Agomelatine
Generic Details
Generic Name
Agomelatine
Other Names
- Valdoxan
Drug Class
- Melatonin Receptor Agonist
- Serotonin Modulator
Chemical Formula
C15H17NO2
Molecular Weight
243.30 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Agonist activity at melatonergic receptors (MT1 and MT2) and antagonist activity at 5-HT2C serotonin receptors
Indications
- Major Depressive Disorder
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
Typical Dosage
- 25 mg once daily at bedtime
Pediatric Dosage
- Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosage adjustment may be needed in the elderly
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
Contraindications
- Hepatic impairment
- Severe renal impairment
- Patients under 18 years
Pregnancy Category
- Category B: No evidence of risk in humans
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Avoid concomitant use with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors
Overdose Symptoms
- Lethargy
- Somnolence
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tachycardia
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms supportively
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well-absorbed orally
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound (about 80%)
- Metabolism: Extensively metabolized by hepatic enzymes
- Excretion: Mainly excreted in feces
Precautions
- Monitor liver function tests periodically
Warnings
- May increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults
Others
- Agomelatine is an atypical antidepressant with a unique mechanism of action that differs from traditional SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants.