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Dennis B. Kottler, MD Westlake Village, CA Appointments: 818-991-8376 Email: doc@psychiatrix.com "Single isomer" medications often represent a modification of existing medication. Many psychiatric medications exist in a "racemic" mix of molecules comprised of mirror-image isomers (enantiomers). These mirror-image molecules bend light in opposite directions. Hence one group is labeled dextro-rotary and the other group is labeled levo-rotary. One of the "single isomers" recently introduced is Nuvigil, a single isomer form of Provigil, a drug for various forms of daytime sleepiness. Lexapro, is a single isomer form of Celexa, an antidepressant medication. A possible advantage of Lexapro is fewer side effects and greater effectiveness at a lower dose vs. the racemic Celexa. Recently Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) was introduced. It is the single isomer form of Ritalin (methylphenidate). Other single isomer medications will be introduced in the future, a movement encouraged by the FDA. Unfortunately a single isomer form of Prozac (R-Fluoxetine) never made it through the FDA regulatory process. Perhaps it will return. Appointments: 818-991-8376 Email: doc@psychiatrix.com |
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