Loxapine

Products

Loxapine has been approved in the EU as a powder for inhalation since 2013 (Adasuve). It was registered in many countries in 2016. Capsules are additionally available in the United States.

Structure and properties

Loxapine (C₁₈H₁₈ClN₃O, M_r = 327.8 g/mol) is present in drugs as loxapine succinate. It is a piperazine derivative and structurally belongs to the dibenzoxazepines. Loxapine is closely related to clozapine (Leponex, generics).

Effects

Loxapine (ATC N05AH01) has antipsychotic and sedative properties. Its effects are due to antagonism at D2 and 5-HT2A receptors. It additionally binds to noradrenergic, histaminergic, and cholinergic receptors.

Indications

• Acute treatment of agitation in adult patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Patients should receive regular treatment after control of acute agitation symptoms.
• In the form of capsules for the treatment of schizophrenia.