From the Research
Combining tesofensine and agomelatine is not recommended due to potential serious drug interactions. Tesofensine is an investigational appetite suppressant that inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, while agomelatine is an antidepressant that acts as a melatonin receptor agonist and serotonin 5-HT2C receptor antagonist. The simultaneous use of these medications could lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, muscle rigidity, and hyperthermia. Additionally, both drugs can affect neurotransmitter systems in ways that might counteract each other's therapeutic effects. Tesofensine's stimulant-like properties could potentially interfere with agomelatine's sleep-promoting effects. Some studies have shown that agomelatine can be combined with other antidepressants, such as escitalopram, venlafaxine, and bupropion, with positive results 1. However, the safety and efficacy of combining agomelatine with tesofensine have not been established. If you're considering treatment with either medication, consult with your healthcare provider about alternative combinations or monotherapy options that would be safer and more appropriate for your specific condition. Any medication changes should be made under close medical supervision. It's also important to note that agomelatine has been shown to have a good tolerability profile and is relatively easy to use, with a low risk of pharmacological interactions with most antidepressants 2. However, the potential risks associated with combining tesofensine and agomelatine outweigh any potential benefits, and alternative treatment options should be explored. A meta-analysis of head-to-head randomized clinical trials has shown that agomelatine has higher response rates and remission rates compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) in the treatment of major depressive disorder 3. However, this does not support the use of agomelatine in combination with tesofensine, and the safety and efficacy of such a combination have not been established.