idazoxan

Idazoxan is a small molecule drug classified as a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist and an imidazoline receptor antagonist. It has been primarily used in scientific research and clinical trials, particularly for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Idazoxan blocks the activation of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which can enhance dopamine neurotransmission in the prefrontal cortex—a mechanism thought to be relevant for conditions like schizophrenia. It also acts on imidazoline I1 and I2 receptors, modulating dopamine release. Idazoxan was investigated as an adjunctive therapy for schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, cognition disorders (including Alzheimer’s disease), Parkinson’s disease, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and type 1 diabetes mellitus but did not reach the market for any indication[3][4][5][6]. The drug was originally developed by Reckitt Benckiser; other developers include Pierre Fabre and Potomac Pharma[5].

Brand names

Idazoxan XR

Other names

idazoxanoidazoxaneidazoxanum