ELB-139

ELB-139 is a small molecule anxiolytic drug with a novel chemical structure that is structurally distinct from benzodiazepines and classified as a nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic. It acts as a subtype-selective partial agonist at the benzodiazepine binding site of GABA\(_A\) receptors—showing highest affinity for the α3 subunit but highest efficacy at α1 and α2 subunits. Its pharmacological profile includes pronounced anxiolytic and anticonvulsant effects with minimal sedative or ataxic side effects. In preclinical studies, it has also been shown to increase serotonin (5‑HT) levels in the striatum and prefrontal cortex without affecting dopamine levels. Developed originally by Arzneimittelwerk Dresden in the 1990s and later by elbion AG, it was investigated for anxiety disorders including panic disorder but development was discontinued after phase II clinical trials[1][3][4][5].

Other names

ELB 139ELB139ELB-1391-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-(piperidin-1-yl)-1H-imidazol-2(5H)-one188116-08-7