The preclinical discovery and development of gepirone hydrochloride extended-release tablets: the first oral selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist for the treatment of major depressive disorder

Introduction Despite advances in antidepressant development, many patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) remain inadequately treated. Gepirone, a selective 5-HT1A agonist without reuptake inhibition, offers a novel mechanism potentially improving efficacy and tolerability over selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and earlier agents.