What is "pipofezine"

n. A tricyclic antidepressant.

Pipofezine (Azafen or Azaphen) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) approved in Russia for the treatment of depression. It was introduced in the late 1960s and is still used today.

Pipofezine has been shown to act as a potent inhibitor of the reuptake of serotonin. In addition to its antidepressant action, pipofezine has sedative effects as well, suggesting antihistamine activity. Other properties such as anticholinergic or antiadrenergic actions are less clear but are likely.