The human brain works throughout the life without taking a rest. The brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system that controls various daily activities.
The study of diseases, disorders, and injuries that affect the parts of the nervous system, how it develops, and how well it functions is called neural science or neuroscience. Many drugs are taken to suppress the activity of the central nervous system to induce calmness, relaxation, and sleepiness.
In this blog, we will discuss the role of etizolam in Neuroscience and its effects on the CNS.
The Role of Etizolam in Neuroscience
Etizolam is a thienodiazepine, a class of drugs related to benzodiazepine, but differs in having a benzene ring replaced with a thiophene ring.
The synthesis of this drug for the first time dates back to 1983 in Japan, for the treatment of several neurological conditions, for instance anxiety and sleep disorders (insomnia).
Mechanism of Action
Etizolam is a CNS depressant that possesses anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, sedative-hypnotic and muscle relaxant effects. The drug enhances the effect of gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA). GABA is basically a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity in the brain, improving the activity of GABA makes etizolam consumption effective for treating anxiety and panic disorders.
Once etizolam binds to the specific sites on the GABA receptor cells, the frequency of chloride channel opening increases, leading to neuronal hyperpolarization. The suppression of neuronal activity induces muscle relaxation, sleep induction, and anxiety reduction.
Onset and Duration of Action
The onset of action of etizolam is quick, usually taking half an hour to one hour, with the duration of action lasting six to eight hours. This property makes the drug a great choice for those who require fast relief in conditions like acute anxiety attacks.
However, the prolonged use of this medication is strictly prohibited as it can develop dependency and the patients have experienced severe withdrawal syndrome.
The Effects of Etizolam on Central Nervous System
The primary function of etizolam is to target the central nervous system and enhance the effects of GABA. The drug is used for its several effects on the brain.
Let’s get started to learn a few impacts of Etizolam on the central nervous system:
1. Amnesic Effects
As etizolam suppresses the activity of the central nervous system to induce relaxing sensations and sleepiness, the overdose, misuse, or taking the drug with other medications can have negative impacts on the CNS.
One of the most common abuses of etizolam includes cognitive symptoms, like memory issues, confusion, and trouble paying attention.
2. Anxiolytic Effects
Etizolam is one of the most common anxiolytic central nervous system drugs that is excellent at addressing anxiety and inducing relaxation. In addition, the effects of the drug on the drug’s relaxation and sedation contribute to feelings of well-being or euphoria.
The hyperpolarization of neurons in the brain produces a calming effect on the brain, thus etizolam is considered one of the important anxiolytic drugs.
3. Anticonvulsant Effects
Anticonvulsants are drugs that control abnormal electrical activity in the brain to prevent or treat seizures or convulsions. Benzodiazepines, like etizolam, are the first-line treatment of status epilepticus.
Etizolam is also used in the acute treatment of seizures; however, its use is currently limited to rectal diazepam. However, its primary application is to treat insomnia and anxiety-related disorders.
4. Hypnotic Effects
A sleep inducing drug is termed as a hypnotic. Etizolam assists individuals in enjoying a peaceful slumber at night by depressing the activity of the central nervous system.
It interacts with GABA, resulting in hyperpolarization of neurons, and inducing calming effects on the brain. Thus, it helps the patients to get good quality sleep.
5. Sedative Effects
The main effect of Etizolam on the central nervous system is to promote relaxation and induce a relaxing sleep.
The medicine is usually prescribed in a small dosage and discontinued over time, as the sedative effects may become adverse if the dosage is extended. In addition, the sedative impact of etizolam is dependent on dosage; higher amounts may result in significant lethargy.
6. Adverse Effects
Etizolam addresses anxiety and insomnia in humans. However, it may react with other drugs to yield negative outcomes.
Before starting your dose, it is recommended to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare practitioner and inform them if you are taking any other drug to treat any medical condition. Moreover, tell your doctor if you smoke or consume alcohol.
Apart from interaction with other medicines, this drug can also have negative impacts if the use is extended or if it is taken in a larger quantity than prescribed. Here are a few adverse effects of etizolam on the central nervous system:
- Decreased rates of breathing
- Lower blood pressure
- Respiratory or cardiac suppression
- Issues with rational thinking and judgment
It can also lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms, including rebound anxiety, insomnia, and, in severe cases, seizures.
Final Thoughts: Grab Premium Central Nervous System Drugs
In short, the role of etizolam in neuroscience is to treat anxiety, sleeplessness, and to control seizures (in some individuals). The drug belongs to the class thienodiazepine, which is chemically similar to the benzodiazepines except for the placement of the thiophene ring instead of the benzene ring.
Etizolam has undergone several research studies and has been found to have sedative, amnesic, anticonvulsant, and hypnotic effects. Moreover, the studies claim that the medicine does not affect lactation. However, regular monitoring and appropriate dose adjustments are required to ensure the safe and effective use of etizolam in conjunction with other treatments.
If you are looking to buy etizolam online, reach out to our representatives today. Grab the premium medicines at competitive pricing from our online pharmaceutical store.