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Dextromethorphan: From Cough Suppressant to Antidepressant
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
|November 1, 2022
Summary
Dextromethorphan (DXM) has evolved from a cough suppressant to a novel antidepressant. Its combination with bupropion offers rapid action and a favorable safety profile for major depressive disorder.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Dextromethorphan (DXM) has a 7-decade history of drug repurposing.
- Initial use as a cough suppressant.
- Subsequent formulations for pseudobulbar affect and major depressive disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the history of Dextromethorphan (DXM) repurposing.
- To explore purported mechanisms of action for each use.
- To highlight the rapid action and safety of the DXM-bupropion formulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Dextromethorphan (DXM) history and applications.
- Analysis of proposed mechanisms of action.
- Evaluation of clinical data for the dextromethorphan-bupropion formulation.
Main Results:
- Dextromethorphan (DXM) has been successfully repurposed multiple times.
- The oral dextromethorphan-bupropion formulation demonstrates rapid antidepressant effects.
- This formulation exhibits a unique safety profile.
Conclusions:
- Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a versatile therapeutic agent.
- The dextromethorphan-bupropion combination represents a significant advancement in antidepressant therapy.
- Further research into DXM's mechanisms and applications is warranted.
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