Tofisopam, a 2,3-benzodiazepine (2,3- BDZs) with a common chemical backbone to “classical” 1,4-benzodiazepines, does not interact with the classical benzodiazepine binding site of the GABA receptor.
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Its nonsedative, non-hypotensive property, without any respiratory suppression, could have provided the added advantage in the post-COVID-19 state.
15
The mixed dopamine agonist–antagonist property of tofisopam probably modulates the hypo-dopaminergic state in catatonia.
Tofisopam does not impair intellectual performance as other benzodiazepines do. In contrast, it has a cognitive stimulatory activity.
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The anti-amnesic effects of tofisopam, with concomitant improvements in hippocampal synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and glial plasticity, have been found in animal studies.
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Besides, tofisopam has been reported to have an antidepressant property, possibly by sharing a mechanism similar to Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors via phosphodiesterase 4 inhibition.
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This inhibitory action of tofisopam on PDE has potential therapeutic benefits of cognitive enhancement, improving anxiety, and psycho-energetic effect, without attention impairment.
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