Afobazole: instructions for use. Afobazole - instructions for use, composition, indications, form of release, side effects, analogues and price

We are surrounded great amount factors that cause stress, anxiety, tension, bad dream, anxiety, depression. Rest and a change of scenery are universal means, but sometimes they are insufficient, they do not bring relief, anxiety conditions intensify, all this affects the usual rhythm of life. At this point, you should consult a doctor. There is nothing shameful and wrong in this, because constant stress negatively affects the whole body, especially the cardiovascular system suffers. If the indications are unambiguous, the doctor may prescribe Afobazol.

Afobazole is a medicine belonging to the group of anxiolytics (tranquilizers). It has a moderate stimulating effect, and at the same time reduces anxiety. Light sedation is more of an adverse reaction than the main manifestation of the use of anxiolytics.

Figure 1 - Afobazole effectively copes with stress, tension, depression and anxiety

Tranquilizers inherently affect benzodiazepine receptors (unlike Afobazole), that is, they depress the nervous system, eliminate bad mood and negate negativity, causing indifference. Moreover, tranquilizers can be addictive, which means that when the course is over, a "withdrawal syndrome" will appear. But do not be afraid of the word "tranquilizer" in the description of the drug. Afobazole is the so-called “mild” or “daytime” tranquilizer. The active component of Afobazole really has a tranquilizing effect, reduces severe anxiety, but does not affect benzodiazepine receptors. That is, Afobazole tablets do not suppress the central nervous system, do not cause addiction, drowsiness, muscle relaxation, do not reduce memory performance, do not dull emotions, and they do not have a withdrawal syndrome.

Afobazole relieves tension from the muscles of hollow organs and reduces the manifestation of vegetative-somatic disorders (dry mouth, sweating, dizziness).

Afobazole is prescribed for therapeutic treatment in people over 18 years of age of anxiety, which is provoked by mental disorders or external traumatic factors. If a person has self-doubt, increased vulnerability and suspiciousness, weak stress resistance and emotional instability, then the effect of Afobazole will be more pronounced.

The condition of a person taking Afobazole improves after about a week of regular use of the drug. The following effects are noted:

• disappear anxiety, fear;
• sleep improves;
• relieves nervous tension, psychological discomfort;
• the manifestation of vegetative-somatic disorders decreases;
• improves attention and memory.

Indications

Indications for the appointment of Afobazole are:

• increased anxiety, mental disorders, unrest not associated with any specific subjects and objects, asthenic neuroses, adaptation disorders;
• anxiety disorders caused by various dermatological, oncological, somatic (lupus, hypertension, bronchial asthma, IHD, arrhythmia, etc.) and other diseases;
• anxiety states observed during VVD (in combination with other measures, since drug therapy with vegetative-vascular dystonia, it only temporarily allows you to stop the symptoms, but does not eliminate disruptions in work nervous system);
• sleep disturbances resulting from increased anxiety;
• neurocirculatory dystonia (NCD);
• premenstrual syndrome in women (PMS);
• alcohol withdrawal (alcohol withdrawal syndrome);
• nicotine withdrawal.

Contraindications

There are not so many contraindications for Afobazol, but they still exist:

• hypersensitivity or intolerance active substance or any of the auxiliary components of the drug;
• galactosemia (galactose intolerance);
• monosaccharide intolerance (glucose-galactose malabsorption);
• lactase deficiency (lactase deficiency);
• age up to 18 years;
• pregnancy and lactation.

Side effects

The list of side effects from taking Afobazole for the most part consists of various kinds allergic reactions:

• itching of the skin;
• dermatitis;
• urticaria;
• sneezing
• rhinitis;
• angiitis, etc.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache may occur.

How to take Afobazole

Afobazole tablets are taken after meals with a glass of clean water. One tablet contains 10 mg of the substance. Per day, according to the instructions for use, you can drink 30 mg. This dose is considered the maximum, and it must be divided into 3 doses during the day.

Figure 2 - How to take Afobzaol correctly

The duration of the therapeutic course is determined solely by the treating specialist. Since Afobazole does not have the ability to accumulate, addiction or dependence on the drug does not appear. That is why, on average, the therapeutic course lasts from 2-4 weeks. If the patient's condition reveals the need to adjust for taking Afobazole, the doctor may prescribe doubling the daily dose (60 mg) and prolonging treatment up to 3 months. Then a 1-2 week break is required. At this time, the therapeutic effect is maintained.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding period

Figure 3 - Afobzaol is forbidden to be taken by pregnant women

Since there are no reliable clinical studies and data on the effect of Afobazole on the body of a pregnant woman, nursing mother, fetus and child, taking Afobazole is prohibited. During breastfeeding (lactation), since the active ingredient passes into breast milk, it is necessary to consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist and transfer the child to artificial mixtures.

Alcohol

Figure 4 - Taking alcohol with Afobazole

Instructions for use Afobazole does not prohibit the intake of alcohol, which distinguishes it from other tranquilizers. But it is worth remembering that alcoholic beverages negatively affect the central nervous system, increase anxiety, irritability, suspiciousness and symptoms of various diseases.

Analogues

The pharmaceutical market provides a fairly wide range of Afobazole analogues in terms of therapeutic effect. Among these drugs, Fabomotizol, Tenoten, Grandaxin, Stresam, Mebikar, Adaptol, Tranquilar, Novo-Passit, Grandaxin, Persen, Phenibut can be distinguished. Their effectiveness in a particular clinical case can only be assessed by the attending physician. It all depends on individual tolerance. active substance and components, the patient's well-being, the individual characteristics of his body, the severity of symptoms. Therefore, before buying a drug in a pharmacy or replacing one with another, consult your doctor.

Figure 5 - Analogues of Afobazole in terms of therapeutic effect

Adaptol, for example, as well as Afobazol, is effective, low-toxic, does not cause drowsiness, dependence and, accordingly, withdrawal syndrome. It has a positive effect on cognitive functions, eliminates moderate pain in the heart, which are not related to angina pectoris. Unlike Afobazole, Adaptol is used in pediatrics. It is approved for children from 10 years of age.

Tenoten is used as a sedative and nootropic. It strengthens the central nervous system, improves memory and increases concentration, stimulates the body's resistance to stress. Tenoten, unlike Afobazole, is used to treat children from 3 years of age.

Novo-Passit is used as a muscle relaxant that has a hypnosedative effect. It is prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and psycho-emotional stress. Unlike Afobazole, Novo-Passit is a combination of extracts medicinal plants and guaifenesin. Novo-Passit can be used by children from 12 years of age. However, given the composition of Novo-Passit, adverse reactions in the form of an allergy in the drug are more pronounced than in Afobazole.

Another effective analogue of Afobazole is Grandaxin. It is indicated for fairly severe stress, increased and pronounced anxiety, deep depression and panic attacks. Grandaxin can be prescribed during pregnancy, excluding the first trimester. But for such effectiveness, you have to pay with a rather large list of side effects.

Persen - herbal preparation with directed sedative effect. He showed himself well in the treatment of insomnia and increased irritability. Persen normalizes the emotional state and sleep, but it is worth remembering that the plant base can cause a number of side effects (most often these are allergic reactions). But Persen does not eliminate the cause of the symptoms described above. Whereas Afobazol has a point effect.

Phenibut and Afobazole are tranquilizers. Also, Phenibut is a nootropic. It has low toxicity and, unlike Afobazole, is used to treat children over 8 years of age in the prevention of motion sickness, the treatment of tics and stuttering.

Video: Afobazol drug: action, effectiveness, side effects, addictive

Medicine Afobazole is a selective anxiolytic used in psychiatry.

It has a mild effect, so its use in the treatment of severe mental disorders is inappropriate.

One of the few drugs in this group that can cause a minimum of side effects. But, despite this, Afobazole is not intended for pregnancy, for lactating women, as well as for children and adolescents.

Compound

The composition of the drug includes:

• potato starch;
• microcrystalline cellulose;
• magnesium stearate;
• lactose;
• povidone.

The main active element morphodihydrochloride .

It stops the process of membrane-dependent changes in the ligand-dependent ion channel of the nervous system. This allows you to slow down the impulses of nervous excitation, controlled by the main neurotransmitter of the brain.

It has an anxiolytic effect and a moderate sedative effect. It does not have muscle relaxant properties, as a result of which there is no negative effect on concentration and memory.

With prolonged use of Afobazole, the substance morphodihydrochloride does not cause dependence, and is also not accompanied by a “withdrawal syndrome”.

The action of the drug is based on a combination of anti-anxiety and mild stimulant action of morphodihydrochloride.

Course reception of Afobazole allows you to:

• reduce the severity of the anxiety state or lead to its complete elimination;
• eliminate the feeling of unreasonable fear, constant worries, premonitions of a negative nature, panic attacks;
• reduce irritability, nervousness, fearfulness, anxiety, tearfulness;
• normalize the ability to relax, rest;

• restore an optimal sleep-wake cycle, overcome insomnia;
• eliminate negative muscular, vascular, respiratory, gastric phenomena that occur against the background of stress;
• reduce the autonomic reactions that accompany the patient with nervous overstrain (dizziness, excessive sweating, a feeling of dry mouth and sweaty palms);
• eliminate cognitive disorders (difficulty concentrating, remembering a large flow of information).

Price in pharmacies

How much is Afobazole in a pharmacy, depends on the region of sale.

In Moscow and the Moscow region buy the drug can be on average for 360-420 rubles(60 tablets).

In St. Petersburg, a pack of pills will cost about 370 rubles.

It is released for sale without a prescription from a neurologist, but this is not the reason for the use of Afobazole in self-medication, a specialist should prescribe therapy.

Indications for use

The use of the drug is advisable in the following cases:

• with generalized disorders,;
• with sleep disorders (up to chronic) caused by anxiety, nervous strain;

• at ;
• with premenstrual overstrain syndrome;
• at ;
• with the “withdrawal syndrome” after stopping smoking (it makes it easier to endure the condition, facilitate the process of quitting a bad habit).

It can be used in complex therapy in patients with oncological, dermatological diseases.

Contraindications

The drug is limited to:

• pregnancy;
• breastfeeding;
• the age of the patient is up to 16 years;
• individual immunity of the body to the elements of the composition.

The substances that make up the tablets can cause an allergic reaction, so patients with increased sensitivity of the body to medicinal elements, the drug is prescribed with caution.

Side effects

Side effects are rare, most often patients complain of the development of allergies.

Also, therapy may be accompanied by:

• headache;
• dizziness;
• easy depression, apathy.

If adverse reactions are detected, it is necessary to consult with your doctor, you may need to reduce the dose of the drug.

It is important to note that the above symptoms are not a reason to cancel Afobazole as the main drug in patient therapy.

Overdose

When taking an increased dose of the drug, there is a high risk of intoxication of the body, as well as the development of a powerful sedative effect, drowsiness, coma.

If an overdose is suspected, an ambulance should be called immediately.

As emergency care in case of an overdose, a patient is injected intravenously with 1 ml of s / c sodium caffeine benzoate (20% solution). The procedure for introducing the solution is repeated up to 3 times a day.

Instructions for use

How to take Afobazole tablets for adults:

1. The drug is intended for oral administration.
2. Doctors recommend taking pills not on an empty stomach, but after eating. This will reduce the negative impact of medicinal components on the stomach.
3. Do not chew the tablet, do not dissolve. Drink a small amount of water.
4. A single dosage should not exceed 10 mg.
5. The optimal daily dose is 30 mg, divided into several doses.

Children / adolescents from the age of eighteen are not recommended to exceed daily dose above 20 mg.

To achieve a positive therapeutic effect, it is necessary to follow a treatment course lasting 2-3 weeks.

For patients with severe forms of psycho-emotional disorders, the daily dosage may be increased to 60 mg, and the therapeutic course extended to 3 months.

Afobazole and alcohol: compatibility

After using Afobazole tablets from the nerves, it is unacceptable to take alcoholic beverages. Any medications, directly affecting the nervous system, it is forbidden to combine with alcohol.

Alcohol can greatly enhance the effect of the anxiolytic, which will be the result of an overdose, poisoning, and a powerful intoxication of the body.

There are known cases of deaths when combining large doses of Afobazole with alcoholic beverages.

Feedback from people after application

Patients tell about the results of treatment with Afobazol:

Egor, 38 years old:

I met Afobazole recently, after visiting a neurologist. Regular stress at work led to insomnia, in the fight against which the specialist recommended Afobazol. Before starting therapy, I carefully studied what the drug helps with. One of the areas of action of the tablets is the normalization of the sleep-wake regime.

In the first days of taking the pills, I did not notice any special changes. Improvements began on the 6-7th day. I began to fall asleep quickly, the dream became strong, long. In addition, I noticed an improvement in the general emotional background, I was less tired at work, I stopped being annoyed by various trifles.

Katerina, 24 years old, Tuapse:

After the birth of my child, I had a post-natal crisis. When I realized that I could not cope on my own, I turned to a neurologist. The doctor said that it is advisable to wait until the end of the lactation period, then start therapy.

As prescribed by the doctor, she began to take Afobazol, three tablets a day. The neurologist immediately warned that the effect of the pills is cumulative, that is, the result will not be noticeable immediately.

Since I was in a difficult psycho-emotional state, the therapeutic course was long - for three months. Now I am much better, fully enjoying motherhood. Good drug and had no side effects.

In general, patient feedback is positive. A small percentage of patients complain of headache, recurrent dizziness and allergic reactions.

The active substance of the drug Afobazole- a selective anxiolytic that does not belong to the class of benzodiazepine receptor agonists. Prevents the development of membrane-dependent changes in receptors sensitive to gamma-aminobutyric acid. The action of the drug is not accompanied by hypnosedative effects. It does not have muscle relaxant properties, a negative effect on memory and concentration. Even with long-term use Afobazole drug dependence does not develop, there is no withdrawal syndrome. Due to the stabilization of membranes in GABA receptors, it has a dual effect on the human body, while simultaneously providing an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and mild stimulating effect. Reducing the psychological discomfort caused by anxiety (concern, bad forebodings, fears, irritability) and the consequences of nervous tension (shyness, tearfulness, anxiety, inability to relax, unreasonable fear, insomnia) lead to improvement general condition organism, including the improvement of physical condition.

The state of psychological well-being leads to an improvement in the state of various somatic, vegetative and cognitive disorders. Including eliminates muscle, sensory, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal intestinal symptoms with somatic disorders. Reduces the frequency of manifestation of vegetative disorders, including dry mouth, sweating, dizziness. The drug increases the ability to concentrate, improves memory. Improvement is observed on the 5-7th day of taking the drug. The maximum effect is achieved at the 4th week of treatment and persists after discontinuation of the drug for an average of 1-2 weeks, depending on the characteristics of the metabolism of each individual patient. It is more effective to use the drug in the treatment of patients with predominantly asthenic personality traits. Such people are usually characterized by suspiciousness, uncertainty, increased vulnerability and emotional lability. The drug is well absorbed from intestinal tract, It has a high degree binding to plasma proteins and a high degree of affinity for body cells. The drug belongs to the category of drugs that are quickly excreted from the body, thus reducing the likelihood of developing overdose of Afobazole. The half-life is 0.82 hours.

Indications for use

Mode of application

Side effects

Contraindications

Pregnancy

Interaction with other drugs

Overdose

Release form

Storage conditions

Compound

Main settings

The drug Afobazole belongs to the category of anxiolytics (tranquilizers) of selective action. It has a non-bezodiazepine structure, due to which it has a moderate activating effect in combination with relief of increased anxiety. Afobazole has a very mild effect compared to benzodiazepines. The use of the drug does not cause drug dependence. After the end of the course, the withdrawal of the tranquilizer does not develop withdrawal syndrome. The method of application, the dose is prescribed by the doctor on an individual basis.

Release form

Afobazol - effective popular pharmacological drug, which is prescribed for adults to normalize the psycho-emotional background, relieve anxiety, eliminate the effects of stress, and reduce the frequency of autonomic disorders.

Tranquilizer is available in the form of tablets of light cream, white color. Designed for oral administration. Available in pharmacies without a prescription.

Flat-cylindrical tablets are chamfered, packed in aluminum blisters of 10-25 pieces. The blisters are placed in cardboard packaging along with instructions for use. Also, the drug is produced in polymer, glass jars of 30, 50, 100, 120, 150 pieces, which are sealed with self-tight lids.

The main active ingredient on the basis of which Afobazole was created is fabomotizol (morpholinoethylthioethoxybenzimidazole) in an amount of 5 mg or 10 mg in one tablet.

Tablets of 5 mg are usually called "Afobazole 5", and with a dosage of 10 mg - "Afobazole 10".

Excipients:

1. Potato starch;
2. Microcrystalline cellulose;
3. lactose monohydrate;
4. Povidone medium molecular weight (collidon 25);
5. magnesium stearate.

Auxiliary components are included in all dosages of the tablet preparation.

Tablets Afoblazol with strict observance of the dosage does not cause addiction, side effects, complications.

Store the tranquilizer in a dry, cool, dark place at temperatures up to 22-25 degrees in the original packaging. From the date of production, the shelf life is two years. After the expiration of this period, the drug is disposed of.

Pharmacological properties

The main active substance of Afobazole tablets has a pronounced anxiolytic effect, relieves feelings of anxiety and excitement. It does not affect benzodiazepine receptors, therefore it does not cause drowsiness, does not relax striated muscles (muscle relaxation), does not impair memory, and does not reduce concentration.

Important! Active ingredient afobazole is a derivative of 2-mercaptobenzimidazole, which belongs to the group of selective anxiolytics. It is not a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist. Therefore, afobazole does not affect benzodiazepine receptors in the brain.

When taken correctly, Afobazole does not cause physical and psychological dependence.

The active substance has an activating anxiolytic effect, improves the quality of night sleep, improves mood, reduces feelings of anxiety, excitement, fear, relieves tension, promotes relaxation. Afobazole also relieves somatic, cognitive, vegetative disorders (sensory, gastric, intestinal symptoms, chills, dry mouth), reduces muscle spasms, and eliminates other vegetative-somatic disorders.

It should be noted that this tranquilizer does not provoke CNS inhibition. Patients do not feel lethargy, daytime sleepiness, lethargy after taking.

The drug Afobazole reduces muscle spasms, eliminates excessive sweating, dry mouth, and other vegetative-somatic disorders.

The maximum effect after taking the drug is noted, as a rule, on the fourth or fifth week from the start of the treatment course. In this case, the result is stored for 14-18 days after cancellation.

To a greater extent, the anxiolytic effect of Afobazole is pronounced after taking it in patients with asthenic character traits (too suspicious, impressionable, anxious people, people with increased emotional lability).

According to the instructions, Afobazole does not belong to the group of toxic drugs. It is rapidly absorbed after ingestion in the gastrointestinal tract, spreads with the bloodstream and is evenly distributed in the tissues. It is excreted from the body with feces, through the kidneys. The half-life is approximately 40-50 minutes.

Indications for use

Afobazole is prescribed for adults as a sedative, sedative drug. A tranquilizer simultaneously has an anti-anxiety and stimulating effect. Quickly relieves anxiety, reduces stress, normalizes the emotional and psychological state.

Afobazole tablets are prescribed for:

• neurasthenia of a different nature, etiogenesis;
• sleep disturbances, insomnia caused by anxiety, impaired adaptation;
• vegetovascular dystonia;
• neurocirculatory dystonia;
• generalized anxiety;
• oncology;
• chronic somatic diseases that alternate with a state of rest and excitability (bronchial asthma, ischemic disease);
• dermatoses that provoke psychosis in a person (psoriasis, eczema);
• premenstrual tension syndrome;
• depression in moderate, severe, mild form;
• alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

The tranquilizer Afobazole is especially effective in relieving anxiety in patients suffering from cardiovascular pathologies and diseases. This is the best drug that will help cope with fears, phobias, tearfulness, tension, insecurity, depression.

Taking Afobazol tablets shows good results in the complex therapy of somatic pathologies (bronchial asthma, allergic bronchospasm, ischemic disease heart, arrhythmia, tachycardia).

The drug Afobazole relieves the condition of people who have quit smoking. Normalizes blood pressure.

Dosages

Dosage, frequency of taking the drug, the duration of the course depends on the age, general condition of the patient, stage, form, type of disease, individual characteristics of the organism. The dose is selected individually in each case.

The average recommended therapeutic dose of a tranquilizer is 10 mg three times a day (30 mg). By medical indications the daily dosage is increased to 50-60 mg. Afobazol tablets should be taken after meals. Dragee without chewing, washed down with a small amount of boiled or non-carbonated water. Between doses, observe approximately the same time intervals.

As a rule, the duration of the treatment course is two to four weeks. If necessary, therapy is extended by the attending physician. The maximum allowable duration of a continuous course is three months. Treatment with afobazole can be continued no earlier than a month later.

You can evaluate whether the drug is suitable for you already on the fifth or sixth day of taking it. If the result is absent or slightly pronounced, you can cancel afobazole and start treatment with another medication.

Before the end of therapy, there is no need to reduce the dose of Afobazole, since the drug is not addictive, there is no withdrawal syndrome. Adverse symptoms also occur in extremely rare cases.

Side effects

Side effects are noted with excessive abuse of the tranquilizer, non-compliance with the therapeutic dosage indicated in the instructions, as well as in case of increased hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Afobazole can provoke a skin rash, allergies, hives, itching, dry mouth, sneezing. A rather unusual side effect that develops after taking the drug can be called an increase in sexual desire. But in general, these are just consequences of reducing anxiety.

Important! An overdose of afobazole manifests itself in the form of drowsiness, but without muscle relaxation.

The drug Afobazole does not affect the speed of driving cars, does not cause lethargy, does not reduce, does not disperse attention.

Compatibility with other drugs and alcohol

Afobazole instructions for use states that the tranquilizer does not enhance the toxic effect of alcohol, does not affect the narcotic effect of ethanol, does not increase the hypnotic effect of thiopental when used together.

But still, for the duration of treatment, refuse to take any alcoholic beverages, and especially narcotic drugs, especially in the presence of cardiovascular pathologies, neurology. Otherwise, the course of somatic pathology worsens.

It should be noted that Afobazol tablets are often used to eliminate the withdrawal syndrome, which in most cases is accompanied by a depressive state, guilt, which can turn into psychosis. Tranquilizer relieves painful psychological symptoms hangover syndrome, facilitating the exit from this state, protects the gastrointestinal mucosa from the irritating effects of alcohol, reducing its absorption. In addition, Afobazole accelerates the processes of removing alcohol decay products from the body, eliminates apathy, and increases efficiency after long parties.

Advice! To eliminate a hangover, the drug is taken twice a day, 10-20 mg.

Afobazole enhances the anticonvulsant effect of carbamazepine, the anti-anxiety effect of diazepam.

When switching from Afobazole to others medications with a similar effect on the body, it must be borne in mind that this tranquilizer retains its therapeutic efficacy for up to two weeks. Therefore, it is advisable to wait for this period to adequately assess the therapeutic effect of new drugs.

Contraindications for use

Afobazole has a number of contraindications, which are indicated in the instructions for the medication.

Contraindications to taking afobazole:

• individual sensitivity to the components of the drug;
• galactose intolerance;
• deficiency of lactase in the body;
• pregnancy, breastfeeding kids.

Afobazol is not used in medical therapy for patients who are under 18 years of age.

Tranquilizer analogs

Fabomotizol is similar in terms of the severity of the therapeutic effect, as well as the active substance of Afobazole tablets.

The following also have the most similar effect to afobazole: Mebix, Tenoten, Mebicar, Divaza, Adaptol, Fezanef, Fezipam (tablets), Noofen, Stresam (capsules), Fenorelaxan, Elzepam (tablets, injections), selank (nasal drops).

It is difficult to say what is better than Afobazol or its analogues. Efficiency depends not only on the duration of treatment, but also on the individual characteristics of the human body. Some patients are more suitable for one medication, for others other medications are more effective. Therefore, doctors always try to choose the most optimal medication for the treatment of neurological or any other systemic diseases. But self-medication, uncontrolled intake of pharmacological agents can cause serious complications and consequences for the body. Therefore, when choosing a sedative, an antidepressant, be sure to consult a doctor.

Prohibited during pregnancy

Has limitations for kidney problems

Constant stressful situations, anxiety states, chronic neuroses can lead to severe disorders not only of the nervous system, but also to violations of the functions of the whole organism. To combat stress, depression and neuroses, the use of benzodiazepine tranquilizers or antidepressants is justified.

The undoubted advantages of these funds include the speed of action. Although effective, the use of such medications can be addictive. Doctors recommend contacting such therapy only in emergency cases. Afobazol differs from other drugs in this group in that it, according to the instructions for use, is not addictive, and in that it can be used for long-term treatment.

Afobazole is an optimal replacement for antidepressants and tranquilizers. The absence of side effects during use, the effect of addiction and the withdrawal syndrome are among the hallmarks of the drug.

Significant advantages of Afobazole are considered to be its low level of toxicity to the body and the possibility of using it in complex therapy.

Also, long-term use of Afobazole is not accompanied by drowsiness, irritability, lethargy and deterioration in the standard of living of a person. The medicine is widely distributed among doctors and patients, and it can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription.

Drug group, INN, scope

Afobazole refers to selective non-benzodiazepine drugs with anxiolytic properties, derivatives of 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (does not apply to benzodiazepine receptor agonists). The INN of the drug is Afobazol.

The drug is widely used in psychiatry and neurology, in general somatic practice for manifestations of symptoms of depression, psychopathological disorders and in cases of pathological anxiety, which can occur in the form of seizures or be present all the time.

In cases of anxiety attacks, the patient complains of panic attacks, vegetative dysfunctions of the body, and the development of social phobia. In the chronic form, persistent depressive and stressful states, as well as impaired adaptation, are most often observed. For the treatment of these cases, if a long-term drug treatment, doctors use Afobazole.

Forms of release and prices for the drug, average in Russia

The medicine can be purchased in the form of beige or white tablets of a round flat shape. They are produced in the amount of 10, 20, 25 pieces in plates and 30, 50, 60, 100 pieces in plastic jars. Most often sold in quantities of 60 pieces per bank. The country of origin of the drug is Russia. The average prices of Afobazole are presented in the table.

Composition and pharmacological properties

One tablet contains 5 mg or 10 mg fabomotizole dihydrochloride. Additional substances in the composition include:

• potato starch - 48 mg;
• lactose monohydrate - 48.5 mg;
• medical medium molecular weight polyvinylpyrrolidone - 7 mg;
• magnesium stearate - 1.5 mg.

Before starting therapy, it is important to understand how Afobazole works. The action of the drug is directed to the sigma-1 receptors of the nerve cells of the brain, due to which the stabilization of GABA receptors occurs.

The drug restores the structure of the GABA-benzodiazepine receptor complex due to sigma-1 receptors, which leads to the normal process of GABA binding to receptors. It also restores the high sensitivity of these receptors to inhibitory mediators. The drug has a protective and restorative effect on nerve cells, and also preserves their bioenergy reserve.

The action of Afobazole is represented by a combination of anxiolytic and weak stimulating action. Anxiolytic action is responsible for the elimination of anxiety. Thanks to these effects, the drug can significantly reduce the feeling of anxiety and the feelings of anxiety and fear, irritability, tension that precede it.

Patients feel relief from tearfulness, fear, insomnia, unreasonable fears, depressive mood and constant feeling of stress, dysfunctions of the digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems, sweating, and malaise.

After taking the drug, people note the restoration of concentration and memory, the complete absence of suspiciousness and the occurrence of disturbing thoughts, insecurity and apathy. Patients tend to have vivid emotional reactions to minor events.

The drug is well and quickly absorbed into digestive system. Substances are carried by the blood and quickly spread throughout the body. The drug is metabolized in the liver due to the processes of hydroxylation and oxidative reactions.

It is excreted from the body not only in the form of metabolites, but also in unchanged form with feces and urine. Excretion occurs quickly, which is associated with the breakdown into metabolic products in the liver immediately after entering the body. With prolonged use, the substances do not accumulate in the body.

When does it start to work?

The effectiveness of the drug can be seen after a week of taking the medicine. The maximum effect of the treatment is observed a month after the start of use and persists for several weeks after its completion. Taking Afobazole does not provoke the appearance of muscle weakness, drowsiness, decreased concentration and memory. At the end of treatment, no dependence or drug withdrawal syndrome is recorded.

Indications and contraindications

Afobazole is used as an anxiolytic agent in cases of anxiety. It is important to know exactly what the remedy helps with. These are, in particular, the states that manifest themselves:

Also indications for use include:

• attacks of anxiety and neurasthenia;
• bronchial asthma;
• lupus;
• hypertension;
• arrhythmia;
• dermatological diseases;
• oncological diseases;
• acute premenstrual syndrome;
• panic attacks;
• withdrawal syndrome of long-term use of alcohol or smoking;
• insomnia.

It is contraindicated to take the medicine to persons with hypersensitivity to the components, people with lactase and galactose intolerance (as they are present in the composition), for children under 18 years of age and during pregnancy, because it crosses the placenta and may adversely affect the development of the fetus.

With hepatitis B, it is also not recommended to take the medicine, however, in cases where treatment is necessary, breast-feeding stop before the end of taking Afobazole, (which is associated with the possibility of penetration of substances into breast milk).

It is also forbidden to take the drug to people with:

• brain diseases or injuries;
• diseases and dysfunctions of the peripheral and central nervous system;
• inhibition of the functionality of the CNS.

The drug does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and perform work that requires increased concentration.

Instructions for use

According to the instructions for use, Afobazole is taken orally after a meal, washed down with water. The dosage depends on the nature of the underlying pathology.

Dosage course duration for adults?

For adults, the minimum single dose in tablets is 10 mg, and the daily dose is 30 mg. The dose is recommended to be divided into 3 doses during the day. The effectiveness of taking the drug can be seen after a few weeks, and the maximum effect appears after a month. In some cases, the doctor may increase the daily dose to 60 mg, and extend the treatment up to several months.

In the case of taking Afobazole, it is important when it is taken - before meals or after, since the safety of therapy depends on this. The best option is to take half an hour after eating.

With VSD and panic attacks

With VVD and panic attacks, it is very important to follow the rules for taking the medication. It must be remembered that the use of Afobazole for a one-time relief of an attack is not effective. In order to see the result and eliminate the appearance of attacks, you must take the drug regularly. In severe forms of panic, drink 6 tablets 3 times a day. In the case of a mild form of violations, doctors recommend taking 3 tablets 3 times a day.

Treatment for panic attacks can last from several weeks to several months, which depends entirely on the severity of the attacks. The result from taking Afobazol lasts for several weeks after the pills are discontinued. With the return of panic attacks and the manifestation of symptoms of VVD, the doctor may prescribe a second treatment. In some cases, 6 tablets of Afobazole can cause side effects, therefore the dose is individually adjusted by the doctor for each patient.

Afobazole does not treat the causes of attacks, but only eliminates the manifestation and consequences of attacks.

In order to completely get rid of seizures, it is necessary to undergo a course of treatment with a psychotherapist, since such attacks are the result of mental trauma received in childhood, hidden fears, severe stress and emotional upheaval, depression or manifestations of VVD.

Especially dangerous are cases when panic is caused by prolapse mitral valve, hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, or a CNS disorder that only a doctor can diagnose. Therefore, treatment with this medicine is recommended to be carried out under the supervision of a specialist.

With menopause

Afobazole is also popular in gynecology. This medicine is prescribed to patients with vivid symptoms of menopause, namely:

• sharp fluctuations in body temperature;
• feeling of weakness and malaise, decreased performance;
• increased emotionality;
• sweating;
• sleep problems, insomnia;
• lack of sexual desire.

In such cases, the drug is recommended to be taken three times a day, 1 tablet. The duration of treatment is determined by the gynecologist himself. In cases where these symptoms are accompanied by prolonged depression and stressful conditions, doctors recommend Afobazole in combination with sedatives.

Possible side effects and overdose of Afobazole

The drug causes side effects very rarely. The most common include itching, rash, redness of the skin, which is provoked by hypersensitivity to the composition of the drug. Also, dyspeptic processes can sometimes occur, which are manifested by nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea or diarrhea. These symptoms disappear immediately after stopping the pills.

An overdose of the drug is manifested when taking a large number of tablets. This amount is considered a single dose of more than 6 tablets.

An overdose of the drug can be detected due to the appearance of such symptoms:

• the appearance of sharp headaches resembling migraine;
• drowsiness, weakness, malaise;
• difficult, slurred speech;
• delayed reaction;
• weak or heavy breathing;
• a sharp increase in the heartbeat and its sharp weakening;
• the appearance of seizures;
• apathy.

These symptoms are provoked by CNS depression under the action of a large amount of the active substance. If at least a few symptoms of an overdose are detected, it is necessary to provide the victim with first aid.

First of all, it is necessary to give a person a lot of water to drink and press on the root of the tongue, causing a gag reflex. This will help remove substances from the body that have not yet had time to assimilate in the digestive system. After that, the person is given an adsorbent, for example Activated carbon in order to remove all toxins. In cases of overdose, doctors advise giving the victim strong coffee to drink, since caffeine reduces the effect of Afobazole on the nervous system.

In the following hours, it is necessary to solder a person with plenty of water, which will help to remove the remaining substances in the body. After the condition improves, it is necessary to take the victim to the doctor for examination. In cases of severe intoxication of the body with an overdose of the victim, they are treated in a hospital under the supervision of doctors until the functions of the body are fully restored.

Compatibility of Afobazole with drugs and alcohol

Afobazole enhances the action, which eliminates convulsions, and which helps to cope with frequent anxieties. Does not affect the action.

With Glycine

Glycine is a food supplement that is a non-essential amino acid. It has a positive effect on the central nervous system, improves concentration, especially in the educational process, and also improves the cognitive properties of the body. Has no harmful effect on the body. Glycine is used as a nootropic drug that has sedative and sedative properties. It can be used not only for treatment, but also for complex therapy and prevention.

It is recommended to drink not only sick, but also healthy people for prevention purposes. Glycine is prescribed to improve sleep quality and stability emotional state person. This is achieved due to the effect of Glycine on the launch of GABA, that is, an inhibitory neurotransmitter. The drug is also widely used to treat various forms of VVD, as it has antioxidant and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties.

Afobazole, in turn, is used for more serious manifestations of nervous disorders and VVD. These drugs can be used simultaneously, as they do not affect the effectiveness and actions of each other.

With alcoholic drinks

According to the manufacturer, alcohol does not affect the effect of the drug. Despite this, doctors do not recommend taking medication and alcohol together. With a one-time parallel intake of medication and alcohol, there will be no significant negative effects.

In such cases, the drug may simply not show its effect, which is due to the fact that alcohol has a sedative and relaxing effect due to the inhibition of the central nervous system. Afobazole gradually stimulates the nervous system, thus helping the patient cope with stress or anxiety.

With prolonged simultaneous use, unwanted and unpredictable side effects may occur. Also, the drug may lose its effectiveness due to the negative effect of alcohol on metabolism. In such cases, a person may start taking large amounts of pills himself, and a large amount of the active substance and alcohol intoxication can cause death.

Doctors categorically forbid treatment with medicine in cases of alcohol intoxication. The optimal time that should elapse between taking alcohol and starting treatment is a few days.

This period is individual for each person and depends on the amount of alcohol consumed. It should be remembered that in the case of the interaction of alcohol and the active substance, the patient's condition may deteriorate significantly, and unexpected consequences may occur, primarily associated with an increase in the disease.

Taking the drug to relieve the symptoms of a hangover is pointless, since by the time Afobazole begins to act, the body will already get rid of alcohol intoxication. It has a positive effect only in cases of treatment of the consequences of prolonged alcohol intake.

Features of therapy for stress and anxiety disorders

Afobazole helps to cope with the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Despite this, it does not affect the causes of these conditions. At the end of the medication, seizures may reappear. To eliminate the causes of stress and anxiety, you need to contact narrow specialists.

To determine the effectiveness of the drug, studies were conducted on the basis of Moscow and St. Petersburg research psychoneurological institutes. It has been proven that Afobazol is similar in its action to Diazepam. The drug differs from Diazepam in high tolerability, lack of muscle relaxant action and inhibition of cognitive functions. This was the reason for further research.

Scientists considered the main goal to establish the effectiveness of the drug in cases of anxiety. To do this, a naturalistic study was conducted, which involved people from 18 to 65 years old with nervous disorders, depression and anxiety. The exceptions were cases of schizophrenia, epilepsy, frequent panic attacks, somatic diseases in the acute stage.

The subjects took the drug three times a day, 15-20 mg for a month and a half. Various evaluation methods have been used to better determine effectiveness. Each patient had his own card with notes about the condition, which was checked every 7 days.

194 patients were studied, 45 men, 149 women. Since disorders of the nervous system are more characteristic of women, they were the majority. The experiment involved people with disorders lasting from several months to several years. For treatment, patients have previously used antidepressants or tranquilizers.

In the first week of the study, the level of anxiety of patients decreased by 22%. In the 3rd week, the indicators rose to 50%. By the 6th week, the indicator reached 73%. Analysis of the results showed the presence of a constant and harmonious decrease in the severity of anxiety. Starting from the first week, patients complained less about their well-being.

Earlier studies have shown that side effects manifest themselves to a greater extent in the first week.

These effects were represented by increased anxiety, drowsiness and sleep disturbance. Their most acute manifestation was the exacerbation of somatic disease. In general, side effects were very rare. The results showed that the effect of Afobazol does not depend on age or gender. It has also been shown that the drug reaches its maximum effect at the 3rd week after the start of treatment. At the end, it was found that the stimulating effect prevailed over the sedative.

The main disadvantage this study its lack of objectivity. This is due to the fact that not all patients could soberly evaluate the results of the drug. A positive effect could arise solely due to self-hypnosis of people.

To avoid such situations, the double placebo method is used, when half of the patients are given a placebo pill, and the other half are given the real drug. Patients do not know which pills they are being treated with and are unaware of important details of the study. It is this method that helps to determine that the effect of the drug is based on its properties, and not on the self-hypnosis of patients. Data on the conduct of such research methods for Afobazole was not found.

Studies have confirmed the high efficacy of the drug in the treatment of neurotic disorders. Also, the drug is well tolerated and easy to use.