The potential of a selective anxiolytic afobazole in clinical practice

Anxiety disorders represent the most prevalent category of mental health issues, particularly affecting individuals with chronic somatic conditions. Choosing an appropriate treatment can be challenging due to the frequent side effects associated with many anxiolytics and antidepressants, as well as the risk of drug-drug interactions, which is especially pertinent for patients with comorbidities. Afobazol was developed as a safer alternative to traditional benzodiazepine tranquilizers. Its active ingredient, fabomotizole, is a selective anxiolytic that operates through a unique mechanism designed to restore the structure and function of damaged nerve cells. The effectiveness and safety of fabomotizole have been investigated in clinical trials involving various anxiety disorders, including those associated with somatic pathology. Randomized clinical trials focused on patients with generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder have demonstrated a significant anxiolytic effect of fabomotizole, comparable to that of benzodiazepines and significantly more effective than a placebo. Further studies confirmed its benefits in stabilizing autonomic functions, delivering antidepressant effects, and enhancing overall activity (antiasthenic effects). A review of clinical studies involving patients with comorbid conditions revealed fabomotizole’s efficacy and good tolerability, with no significant drug-drug interactions, and a favorable impact on the management and prognosis of these conditions. The extended-release formulation of fabomotizole (AFOBAZOL RETARD) enhances patient compliance, thereby ensuring effective treatment for anxiety disorders and related conditions.