Information About Valdoxan (Agomelatine):

Information About Valdoxan (Agomelatine):

This is a new class of antidepressant, released in France a few years ago, and released in Australia in 2010. It stimulates melatonin receptors in your brain, and blocks serotonin receptors. This causes increased activity of the dopamine and noradrenaline pathways in the brain.

 So it is in a medication class of its own, with very different side-effects to our pre-existing antidepressants. Research results from the manufacturer show that dizziness, nausea and occasional headaches are the most common side-effects. A few people feel fatigued. 

Also, blood tests to check your liver are recommended on Day 1, at 6 weeks, at 3 months and at intervals thereafter. 

It is reported that Valdoxan is as effective as our existing antidepressants, and without causing weight gain, sexual side-effects (or at least far less than the usual antidepressants), drowsiness, perspiration, or withdrawal effects when stopped.

 The normal dose is one to two 25 mg tablets at night.

 Switching/Combinations: Interactions between SSRIs and Valdoxan are not expected, as Valdoxan does not interfere with serotonin transmission.

 Valdoxan should not be taken if you are also taking Luvox or Movox, in theory, as your serum level of Valdoxan will be higher than expected from the dose you are taking.

MAY BE REPRODUCED FOR GENERAL PATIENT USE, BUT PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE SOURCE

DR DAVID HORGAN ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY ONLY FOR HIS OWN PATIENTS IN THE USE OF THIS MATERIAL