Etifoxine

Etifoxine is a anxiolytic and anticonvulsant drug that is primarily used in the treatment of anxiety disorders. It was first synthesized in the 1960s and has been used in clinical practice in some countries, including France and Russia, for many years.

Pharmacology

Etifoxine is a benzoxazine derivative and is structurally distinct from the benzodiazepine class of drugs, which are commonly used in the treatment of anxiety. It acts as a positive allosteric modulator at the GABA_A receptor, enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. This results in an increase in inhibitory neurotransmission, which is thought to underlie the drug's anxiolytic and anticonvulsant effects.

Clinical Use

Etifoxine is used in the treatment of various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. It is also used in the management of epilepsy due to its anticonvulsant properties. In addition to its primary uses, etifoxine has been investigated for potential use in the treatment of neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, etifoxine can cause side effects. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and vomiting. Rarely, etifoxine can cause severe skin reactions and liver damage.

Contraindications

Etifoxine is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. It should also be used with caution in individuals with liver disease due to the potential for hepatotoxicity.

See Also

• Anxiolytic
• Anticonvulsant
• GABA_A receptor
• Benzodiazepine