pivagabine

Pivagabine is a small molecule psychoactive drug classified as an antidepressant and anxiolytic. It was introduced in Italy in 1997 under the brand name Tonerg for the treatment of depressive and maladaptive syndromes but has since been discontinued. Pivagabine is a hydrophobic derivative of 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Although initially thought to act as a prodrug for GABA, its mechanism is now believed to involve modulation of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and antagonism of stress-induced changes in GABAA receptor function. Preclinical studies demonstrated that pivagabine crosses the blood-brain barrier, does not undergo metabolic transformation, exhibits low toxicity, prevents stress-induced convulsions in animal models, and reduces anxiety-related behaviors. In clinical settings, it showed efficacy in reducing psychological distress associated with inadequate management of stressful events[1][4][5][7].

Brand names

Tonerg

Other names

4-(2,2-dimethyl-1-oxopropylamino) butanoic acid