veralipride

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

veralipride primarily acts as a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. It exerts its effects by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. By doing so, it was intended to alleviate symptoms of emotional disorders and menopausal symptoms. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Anxiety 

Sleep disorders 

Depression 

Tardive dyskinesia 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Allergies 
• Hepatic impairment 
• Pregnancy 
• Breastfeeding 
• Parkinson disease 

Caution: 

• Renal impairment 
• Elderly patients 
• Neurological disorders 
• Drug interactions 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

The safety of veralipride during pregnancy is not well-established. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

It is unknown whether the drug is excreted in breast milk. 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: Well-controlled and satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the initial or later trimester. 

<b>Category B: There was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: There was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence, these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

• Central Nervous System Effects: Antagonism of dopamine receptors can influence central nervous system function. This may include alterations in mood, behavior, and emotional responses. veralipride was primarily used to manage emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression, suggesting its potential impact on mood regulation. 
• Prolactin Regulation: Dopamine plays a role in regulating prolactin secretion in the pituitary gland. By blocking dopamine receptors, veralipride might influence prolactin levels in the body. Elevated prolactin levels can affect the menstrual cycle, breast tissue, and other physiological processes. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Central Nervous System Effects: The antagonism of dopamine receptors could potentially result in various central nervous system effects, including alterations in mood, behavior, and emotional states. However, these effects’ exact mechanisms and pharmacodynamic details were poorly understood. 
• Potential Impact on Prolactin: Dopamine also regulates prolactin secretion in the pituitary gland. By blocking dopamine receptors, veralipride might influence prolactin levels in the body, potentially leading to hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin levels). Elevated prolactin levels can affect the menstrual cycle, breast tissue, and other physiological processes. 
• Cardiac Effects: veralipride was associated with concerns about its potential to prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG). Prolonging the QT interval can increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias, including Torsades de Pointes, a life-threatening arrhythmia. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

veralipride is well-absorbed when taken orally. 

Distribution 

It crosses the blood-brain barrier and affects central nervous system functions. 

Metabolism 

veralipride undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily through the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The metabolites of veralipride are excreted primarily through the urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

The administration of any medication, including veralipride (if it is still available and prescribed in your region), should always follow the guidance and prescription of a qualified healthcare provider. Proper administration is crucial to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and safety.  

Route of Administration: veralipride is typically administered orally in tablets or capsules. Swallow the medication whole with a full glass of water unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: veralipride 

Pronounced as: ve-ra-li-pryd 

The primary reasons for using veralipride included: 

• Menopausal Symptoms: veralipride was prescribed to alleviate menopausal symptoms in women, scorching flashes, and night sweats. These symptoms are common during menopause and can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life. 
• Emotional Disorders: veralipride was also used to manage emotional disorders like anxiety and depression. It was believed to affect mood and emotional responses by interacting with dopamine receptors in the brain.