Reboxetine (Davedax, Edronax, Norebox)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Reboxetine is used to treat major depression. Reboxetine is a selective and potent inhibitor of the reuptake of norepinephrine; it also has a weak effect on serotonin reuptake.
Side Effects
Insomnia, increased sweating, dizziness, postural hypotension, paraesthesia, impotence, dysuria, dry mouth, constipation, rapid heart beat, and urinary retention may occur. Low blood pressure has also been observed in elderly patients following prolonged administration.
Drug Interactions
Reboxetine should not be taken together with, or within two weeks of discontinuing a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as phenelzine. Increases in blood pressure may occur with concomitant reboxetine and ergotamine, a drug used to treat migraine. Likewise, greater reductions in blood pressure upon standing may occur with reboxetine and other drugs that cause this effect. Reboxetine and diuretics can both decrease the amount of potassium in the blood. Reboxetine is metabolized in the liver by an enzyme called CYP 3A4. Drugs that inhibit this enzyme can increase the amount of reboxetine in the blood. Reboxetine appears to inhibit the liver enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. The dose of drugs metabolized by these enzymes may need to be reduced.
Cautions and Contraindications
Reboxetine should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver problems, bipolar disorder, urinary retention, benign prostatic hyperplasia, glaucoma, or a history of epilepsy or cardiac disorders. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how reboxetine will affect you.
Usual Dose
4 mg orally twice a day. The dose may be increased to 5 mg twice a day in 3-4 weeks, if needed. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 12 mg. In patients with kidney or liver problems, a dose of 2 mg twice a day may be tried.
Note
This drug is not available in the USA.
Reference
Holm KJ, Spencer CM. Reboxetine: a review of its use in depression. CNS Drugs 1999;12:65-83.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.