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Health

Picamilon

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Picamilon, or nicotinoyl gamma-aminobutyric acid (nico-GABA), is a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that consists of a GABA molecule combined with nicotinic acid (vitamin B3, niacin). This complex is used as a medication that may have an effect on brain activity.

Picamilon was developed in the Soviet Union in the 1960s and was originally used as a medication to treat headaches, depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. However, it is not currently an approved medication in many countries, including the United States and most of the European Union, and its status may vary from country to country.

Picamilon is claimed by some people to improve mood, cognitive function, and vascular health. However, the extent to which it is effective and safe requires further research, especially given the lack of widespread acceptance and endorsement by medical organizations. It is also important to note that its use may be banned or regulated in some countries.

Before using Picamilon or any other medication, it is important to consult a medical professional, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Indications Picamilon

  1. Cognitive improvement: Some studies and user reports show that picamilon may help improve cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and attention. In some cases, it is used as a nootropic.
  2. Reducing anxiety and depression: Some people use Picamilon to reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression. However, efficacy and safety in this context require further research.
  3. Improving Vascular Health: Some studies suggest that Picamilon may have positive effects on vascular health, specifically promoting vascular dilation and improving blood flow.
  4. Migraine: Some people use Picamilon to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. However, even in this case, the efficacy and safety of the drug require confirmation by additional studies.

Release form

  1. Tablets: This is the most common form of Picamilon, convenient for dosing and taking. Tablets contain different amounts of the active substance, which allows you to select the necessary dose individually for each patient.
  2. Capsules: Picamilon capsules, like tablets, contain a certain amount of active substance. The capsule form provides convenience of administration and good tolerability.

Pharmacodynamics

  1. Increase in GABA: The drug helps to increase the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and its increase can lead to sedative and anxiolytic effects.
  2. Improvement of blood flow and metabolism: There is evidence indicating that picamilon may improve cerebral blood flow and metabolic processes in the brain. This is due to its effects on peripheral blood flow and blood pressure regulation.
  3. Moderate sedative and anxiolytic action: The drug is commonly used as an anxiolytic and sedative to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. However, its effects are often considered more moderate compared to benzodiazepines and other strong anxiolytics.
  4. Cognitive Improvement: Some studies suggest that picamilon may improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and concentration.
  5. Anticonvulsant action: The drug also has anticonvulsant properties and can be used in the treatment of some forms of epilepsy.
  6. Antioxidant Properties: Some studies have noted the antioxidant activity of picamilon, which may help in protecting cells from free radical damage.

Pharmacokinetics

Picamilon (nicotinoyl gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a compound that is formed by combining nicotinic acid with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Currently, information on the pharmacokinetics of Picamilon is limited, and its metabolism and excretion may not be fully understood.

However, it is thought that the drug may be hydrolyzed in the body to nicotinic acid and GABA, which in turn may be metabolized and excreted

Dosing and administration

The following are general guidelines for the use and dosage of Picamilon, but it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and the instructions provided with the medication.

Method of Application:

The drug is intended for oral administration. Tablets or capsules should be taken orally, drinking enough water. The drug may be taken independently of meals, unless otherwise stated in the manufacturer's instructions.

Dosage:

  • For adults: The standard dosage of Picamilon for adults is usually 50 to 200 mg 2 to 3 times a day. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 600 mg.
  • A lower dosage may be recommendedfor elderly patients or for mild forms of impairment.
  • Theduration of the treatment course is usually 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the patient's condition and the therapeutic effect.

Important:

  • Start and stop taking Picamilon only when recommended by your doctor.
  • Before starting treatment, make sure that you do not have contraindications to taking this medicine.
  • Avoid alcohol during treatment, as it may affect the effectiveness of treatment and cause adverse reactions.
  • If you miss a dose, do not double your next dose, but continue as usual.

Use Picamilon during pregnancy

Data on its safety and efficacy during pregnancy are limited.

Currently, there are insufficient clinical studies to determine the risk of using picamilon during pregnancy. Therefore, it is common practice to avoid the use of this drug during pregnancy to avoid any potential risks to maternal and fetal health.

Contraindications

  1. Hypersensitivity or allergic reaction: People with known hypersensitivity to picamilon or other ingredients of the drug should avoid its use due to the possibility of allergic reactions.
  2. Diabetes mellitus: The drug may affect blood glucose levels. Therefore, patients with diabetes mellitus should use it with caution, especially when monitoring blood glucose levels.
  3. Hypotension or low blood pressure: The drug may lower blood pressure, so people with hypotension should use it with caution to avoid possible undesirable effects.
  4. Epilepsy and other central nervous system disorders: The drug may cause changes in neuronal activity, so people with epilepsy or other central nervous system disorders should avoid using it without consulting a doctor.
  5. Pregnancy and lactation: There is insufficient data on the safety of picamilon use during pregnancy and lactation, so it should be used with caution in these conditions.
  6. Pediatric age: Data on safety and efficacy of Picamilon in children are insufficient, therefore its use in children should be performed only under the supervision of a physician.

Side effects Picamilon

  1. Drowsiness and fatigue: Some people may experience drowsiness or fatigue after taking Picamilon. This is especially important to consider when using the drug before driving or performing tasks that require increased concentration.
  2. Dizziness: In some cases, Picamilon may cause dizziness in some people.
  3. Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions may develop in some people, such as skin rash, itching, or swelling.
  4. GastricDisorders: Some people may experience gastric disorders such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  5. Interaction with other drugs: It is important to take into account the possibility of interaction of picamilon with other drugs, so you should consult your doctor before starting its use.

Overdose

Information on the exact symptoms and effects of Picamilon overdose is limited, as this drug is not widely studied and is often not regulated on the global market. However, possible consequences of overdose may include increased sedation, dizziness, drowsiness, decreased blood pressure, and possible increase of other adverse reactions.

In case of any undesirable symptoms or if there is a suspicion of Picamilon overdose, it is recommended to seek medical attention. It is important to remember that dosage recommendations indicated on the package or prescribed by a doctor should always be followed and not exceeded without consulting a medical specialist.

Interactions with other drugs

Information on interactions of Picamilon with other drugs may be limited due to a lack of research in this area. It should also be noted that Picamilon is not a widely used drug and there may be limited research on its interactions with other drugs.

Theoretically, it is conceivable that picamilon could interact with other drugs, especially those affecting the central nervous system (CNS), as it affects gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and may have a neuromodulatory effect. In addition, interactions with drugs affecting the cardiovascular system or metabolism may also be possible, but additional studies may be necessary to confirm these hypotheses.

Storage conditions

  1. Temperature: Store the drug at room temperature, preferably between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). Avoid temperature extremes and extreme high or low temperatures as these may affect the stability of the drug.
  2. Light: Avoid direct exposure of picamilon packaging to sunlight, as light may cause decomposition of active components of the drug. It is better to store the drug in a dark place or in a dark package.
  3. Humidity: Try to avoid humid storage conditions, as moisture may contribute to deterioration of the drug. Store Picamilon in a dry place.
  4. Packaging: Make sure that the product packaging is securely closed to prevent the ingress of moisture and air, which may affect the quality of the product.
  5. Children and pets: Keep Picamilon out of the reach of children and pets to avoid accidental use.
  6. Shelf life: Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the shelf life of the drug. Do not use the drug after the expiry date as its effectiveness may be reduced.

Attention!

To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug " Picamilon" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.

Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.

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