Glycine
Generic Details
Generic Name
Glycine
Other Names
- Aminoacetic acid
Drug Class
- Amino Acid
Chemical Formula
C2H5NO2
Molecular Weight
75.07 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
Indications
- Treatment of spasticity
- Adjunctive treatment for schizophrenia
- Neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral tablet
- Oral solution
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- Varies depending on the condition being treated, generally 200mg to 800mg per day
Pediatric Dosage
- Consult pediatrician for appropriate dosage
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Hypotension
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment
- Known allergy to glycine
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, use with caution
Drug Interactions
- Glycine may interact with certain drugs like clozapine, antiplatelet agents, and calcium channel blockers
Overdose Symptoms
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Respiratory depression
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care and symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted unchanged in the urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with renal impairment
- Monitor for signs of hypotension
Warnings
- May cause drowsiness, use caution when driving or operating machinery
Others
- Glycine is also used in the food industry as a sweetener and flavor enhancer.