Valdoxan

Uses
Valdoxan (Agomelatine) is used for depression. It belongs to a class of drugs referred to as melatonergic antidepressants, and it works in the brain by affecting the melatonin receptors and increasing the levels of dopamine and noradrenaline. People with depression may have symptoms such as disturbed sleep, anxiety, body weight changes, sadness and a depressed mood. Treatment with this antidepressant medicine aims to relieve these sympotms, and acting on the melatonin receptors plays an important part in this.

Melatonin is produced in the brain at the night time, and is needed to promote regular sleep cycles. Patients with depression may have disrupted circadian rhythms, which can affect sleep quality and mood. This drug acts on the melatonin recpetors and resynchronises the circadian rhythms of the patient, which in turn helps to improve sleep cycles. Also, by acting on neurotransmitters in the brain, the mood, appetite and sleep patterns of patients with depression may be improved by treatment with this medication.

Dosage and Administration
If you have been diagnosed with depression and your doctor has recommended treatment with Valdoxan (Agomelatine) then you will also be given clear instructions (by your doctor) on the correct dosage. Adults are sometimes told to take 25mg (which is equal to one tablet) before going to bed. However, there have been cases when patients were told by their doctor to take 50mg (two tablets) before sleeping. The exact amount you need will be decided by your doctor.

Laboratory tests will be ordered by your doctor to check the function of your liver when treatment begins, and at set intervals while the medicine is being taken, generally these will take place after weeks 3, 6, 12 and 24 of treatment. This will also be necessary if your doctor decides to increase your daily dosage to 50mg per day. Attend all scheduled medical appointments.

Side effects
It is important to note that taking Valdoxan (Agomelatine) may sometimes cause side effects, which may be mild or serious. A list of some reactions is given here:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Somnolence
• Hyperhidrosis
• Pain that affects the back

Make sure that your doctor is aware of any side effects that occur. Immediate hospitalisation or medical treatment will be required if you experience hallucinations, mania, hypomania or any other serious reactions.

Precautions
This medicine is not to be taken by patients without a properly functioning liver. Patients with kidney problems may also not be able to take this medicine, however, the doctor providing treatment will decide whether or not it should be taken based on the patient's individual circumstances.

See your doctor immediately if you have any thoughts of suicide during treatment, or if your depression worsens.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Valdoxan (Agomelatine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.