Nootropic Antidepressant Drugs Tianeptine/[email protected]

Antidepressant Drug

Tianeptine is a pharmaceutical compound most commonly used for the treatment of clinical depression, although it is sometimes used to treat irritable bowel syndrome or asthma. In terms of chemical classification, tianeptine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). However, its pharmacology and effects vary from those of typical antidepressant and anxiolytics, mainly in the fact that it is not thought to act immediately through the regulation of monoaminergic neurotransmitters (such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline.) Rather, tianeptine is theorized to act upon glutamate and glutamatergic mechanisms, causing the brain to adapt more readily to stress and depression.

Tianeptine has antidepressant and anxiolytic properties with a relative lack of sedative, anticholinergic and cardiovascular adverse effects,[citation needed] thus suggesting it is particularly suitable for use in the elderly and in those following alcohol withdrawal; such persons can be more sensitive to the adverse effects of psychotropic drugs. Recent results indicate possible anticonvulsant and analgesic activity of tianeptine via immediate or downstream modulation of adenosine A1 receptors.

Clinical trials of tianeptine suggest it is just as effective as other more popular antidepressants such as fluoxetine (a SSRI) and amitriptyline (a TCA). However, Tianeptine seems to exhibit fewer side effects and complications than traditional antidepressants.

In addition to its antidepressant effects, tianeptine also exhibits anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, specifically showing promise in the treatment of panic disorders. Tianeptine also displays neuroprotective properties and improves cognition in patients with depression. Tianeptine's anxiolytic and mood-boosting effects, in addition to its neuroprotective and cognitive benefits, make it a popular nootropic.

Side Effects

Tianeptine may be a much safer alternative to many of the antidepressants on the market today. The listing of side effects that are associated with are minor and tolerable, they include drowsiness, dry-mouth, insomnia, dizziness, constipation, bouts of low blood pressure, and some patients describe unusually vivid dreams.