Amoxapine

Amoxapine treats depression, including depression accompanied by anxiety or psychotic symptoms. It is not a general substitute for schizophrenia treatment.

It slows norepinephrine reuptake and affects serotonin signaling. One of its active metabolites also blocks dopamine receptors, which adds risks of movement and hormone-related side effects.

Sleep, energy, or appetite may change before mood improves. Benefit usually builds over several weeks; some conditions need a longer trial at a useful dose.

Track the symptoms you are treating and how you manage daily activities. Keep follow-up appointments. Schedule an earlier appointment if your mood gets worse.

• Follow your prescribed schedule, with or without food.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Then skip it. Do not double a dose.
• Avoid alcohol. Do not drive until you know how you respond.
• Consult with your provider before reducing or stopping treatment.

• Dry mouth, constipation, or blurred vision
• Drowsiness or dizziness when standing
• Sweating, weight change, or sexual side effects

Some side effects resolve with time; others may require a change of medication. Discuss persistent or bothersome side effects with your provider.

Antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts in people under 25. Watch for changes in mood or behavior at any age, especially when starting treatment or changing a dose.

Your provider may check pulse, blood pressure, weight, and an ECG, depending on your age, dose, other medications, and heart history. Report constipation or urinary problems before they become severe.

Report stiffness, severe restlessness, or involuntary mouth or tongue movements. Movement checks matter because some abnormal movements can persist.

For a suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately, even if you feel well. Call 911 for a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.

Discuss heart disease, a recent heart attack, fainting, glaucoma, difficulty urinating, severe constipation, seizures, bipolar symptoms, and kidney or liver problems.

Discuss pregnancy, pregnancy plans, and breastfeeding with your provider. Treatment decisions should consider both the medication and the condition being treated.

Review all your medications with your provider, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Have new medications checked before taking them.

Do not combine with an MAOI antidepressant. Switching requires a specific waiting period; fluoxetine can continue to affect other medications for weeks.

Some antidepressants raise tricyclic levels. Medicines that affect heart rhythm, sedating antihistamines, bladder medicines, opioids, and alcohol can add important risks.

Stand up slowly and use caution on stairs if you feel lightheaded.

Sugar-free gum, regular dental care, and adequate fluids may help dry mouth. Discuss persistent constipation.

Store your supply securely. An overdose can be life-threatening even before symptoms appear.

Keep medication in its labeled container, away from excess heat and moisture and out of reach of children and pets. Do not share it. Ask a pharmacy about disposal of unused medication.