Products
Amisulpride is commercially available as tablets, film-coated tablets, and a drinkable solution (Solian, generic). It has been approved in many countries since 1998.
Structure and properties
Amisulpride (C17H27N3O4S, Mr = 369.5 g/mol) is a substituted benzamide and a racemate. It exists as a white crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.
Effects
Amisulpride (ATC N05AL05) has antipsychotic properties. The effects are due to selective antagonism at dopamine D2 and dopamine D3 receptors. Amisulpride has a half-life of approximately 12 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of acute and chronic schizophrenic disorders.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is taken once or twice daily, regardless of meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Prolactin-dependent tumors
- Pheochromocytoma
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Combination with drugs that prolong the QT interval.
- Combination with dopamine agonists or levodopa.
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with the following substances:
- Agents that prolong the QT interval (contraindicated).
- Dopamine agonists, levodopa (contraindicated).
- Drugs that cause bradycardia or hypokalemia.
- Tricyclic antidepressants, lithium.
- Central depressant drugs, alcohol
- Antihypertensive and other antihypertensive drugs.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, low blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, indigestion, dystonia, and a marked increase in prolactin. Amisulpride can prolong the QT interval and rarely cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.
