Hydroxynefazodone

Metabolite of nefazodone

Hydroxynefazodone
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Hydroxynefazodone is a metabolite of the antidepressant drug nefazodone. It is formed in the body through the hydroxylation of nefazodone, primarily in the liver. Hydroxynefazodone is one of several active metabolites of nefazodone, contributing to its pharmacological effects.

Pharmacology

Hydroxynefazodone, like its parent compound nefazodone, acts as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, and also acts as an antagonist at the 5-HT2A receptor. This dual action is thought to contribute to its antidepressant effects.

Metabolism

Nefazodone is metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, particularly by CYP3A4. Hydroxynefazodone is one of the primary metabolites formed during this process. The formation of hydroxynefazodone involves the addition of a hydroxyl group to the nefazodone molecule, which increases its water solubility and facilitates its excretion from the body.

Clinical Significance

The presence of hydroxynefazodone in the body is significant because it contributes to the overall therapeutic effects of nefazodone. However, nefazodone has been associated with hepatotoxicity, which has led to its withdrawal from the market in some countries. The role of hydroxynefazodone in this adverse effect is not fully understood, but it is considered less hepatotoxic than nefazodone itself.

Chemical Structure

Chemical structure of Hydroxynefazodone

Hydroxynefazodone has a complex chemical structure characterized by a triazolone ring, a piperazine moiety, and a chlorophenyl group. The hydroxylation of nefazodone to form hydroxynefazodone occurs at the triazolone ring, which is a key feature of its chemical structure.

Related Compounds

Hydroxynefazodone is one of several metabolites of nefazodone. Other metabolites include mCPP (meta-chlorophenylpiperazine) and dihydroxynornefazodone. These metabolites vary in their pharmacological activity and contribute differently to the effects and side effects of nefazodone.

Related Pages

• Nefazodone
• Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor
• Cytochrome P450
• Hepatotoxicity