Oxaflozane (trade name Oxaliplatin) is a chemotherapy drug used to treat colorectal cancer. It is a platinum-based drug that interferes with cell division, leading to cell death in the tumor. It is usually used in combination with other drugs such as 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and diarrhea.
Oxaflozane was an antidepressant and anxiolytic drug that was introduced by Solvay in France in 1982 for the treatment of depression but has since been discontinued. It acted by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite.
Oxaflozane was a prodrug, meaning that it had to be broken down by the body into its active form, flumexadol. Flumexadol is a serotonin 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C receptor agonist. This means that it binds to these receptors in the brain and produces similar effects to serotonin.
Oxaflozane was discontinued because it was not as effective as other antidepressants on the market and it had a number of side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, and drowsiness.
Here's a breakdown of some key points about Oxaflozane:
- Type of drug: Antidepressant and anxiolytic
- Year introduced: 1982
- Manufacturer: Solvay
- Country: France
- Reason for discontinuation: Less effective than other antidepressants and more side effects
- Mechanism of action: Increased serotonin levels in the brain.