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Moxonidine and cognitive function: interactions with moclobemide and lorazepam
K Wesnes1, P M Simpson, B Jansson
1Cognitive Drug Research Limited, Reading, UK.
European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Moxonidine, a new antihypertensive, was safe in healthy volunteers. However, combining moxonidine with lorazepam impaired attention and memory tasks more than lorazepam alone.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Moxonidine is a novel, centrally acting antihypertensive drug targeting I1-imidazoline receptors.
- It reduces systemic vascular resistance with neutral or slightly increased cardiac output, suitable for mild to moderate hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and potential interactions of moxonidine (0.4 mg once daily) with moclobemide and lorazepam in healthy volunteers.
- To assess the effects of moxonidine monotherapy and combination therapy on cognitive functions and safety parameters.
Main Methods:
- Two double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover studies were conducted with 48 healthy volunteers.
- Safety assessments included blood pressure, heart rate, ECG, laboratory tests, and adverse event monitoring.
- Cognitive function was evaluated using vigilance, reaction time, memory, and visual tracking tasks.
Main Results:
- Moxonidine monotherapy showed minor, inconsistent effects on vigilance and memory.
- No interactions were observed between moxonidine and moclobemide.
- Co-administration with lorazepam resulted in significant impairments in attention and memory tasks.
Conclusions:
- Moxonidine is safe and well-tolerated in healthy volunteers.
- Co-administration with lorazepam can potentiate attentional and memory deficits.
- Caution is advised when prescribing moxonidine with lorazepam due to potential additive effects on cognitive function.