Synonyms
3-Ethyl-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(4-morpholinylmethyl)-4H-indol-4-one, hydrochloride
Molecular Formula
C16H25ClN2O2
Smiles
CCC1=C(NC2=C1C(=O)C(CC2)CN3CCOCC3)C.Cl
Appearance
Off-white powder
General Description
Molindone Hydrochloride is an indole (dihydroindolone) antipsychotic agent structurally and pharmacologically distinct from the phenothiazine, thioxanthene, and butyrophenone classes. It possesses both antipsychotic and antidepressant properties, and is characterized by a lower propensity for sedation, weight gain, and hyperprolactinemia compared to many atypical antipsychotics. The unique indole nucleus confers a distinct receptor binding profile.
Mechanism of Action
Molindone Hydrochloride exerts its antipsychotic effects primarily through dopamine D2 receptor antagonism in the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways of the brain. It also binds to alpha-1 adrenergic and H1 histamine receptors with moderate affinity. Its distinct receptor profile from phenothiazines includes relatively lower anticholinergic activity and less pronounced sedation. The moderate dopamine D2 affinity and unique indole structure are associated with its favorable metabolic and endocrine side effect profile.
Application
Molindone Hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders in adults and adolescents. It is valued for its relatively low tendency to cause weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and hyperprolactinemia, making it a useful option for patients in whom these side effects are particularly concerning.
SPN-810M (molindone) is being developed as extended-release SPN-810 for impulsive aggression (IA) in children with ADHD. In vitro pharmacological characterization shows SPN-810M is a potent antagonist at dopamine D2S (IC50 0.0844 μM), D2L (IC50 0.11 μM), and serotonin 5-HT2B receptors (IC50 0.41 μM). It shows weaker activity at D1, D3, D5, and 5-HT2A receptors. The antagonist effect is due to the parent drug, not metabolites P1-2 or P3-2.
The R(-) enantiomer is approximately 100-fold more potent at D2S and 300-fold more potent at D2L than the S(+) enantiomer. Antagonism is not altered by dopamine or norepinephrine, and no agonist reversal occurs. The receptor profile differs from both typical antipsychotics (low extrapyramidal symptom risk) and most atypicals (low 5-HT2A affinity, similar to amisulpride). The mechanism for reducing IA may involve presynaptic D2S autoreceptor modulation of dopamine release and postsynaptic D2L blockade, with 5-HT2B antagonism potentially influencing mesoaccumbens dopamine pathways.
Fig. 1 Molindone inhibits binding in response to an agonist for the D2S, D2L, and 5-HT2B receptors. (Yu C, Gopalakrishnan G. 2018)
References
- Yu C, Gopalakrishnan G. In vitro pharmacological characterization of SPN-810M (molindone). Journal of Experimental Pharmacology, 2018: 65-73.
What is the recommended storage condition for Molindone Hydrochloride?
It should be stored at controlled room temperature in a well-sealed container, protected from moisture and direct light, to maintain its chemical integrity throughout the shelf life.
Is a Certificate of Analysis (COA) available for Molindone Hydrochloride?
Yes, a fully verified COA is issued for every batch and can be shared electronically. Additional documentation such as MSDS or impurity profiles may be requested separately.
Does your company offer custom packaging for Molindone Hydrochloride?
Yes, custom pack sizes are available. Specific quantity requirements can be discussed directly with our team to align with your production or research scale.
Does Molindone Hydrochloride have pharmacopoeial monograph compliance?
Material meeting applicable pharmacopoeial specifications or equivalent internal quality standards can be supplied; please contact us with your specific compendial requirements.