If one experiences these symptoms, it is advised to avoid such activities.
Use in pregnancy and lactation
Amoxapine's use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended unless strictly advised by a doctor. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Caution in other conditions
Caution should be exercised when using Amoxapine in patients with conditions such as heart disease, stroke, irregular heartbeat, narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, enlarged prostate, seizure disorders, liver or kidney impairment and bipolar disorder.
Special dietary and lifestyle recommendations
Practice stress management techniques like yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Psychological counselling or psychotherapy can be beneficial alongside medication.
Frequently asked questions
Can Amoxapine affect one's mood?
Yes, Amoxapine is primarily used to manage major depressive disorders. It works by increasing certain neurotransmitters in the brain that help regulate mood and emotional well-being.
Is there any natural alternative to Amoxapine?
While natural remedies like St. John's Wort are sometimes used for depression, they should not be used in place of Amoxapine or any other prescribed medication without consulting a doctor.
Can Amoxapine cause weight gain?
Yes, increased appetite and weight gain are common side effects of Amoxapine.
Does Amoxapine affect menstrual cycles?
There is no specific mention of Amoxapine affecting menstrual cycles in the listed side effects. However, if you notice any changes in your menstrual cycle while taking this medication, it is important to consult your doctor.
Does Amoxapine cause dependency or addiction?
Amoxapine does not typically lead to dependency or addiction. However, it should not be stopped abruptly without consulting a doctor due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
How long does Amoxapine stay in the body?
The half-life of a medicine is the time taken for the body to eliminate half of it. The exact half-life of Amoxapine varies, but for most tricyclic antidepressants, it is within 24 hours. Hence, it might take about 5-6 days for it to be completely eliminated from the body.
Is Amoxapine a steroid?
No, Amoxapine is not a steroid. It is a tricyclic antidepressant medication used to manage mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.
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