Melitracen (hydrochloride)

Melitracen hydrochloride is an orally active biphasic antidepressant and antianxiety agent. Melitracen hydrochloride can inhibit the uptake of Norepinephrine and 5-HT (serotonin) through the presynaptic membrane inducing the increase of monoamine transmitters in synaptic space^[1][2]. IC50 & Target: 5-HT receptor^[1] In Vivo: Single oral administration of either Imipramine or Melitracen produces a marked and long lasting mydriasis in mice. The mydriatic effect of Melitracen is more marked and longer lasting. Melitracen is more effective with respect to behavioral excitement. Single oral administration of Melitracen produces lowering of the catechol amine levels in the brain stem, the cerebral cortex, the spleen, and the adrenals^[2].
No significant changes in catecholamine levels of the brain stem, the cerebral cortex, and the spleen were observed in rats receiving daily doses of Melitracen for 13 and 15 weeks. The adrenalin level in the adrenals, however, is slightly decreased^[2].