Deanxit

What is Deanxit?

Deanxit is a prescription-only medication widely used to treat various psychological and psychosomatic conditions, particularly when anxiety and depression coexist.

It is a fixed-dose psychotropic combination consisting of a low-dose thioxanthene neuroleptic and a tricyclic antidepressant. The two compounds are synthesized to provide a dual action that stabilizes mood while offering anxiolytic and activating properties.

Generic Names:

• Flupentixol/Melitracen: The standard generic combination name used globally to describe this dual-action psychotropic formulation.

Global Brand Names:

Several brands market this combination globally, though availability varies.

• Deanxit (得安緒): The primary and most recognized brand for this medication combination available in Hong Kong.

These names all refer to the same medication. It's important to note that while the active ingredient is the same, different countries may have different regulations and available medication formulations.

What is Deanxit used for?

Deanxit is used to relieve:

• Psychogenic depression and depressive neuroses.
• Masked depression with somatic symptoms.
• Psychosomatic disorders accompanied by anxiety, apathy, and asthenia.
• Menopausal depression associated with anxiety.
• Dysphoria in recovering alcoholics or drug addicts.

How do you use Deanxit?

Availability:

• Tablets

Dosage Information:

• Adults: Two tablets daily, typically taken as one in the morning and one at midday (not exceeding four tablets daily).
• Elderlies: A lower starting dose is recommended, often one tablet taken in the morning.

Suitability:

• Adults: Yes, for managing anxiety and depression.
• Elderlies: Yes, with caution and dosage adjustments.
• Children: No, generally not recommended due to increased risks of behavioral changes.

Who cannot take Deanxit?

Allergies and unsuitability:

• Rare, but possible allergic reactions to flupentixol or melitracen.

Conditions where the drug should not be used:

• Acute myocardial infarction or cardiac rhythm disorders.
• Narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Untreated prostatic hypertrophy.
• Acute alcohol or opiate intoxication.

Deanxit can cause mild, transient side effects such as insomnia, restlessness, dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision, especially when first starting the medication. Because of its stimulating properties, taking it late in the day may cause sleep disturbances.

Severe adverse reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include an abnormally fast heart rate, muscle stiffness or involuntary movements (extrapyramidal symptoms), and signs of liver issues like jaundice.

• Do not take Deanxit after 4:00 PM to prevent interference with sleep.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or blurred vision.
• Avoid alcohol and central nervous system depressants to prevent enhanced sedative effects.
• Do not use concurrently with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) to prevent a hypertensive crisis or serotonin syndrome.
• Check with a doctor if you have a family history of QT prolongation or electrolyte imbalances.
• Monitor closely for changes in mood or suicidal ideation during the early stages of treatment.

Storage information:

• Keep in a dry place at room temperature below 30°C.
• Protect from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Handling instructions:

• Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water.
• Do not crush or chew the tablets unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Where is Deanxit available in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Deanxit is classified as a Prescription Only Medicine. This means you must present a valid doctor's prescription to purchase it legally.

You can obtain this medication at registered dispensaries carrying the "Rx" logo or at specialized pharmacy counters in chain drug stores like Mannings and Watsons, provided a registered pharmacist is on duty to process your prescription.