phenazepam

Phenazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine drug developed in the Soviet Union in 1975, primarily used in Russia and other Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries for its anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant properties[1][3][5]. Its mechanism of action involves potentiation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABAA receptor, leading to increased inhibitory neurotransmission in the central nervous system and resultant sedation, anxiolysis, muscle relaxation, and anticonvulsant effects[3][5]. Phenazepam is notably more potent than diazepam (by a factor of 5 to 10), with a longer duration of action and more pronounced adverse effects[5]. It is medically indicated for anxiety disorders, insomnia, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, epilepsy (including myoclonic and temporal lobe), neurosis-like and psychopathic conditions, vegetative dysfunction, hyperkinesia, tics, muscle spasticity, and as a premedication before surgery[1][5][6]. Due to its high potency and risk of dependence, the duration of therapy is usually limited to 2 weeks, though it can be extended up to 2 months in some cases[1]. Phenazepam is not approved for medical use in the United States or most Western countries, and its abuse has been associated with significant morbidity and mortality[2][5][9].

Brand names

Phenazepam (used as brand in some regions)Arpazepam (as 1mg tablets, Armenia)Phenopercuten (transdermal patch, Russia)

Other names

BonsaiBonsai SupersleepSoviet BenzoPandaFenazepam (spelling variant)Bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine (chemical/scientific name)7-bromo-5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IUPAC name)