Asendin: Drug Information

Generic category: Amoxapine

Asendin is a tricyclic antidepressant belonging to the category of dibenzoxazepines. This medicine is widely used to treat depressive disorders and is known to inhibit the impact of nonadrenaline and serotonin once it is released into the synapse. If taken regularly for several weeks it also alters various aspects of cellular functioning, including how receptors function and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

Asendin is somewhat variable in easing the symptoms and noticeable effects may be delayed up to 3 to 5 weeks. The drug has certain side effects that may cause considerable amount of discomfort. An overdose of the drug is not safe.

Drug Safety precautions:

While administering Asendin, safety precautions need to be taken if the patient is recovering from a major illness such as cardiovascular disease or liver impairment. It must be given after much consideration to the elderly, to pregnant or lactating women and to epileptic patients. Monitoring from time to time is required in patients with psychosis and alcoholism.

Drug interactions of Asendin :

If co-administered with barbiturates, it may lead to a reduction in serum levels. Intake of narcoleptics may inhibit metabolism. Asendin should never be taken with alcohol as it increases its sedative effect. It should be strictly avoided with antiparkinson agents and antipsychotic drugs as it would increase the risk of anticholinergic effects. Asendin should be avoided under all circumstances with antihypertensive medications as it may lead to fatal consequences such as the development of marked hyperpyrexia, convulsions and coma mono amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Side effects of Asendin:

Intake of this medication for a prolonged period of time can result in various ailments such as tachycardia, postural hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention, tremors, weakness, headache, confusion, dizziness, delirium in the elderly, weight gain, nausea, heart palpitation, nightmares, insomnia, restlessness, sexual dysfunction and menstrual irregularities. Life threatening side effects include ventricular fibrillation in individuals suffering from cardiac disease, agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia.

Points to remember:

Bring to your doctor’s notice if you are allergic to any drug.

In case of experiencing any allergic reaction, you must discontinue taking the medication and report to your doctor at the earliest.

In case you have a history of glaucoma, trouble in urination, enlarged prostrate, head injuries, brain tumors, liver or kidney disease, you must tell your doctor.

You must bring to your doctor’s notices if you are pregnant or lactating.