Agomelatine

Agomelatine is an antidepressant that activates MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors and blocks serotonin 5-HT2C receptors. Its effects include regulating circadian rhythms and influencing dopamine and noradrenaline release in the brain.

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Melatonin receptor: A G-protein-coupled receptor that responds to melatonin and helps regulate circadian timing. Agomelatine activates MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors.
Major depressive disorder: A mental disorder characterized by persistent depressed mood or loss of interest, alongside other symptoms and impairment. Agomelatine is prescribed to treat depressive episodes in adults.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor: An antidepressant that inhibits serotonin reuptake by blocking the serotonin transporter. SSRIs act primarily through serotonin reuptake inhibition rather than agomelatine’s receptor combination.
Servier: A French pharmaceutical company that developed and markets medicines in multiple therapeutic areas. Servier developed agomelatine and markets it under the brand name Valdoxan in some countries.
5-HT2C receptor: A serotonin receptor subtype involved in neural signaling, appetite, and mood regulation. Agomelatine blocks this receptor, contributing to its distinct pharmacology.
Antidepressant: A medication used to treat depressive disorders and, in some cases, other mental health conditions. Agomelatine belongs to this broad class but has a distinctive receptor profile.
Mirtazapine: An antidepressant that blocks central alpha-2 adrenergic receptors and several serotonin and histamine receptors. It is another atypical antidepressant, but its principal receptor actions differ from agomelatine’s.
Valdoxan: A brand name for agomelatine used in some countries. This is the commercial name under which agomelatine entered several markets.
Circadian rhythm: An approximately 24-hour cycle in biological processes, coordinated by internal clocks and environmental cues. Agomelatine’s melatonin-receptor activity can resynchronize disrupted daily rhythms.
Liver function test: A blood test measuring enzymes and other markers used to assess liver injury and function. Liver tests are required before and during treatment because agomelatine can injure the liver.