MOCLOBEMIDE PHARMACOKINETICS IN DEPRESSED-PATIENTS - LACK OF AGE EFFECT

The pharmacokinetics of moclobemide were examined in 19 depressed patients following a single oral dose of 50 mg. Ten patients were aged > 60 years and nine < 59 years. Plasma concentrations were analysed by gas chromatography with nitrogen-specific detection. Pharmacokinetic parameters calculated were peak concentration, time to reach the peak, terminal disposition half-life, area under the curve, oral clearance and apparent volume of distribution. No clinically significant differences were found between the two patient groups for these parameters. Thus there is no requirement for dosage adjustment in the older patient for moclobemide. This contrasts with some tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants which show significant age effects. Further studies of moclobemide for the treatment of elderly depression are warranted.