Zotepine (Nipolept) is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for acute and chronic schizophrenia. It has been used in Germany since 1990 and Japan since 1982.

The most common dosage used is 150mg daily. It is suggested that zotepine therapy starts at 75mg to 150mg divided into three daily doses. Some people may need to have their dosage increased to 300mg.

Pharmacology

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Zotepine has a high affinity for the dopamine D1 and D2 recepetors. It also affects the 5HT2a, 5HT2c, 5HT6, and 5HT7 receptors. In addition, it inhibits the reputake of noradrenaline. It is thought that this is why zotepine has a high efficacy for the negative symptomes of schizophrenia.

Side effects

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The most common side effect of Zotepine is weight gain. This weight gain side effect compares badly to the older typical antipsychotics. Somnolence is the second most common side effect. Constipation, asthenia, dry mouth, and akathisia are also reported.

References

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• http://www.priory.com/focus11.htm
• http://www.nyrdtc.nhs.uk/docs/nde/Zotepine.pdf -

Atypical antipsychotics