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. 1977;4(Suppl 2):77S–87S. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.1977.tb05763.x

Studies on brain metabolism of biogenic amines

U Schacht, M Leven, G Bäcker
PMCID: PMC1429133  PMID: 199222

Abstract

1 In vitro models (synaptosones, electrically stimulated brain slices and monoamine oxidase (MAO) preparations have been used to identify the sites of action of nomifensine on brain monoamine metabolism.

2 Nomifensine potentiates neurotransmission in noradrenergic and dopaminergic synapses by blocking catecholamine uptake.

3 Nomifensine does not inhibit MAO and does not enhance the release of biogenic amines.

4 Studies on electrically stimulated brain slices suggest that nomifensine does not directly stimulate dopamine (DA) nor noradrenaline (NA) receptor sites.

5 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) uptake is not inhibited at `therapeutic' concentrations of nomifensine.

6 Nomifensine differs from the tricyclic antidepressants by virtue of its effect on the dopaminergic system.

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Selected References

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