Etifoxine for anxiety (alternative to benzos)

[Rafterman]

Hey guys, 

Has anyone heard of/tried Etifoxine before? It's a Russian pharmaceutical used to treat anxiety. In studies it seems to act similar to a benzo on the GABA system, enacting a sense of calm anxiolysis without any of the memory impairment or cognitive dulling usually included with benzo use.

It sounds like a really interesting alternative to anyone needing the effects of benzos without feeling like your brain has been turned into mush. There's even a study that shows rats seem to prefer it to Di@z! It doesn't seem to have many experience reports available, which is probably because it's primarily a med used in Russia. Not prescribed anywhere in the West.

I've ordered some and it should be here in 2/3 weeks depending on the shipping times. Probably a bit longer cuz, y'know, Christmas I'll come back here and post how effective/ineffective it is once it arrives in the post.

Hey Glousck,
I remember when it was all the rage in Russia, France and, I believe, in Argentina. May still be. I haven't read much on it in a while. I remember that it was once thought that it would compete in the US benzo market, even though technically not a benzo. Could be why it was never approved for use here. You know how the FDA often protects the big profit meds by cutting any potential competition off at the knees. I do know that it is often talked about more as a potentiator for benzo's, than a standalone anxiolytic. I am guessing that it may be of use as both. I am wondering how powerful it can be if it is not listed as controlled substance in any country. I find that odd. You would think that any med that worked as they say it does, has no potential for habituation, and was not controlled, would soon be known as the aspirin of the 21st century. Word tends to get around when something is at that level. But it is still possible that it slipped below the radar. Would be interested to know how things turn out.  RM