Zotepine (brand names: Losizopilon (JP), Lodopin (ID, JP), Setous (JP), Zoleptil (CZ, PT, TR, UK†); where †indicates a formulation that has been discontinued) is an atypical antipsychotic drug indicated for acute and chronic schizophrenia. It has been used in Germany since 1990 (although it has been discontinued in Germany) and Japan since 1982.
Zotepine is not approved for use in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada or New Zealand.
Medical Uses
Zotepine's primary use is as a treatment for schizophrenia although clinical trials have been conducted (with positive results) into its efficacy as an antimanic agent in patients with acute bipolar mania.
Side effects
- Common
- Unknown Frequency
- Rare
Pharmacology
The antipsychotic effect of zotepine is thought to be mediated through antagonist activity at dopamine and serotonin receptors. Zotepine has a high affinity for the D1 and D2 receptors. It also affects the 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7 receptors. In addition, its active metabolite, norzotepine, serves as a potent norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.
Dosing
The most common dosage used is 150Â mg daily. It is suggested that zotepine therapy starts at 75Â mg to 150Â mg divided into three daily doses. Some people may need to have their dosage increased to 300Â mg.
References
- http://www.priory.com/focus11.htm
- http://www.nyrdtc.nhs.uk/docs/nde/Zotepine.pdf -
- LOSIZOPILON SUGAR-COATED TABLETS & FINE GRANULES (PDF)
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