Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Agomelatine is an antidepressant designed for the treatment of depression. It functions by mimicking melatonin at the melatonin receptors, enhancing melatonin’s impact at these specific sites. Melatonin is associated with regulating sleep patterns, and its reduction is often linked to disturbances in sleep, which can exacerbate depression. In addition to boosting melatonin activity, agomelatine also directly increases the activity of noradrenaline and dopamine, further contributing to its antidepressant effects.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as instructed by your physician, usually once daily, with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Do not chew, crush, or dissolve this medication in water, as doing so can cause the entire dose to be released at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Swallow the tablets whole.
To minimize the risk of side effects, your doctor may advise you to start with a low dose and gradually increase your dosage. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more frequently or for longer than prescribed. Doing so will not improve your condition any faster and may increase your risk of side effects.
Use this medication regularly to achieve the best possible outcome. Take it at the same time every day to help you remember.
Continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Suddenly discontinuing this drug can exacerbate certain conditions, leading to symptoms such as mood swings, headache, blurred vision, tiredness, sleep disturbances, and brief sensations similar to electric shock. To avoid these symptoms during the withdrawal process, your doctor may gradually lower your dose.
It may take several weeks before you feel the full therapeutic effects of this medication. If your condition does not improve or worsens, inform your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- constipation
- loss of appetite
- dry mouth
- dizziness
- sleepiness
- extreme tiredness
- unusual dreams
- yawning
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- sweating
- uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
- pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in part of the body
- enlarged pupils
- sexual problems in males: decreased sex drive, inability to get or keep an erection, or delayed or absent ejaculation
- sexual problems in females: decreased sex drive, or delayed orgasm or unable to have an orgasm
- difficulty urinating
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- hives
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- fast heartbeat
- cough
- chest, arm, back, neck, or jaw pain
- fever
- coma (loss of consciousness for a period of time)
- seizures
- fever, sweating, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, severe muscle stiffness or twitching, agitation, hallucinations, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- nosebleeds
- small red or purple dots on the skin
- headache
- difficulty concentrating
- memory problems
- confusion
Caution
- Prior to taking agomelatine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to desvenlafaxine, venlafaxine, or any other medications. This product may include inactive components that can provoke allergic reactions or other issues.
- Prior to taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have a personal or family history of psychiatric conditions, suicide attempts, bleeding disorders, glaucoma (angle-closure type), high blood pressure, heart issues, a history of stroke, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, or low sodium in the blood (hyponatremia).
- This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Alcohol or marijuana may intensify these effects. Do not operate heavy machinery, drive, or engage in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until it is safe to do so.
- Older adults may experience increased sensitivity to the side effects of this medication, especially dizziness when standing. Older adults may also be more likely to experience a type of salt imbalance (hyponatremia), particularly if they are taking diuretics (water pills). Dizziness and salt imbalances can increase the likelihood of falls. Older adults may also be at greater risk of bleeding when using this medication.
- Children may be more vulnerable to the side effects of this drug, especially loss of appetite and weight loss. Children taking this medication should have their height and weight monitored.
- During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if it is clearly needed, as it may be harmful to an unborn baby.
- Since untreated mental/mood problems can be a serious condition, do not discontinue taking this medication unless directed to do so by your doctor. If you are contemplating pregnancy, become pregnant, or believe you may be pregnant, discuss the benefits and hazards of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor right away.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may have unwanted effects on a nursing infant. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Valdoxan is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Valdoxan tablet:
- 25 mg
FAQ
How long does it take Valdoxan to work?
It can take up to four weeks for Valdoxan to have its full effect, but it should start to help within the first one to two weeks if you are taking it for depression.
Will taking Valdoxan affect my sleep?
Valdoxan may make you feel drowsy for a few days after you start taking it. This should pass after the first week or two.
